Abiding Together

In this week's episode, we reflect on the themes of resurrection, grief, and hope in Pope Francis’ Easter Vigil homily. We chat about the sadness of unfulfilled dreams and the tender places in our hearts where we are afraid to hope and want to stay in the tomb. We also talk about the anxieties and worries that can come with trying to figure things out on our own and the importance of surrendering our plans to God. Just like Christ, we are called to walk through the sufferings of this life with Him into the Resurrection.

Heather’s One Thing -  Her Easter playlist

Heather’s Other One Thing - The book Becoming Wife: Saying Yes to More than the Dress by Rachel Bulman (or on Amazon here)

Sister Miriam’s On Thing - The book Beloved Daughter by Carrie Daunt 

Michelle’s One Thing - The book Befriending Your Inner Child: A Catholic Approach to Healing and Wholeness by Brya Hanan (or on Amazon here)

Other Resources Mentioned: 

The Restore the Glory Podcast series on Parts Work (Parts Work (Part 1) w/ Gerry Crete; Parts Work (Part 2) w/ Brya Hanan; Parts Work (Part 3) w/ Bishop Andrew Miller)

Journal Questions:

• What hopes have been dashed by the sorrowful mysteries of my life?
• Where are the places that I am afraid to hope?
• Do I believe my dreams are doomed to fail?
• What anxieties in my heart are preventing me from hoping?

Discussion Questions:

• How are you still living in winter during the spring of Easter?
• Do you know how to practice Resurrection?
• In what ways do you believe your dreams rely on you for their fulfillment?
• How do you intellectualize or explain away your dreams?

Quote to Ponder:

“Yet the same women who bore this darkness in their hearts tell us something quite extraordinary. When they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had already been rolled back. This is the Pasch of Christ, the revelation of God’s power: the victory of life over death, the triumph of light over darkness, the rebirth of hope amid the ruins of failure. It is the Lord, the God of the impossible, who rolled away the stone forever. Even now, he opens our hearts, so that hope may be born ever anew. We too, then, should “look up” to him.” (Pope Francis, Easter Vigil Homily)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“When they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had already been rolled back.” (Mark 16:4)

Sponsor - Farm of the Child:

Farm of the Child is a Catholic children's home, school and clinic in Trujillo, Honduras where children receive healing care from a team of Honduran staff, Franciscan sisters, and international missionaries. Each year, the Farm of the Child attracts dedicated missionaries who make a 2 year commitment of service. Missionaries come from all different walks of life in order to serve in a variety of functions such as teaching, nursing, project management and community outreach. After spending 6 weeks in Antigua, Guatemala learning Spanish, missionaries travel to the children’s home where they live together and are guided by the four pillars of community, spirituality, simplicity and service.  Short term immersion trips, remote and summer service opportunities are also available. 

If you think you might be called to serve in the capacity of an international missionary, email [email protected]. Want to learn more about how to get involved in the mission in the US? Check out farmofthechild.org and sign up for our monthly newsletter here: https://www.farmofthechild.org/contact-us

In this week's episode, we conclude our Lenten study on the book “A Time of Renewal” and discuss the theme of “focus”. We chat about our natural temptation to focus on our woundedness, why we should take action and invite Jesus into these places, and how our wounds can be transformed into signs of the resurrection power of Christ. We also talk about the crosses we bear and the importance of recognizing the little resurrections in our life. Friends, thank you for journeying with us this Lenten season. We look forward to seeing you again after Easter!

Heather’s One Thing -  Our team behind the scenes: Kate, Camille, and Kristina! We are so grateful for you

Sister Miriam’s On Thing - Springtime!

Michelle’s One Thing - These Easter themed charcuterie boards! Option 1 Here. Option 2 Here.

Announcement(s):

We will be taking a two week break for Easter beginning on 4/1/24! Season 14 will continue on 4/15/24!

Journal Questions:

• What was hard for me?
• What were the graces and mercies I experienced?
• How have I grown?
• How can I make this week holy?
• What wounds do I bring to Jesus? What wounds do I simply “stare at”?

Discussion Questions:

• Where in your life are you seeking glory?
• Do I live like the Resurrection is a reality?
• When do you lose hope?
• Does the story you tell yourself about God align with God’s story (the Paschal Mystery)?
• What are the places of my heart that I don’t believe the narrative (of the Paschal Mystery)?

Quotes to Ponder:

“How are wounds made glorious? By our deciding what we will do with them. Our Jesus turned his wounds into beauty, and there is not one of us who would say, “Oh, this should not be in eternity.” Our poor hearts thrill to the verity that he is always showing his wounds to the Father on our behalf. They are transformed now in glory. Likewise, there is a transformation that we too can make of our own little everyday wounds which sometimes seem so deep and so big and so insufferable to us. How do we transform them into glory? By looking at Jesus, by remembering his suffering which was turned into glory.”  (Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 207)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (John 12:24)

Sponsor - Pearl and Thistle:

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Learn more about Pearl and Thistle’s innovative approach to Catholic body literacy @pearlandthistle or pearlandthistle.com, and be sure to use code TOGETHER to get 10% off at-home courses!

In this week's episode, we continue our Lenten study on the book “A Time of Renewal” and focus on how life is a continual process of refinement and how true learning comes through the healing found in suffering and communion. We also talk about the feelings of shame that accompany situations where we fall short, the importance of recognizing our limitations in humility, and how God desires to redeem our deepest wounds to help us grow in communion and love. 

Heather’s One Thing -  Sarah Kroger’s new song No Filter 

Sister Miriam’s On Thing - Heather Khym’s Lenten Playlist (AGAIN!!)

Michelle’s One Thing - Floret Flowers

Announcement:

We will be taking a two week break for Easter beginning on 4/1/24. Season 14 will continue on 4/15/24!

Journal Questions:

• What learning curves in my life do I react to with shame or fear?
• Where in my life do I feel like I need to figure it out?
• What are my most frequent complaints? How do they wound the Heart of Christ?
• How can I honor the Lord this upcoming Holy Week?

Discussion Questions:

• What lessons are you learning this Lent?
• What blocks and walls do you experience when learning new lessons?
• How is the Lord inviting you to put in effort in learning the lessons of this season?
• How can you show loving and attentive devotion to the Lord in your daily life?

Quote to Ponder:

“Let us think for a few minutes about the process of learning. All real learning requires a great effort….One could perhaps define the greatest scholars as those who have put forth the most effort with the equipment that God gave them. There is always some form of suffering in all learning because there must be patience, and patience is suffering. There is always humility in learning. It is the great scholars who realize how little they know…”

(Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 175)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“He said to his apostles, “I have yet many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.”” (John 16:12)

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In this week's episode, we continue our Lenten study on the book “A Time of Renewal” and focus on the theme of “filling up the sufferings of Christ”. We reflect on the connection between repentance and love, recognizing how they complement each other, and the beauty of repentance as an intimate act of drawing nearer to God. We share our own struggles during this Lenten season, how others have helped keep us accountable, and the importance of helping others grow in holiness. Lastly, we chat about the significance of renouncing falsehoods about ourselves and embracing the truth about our identity that can only be found in God.

Heather’s One Thing -The song Jesus is My Healer by Gateway Worship 

Sister Miriam’s On Thing - Andrew Laubacher and his organization called Humanality

Michelle’s One Thing - Fr. Mark Mary CFR new book The Father: 30 Meditations to Draw You Into the Heart of God

Journal Questions:

• Where is the ease of the Lord in my life?
• How can I turn back to the Lord in moments of hardship this Lent?
• In the people I struggle with most, how do I encounter the image of God in them?
• In my own self-righteousness, from whom do I withhold the kingdom of God?

Discussion Questions:

• Do you perceive repentance as an opportunity for intimacy or a response to punishment?
• How can you more urgently respond to God’s invitation of love?
• What accountability can you incorporate to be steadfast to your Lenten promises?
• How can you invite a culture of redemption into your life?

Quote to Ponder:

“Our joy must be in him, where alone things have permanent depth and even eternality. The more earnestly we live our Lent, the more will we be finding our joy in Jesus.” (Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 148)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“He delivered us from the dominion of the darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved son.”  (Colossians 1:13)

Sponsor - Mary’s Meals:

Mary’s Meals sets up community-run school feeding projects in some of the world’s poorest communities, where poverty and hunger prevent children from gaining an education. The idea is a simple one that works. Mary’s Meals provides one daily meal in a place of learning to attract chronically poor children into the classroom, where they receive an education that can, in the future, be their ladder out of poverty.

Bringing hope to hungry children around the world, their mission is to enable people to offer their money, goods, skills, time, or prayer, and through this involvement, provide the most effective help to those suffering the effects of extreme poverty in the world’s poorest Communities.

Today, Mary’s Meals is providing more than 2.4 million children with a daily school meal across five continents. But the need is great! The appalling reality is that there are still 73 million children living in extreme poverty in need of school feeding. Please help to reach the next hungry child waiting for Mary’s Meals.

To get involved or learn more visit marysmeals.ca in Canada or marysmealsusa.org in the USA.

In this week's episode, we continue our Lenten study on the book “A Time of Renewal” and focus on the theme of the right kind of zeal. We chat about how we may be feeling tired and tempted to relax our Lenten penances and discuss the importance of taking time to reflect on why we felt called to take on a specific sacrifice and then recommitting ourselves with zeal to carry it out. We also talk about the joys of living in covenant with the Lord, the heartache we should experience when our hearts wander, and the beauty of giving ourselves totally to Him out of love.  

Heather’s One Thing - Happy 80th birthday to her dad!

Heather’s Other One Thing - Episode 5 of Fr. Dave’s series called: My father’s Father. Watch on Wildgoose TV here or Faith and Reason here.

Sister Miriam’s On Thing - Heather Khym’s Lenten Playlist

Michelle’s One Thing - The song Closing Distance by Seven Hills Worship (acoustic version here)

Journal Questions:

• What do you need to fill your tank for the long spiritual roadtrip of Lent?
• What spiritual rest stops do I need to take to continue to go the distance with the Lord?
• How am I letting my emotions drive the bus?
• Do I treat my covenant with the Lord with the same respect as I show the covenants of marriage or religious life?

Discussion Questions:

• How do you need the Lord to love you this week?
• Have you been feeling empty, angsty, or frustrated this Lent? How is the Lord inviting you into deeper freedom through this experience?
• How can you suffer and fast with more joy?

Quotes to Ponder:

“The ancient name for Lent is “the season of the battle”, agonia, which was the Greek word for the final testing of the athlete or the warrior, and has become the term for the Agony in the Garden.” (Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 143)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“His disciples recalled the words of Scripture, Zeal for your house will consume me.” (John 2:17)

Sponsor - JPII Healing Center: 

Discover the healing God deeply desires for you.

 Our brand-new Healing the Whole Person Video Series dives deep into your areas of woundedness and pain and the healing and restoration God deeply longs to give you. All 8 transformational talks by Dr. Bob Schuchts and Sr. Miriam James Heidland, as well as 10hrs of Q&As, are now available to you on our streaming platform right in the comfort of your home. To aid you in your journey to healing and wholeness use code Abiding25 to receive 25% off individual and group leader subscriptions (expires 4/1/24).

Additionally, the numerous books and resources offered in our online store offer you insight and accompaniment on your path to healing. There you will find several familiar authors including Dr. Bob Schuchts and Abiding Together’s very own Sr. Miriam.

In this week's episode, we continue our Lenten study on the book “A Time of Renewal” and focus on the theme of being in conversation with Jesus. We reflect on the importance of reserving space for dialogue with God, surrendering to Him our own plans and desires, and allowing Him to love us in our poverty. The process of dying to self is always accompanied with the hope in the promise of resurrection and new life that Jesus offers.  

Heather’s One Thing - In thanksgiving for Deacon Bob and Fr Dave Pivonka letting her use their studio to record this episode and for being asked to be a guest on their podcast called They That Hope.

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The book How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen by David Brooks

Michelle’s One Thing - Her household sisters at Francisan University

Journal Questions:

• Am I in conversation with God or in a monologue with myself?
• How can I create more space for dialogue with God?
• What Isaacs (idols) do I have?
• How do I self-sabotage in order to confirm my deepest fears?

Discussion Questions:

• What does it look like for you to be a new creation in Christ?
• Have you ever felt like God contradicts Himself? How did He resolve that apparent contradiction?
• What littleness in your life do you tend to hide and run away from? How can you be more open with the Lord in your littleness?
• What holds me back from entering into prayer honestly or making a confession regularly?

Quotes to Ponder:

“Then, a word about the Tabor Gospel. I was newly impressed by the fact that Moses and Elijah were in conversation with Jesus. Let us be occupied always in being in conversation with Jesus. We know the deepest conversations are the wordless ones. We love that simple and profound word of Pope Saint John Paul II, “Let Jesus be the one to whom you talk the most.””

(Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 76)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Here am I, Lord!” (Genesis 22:1)

Sponsor - CORDA:

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In this week's episode, we continue our Lenten study on the book “A Time of Renewal” and focus on the theme of true self-denial. We reflect on the importance of recognizing our need for God’s love and allowing ourselves to be transformed by His grace. We also share personal experiences and insights on repentance, amendment, and trusting in God’s plan especially when the desires of our heart are not being fulfilled. We end by discussing the joys that can come from Lent when approached with a tender, sensitive, and alert heart. 

Heather’s One Thing - Lenten Playlist

Heather’s Other One Thing - The talk Joy, Hope, and the Way Around by Monsignor Shea

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The Pints with Aquinas episode on Transhumanism and Emerging Technologies w/ Fr. Michael Baggot (Watch on YouTube here)

Michelle’s One Thing - The book A Grand Slam for God: A Journey from Baseball Star to Catholic Priest by Fr. Burke Masters

Journal Questions:

• Have I ever approached Lent with a sense of wonder?
• How have I approached Lent with self hatred in the past?
• What parts of myself are the stranger I need to welcome home and allow the Father to love?
• How can I be more open to God as the Divine Interruptor?

Discussion Questions:

• Where are you hungry? Where are others in your life hungry?
• Who in your life is the stranger you need to welcome?
• Do you believe something wonderful can happen this Lent?
• Where have you become resigned and hard of heart instead of tender and sensitive?

Quotes to Ponder: 

We are called to a glorious festival of love—to be spiritually dizzied with the fact that this is how much God has loved us. Surely we shall all look at the crucifix with a new vision, a deepened understanding that he really.

(Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 37)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God: “This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.”” (Mark 1:14-15)

Sponsor - Reform Wellness:

Reform Wellness is a Christ-centered functional medicine and holistic wellness ministry. Reform redefines health as the state of your body and soul. Their mission is to empower the whole person to find well-being in Christ and become the best versions of themselves physically and spiritually. Reform works with private clients, corporate teams, religious communities, and educational institutions worldwide, both in-person and online. They offer valuable information, educational resources, and lifelong tools to improve your well-being.

We invite you to learn more about Reform’s foundational course Reform Online which offers educational tools, best practices, and community through their nine wellness pillars. Reform is extending an exclusive discount for all our listeners on their Lenten Cohort. We highly recommend this three-month foundational course; we’ve each taken Reform Online and still benefit from the fruits in our daily lives. Use code “Abide10'' for your exclusive discount through February 29. 

In this week's episode, we begin our seven week Lenten study of the book “A Time of Renewal” by Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. In this episode we cover the introduction and the sections on the first four days of Lent. We discuss how Lent is an opportunity for us to grow in intimacy with God and how viewing fasting as a time of renewal, not suffering, can help us encounter a deeper transformation. We also reflect on our ability to help others grow in holiness, why Lent is the Springtime of the liturgical year, and how we can allow ourselves to bloom this Lenten season. 

Heather’s One Thing - Aspire to Live a Quiet Life by Francis Chan

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - the women at the Trini-tea fundraiser (pictures here)

Michelle’s One Thing - ABBA by Johnathan Helser and the people of Louisiana

Journal Questions:

• Take inventory of your heart: where are you? Where do I need to reflower?
• What areas of my life does the Lord want to prune?
• Am I approaching this Lent like “just another Lent”? How can I accept this Lent as a unique season and invitation from the Lord?
• What practices put me back in the gaze of the Father? How can I incorporate them into my Lenten plan?

Discussion Questions:

• Which fruits in my life are good fruits? Which fruits are bad fruits?
• How can you be more conscious of your responsibility for one another’s holiness?
• Whose growth in holiness is God inviting you to be conscious of? Who can you offer your Lenten prayers and fasts up for?
• How close are you to the Lord today?

Quotes to Ponder:

“I hope we will not allow ourselves to think of it as “just another Lent”. There is a very deep sense in which there is not another Lent and then another and another after that. This Lent is unlike any other. It is this acceptable time. We do not know if there will be another Lent for us, but we do know God has brought us to this acceptable time, to this prolonged day of salvation.” (Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 19)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Is not this the fast that I chose: to loose the bonds of wickedness and to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free and break every yoke?” (Isaiah 58:6)

Sponsor - The Little Rose Shop:

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In this week's episode, we welcome Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR as our guest to dive deep into what it means to be in relationship with God as Father. Together we chat about how our earthly fathers both positively and negatively impact our relationship with God the Father and how to begin to receive the love of God the Father. We also share how our relationship with God the Father has changed through the loss of earthly fathers. Check out Fr. Dave’s new (free!) video series entitled My father’s Father (or watch here on Wildgoose). 

Heather’s One Thing - Upcoming pilgrimages with Franciscan to France and Alaska 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The the beauty of the Pensacola beach

Michelle’s One Thing - Watching NFL Playoffs with Sister Miriam 

Fr. Dave’s One Thing - The book A Little Liar by Mitch Albom 

 Other Resources Mentioned: 

• My father’s Father Trailer Link
• My father’s Father on Wildgoose
• My father’s Father on Faith and Reason
• S3 E18: The Holy Spirit with Fr. Dave Pivonka
• S5 E22: The Holy Spirit with Fr. Dave Pivonka
• The Father’s Love Spotify Playlist

Journal Questions:

• What does (or did) my father’s relationship with our Heavenly Father look like?
• In what ways can I grow in honoring and being honest about my father?
• Other than my earthly father, who in my life revealed the heart of our Heavenly Father to me?
• For those whose fathers have passed away: how has my relationship with God the Father changed since my father passed away?

Discussion Questions:

• How has your relationship with your earthly father shaped your relationship with your Heavenly Father?
• In your current state of life, when do you feel most connected to your identity as a child?
• What thoughts, emotions, and associations arise when you think of your primary identity as a child?
• How can you grow in and more deeply receive your daughterhood from the Father?

Quotes to Ponder:

“The whole of the Christian life is like a great pilgrimage to the house of the Father, whose unconditional love for every human creature, and in particular for the 'prodigal son,' we discover anew each day.” (JPII Tertio Millennio Adveniente)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1)

Sponsor - Ascension:

With the Ascension App, you can easily find answers to the most challenging questions about church teaching and Scripture. Designed to help you understand the faith like never before, you’ll experience the peace that comes from deepening your prayer life and knowledge of God.

The Ascension App includes:

• Both of Fr. Mike's In a Year podcasts in one place
• Transcripts for every podcast episode
• The full texts of the Bible and Catechism
• Nearly 1,000 questions that Bible In a Year listeners have had over the years with their answers!
• Episode summaries, bonus content, and reflection questions
• Daily readings with video reflections from your favorite Catholic creators!

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed or disconnected as you prepare for Lent, you’re not alone. The Ascension App will be a one-stop-shop for prayer this season, with Fr. Mark Toups’ Lenten Companion audio + video reflections guiding you day-by-day to an encounter with the person of Christ. Explore the Ascension App’s premium features with a free 7-day trial!

In this week's episode, we discuss the relationship between solitude and community and how no matter if we are introverted or extroverted, we need both in order to live rightly ordered lives. We reflect on how solitude and community has changed throughout the different seasons of our lives and the importance of being open to these changes so we can receive the blessings God desires to give us. When we let our cups be filled by God through authentic solitude, we are able to grow, and therefore build deeper and more intimate relationships within our community. 

Heather’s One Thing - The book Humans of Heaven from the January Jane Shop

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The book Hinds' Feet on High Places: An Engaging Visual Journey (Visual Journey Series) by Hannah Hurnard

Michelle’s One Thing - Spending time with Sister Miriam at the O’Grady’s Beach House 

Journal Questions:

• What obstacles do you encounter to being in communion with Christ when you enter into silence?
• How am I tempted to perceive solitude as isolation?
• How am I tempted to perceive being with people as community?
• When I think about solitude and community and which one I currently need more of, how can I create space in my life to tend to that need?
• What needs do I need to voice to someone in my life?

Discussion Questions:

• Which comes more naturally to you: solitude or community?
• Throughout your life, which communities have brought you closer to Christ and allowed you to become more fully human?
• In your current season of life, have you sensed a stronger need for solitude or community?
• What daily, weekly, or monthly rhythms do you have to cultivate community and solitude?

Quotes to Ponder:

“Let him who cannot be alone beware of community... Let him who is not in community beware of being alone... Each by itself has profound perils and pitfalls. One who wants fellowship without solitude plunges into the void of words and feelings, and the one who seeks solitude without fellowship perishes in the abyss of vanity, self-infatuation and despair.”  (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Faith in Community)

“True silence is a garden enclosed, where alone the soul can meet its God.” (Catherine Doherty)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray.” (Matthew 14:23 )

Sponsor - Ascension:

With the Ascension App, you can easily find answers to the most challenging questions about church teaching and Scripture. Designed to help you understand the faith like never before, you’ll experience the peace that comes from deepening your prayer life and knowledge of God.

The Ascension App includes:

• Both of Fr. Mike's In a Year podcasts in one place
• Transcripts for every podcast episode
• The full texts of the Bible and Catechism
• Nearly 1,000 questions that Bible In a Year listeners have had over the years with their answers!
• Episode summaries, bonus content, and reflection questions
• Daily readings with video reflections from your favorite Catholic creators!

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed or disconnected as you prepare for Lent, you’re not alone. The Ascension App will be a one-stop-shop for prayer this season, with Fr. Mark Toups’ Lenten Companion audio + video reflections guiding you day-by-day to an encounter with the person of Christ. Explore the Ascension App’s premium features with a free 7-day trial!

In this week's episode, we reflect on the role both joy and sorrow simultaneously play in our lives. We chat about how pressing into grief allows us to more fully experience joy, and how when we try to numb ourselves to the sorrow we also numb ourselves to the experience of joy. We also talk about the importance of naming disappointments, intentionally maturing in our faith, and what we have personally learned while grieving the loss of a parent. When we learn to suffer well and meet God in the midst of our sufferings, we can reach a deep joy we never thought possible. 

Heather’s One Thing - Attending and speaking at SEEK ‘24.  Watch the impact session here.

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Therapist’s Conference with the JPII Healing Center

Michelle’s One Thing - Nick Sabn Retiring From College Football 

Journal Questions:

• What paradoxes am I called to live in right now?
• How can I bring the Lord into my disappointments?
• Am I more prone to pushing my emotions aside or letting my emotions rule my life (emotional gluttony)?
• In seasons of grief, who are the people who have been my midwives and accompanied me through those seasons?

Discussion Questions:

• What disappointments have you experienced this past year? Is it hard for you to be honest with God about those disappointments?
• What is God redeeming and restoring in your life?
• In a current disappointment or heartbreak you are feeling, what gratitude are you experiencing alongside it?
• What gifts of daily bread is the Lord providing for you in this season?

Quote to Ponder:

“Our life is a short time in expectation, a time in which sadness and joy kiss each other at every moment. There is a quality of sadness that pervades all the moments of our lives. It seems that there is no such thing as a clear-cut pure joy, but that even in the most happy moments of our existence we sense a tinge of sadness. In every satisfaction, there is an awareness of limitations. In every success, there is the fear of jealousy. Behind every smile, there is a tear. In every embrace, there is loneliness. In every friendship, distance. And in all forms of light, there is the knowledge of surrounding darkness . . . But this intimate experience in which every bit of life is touched by a bit of death can point us beyond the limits of our existence. It can do so by making us look forward in expectation to the day when our hearts will be filled with perfect joy, a joy that no one shall take away from us.” (Henri J.M. Nouwen, Making All Things New: An Invitation to the Spiritual Life)

Scripture for Lectio: 

He turns my mourning into dancing. You have turned my mourning into dancing; you have taken off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, so that my soul may praise you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever. (Psalm 30:11-12)

Sponsor - Pilgrimage to Beauty:

Pilgrimage to Beauty creates transformative experiences of true rest and retreat, for couples or individuals wired for adventure. Whether you're an adventurer or a contemplative, Pilgrimage to Beauty invites you to Guatemala July 24-31, 2024 for a unique encounter with Blessed Stanley Rother in the Mayan village he served and died for only 43 years ago. Tens of thousands of pilgrims have visited the newly opened Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City, but very few have had the experience of praying and serving in Santiago, the village where his heart resides and his mission lives on. We have already had a number of Abiding Together listeners go on this pilgrimage and describe it as one of the most transformational trips of their lives. Our very good friends Ennie and Cana Hickman and Emily Blasdell will guide you to the breathtaking shores of Lake Atitlan, feed you delicious local cuisine, and accompany you on this once in a lifetime encounter with God and His saint. 

Visit PilgrimageToBeauty.com/abidingtogether to find out all the special perks for our Abiding Together listeners, including $500 off of your registration!

This episode continues our annual tradition of sharing our Word of the Year! Each year, we ask God to give us a theme to focus on for the new year and invite you to do the same. After personal prayer and reflection, we share what our words for 2024 mean to us and chat about how our words from last year have impacted our lives. At the beginning of the episode, we also share an announcement about this year’s Lenten book study. We are excited to be back and look forward to seeing what this season will bring. 

Heather’s One Thing - Her husband Jake’s upcoming course on our God-given Identity. Register here!

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The Trini-Tea tea party, a ladies tea party in Front Royal, VA on January 27, 2024 to benefit the SOLT Sisters’ Motherhouse Campaign. You are invited! Register for the event here.

Michelle’s One Thing - Her 2023 reading recommendation list!

Announcement:

We are excited to announce that our Lenten book study will be: A Time of Renewal: Daily Reflections for the Lenten Season by Mother Mary Francis, P.C.C. Visit our website for more information!

Journal Questions:

• If you had a word for 2023, what did God teach you through that word?
• Take some time to reflect and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal your word of the year. You could start with a scripture or just silence. After prayer and reflection, what is your word of the year?
• How does your 2024 word of the year build upon previous words of the year or seasons?
• Who can you discuss your word with and remind them of their word throughout 2024?

Discussion Questions:

• What themes has God been using as an opportunity to encounter Him?
• Are there specific scriptures, saints, or quotes that will serve as a guide or reminder of your word during the year?
• What is one change you can make in the coming year to be more open to the will of God?
• How can you place tangible reminders of your word in your daily life?

Quote to Ponder:

"For last year's words belong to last year's language and next year's words await another voice." (T.S. Eliott)

Scripture for Lectio: 

"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit." (Psalm 51:10-12) 

Sponsor - Franciscan University:

One of only 15 faithfully Catholic universities endorsed by the Cardinal Newman Society, Franciscan University of Steubenville continues to lead the renaissance of Catholic higher education called for in Ex corde Ecclesiae. Franciscan integrates excellent academic programs with a dynamic faith environment to serve over 3,800 students from all 50 states and 18 countries on campus, including 1,300 students online. Ranked in the top tier of Midwest universities by U.S. News & World Report since 1998, Franciscan offers over 100 programs of study including 45 undergraduate programs, 10 graduate programs, and 17 online programs—all grounded in Franciscan’s acclaimed Catholic core curriculum. Everything from accounting to engineering, nursing, evangelization, criminal justice, psychology and many more. It’s home to the largest undergraduate Theology Program in the U.S., and has a well-regarded Priestly Discernment Program, which has seen over 250 members ordained to the priesthood since 1985. They also have a study abroad program in a beautifully restored 14th-century Carthusian monastery in Austria attracts up to 200 students each semester.

For more about Franciscan University of Steubenville and its mission to educate, evangelize, and send forth Spirit-filled disciples of Jesus Christ, visit Franciscan.edu or connect with Franciscan on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Merry Christmas, friends! In this episode, we conclude our four part Advent series on the book The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander. Today, we focus on part four and discuss the sections on Our Lady Seeking, Our Seeking, The Way, and The Assumption. We reflect on the beautiful reality that when Mary looks at us, she sees her Son and how we are also called to not only become aware of Christ’s presence within ourselves but also to seek His presence within those around us. In order to do this, we need to first prepare our hearts to fully accept Christ and we chat about the different ways we can become more receptive to His love. Thank you for journeying with us this Advent season. We look forward to seeing you on January 15th for the start of Season 14!

Heather’s One Thing - The moment when no one else is awake and getting to sit with a cup of coffee and enjoy the Christmas tree lights

Heather’s Other One Thing - The movie The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse (watch the trailer here)

Heather’s Other Other One Thing - The Rescue Project especially Fr. John Ricardo’s videos on the Kerygma

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Nourishing White Bean and Lemon Soup

Michelle’s One Thing - Charlie Brown Christmas Special

Journal Questions:

• How can I bring light into the darkness this Christmas season?
• How can I make a gift of myself this Christmas season?
• What painful memories or grief has surfaced for me this Christmas and Advent season? Where is God in those memories and grief?
• What is the most unsuspecting place where Christ wants to reveal Himself to me?

Discussion Questions:

• How were you present to the present moment this Advent?
• How were you not present to the present moment this Advent?
• In what ways are you tempted to block the Holy Spirit throughout the Advent and Christmas seasons?
• How has our Blessed Mother encountered you throughout this book study?
• What is the Holy Spirit prompting you to do this season to more freely receive the Holy Spirit?

Quote to Ponder:

“It was another Advent, a withdrawing and folding upon the Life within her life; but a withdrawing that did not separate her from other people but only brought her closer to them; for she had found her Christ in them all.” (Houselander, Caryll. The Reed of God, page 66)

Scripture for Lectio: 

"I will arise now and go about the city through the streets and squares. I will seek the one I love. So I sought him but did not find him."  (Song of Songs 3:2)

Sponsor - Walking with Purpose:

Do you want to help your daughter discover her true identity?

Do you long to see her avoid the pitfalls of toxic relationships?

Are you ready to guide her toward her God-given calling?

There is nothing fiercer than a mother’s love for her children. Many of us feel that influences around our kids are eroding the foundation we’ve worked so hard to build. It’s time to reclaim our motherly influence, because no one loves or knows our girls like we do. 

Sisters of Strength is a life-changing and vitalizing weekend for mothers and their high school/college-aged daughters from Walking with Purpose. Featuring a lineup of powerful speakers—including our own Heather Khym!—we will delve into the topics of identity, friendship, and purpose, equipping our daughters to answer life’s biggest questions with God’s wisdom and perspective. 

Join us for Sisters of Strength April 5-7 in Leesburg, VA. You’ll laugh, you’ll connect, and you’ll both return home spiritually stronger and refreshed.

In this episode, we continue with part three of our four part Advent series on the book “The Reed of God” by Caryll Houselander. Today, we focus on part three and discuss the sections on the Lost Child, Idols, and the Last Confession. We chat about how when we lose sight of Jesus, we are called to imitate Mary and seek until He is found. By persevering on this journey and staying strong in the face of distraction or complacency, we cultivate a deeper union with Him. God Himself is calling us to take this journey because out of love, He desires to give Himself to us. We also talk about the various idols in our lives, how these idols block us from growing in communion with God, and how our own woundedness can distort our perception of God. 

We encourage you to go at your own pace so that the Lord can fill your heart with what you need to hear this Advent season. 

Heather’s One Thing - First snowfall of the season and making an eggnog latte!

Heather’s Other One Thing - Grateful for parents living next door and family dinners

Sister Miriam’s Half One Thing - The Women’s College Volleyball Division I National Tournament

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Heather’s Advent Playlist

Michelle’s One Thing - Her son’s Catholic Youth Sports League won first place

Michelle’s Other One Thing - Leanne Bowen’s Instagram Post on Mother’s Intercessors

Journal Questions:

• How do I react when I am not experiencing consolation or hearing from God?
• How have I observed an invitation to deeper freedom in my relationship with God this Advent?
• How do I seek to control God?
• Where in my life do I believe that God doesn’t love me or care for me?

Discussion Questions:

• How do you seek out Christ when you sense that He is lost or hidden?
• What “imaginary Christs” have you created in your life?
• How are you tempted to worship the false “convenient god”?
• How are you being inspired to seek Christ out after listening to this episode?

Quote to Ponder:

“It is this: How is it that the lives of so many people who profess to be Christian are utterly inconsistent with Christianity?” (Houselander, Caryll. The Reed of God, page 93).

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Where has your beloved gone, most beautiful of women? Which way did your beloved turn, that we may look for him with you?” (Song of Songs 6:1) 

Sponsor - Rooted for Good:

We are thrilled once again to be sponsoring another episode of Abiding Together. This podcast holds a special place in our hearts, not only because we love Jesus too, but also because the Abiding community has been a vital part of Rooted’s unbelievable growth story! Today thousands of customers across the country and beyond LOVE using their Rooted products every day. 

There are so many skincare and beauty companies today promoting values which contradict the treasures of our faith. Founded by a Catholic mom of 6 boys, Rooted stands for Goodness, Truth and Real Beauty. You don’t have to sacrifice your values to experience premium skincare and essential oils that smell and feel amazing! 

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In this episode, we continue with part two of our four part Advent series on the book The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander. Today, we focus on part two and discuss the sections on Et Homo Factus Est, the Fugue, Wooden Bambino, and Et Verbum Caro Factum Est. We chat about our desire as women to protect our children, but how this desire can easily morph into control, manipulation, or possession. We reflect on how Our Lady exemplifies perfect surrender and trust as she continually releases her Son back to God as a gift freely given to her by God. We also discuss the role of suffering and brokenness in transformation and the beauty of silence in the rhythm of life. 

We encourage you to go at your own pace so that the Lord can fill your heart with what you need to hear this Advent season. 

Heather’s One Thing - Butter Tart Recipe 

Heather’s Other One Thing - Stovetop Potpourri Recipe

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The simple joys of Advent

Michelle’s One Thing - Support for the heartbreaking loss of the Auburn vs. Alabama college football game

Michelle’s Other One Thing - Chevrolet Christmas Commercial 

Journal Questions:

• How do I try to possess or manipulate others to protect them from disappointment or pain?
• Do I see my humanity as a gift or as a burden?
• In the final days before Christmas, when can I create moments of silence to meet Jesus?
• Where do I need a mother?
• Where am I afraid to be mothered?

Discussion Questions:

• How do you allow your fears of vulnerability, dependence, and a lack of control rule your life and your decisions?
• What parts of your humanity do you find God inviting you more deeply into during this Advent season?
• What Fruits of the Spirit do you need to grow in (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control)?
• How can you allow Mary to mother you to more fully experience these fruits and bring them to fruition?

Quotes to Ponder:

“Only Christ-bearers can restore the world to life and give humanity back the vitality of love.” (Houselander, Caryll. The Reed of God, page 72).

“Our Lady gave humanity to God as she gave the water to Christ at Cana, to be changed into wine.” (Houselander, Caryll. The Reed of God, page 83).

Scripture for Lectio: 

“All things were made by him; and without him was made nothing that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” (John 1:3–5)

Sponsor - Whole Mission:

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In this episode, we begin our four part Advent series on the book The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander. Today, we focus on part one and discuss the sections on Emptiness, Fiat, Advent, and Pastoral. We reflect on the gift of virginity, how our own life experiences can alter how we view this gift, and how Our Lady perfectly models the truth about the fruitfulness of giving our full selves in love. We also chat about the beauty of accepting our littleness and how only through the act of emptying ourselves can God truly give us what He desires. 

We encourage you to go at your own pace so that the Lord can fill your heart with what you need to hear this Advent season. 

Heather’s One Thing - Advent Worship playlist and the song Hungry by UPPERROOM

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Christmas Peaceful Piano playlist

Michelle’s One Thing - The painting A Mother and Child looking at the Virgin and Child by Reginald Bottomley and steps to practice Visio Divina with the image.

Journal Questions:

• How do I allow myself to be filled by the Bridegroom?
• How do I view chastity – as a sour apple, or as the first fruits?
• What is distracting me this Advent season?
• What image depicted by Caryll Houselander is resonating with me most (the reed, the chalice, and the nest)?

Discussion Questions:

• How can I empty myself to more fully receive the Bridegroom?
• What is the Holy Spirit inviting you to say “yes” to?
• What is the Holy Spirit inviting you to say “no” to?
• How is the Lord continually purifying and refining you?
• How am I tempted to say “I’m just a…”?

Quotes to Ponder:

“Advent is the season of the secret, the secret of the growth of Christ, of Divine Love growing in silence.” (Houselander, Caryll. The Reed of God (p. 38). Copycat. Kindle Edition.)

“It is always a love story, a culmination of love between the Spirit of Light and the Bride of the Spirit.” (Houselander, Caryll. The Reed of God (p. 19). Copycat. Kindle Edition.)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Be it done to me according to thy word.” (Luke 1:38)

Sponsor - Bell Road Beef:

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In this episode, for the first time ever, we answer questions submitted by our listeners! We answer questions like: How have we healed in our identity as mother, daughter, sister, and bride? How to handle the pressure of people relying on you for spiritual improvement? How to cultivate a life that reflects beauty? How to heal from childhood sexual trauma? How has our faith evolved over the different seasons in our lives? The difference between being too nice and choosing mercy? And more! 

Heather’s One Thing - Her daughter’s art and the beauty of Catholic artists building each other up and rejoicing in the talent of others. 

Heather’s Other One thing - Tammy Peterson’s Rosary Testimony 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup

Michelle’s One Thing - All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr and the new Netflix series based on the book

Other Resources Mentioned: 

• Be Healed and Be Restored by Dr. Bob Schuchts
• The Wounded Heart by Dan Allender
• Restore the Glory Podcast
• The Forgiving Life by Dr. Robert Enright
• Forgiveness Meditation from Sr. Miriam
• Seeking Healing Through Forgiveness SEEK 2019 with Sr. Miriam and Fr. John Burns
• The Deepest Place: Suffering and the Formation of Hope by Curt Thompson
• Anatomy of a Soul by Curt Thompson
• The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
• Way of the Heart Podcast
• Wild at Heart Podcast

Journal Questions:

• What area of your identity (daughter, sister, mother, bride) has the Lord done the most healing in your life?
• Who do I feel unable to forgive?
• Who can I make myself more available to as a friend?

Discussion Questions:

• How can you intentionally bring beauty into your everyday life?
• How does God want to meet you with prayer that aligns with the rhythms of your current season?
• What boundaries do you sense a need to implement?

In this episode, we discuss the second half of the Varanasi Letter written by St. Teresa of Calcutta to her MC Community. We reflect on how Jesus is calling us to encounter Him daily and what we can do to open our hearts to deeper communion. We also chat about how our Blessed Mother is a perfect example of how to comfort the Sacred Heart of Jesus in love and how to remain open and vulnerable even with a heart pierced with sorrow. 

Heather’s One Thing - Panel with Divine Renovation and Alpha Catholic

(Click here to listen to the discussion on Tuesday November 21st)

Sister Miriam’s One Thing -  Warm and Hearty Meatloaf Recipe 

Michelle’s One Thing - Holy Water Spritzer from West Coast Catholic 

Michelle’s Other One Thing - I Thirst,  40 days with Mother Teresa by Joseph Langford, MC 

Journal Questions:

• What is the Lord’s theme for me in this season?
• What is the Lord’s theme for me throughout my life?
• Where has your heart been pierced?
• Do I see myself as a gift?

Discussion Questions:

• How would you depict your heart?
• Where are you blocking the joy of Christ from your life?
• How have you allowed your heart to be hardened?
• How is the Lord inviting you to respond to His Thirst?

Quotes to Ponder:

Our Lady will help all of us in this, since she was the first person to hear Jesus’s cry, “I Thirst” with St. John, and I am sure Mary Magdalene. Because she was there on Calvary, she knows how real, how deep His longing for you and for the poor. Do we know? Do we feel as She? Ask her to teach you Before it was Our Lady pleading with Mother, now it is Mother in her name pleading with you — “Listen to Jesus’s thirst.” (Varanasi Letter, St. Teresa of Calcutta) 

Scripture for Lectio: 

"But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart." (Luke 2:19)

Sponsor - New Jerusalem Studios:

New Jerusalem Studios, invites you to encounter Christ’s saving love through the beauty of sacred art by curating a collection for your home.   Artist Ruth Stricklin’s images, informed by eastern and western sacred art traditions, draws the viewer out of themselves and into the New Jerusalem. Consider a large canvas print of The Holy Family in the dining room as our local seminary did.  A Christ the King Sacred Heart image in the foyer radiantly announces to visitors whom you serve. A palm-sized Icon-Mini on a tiny easel is perfect for a bedside table or desk.  Icon Minis and the new angel Christmas ornaments slip easily into a stocking or Christmas Card. We encourage you to become a champion of beauty this Christmas by sharing with your pastor options to elevate an overflow Mass space - visit www.sacredartbanners.com by NJS.

Listeners use code ABIDE15 for 15% off icons, ornaments and canvas or ABIDE25 for 25% off paper prints at www.njerusalemstudios.com thru 12/10.

In this episode, we discuss the first half of the Varanasi Letter written by St. Teresa of Calcutta to her MC Community. We talk about how Jesus thirsts for our souls and what we can do to care for His Heart. We reflect on what it means to let Jesus gaze upon our souls and receive Him in the areas we have been wounded and experience pain. It can be challenging to allow Jesus to see these broken places in our lives, but through this communion and vulnerability, He can reveal the truth about our belovedness. Jesus is a real living person with whom we can build an intimate relationship and we end the episode by sharing ways we can grow closer to Our Lord. 

Heather’s One Thing - Her playlist called Battle Cry (particularly the song Sound Mind)

Sister Miriam’s One Thing -  On Love: Selected Writings of Pope Benedict XVI

Michelle’s One Thing - The Legatus Enclave Retreat and their visit to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion

Journal Questions:

• Am I more concerned with Jesus’ Hands than His Heart?
• Have I seen with the eyes of my soul how Jesus looks upon me with love?
• When have I heard the loving words Jesus speaks to me?
• Where do I fail to trust the Lord?

Discussion Questions:

• Have you allowed Jesus to look at you with love today?
• What does it mean for you to let Jesus see you in the painful and shameful places of your heart?
• What limitations do I experience that prevent me from entering into communion with God?
• Were you able to pray with a photo of you from childhood / from the past? How did you experience Jesus’ gaze in that prayer?

Quote to Ponder:

“I worry some of you still have not really met Jesus — one to one — you and Jesus alone. We may spend time in chapel —but have you seen with the eyes of your soul how He looks at you with love? Do you really know the living Jesus — not from books but from being with Him in your heart? Have you heard the loving words He speaks to you?” (Varanasi Letter, St. Teresa of Calcutta)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“I thirst.”  (John 19:28)

Sponsor - Leanne Bowen:

Today’s sponsor is Leanne Bowen Fine Art. Leanne is a Catholic Artist and a stay at home mom. She just released a beautiful collection of Fall and Christmas candle tins that are the perfect size for stockings and hostess gifts! Her Cypress and Bayberry candle is indescribable. It smells exactly like a Christmas tree. If you have a fake tree in your home, your guests won't believe you! She also has a Wassail candle designed off the traditional Christmas cocktail served while caroling. It is a delicious spiced cider, orange, cranberry, and currant. Her candle scents are unique and the artwork featured on the label makes them incredibly intentional gifts. Her most popular candle in November is the Cranberry Orange Spice with a Holy Family label. You'll want one in every room. Her most popular candle is a Chrism Sacred Heart candle, and smells JUST like Chrism! She is offering 15% off to all our listeners with the code ABIDE15 at www.LeanneBowen.com.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of cultivating silence and solitude in a world full of distractions. Our Lord speaks to us in the still small voice of our hearts and we talk about how the goal of silence is ultimately communion with God. We also chat about the difference between solitude versus isolation, reasons why we may be afraid of silence, and provide practical ways to cultivate silence in our daily lives. Jesus is the rest our souls yearn for and it is in the quiet where we meet Him most deeply.

Heather’s One Thing - International Justice Mission -  IJM’s mission is to protect people in poverty from violence by rescuing victims, bringing criminals to justice, restoring survivors to safety and strength, and helping local law enforcement build a safe future that lasts.

Sister Miriam’s One Thing -  The Greatest Philosopher Who Ever Lived by Dr. Peter Kreeft

Michelle’s One Thing - Poco a Poco Podcast

Announcement:

We are so excited to announce our Advent book study will be:

 The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander

You can find it on Amazon, Ave Maria Press, and Kindle (for just $1.99!). Your local Catholic bookstore may also carry the book!

Click here to subscribe to the study on our website and be the first to receive updates!

Journal Questions:

• What are the sources of interior and exterior noise in my life?
• What forms of silence is God inviting me to?
• Have I ever been wounded by silence? Have I ever been healed by silence?
• Do I approach silence with fear or trust?

Discussion Questions:

• What is real solitude?
• What scares you most about silence?
• Who in your life practices silence excellently? What can you learn from her/him?
• What needs do you need to meet before you can enter into silence (childcare, rest, food, movement)?

Quote to Ponder:

“Without solitude, it is virtually impossible to live a spiritual life.... We do not take the spiritual life seriously if we do not set aside some time to be with God and listen to him.” (Henri Nouwen) 

Scripture for Lectio: 

He said, “Go out and stand on the mountain before the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.” Now there was a great wind, so strong that it was splitting mountains and breaking rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a sound of sheer silence. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. (1 KIings 19:11-13)

Sponsor - Saintly Heart and Brother Francis

Saintly Heart is a family-owned Catholic Toy company in Phoenix, Arizona creating faith-based, educational toys carefully designed by Speech Pathologist Maggie Jetty. 

Brother Francis is an animated program created to teach kids the basic principles of the Catholic faith. Along with 22 episodes, there are also books, games, prayer cards and more available to teach kids about their faith. 

Saintly Heart and Brother Francis teamed up to offer parents an exceptional line of toys that encourage children to learn about their faith through hands-on exploration. 

Best-selling educational and faith-based toys include: A Church Playset, Stations of the Cross Pray and Play set, a Sacraments Puzzle, a Pray and Play ABC Puzzle, and a Fatima Lacing Set. 

Introduce children to the beauty of our faith while they are developing key cognitive, physical, and language skills with prayerfully and intentionally designed toys at www.saintlyheart.com and www.BrotherFrancis.com and use code TOGETHER  for 15% off

In this episode, we conclude our two part series on Pope Francis’ recent Apostolic Exhortation about St. Thérèse of Lisieux entitled “C’est la Confiance: On Confidence in the Merciful Love of God”. We discuss how we are all called to a bridal relationship with Jesus and how our desire to love and be loved is a call to Heaven. We also chat about our vocation to love and the importance of growing in this discipline of love even when it is not reciprocated. 

Heather’s One Thing - The song Hell or High Water by Amanda Cook 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing -  The Way of Trust and Love by Fr. Jacques Philippe

Michelle’s One Thing - Story of a Soul - study edition 

Michelle’s Other One Thing - The song Thank God I Do by Lauren Daigle

Other Resources Mentioned: 

Reading Recommendations about St. Therese:

• The Way of Trust and Love - by Fr. Jacques Philippe
• The Story of a Soul - by St. Therese
• I Believe in Love: A Personal Retreat Based on the Teaching of St. Therese of Lisieux - by Jean D'Elbee
• 33 days to Merciful Love - Fr. Micheal Gaitley
• Shirts of Flame - A year with St. Therese of Lisieux - by Heather King

Announcement:

We are so excited to announce our Advent book study will be:

 The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander

You can find it on Amazon, Ave Maria Press, and Kindle (for just $1.99!). Your local Catholic bookstore may also carry the book!

Click here to subscribe to the study on our website and be the first to receive updates!

Journal Questions:

• What parts in me long to be right rather than loving?
• What hinders me from loving?
• What grudges and resentments am I holding today?
• How am I tempted to criticize instead of taking action in love and kindness?

Discussion Questions:

• In what ways do you notice a desire for romance and pursuit in your life? How does this speak to how God reveals Himself to us?
• How are you called to choose love in your daily life?
• How are you bringing love and light into the church?
• Where do I notice division in my heart? How can I invite God in for unity and healing?

Quote to Ponder:

“I think that the Heart of my Spouse is mine alone, just as mine is his alone, and I speak to him then in the solitude of this delightful heart to heart, while waiting to contemplate him one day face to face.” (St. Therese)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“My beloved is mine, and I am his; he browses among the lilies.” (Song of Songs 2:16)

Sponsor - The GIVEN Institute

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If you are a woman between the ages 21-35 and are seeking leadership training, faith formation, community and support to better understand and pursue your particular mission and vocation, the program is designed just for you!  You’ll grow in relationship with Christ and understanding of your gifts as you implement a unique Action Plan that helps you follow God’s call.

GIVEN is also accepting applications for lay and consecrated mentors and event volunteers.

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In this episode, we begin a two part series on Pope Francis’ recent Apostolic Exhortation about St. Therese of Lisieux entitled “C’est la Confiance: On Confidence in the Merciful Love of God”. We reflect on what it looks like to abandon ourselves with total confidence in God's love and how to overcome places in our lives where we feel orphaned or forgotten by God. We also chat about how a praying church is a powerful church and what it means to be childlike instead of childish. St. Therese’s “little way” can guide us in learning to pray, trust, and love. 

Heather’s One Thing - Renewal Ministries (Check out this video as well)

Heather’s Other One Thing - St Therese’s poem “My Wishes Before the Tabernacle” 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing -  Sarah Kroger’s cover of the song What a Wonderful World 

Michelle’s One Thing - One of our future sponsors: Bell Road Beef

Other Resources Mentioned: 

S1 E11: Striving vs Abiding

Our Searching for and Maintaining Peace Book Study

Journal Questions:

• Where have I distorted the goodness of the Lord?
• How do I treat God like my personal assistant?
• When have I felt that God was unsafe for me to trust?
• In what ways do I live out of self-reliance?

Discussion Questions

• How often do you receive the gaze of Jesus in your life?
• Does childlikeness come naturally to you?
• When have you relied on and trusted in God in your life?
• What parts of your daily life can you surrender to God?

Quotes to Ponder:

“It is confidence and nothing but confidence that must lead us to Love.” (St. Therese)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“God is love” (1 Jn 4:8-16)

Sponsor - The National Eucharistic Congress:

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS

The 10th National Eucharistic Congress will be a pivotal moment in both American history and the legacy of the Catholic Church. The bishops of the United States are calling on each community—from rural Alaska to urban New York—to come be set ablaze, bringing the holy fire back to their home parishes and neighborhoods. Jesus Christ will be there. Sr. Miriam will be there. Will you? 

When: July 17-21, 2024

Where: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana

Learn more: https://www.eucharisticcongress.org/

Speakers: https://www.eucharisticcongress.org/speakers

Schedule: https://www.eucharisticcongress.org/schedule

Come as an individual/family: https://www.eucharisticcongress.org/register-standard

Bring a group: https://www.eucharisticcongress.org/groups/group-leaders

In this episode, we chat about the importance of living in the present moment and recognizing the beauty of ordinary life. In today’s modern world, we are constantly surrounded by distractions and can be tempted to focus on the past or the future and can lose sight of the gifts and graces right in this present moment. We share practical ways we live in the moment, we discuss the struggle of being in the culture, yet living differently from it, and ponder the power of prioritizing people over productivity. We invite you to take the present moment and see how the Lord is working in your life through the people and world around you.

Heather’s One Thing - Healing pilgrimage to France with Jake and Heather and Fr. Nathan Malavolti, TOR 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The Twitter Feed of @DanWuori

Michelle’s One Thing - The book: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer 

Michelle’s Other One Thing - Two recipes: Chili Lime Roasted Cauliflower and Apple Crumble Cheesecake 

Announcement:

Happy birthday to our dearest Sr. Miriam! We love you!

Journal Questions:

• Do I live like a tourist or a pilgrim?
• Do I live like a consumer or a cultivator?
• How does the Lord want to reorder my loves?
• Where in my life do I feel hurried? Am I the source of hurry or is the source external?
• What specific duties of my vocation am I avoiding or too distracted to fulfill?

Discussion Questions:

• What is distracting you from the present moment in your daily life?
• Do you have a favorite way to bring yourself back to the present moment?
• What battles are you fighting that God isn’t asking you to fight that are costing your attention?
• How is my current relationship with my content and media consumption?

Quote to Ponder:

“If we have abandoned ourselves to God, there is only one rule for us: the duty of the present moment.” (Jean-Pierre de Caussade, Abandonment to Divine Providence)

Scripture for Lectio: 

 But strive first for the kingdom of God and his ]righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.“So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.   (Matthew 6: 33- 34)

Sponsor - Sacred Woodworks:

It should be easy for your home to reflect the seasons of the Church, drawing your family closer to Christ!  Ashley and Aislinn, the women behind Sacred Woodworks, know how busy lifestyles and our noisy culture can make it difficult to create a beautiful and faith-filled home. They have been developing their family décor and traditions for over a decade and are excited to share them with you. 

Check out their line of products made from high-quality, sustainable wood and crafted in South Bend, IN:

•  Liturgical Lingo bundles of standing wooden letters that spell out Catholic phrases 

• Sacred Architecture wall art that offers a modern take on timeless stained-glass windows

•  Laser-etched Saint Portraits based on photographs of modern saints 

• Bar Signs that distill practical wisdom for daily inspiration. Discover beautiful décor to nourish Catholic families and traditions at sacredwoodworks.co today.

Use code ABIDE15 to get 15% off your entire order! Follow them on social media @sacredwoodworks

In this episode we welcome back Fr Boniface Hicks, OSB, a Benedictine monk and spiritual director at Saint Vincent Archabbey, to talk about the discernment of spirits. We chat about the reality of spiritual warfare, why we need not be afraid, and how to practically discern God’s voice versus our own thoughts. Fr. Boniface also defines the difference between spiritual desolation and psychological depression as well as clarity on whether we should seek spiritual direction or counseling. 

Heather’s One Thing - Why Not Become Totally Fire Shirts

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The song Godhead Here in Hiding - Luke Spehar

Michelle’s One Thing - Pumpkin Olive Oil Cake 

Fr. Boniface’s One Thing - His St. Bernard Honeybee Story

Other Resources Mentioned:

Fr. Timothy Gallagher’s Podcast, Books, and Resources

Journal Questions:

• Where do I see division within my heart and seek the Holy Spirit’s bond of love?
• When have I experienced spiritual consolation?
• When have I experienced spiritual desolation?
• Is there anything I am discerning in this season? How can I listen for the movements of the Lord?

Discussion Questions:

• How have you experienced the closeness of the Lord?
• What questions stirred in your heart while listening to this episode?
• What obstacles do you experience in noticing the movements of your heart?
• Have you been able to distinguish the Lord’s voice and movements? How did you identify His voice?

Quotes to Ponder:

"Our only desire and our one choice should be this: I want and I choose what better leads to God's deepening life in me."- St. Ignatius Loyola

“Lay all of your cares about the future trustingly in God’s hands, and let yourself be guided by the Lord just like a little child” - St Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” -Romans 12:2

Sponsor - The Ember Collective

“Holistic wellness in light of eternity.”

The Ember Collective is a community of women passionate about holistic wellness through the lens of our Catholic faith. They believe that we cannot separate the physical from the spiritual, and that harmony exists among them.You can subscribe to The Ember Journal, a visually stunning quarterly print magazine that dives into nutrition, broader health & wellness topics, our Catholic faith, liturgical living, delicious and nourishing whole food recipes, and more. Beyond the Journal, Ember offers an in-depth home wellness guide, Viriditas, for you and your families. This takes the reader deeper into holistic nutrition and related topics. 

Use the code ABIDE10 to get 10% off our entire shop.

In this episode we welcome Fr Boniface Hicks, OSB, a Benedictine monk and spiritual director at Saint Vincent Archabbey, to talk about prayer and hearing the voice of God. We discuss the beauty of learning to recognize God’s voice and various practical steps we can take to listen to and understand what God is saying in our lives. Fr. Boniface also shares examples of common stumbling blocks and how our woundedness can affect how we pray. 

Heather’s One Thing - The song Heart of God by Hillsong 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The travel aeropress and travel hot water kettle from Fr. Boniface

Michelle’s One Thing - Fr. Boniface’s books on Personal Prayer and St. Joseph

Michelle’s Other One Thing - College Football

Fr. Boniface’s One Thing - Being a part of the Abiding Together Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned: 

The Fruit of Her Womb: 33-Day Preparation for Total Consecration to Jesus Through Mary by Fr. Boniface Hicks

Discussion Questions:

• What did you learn about prayer in this episode?
• How do you see God’s love for you as you reflect on the Gospels?
• What is your current prayer routine?
• What pressures and insecurities do you experience when approaching God in prayer?

Journal Questions:

• What obstacles and distractions in my life prevent me from making space for silence?
• What parts of myself do I struggle to bring into my relationship with God?
• After listening to this episode, what do I want to incorporate into my prayer life?
• Where in my heart and my life do I feel the most poor?

Quotes to Ponder:

“For by doing what God demands of us with total surrender of our innermost being, we cause the divine life to become our own inner life. Entering into ourselves, we find God in our own selves.”  (St Teresa Benedicta of the Cross/ Edith Stein) 

“May my life be a continual prayer, a long act of love.” (St. Elizabeth of the Trinity)

Scripture for Lectio: 

 “ Lord, teach us to pray.” (Luke 11:1)

Sponsor - CORDA

Create a place of peace and prayer in your home with CORDA candles - these are Catholic candles like you’ve never seen or smelled before! The candles are made with clean coconut wax and custom fragrances directly inspired by saints and the faith, and are handcrafted by a husband-and-wife team.

Each candle comes beautifully packaged and ready for gifting, with the story behind the scent inspiration on the box. And the simple design of the candle leads with beauty, helping you share the faith in a lovely and meaningful way.

Explore CORDA’s beautiful Catholic candles and, through October 31, 2023, save 10% with code ABIDE at cordacandles.com

In this episode, we discuss what happens in our lives during the summer, through the lens of the four mysteries of the rosary: joyful, sorrowful, luminous, and glorious. We chat about how each of our lives are a pilgrimage and how even when we cannot feel or see it, God is continuously working. Today, we invite you to reflect upon your recent faith journey and discover the beautiful ways God has been shaping your soul. 

Heather’s One Thing - My revised prayer space

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The book: Wisdom of the Heart by Dr. Peter Kreft 

Michelle’s One Thing - Two songs: Joy by Ben Rector & The Choir Room and Mannasseh by Anna Golden 

Discussion Questions:

• Which Mystery of the Rosary has resonated with you most in this chapter of your life?
• Which Mystery of the Rosary has been the hardest for you to resonate with in this chapter of your life?
• What does it mean for your body to be a temple of the Holy Spirit? Where in your body are you experiencing healing?
• Where in your life are you looking for resuscitation from God when He wants to offer you resurrection?

Journal Questions:

• When I hear the word “pilgrimage,” what areas of my life come to mind?
• Where in my life am I experiencing delight?
• Where in my life am I experiencing sorrow?
• Where in my life am I experiencing God’s glory?
• Where in my life am I experiencing illumination?
• Where in my body are you experiencing healing? Where in my body am I in need of healing?

Quotes to Ponder:

When we enter the desert of doubts, let us stop and pause and understand that we are on a pilgrimage. This moves our soul and our hearts ever closer to God. And that strange mystery, of believing when there is nothing to believe in, is the key to complete trust in God and the dissolution of doubt.” (Catherine Doherty)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.” (Hebrews 11:8)

Sponsor - Ave Maria Press

Erica Tighe Campbell, owner and designer of Be A Heart, has created a stunning, full-color, hardcover guide to help you celebrate the faith throughout the year. Living the Seasons is brimming with clever, doable, and beautiful crafts and activities; vivid photographs; brief introductions to the seasons and the lives of the saints; heartfelt notes of encouragement; and original Be A Heart illustrations. This gorgeous companion will become your favorite resource for living your faith at home for years to come. 

LIving the Seasons will help you discover that the liturgical calendar, which follows the seasons of a year in the life of the Church, is a tool that can draw you—individually, as a family, or as a community—closer to God in the midst of a fast-paced and ever-changing world.

It would make the perfect wedding, baby shower, housewarming, or Christmas gift this season! 

Use code ABIDE23 at avemariapress.com to get 15% OFF your order. 

Order now: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/living-the-seasons

In this episode, we conclude our five part study of Christifideles Laici. We discuss how life is a continual maturation process and in order to bear new fruit, we need to put in the effort to grow. Community is an integral part of this formation and we chat about how allowing others into our lives is necessary for this maturation and healing. We have deeply enjoyed journeying with you this summer and are excited to announce that Season 13 will begin on September 25th! God bless you friends and thank you for being a part of our community!

Heather’s One Thing - The song I Just Love You by UPPERROOM and Abbie Gamboa

Heather’s Other One Thing - Jake Khym’s new course on Identity. Visit Life Restoration Ministries to find out more information and sign up for the course this fall

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Healing the Whole Person Weeklong Virtual Retreat

Michelle’s One Thing - Her friends the O’Grady’s and for their generosity in letting her use their beachhouse to record this summer series.  

Discussion Questions:

• How are you being called to grow and mature?
• Do you believe that Jesus desires to heal you? How can you open your life to healing?
• How are you letting yourself be formed?

Journal Questions:

• Where does the Holy Spirit long to bring fruit in my life?
• Are the fruits of the Holy Spirit present in my emotions?
• Are the fruits of the Holy Spirit present in my relationship with my spouse? With my community? With my children?
• Are the fruits of the Holy Spirit present in my home? At work?
• Do I have a teachable spirit?

Quotes to Ponder:

The gospel image of the vine and the branches reveals to us another fundamental aspect of the lay faithful's life and mission:the call to growth and a continual process of maturation, of always bearing much fruit. (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 57)

To be able to discover the actual will of the Lord in our lives always involves the following: a receptive listening to the Word of God and the Church, fervent and constant prayer, recourse to a wise and loving spiritual guide, and a faithful discernment of the gifts and talents given by God, as well as the diverse social and historic situations in which one lives. (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 58)

Scripture for Lectio: 

"He who abides in me and I in him bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." -John 15:5

Sponsor - January Jane Shop:

January Jane Shop is an online Catholic boutique known for their unique lifestyle products, including trending apparel, vintage stationery, mugs, folk art, tea towels, and other eclectic gifts. Each product is prayerfully made with original artwork and designs by Jana Zuniga, a Colorado based artist. 

Parents, teachers, and students all over the world have purchased their best selling Heirloom Polaroid Saint Prints for their homes, offices, and classroom walls. Other well loved products include their embroidered Holy Family Floral Sweatshirt, their wooden Wildflower Press Kits, and their Fiat Floral Garden Tee. 

If you’re looking for meaningful gifts, fresh home decor, or something cute to elevate your wardrobe, January Jane Shop is the place to go. 

Use code ABIDE15 for 15% OFF your order at January Jane Shop. Please note that inventory is limited, so don’t wait to press purchase if you find something you like! Visit januaryjaneshop.com to start shopping! 

In this week’s episode, we continue with part four of our study on Christifideles Laici. We dive deep into the role of women and discuss how embracing the fullness of our femininity can uniquely help heal the culture. We also reflect on how the Church is like a loving mother and each one of us belongs and is deeply cherished. Whether we are young or old, a man or a woman, healthy or sick, each of us are invited to offer our gifts in God’s vineyard. 

Heather’s One Thing - Ascension’s Catechism 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The song Peace by Bethel Music

Michelle’s One Thing - Word on Fire Bible Volume III (or on Amazon here)

Discussion Questions:

• How can women prepare Christ’s Bride, the Church, for Christ?
• How is God inviting you to see womanhood as a gift?
• What is God’s mission for your family? How do each of your family members participate in that?

Journal Questions:

• Do I feel like I belong in the Church?
• How am I being sanctified by my current season of life?
• How have I diminished my voice and accepted smallness disguised as littleness?
• What is God calling my family to?

Quote to Ponder:

According to the gospel parable, the "householder" calls the labourers for his vineyard at various times during the day: some at dawn, others about nine in the morning, still others about midday and at three, the last, around five (cf. Mt 20:1 ff.). In commenting on these words of the gospel, Saint Gregory the Great makes a comparison between the various times of the call and the different stages in life: "It is possible to compare the different hours", he writes, "to the various stages in a person's life. According to our analogy the morning can certainly represent childhood. The third hour, then, can refer to adolescence; the sun has now moved to the height of heaven, that is, at this stage a person grows in strength. The sixth hour is adulthood, the sun is in the middle of the sky, indeed at this age the fullness of vitality is obvious. Old age represents the ninth hour, because the sun starts its descent from the height of heaven, thus the youthful vitality begins to decline. The eleventh hour represents those who are most advanced in years... The labourers, then, are called and sent forth into the vineyard at different hours, that is to say, one is led to a holy life during childhood, another in adolescence, another in adulthood and another in old age". (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 45)

Scripture for Lectio: 

"Jesus, looking upon him, loved him" (Mk 10:21).

Sponsor - MyCatholicDoctor:

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In this episode, we continue with part three of our study on Christifideles Laici. We discuss how we are all called to evangelization, how our unique gifts allow us to bring Christ’s light to the world in different ways, and how our lives can be a living witness of what we believe. We also reflect on why community with family, friends, and our parishes is essential in cultivating mission, and how our mission is reciprocally accomplished within communion. 

Heather’s One Thing - The album Live in the Prayer Room by Jeremy Riddle

Heather’s Other One Thing - Our staff behind the scenes: Camille, Kate, and Kristina

Michelle’s One Thing - The Book Living the Seasons: Simple Ways to Celebrate the Beauty of Your faith Throughout the Year by Erica Tighe Campbell 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Overnight chia protein pudding

Discussion Questions:

• How is your life and mission bearing the fruit of communion?
• How are you being called to participate in the time of re-evangelization?
• How are you experiencing a paralytic spirit of fear?
• Where in your life do you want to invite the Holy Spirit into?

Journal Questions:

• Who am I? Where do I belong?
• How is God inviting me to make a gift of my life?
• How can I be salt and light to the world?
• Is my life bearing the fruit of communion?

Quotes to Ponder:

Communion and mission are profoundly connected with each other, they interpenetrate and mutually imply each other, to the point that communion represents both the source and the fruit of mission: communion gives rise to mission and mission is accomplished in communion (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 32)

The family is the basic cell of society. It is the cradle of life and love, the place in which the individual "is born" and "grows". (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 40)

Scripture for Lectio: 

"Each branch of mine that bears no fruit, he (my Father) takes away." John 15:2

Sponsor - SOLT Motherhouse Campaign

Instead of a sponsor today, we wanted to highlight a fundraising campaign that is very near and dear to our hearts. The SOLT Sisters (Sister Miriam's order!) are building a Motherhouse in Corpus Christi, TX so that they can not only provide housing and medical care for their aging sisters, but also so they can better serve their community locally and abroad. The mission of the SOLT sisters is to be the light of Christ in areas of deepest apostolic need. They serve in many capacities including education, evangelization, pastoral care, retreats, health care, and drug rehabilitation. The sisters have already raised over $5.5M and are 73% of the way to their $7.5M goal.

 If you feel the call to donate to the Motherhouse Campaign, you can visit SOLT.net/motherhouse. There you can learn more about the campaign, donate, make a pledge, or share the word about the mission of the beautiful SOLT sisters. If you want to help the SOLT sisters but feel like you are unable to do so financially, join us in saying a prayer for their campaign.

In this episode, we continue with part two of our study on Christifideles Laici. We chat about unity within the Catholic Church, the role of your local parish, and the importance of community. We reflect on how easy it is to focus on the differences we encounter instead of the beauty of its complementarity and rich diversity. We discuss the need to restore the culture and how participation in our parish communities can build communion and encourage others to develop an authentic love of Jesus.

Heather’s One Thing - Family photos taken by Laura-Anne

Heather’s Other One Thing - The song Pure Abbie Gamboa from Upper Room

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The Godsplaining Podcast with Fr. Gregory Pine

Michelle’s One Thing - Lavender Lemonade and Lavender Lemonade Cupcakes (Gluten Free Version Here). This is the lavender syrup I used. 

Discussion Questions:

• What is your investment in your local parish?
• How have you engaged with the Church with a consumerist mentality?
• Where in my heart do I fall into divisive thinking about the Church?
• What gifts and charisms is God inviting you to use in service of the Church?

Journal Questions:

• How have I experienced communion with my parish and the Body of Christ at large?
• Am I allowing the gifts and preferences of others to be seen in the lens of complementarity?
• Am I praying for communion and revival within the Church?

Quotes to Ponder:

'Communion' speaks of a double, lifegiving participation: the incorporation of Christians into the life of Christ, and the communication of that life of charity to the entire body of the Faithful, in this world and in the next, union with Christ and in Christ, and union among Christians, in the Church" (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 19)

A member of the lay faithful "can never remain in isolation from the community, but must live in a continual interaction with others, with a lively sense of fellowship, rejoicing in an equal dignity and common commitment to bring to fruition the immense treasure that each has inherited. (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 20)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Abide in me and I in you” John 15:4

Sponsor - Endow

Endow seeks to educate women toward a more profound understanding of their God-given dignity through study in small group communities of faith and friendship. John Paul II once said: “Woman has a genius all her own which is vitally essential to both society and the Church.” The Church needs you to be empowered to cultivate the feminine genius in every aspect of life and society. There are women just like you looking for friendship and who are looking to learn from the intellectual tradition of the Church. Be transformed by studying John Paul II’s On the Dignity and Vocation of Women in an 8, 10, or 12-week Endow group. Start or join a group with other women to ponder the anthropology of man and woman, God’s intention for their relationship, woman’s vocation to motherhood, and the Church as Bride of Christ. Visit endowgroups.org for more resources on how to join or start your own Endow group. 

In this episode, we begin our five part summer study of St. Pope John Paul II’s Apostolic Exhortation, Christifideles Laici: on the vocation and the mission of the lay faithful in the Church and in the world. We share why we are excited for the study, ways we have been personally convicted to grow in faith, and what the universal call to holiness looks like in our everyday lives. In a time when darkness seems to be growing, we ponder how Jesus is the hope for humanity and the sense of urgency we should feel in being His light bearers to the world. The Lord has called you to holiness and to bear fruit in this world, wherever you may find yourself. 

Friends, in our study of Christifideles Laici, you will hear us talk about the recurring theme of community. While reading this apostolic exhortation and listening to each episode by yourself will certainly bear fruit in your life, we want to take a moment to encourage you to reach out to your friends and start a small group to discuss each chapter. We provide on our website journaling and discussion questions you can use, download, and print to begin the conversations. Our hope is that wherever you are, you can build authentic friendships, rooted in Christ, with those around you.

Heather’s One Thing - The Ember Mug 

Heather’s Other One Thing - Clothed with Power from on High: A Short Catechesis on Charisms in the Life and Mission of the Church by Bishop Scott McCaig, CC. 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Just a Guy in the Pew Ministry

Michelle’s One Thing -  The Rule: St. John Paul II's Rule for a Joy-filled Marriage of Divine Love by Theresa Martin and the Word on Fire article about the book

Michelle’s Other One Thing - The song Fear is Not My Future by Todd Galberth and Tasha Cobbs

Discussion Questions:

• What has been your experience with papal encyclicals? What questions do you have before we dive in?
• How is God calling you to recognize the sacredness of the human person in your daily life?
• As we discussed in the Lenten study, how have you seen God invite you on mission in this season?
• Where is your place in the vineyard and what does it look like?

Journal Questions:

• What words am I speaking into my family, my community, and my culture?
• What sensitivities am I noticing in my heart to the challenges and limitations in the world around me?
• How can I help?
• How is God inviting me into deeper prayer and surrender in my daily life?

Quote to Ponder:

The gospel records that the weeds and the good grain grew together in the farmer's field. The same is true in history, where in everyday life, there often exist contradictions in the exercise of human freedom, where there is found, side by side and at times closely intertwined, evil and good, injustice and justice, anguish and hope. (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 3)

Scripture for Lectio: 

"I am the vine and you are the branches." - John 15:5

Sponsor Information:

Did you know we have a website? We post the episodes, beautiful PDFs of the discussion and journal questions, links to our One Things, and more. We have a calendar of all our upcoming events — check it out! 

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In our final episode of Season 12, we dive deep into how the Lord has been working in our lives since we began the season in January. We acknowledge how easy it is to get caught up in the struggles of life and forget to take time to stop, pause, and remember the blessings we have received. We open up about the seeds the Lord has planted in our hearts, the areas in our lives He is re-awakening, and the spiritual fruit we have seen blossoming. Through our vulnerability, we hope you are inspired this summer to reflect on how the Lord has been working in your life and share it with someone you’re close to. Friends, we have enjoyed every moment of season 12 and are excited for where the Lord takes us next. Thank you for being on this journey of life with us. We hope you join us for our summer study that begins July 17 and our next season beginning in September. 

Heather’s One Thing - The song Tend by Bethel and my fruit salad tree

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The song Detour by Sarah Kroger (lyric video) or (live performance) 

Michelle’s One Thing - The song - Benediction (Live) + Before, Behind, Beside (Spontaneous) by Rachel Morley & Kory Miller

Discussion Questions:

• What is the spirit saying to you? Where is He blowing? What is being reawakened? 
• What seeds have been planted in this past season?
• Where do we see choice fruit in your life?
• What desires has God placed on your heart?

Journal Questions:

• How has the Lord been awakening my heart in this season?
• What needs to be nurtured and tended to in my heart?
• What needs to be pruned?
• What have I been learning about how God made me?

Quote to Ponder:

Holy Spirit, making life alive, moving in all things, root of all creative being, cleansing the cosmos of every impurity, effacing guilt, anointing wounds. You are lustrous and praiseworthy life. You waken and re-awaken everything that is. - St. Hildegard 

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Awake, north wind, and come south wind! Blow on my garden, that its fragrance may spread everywhere. Let my beloved come into his garden and taste its choice fruits.” - Song of Songs 4:16 

Sponsor - Chews Life:

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

Chews Life also makes Rosaries for adults! Chews Life’s Rosaries are actually rosary bracelets, tha are designed to be with you all day and easily accessible. Each Rosary bracelets also feature a “bookmark” crucifix charm so that if you don’t have time to get through a whole Rosary at once, you can use this charm to hold your place until you can continue your prayer. These and so much more are available at www.chewslife.com!

In this episode we welcome Sr. Josephine Garrett, a Sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth, to talk about family systems. As a licensed counselor both in private practice and schools, Sr. Josephine shares the insights she has learned from working with children and parents to heal their relationships with each other and with themselves. We chat about the pain parents feel when their own wounds impact their kids, practical ways we can find hope and restoration, and how the sanctification within families contributes to the sanctification of the Church. 

Heather’s One Thing - The short film: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Our listeners and college softball 

Michelle’s One Thing - The NBA playoffs

Sister Josephine’s One Thing - The women’s Bible study at her parish

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

• Wired to Connect: The Surprising Link Between Brain Science and Strong, Healthy Relationships by Amy Banks 
• How we Love 
• How we Love Website
• Sr. Josephine’s Instagram 

Discussion Questions:

• How have I experienced wounds in community? How have I experienced healing in community?
• How is the Lord inviting you and your family to greater healing and holiness?
• Was there anything from this episode that stuck out to you or surprised you?
• How do you struggle with setting boundaries with your family?

Journal Questions:

• What does a healthy relationship look like with myself? With others? With God?
• How have I experienced healing in my relationships, family, and friendships?
• Where in my family and family systems do I lack hope?
• How am I striving for perfection in my family?

Quote to Ponder: 

“The first and fundamental structure for “human ecology” is the family, in which man receives his first formative ideas about truth and goodness, and learns what it means to love and to be loved, and thus what it actually means to be a person.” - Pope John Paul II

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” - 1 John 4:7

In this episode, we welcome Jill Simons as our guest to talk about Charisms. A charism is a grace from God we are called to use to build up His Kingdom here on earth. We acknowledge a deep lie that many people believe they don’t have anything special to offer our communities or the Church, but the truth is that charisms are given to every person by God. Jill offers practical tools to help discern your charisms, the theology behind charisms, and how charisms work within our vocations.

Heather’s One Thing - The song Most Beautiful by Upperroom and the unity that is increasing among denominations

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The St. Joseph Consecration on Hallow beginning May 1st (read by Sr. Miriam)

Michelle’s One Thing - A Home in Bloom: Four Enchanted Seasons with Flowers by Christie Purifoy and The Blessed is She Journaling Bible

Jill’s One Thing - Encounter School of Ministry

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Many Parts Ministries

Pink Salt Riot

Many Parts on Instagram

Pink Salt Riot on Instagram

Jill Simon’s Instagram

Discussion Questions:

• What gifts and charisms has God entrusted to you?
• Who in your life lives out their charisms in freedom, boldness and generosity? What have you learned from them?
• How do you experience Christ’s love and intimacy through your charisms and prayer?
• How have you silenced or hidden the gifts you’ve been given or the call on your heart?

Journal Questions:

• How do I relate to my own gifts and charisms? Do I operate out of a performance mindset?
• How do my charisms play a role with my vocation and the people around me?
• What is the story of the Kingdom of God that the Lord is telling through my life and my charisms?
• How is Jesus encountering me through my charisms and gifts?
• What have I learned about my identity as the beloved through my charisms?

Quote to Ponder:

Christ has no body but yours,

No hands, no feet on earth but yours, Yours are the eyes with which He looks Compassion on this world, Yours are the feet with which He walks to do good, Yours are the hands, with which He blesses all the world. Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, Yours are the eyes, you are His body. Christ has no body now but yours, No hands, no feet on earth but yours, Yours are the eyes with which he looks compassion on this world. Christ has no body now on earth but yours.

— St. Teresa of Ávila (attributed)

Scripture for Lectio: 

For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable. - Romans 11:29 

Sponsor - Mary’s Meals:

Mary’s Meals sets up community-run school feeding projects in some of the world’s poorest communities, where poverty and hunger prevent children from gaining an education. The idea is a simple one that works. Mary’s Meals provides one daily meal in a place of learning to attract chronically poor children into the classroom, where they receive an education that can, in the future, be their ladder out of poverty.

Today, Mary’s Meals is providing more than 2.4 million children with a daily school meal across five continents. But the need is great! The appalling reality is that there are still 73 million children living in extreme poverty in need of school feeding. Please help to reach the next hungry child waiting for Mary’s Meals.

To get involved or learn more visit marysmeals.ca in Canada or marysmealsusa.org in the USA.

In this episode, we discuss Pope Francis’ Easter Vigil homily about the hope that comes from remembering Jesus, our first love. We reflect on his meditations about how the women in scripture are grieved to find Jesus’ empty tomb, and like these women, we all too often become hopeless and see joy as belonging to the past. We discuss moments of personal encounter with the love of Jesus that has healed us and offer an invitation to a renewed hope in Jesus by remembering the great joy and power that comes through relationship with Him. Let us allow our ‘sealed tombs’ to be opened and restored by hope this Easter season. 

Heather’s One Thing - The young leaders at Franciscan University

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Savory ham and cheese scones 

Michelle’s One Thing - Let Beauty Speak: The Art of Being Human in a Culture of Noise by Jimmy Mitchell (or on Amazon here)

Michelle’s Other One Thing - The TOR Sisters - Sr. Rita Claire and Sr. Brigid as well as the CSU at Florida State University 

Resources Mentioned in this Episode: 

• Adam Young Podcast  - What to do with Your Sorrow and Grief p.1 
• The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis 

Discussion Questions:

• What does it mean to live in Resurrection power?
• How is God encountering you in your life today?
• In your life today and in the past, how have you experienced disappointment and grief?
• Where in your life do you long for deeper freedom and joy?
• When have you experienced the faithfulness and kingship of God?

Journal Questions:

• Where have I come into agreement with despair?
• What “tombs” in my life do I run to in the hopes of encountering Christ?
• In what ways do I ask God why I experience suffering instead of how He will bring about His Glory through it?
• Where am I still hiding from the Lord? What lies do I believe when I am hiding?

Quote to Ponder:

Yet today, brothers and sisters, the power of Easter summons you to roll away every stone of disappointment and mistrust. The Lord is an expert in rolling back the stones of sin and fear. He wants to illuminate your sacred memory, your most beautiful memory, and to make you relive your first encounter with him.  - Pope Francis, Easter Vigil Homily 

Scripture for Lectio: 

“I have found the one my soul loves.” (Song of Songs, 3:4)

Sponsor - Into the Deep:

Want your kids to know about Jesus, and also to know Him?

Into the Deep creates catechetical resources that help Catholic parents build a legacy of faith in their homes. Their resources hand on the fullness of the Faith through beauty, catechizing from classic art, music, poetry, nature study, and story. Their goal is to support parents as primary catechists as they make disciples in their home. These resources are perfect for homeschooling families but are also used widely by traditional schooling families as their touch-point for faith formation at home.

Find full-year curricula, unit studies, picture studies, story cards, and more at intothedeep.co. Use code ABIDE 10 for 10% off your purchase! 

In this episode, we chat about helping children cultivate a deep relationship with God. In today’s culture, with entertainment and distractions at our fingertips, this can seem like a difficult task. We discuss the importance of being a good witness to our children and living out daily what you want them to learn. We also share examples of what we have done well, what we need to improve upon, and the amazing power of intercessory prayer.

Heather’s One Thing - Letter to Families from JPII

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Jason and Crystalina Evert’s new book Male, Female, Other?

Sister Miriam’s Other One Thing - The Pints with Aquinas episode: Responding to Transgenderism With Truth and Mercy w/ Jason Evert

Michelle’s One Thing - The women’s bracket of March Madness 

Discussion Questions:

• How is God inviting you to have a deeper role in the formation of children?
• How can we help our kids grow in their relationship with God in the culture?
• Do you have a rule of life? If not, what would you like to include in your rule of life?
• What is the current culture of your family or household? How would you like it to grow?

Journal Questions:

• How was I formed in the Faith as a child?
• Who are my spiritual children?
• What does the Lord want for my family’s rule of life?
• How is God inviting me to change the culture of my home?

Quotes to Ponder:

“As the family goes, so goes the nation, and so goes the whole world in which we live.” - St. Pope John Paul II, November 30, 1986 Homily in Perth

“…the family is the centre and the heart of the civilization of love.” - St. Pope John Paul II, Letter to Families

Scripture for Lectio: 

"As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” -Joshua. 24:15

Sponsor - The Augustine Institute:

The Augustine Institute exists to help Catholics understand, live, and share their faith. Through initiatives like Amen, FORMED, the Graduate School of Theology, Word of Life, and others, the Augustine Institute forms Catholics for the New Evangelization to renew the Church and transform the world for Christ.

The always-free prayer app, Amen, leads Catholics to deeper prayer with guided meditations, sleep stories, and more. The Graduate School of Theology equips thousands of students—including Sr. Miriam James Heidland, Leah Darrow, and other alumni—to know and live their faith. Millions of Catholics worldwide benefit from FORMED, the premier streaming service for Catholic movies, children’s programming, audio dramas, and books. Word of Life makes catechesis fresh and exciting, so kids can grow up with a faith they’ll keep for life.

God calls you to understand, live, and share your faith. See how the Augustine Institute can support you in the New Evangelization

In this episode, we conclude our Lenten book study Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. We share what stood out to us most from the book study, how the Holy Spirit has been moving in our lives this Lent, and practical tips to continue your healing transformation this Easter season. Friends, God’s presence is always there, He does not leave us to fend for ourselves. As we journey through Holy Week and into Easter, we have the perfect opportunity to receive the Sacraments with a renewed and transformed heart. We are praying for you!

Heather’s One Thing - Easter: Hallelujah is Our Song - Spotify Playlist

Heather’s Other One Thing - Dr. Bob Schuchts

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Prayer from Healing the Whole Person Retreat Workbook 

“I will let God love me in the places where I feel most vulnerable and most dependent.” 

Michelle’s One Thing - All My Knotted-Up Life: A Memoir by Beth Moore

Other resources mentioned in this episode:

The Fear of God - talk by Francis Chan (begins at 1:31:40)

Discussion Questions:

• What have you learned this Lent?
• What gifts has God given you this Lent?
• Which Sacraments did you encounter deeply this Lent?
• Where in your life are you struggling to experience joy and freedom?

Journal Questions:

• When I judge others, where am I trying to protect my heart?
• Where am I afraid of my own needs and wounds?
• Where do I need the Lord to love me?
• How is the Lord inviting me to bring the healing I have experienced through this book study into Easter?

Quotes to Ponder:

To be sure, it was not Easter Sunday but Holy Saturday, but, the more I reflect on it, the more this seems to be fitting for the nature of our human life: we are still awaiting Easter; we are not yet standing in the full light but walking toward it full of trust. - Pope Benedict XVI

Faith in the resurrection of Jesus says that there is a future for every human being;  the cry for unending life which is a part of the person is indeed answered… God exists: that is the real message of Easter. Anyone who even begins to grasp what this means also knows what it means to be redeemed. – Pope Benedict XVI

Scripture for Lectio: 

“His divine power has bestowed on us everything that makes for life and devotion” - 2 Peter 1:3

Sponsor - The Little Catholic:

Today's sponsor is The Little Catholic. Beauty has a powerful ability to draw people to the Church, whether it be the sound of prayers, the beautiful stained glass windows of a church, or the kindness of another person. With each hand-crafted item, the Little Catholic Shop seeks to empower women to cultivate a deeper faith and inspire a beauty that heals each person who sees or wears their pieces. Their impact extends beyond jewelry and empowering women. They also empower and partner with nonprofits around the globe, designing beautiful pieces unique to their cause and donating a portion of all proceeds back to their mission. Giving back is one of their fundamental values.

The Little Catholic has jewelry for everyone. One of their most popular collections is the Holy Family Hearts Jewelry Collection. This Jewelry collection shows all three Sacred Hearts of the Holy Family: Jesus' Sacred Heart, The Immaculate Heart of Mary and the most chaste heart of St. Joseph.  The pendant shows Jesus's Sacred Heart nestled between Mary's Immaculate Heart and Joseph's Chaste Heart, just as they were on the day Jesus was born in that simple Stable. Abiding Together listeners can receive 15% their order with the code Abide 15. Head over to their shop at thelittlecatholic.com to find a piece that inspires you.

In this episode, we continue with part six of our Lenten book study Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. We discuss how the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick heals the wound of hopelessness and share the different ways we approach these dark and sometimes scary places in life. While, in the moment, it may appear that we are alone, God never leaves us and wants to restore our hope in Him. Whenever you experience hopelessness, we invite you to surrender your sorrows to Him and courageously place your hope in our faithful God.

Hey friends! We are going to continue this series with one more bonus episode next Monday, April 3rd to share further insights and conclude Be Transformed. 

Heather’s One Thing - Matt Maher’s new albums exclusively on Hallow

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The wonderful people in Grand Rapids, MI from the KEPHA men’s and women’s conferences!

Michelle’s One Thing - Missionaries!

Other resources mentioned in this episode:

S6 E13 - The Light Shines in the Darkness with Fr. Justin Brady

Why Your Story Makes It Hard to Hope - Adam Young (The Place We Find Ourselves Podcast)

Discussion Questions:

• Is Jesus’ resurrection real and important in your daily life?
• What prevents you from believing that Jesus is who He says He is?
• For which wounds or sorrows have you started to lose hope for healing?
• What is the truth that God is inviting you to proclaim in response to feelings of hopelessness?

Journal Questions:

• How have you encountered the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?
• Where in my life do I experience hopelessness?
• What obstacles in my life and heart make it hard for me to experience hope?
• What does the Holy Spirit need to remind me of in this season of life?

Quotes to Ponder: 

“Every temptation comes down to this one final temptation, it is the temptation to believe that the satisfaction of the deepest desires of our heart is totally up to us.” - Fr. Albacete

Healing and miracles often increase our hope, but they are not the basis for our hope. We have another more trustworthy, rock-solid foundation for our hope: the person, Jesus Christ, who describes himself as “the resurrection and the life.” He told Martha, anyone who believes in him will never die (see Jn11:25-26). Holding firm to this hope, we are promised a share in his life. All of us who believe in the Resurrection are already “raised to life” This is our hope.   - Be Transformed, pg 150

Scripture for Lectio: 

"Cure the sick, raise the dead." - Matthew 10:7–8

Sponsor - Leanne Bowen:

Today’s sponsor is Leanne Bowen Fine Art. Leanne is a Catholic Artist and stay at home mom. She just released a beautiful collection of candle tins that are the perfect size for gift giving. She offers bulk rates for Confirmation and Ordination Classes. She also has candles that are Tuscan Lemon, Orange Blossom and Magnolia, Peony, and Rose candle. They have beautiful paintings and quotes on them. Her most popular candle is Chrism scented, and smells exactly like the oil used at Baptism!

Leanne also has incredible prints in her shop. One of her recent prints is of Our Lady of Guadalupe, placing her mantle gently around a priest, as he lifts the Eucharist. Leanne makes beautiful wedding and Sacrament gifts, as well as great gems for Easter. If you are looking for a truly beautiful and unique gift, please visit www.leannebowen.com. She is offering 15% off to all our listeners through May 1st with the code ABIDE15.

In this episode, we continue with part five of our Lenten book study Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. We discuss how Reconciliation heals the wound of shame. We chat about how we all have wounds that make us feel unlovable and send us into isolation, which opens the door for the enemy to attack us with doubts and lies about these tender places. When we go to Confession, these places are brought out of shame, into the light, and restored to the truth that we are deeply and tenderly loved by God. This Lent, we encourage you to allow God’s mercy to restore you in the sacrament of confession. 

Heather’s One Thing - Jordan Peterson

Heather’s Other One Thing - The song Communion by Maverick City (feat. Steffany Gretzinger & Brandon Lake)

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Springtime! Yay!

Michelle’s One Thing - Holy Grit - Paul George (you can find on Amazon here)

Discussion Questions:

• How have you experienced healing in the Sacrament of Reconciliation?
• How do you hide in your shame and sinfulness?
• In what ways do you desire to more deeply experience the power of the sacrament?

Journal Questions:

• In what ways am I hiding my sinfulness when I confess my sins?
• Where do I experience shame that the Lord is inviting me to bring to Him for healing?
• Have I been hurt by the brokenness of priests in the Sacrament of Reconciliation? What does Jesus say to me in that wound?
• When was the last time I made a good confession?

Quotes to Ponder:

The sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the Church’s primary means of communicating this incredible and completely underserved gift of God’s compassion and forgiveness. Through the sacrament, the Holy Spirit is capable of reaching the deepest areas of our heart that keep us in degradation and separation. - Be Transformed, pg 123

“The whole power of the sacrament of Penance [Reconciliation] consists in restoring us to God’s grace and joining us with him in an intimate friendship” (CCC, 1468). As such it heals the wounds of shame (dis-grace) and restores us to our true identity in Christ, as pure and undefiled children of the Father (see 1 Jn 3:1–3). - Be Transformed, pg 123 

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on, do not sin anymore.” John 8:11

Sponsor - House of Joppa:

This week’s episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.  If you are looking for beautifully curated Catholic home décor, jewelry, art, rosaries, and other gifts, look no further than House of Joppa.  Each product is designed to draw you deeper into your faith and help you to fall more in love with Christ and His Church. Whether you are looking for something for yourself or a special gift for a friend, you will love House of Joppa.  My favorite products are their Vintage Sacred Heart Medallion which opens to reveal a place for prayer intentions, and their Last Supper print is so unique.

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

In this episode, we continue with part four of our Lenten book study Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. We begin by discussing how Holy Orders heals the wound of confusion. Through the priesthood, God is giving us His Heart and confirms our identity as His beloved adopted children. We share ways different priests have impacted our lives both positively and negatively and chat about the importance of praying for priests. Next, we discuss how Marriage heals the wound of fear. This Sacrament is a beautiful window into the mystery of Trinitarian love. We touch on how Marriage can heal those in the single state as well as those in a difficult or broken marriage. Remember, God is the only One who can give us the perfect love we crave. We need to draw our strength from Him as we journey towards healing and transformation.

Hey friends! We know that Be Transformed is packed with incredible things, so we encourage you to not feel the need to rush. We want this to be a place where you can rest and be with the Holy Spirit. If you find yourself stuck on a chapter, we invite you to take the time you need and join us again when ready. May God bless you and bring you healing through His Sacraments!

Heather’s One Thing- Daily Mass

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Gift and Grit: How Heroic Virtue Can Change Your Life and Relationships by Sarah and Andy Swafford

Michelle’s One Thing - Blessed is She Burn Retreat

Michelle’s Other One Thing - College roommates and friends

Michelle’s Other Other One Thing - Dr. Mary Ruth Hackett’s podcast and book Daughter by Design

Discussion Questions:

• In what ways has God brought restoration in your relationship with Him as Father?
• How is God inviting you to draw nearer to the fathers in your life?
• In what ways are you withholding yourself from Christ (and your spouse)?
• What fears do you bring into your relationships?
• How can you open yourself to the beauty of the marriages around you?

Journal Questions:

• What is my story of fatherhood with my biological father? With my spiritual fathers? With our Heavenly Father?
• How am I presently choosing self-reliance as the result of a father wound?
• How have I experienced woundedness from my parents’ marriage? From my own marriage?
• How have I experienced healing from my parents' marriage, other marriages, or my own marriage?

Quotes to Ponder:

According to St. John Paul II, our rebellion against God’s fatherly authority has permeated all of history since the fall: “This is truly the key to interpreting reality. . . . Original sin, then, attempts to abolish fatherhood, destroying its rays . . . placing in doubt the truth about God, who is love.” - Be Transformed, pg 88

You may ask, as I have, what can heal us collectively and individually from this primordial wound of confusion and disorder? Since the wound is rooted in distorted perceptions of the Father’s authority and our rebellion against his authority, the antidote must be the opposite: restoring our understanding of his authority and humbly submitting to that authority in our lives.  - Be Transformed, pg 88

Scripture for Lectio: 

“What God has joined together, no human being must separate.” -  Matthew 19:6

Books & Resources Mentioned in this episode: 

• Intimate Allies by Dan Allender 
• Be Devoted by  Dr. Bob Schuchts 
• Unveiled Couples Retreat 

Sponsor - Chews Life:

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

Chews Life also makes Rosaries for adults! Chews Life’s Rosaries are actually rosary bracelets, tha are designed to be with you all day and easily accessible. Each Rosary bracelet also features a “bookmark” crucifix charm so that if you don’t have time to get through a whole Rosary at once, you can use this charm to hold your place until you can continue your prayer. These and so much more are available at www.chewslife.com!

In this episode, we continue with part three of our Lenten book study Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. First, we discuss how Holy Communion heals the wound of abandonment, ponder what it means to allow the fullness of this Sacrament take root in our lives, and reflect on the beauty that Jesus will never leave us. Then, we move into how Confirmation heals the wound of powerlessness and share ways the Holy Spirit has inspired us to do things we never could do on our own. 

Hey friends! We know that Be Transformed is packed with incredible things, so we encourage you to not feel the need to rush. We want this to be a place where you can rest and be with the Holy Spirit. If you find yourself stuck on a chapter, we invite you to take the time you need and join us again when ready. May God bless you and bring you healing through His Sacraments!

Heather’s One Thing- Restore the Glory Podcast

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - March Madness 

Michelle’s One Thing - Corda Candles especially the St. Francis of Asissi scent (Poverello) 

Michelle’s Other One Thing - Hope’s Garden’s resources on the Song of Songs

Discussion Questions:

• What in my life and heart hinders the Sacrament of Holy Communion from fully transforming me?
• What do you believe was present in the early Church community that is missing today in our communities?
• When have I experienced the fruits of Confirmation in my life?
• Where in my life do I need the Holy Spirit to overwhelm my fear?

Journal Questions:

• When and how have you experienced the pain of abandonment in your life?
• How has Christian community either reinforced or healed those wounds?
• What are the obstacles that prevent me from loving Him fully and receiving His Love fully?
• When do I resist the embrace of the Lord?

Quotes to Ponder:

“Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him” 

- John 6:56

“Anointing is not an act, but rather a state or mode of being and behaving and, so to say, a whole style of living.” 

-  Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa (Be Transformed, pg 74)

Scripture for Lectio: 

“I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me” (Phil 4:13).

Sponsor - Live Liturgically:

Live Liturgically helps Catholic families bring peace into their homes with products that bring order and intention. Their flagship product, the Liturgical Family Wall Planner, is a game-changer for families seeking to live with more purpose.

Many families are using and LOVING the Wall Planner.

Paulette, a planner user said, “An absolute must for organization in a Catholic way!”

The planner includes:

• A memorable quote from Sunday's Gospel across the top as a focal point for the week
• Space for a Gratitude List, Prayer Intentions, and Meal Planning
• Reminder of the liturgical week and color of the current Church season
• Daily list of National Holidays and Catholic Feast Days
• Colored circle to indicate the liturgical color of the day
• Grocery List
• To-Do List
• Section to plan Sunday Mass time

See what 3 months using this calendar will do for your family! Head over to LiveLiturgically.com and check it out. You can try your first planner for 50% off with the code AbidingTogether50.

In this episode, we continue with part two of our Lenten book study Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. We discuss the power of God’s blessings and how curses block our ability to receive His blessings. We dive into the seven types of deadly wounds that distort our identity and how each Sacrament restores a specific wound. In particular, we discuss how Baptism heals the wound of rejection and share how we have allowed God to speak the truth in our own lives that we are His beloved daughters. If you find a tender place in your heart, remember, it isn’t because God wants to hurt you. It is because He wants to set you free.

Hey friends! We know that Be Transformed is packed with incredible things, so we encourage you to not feel the need to rush. We want this to be a place where you can rest and be with the Holy Spirit. If you find yourself stuck on a chapter, we invite you to take the time you need and join us again when ready. May God bless you and bring you healing through His Sacraments!

Heather’s One Thing - The Song Holy by Martin Smith

Heather’s Other One Thing - Her Playlist - Only Jesus 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The National Eucharistic Revival and Congress. Sign up for the newsletter here. Learn more about the pilgrimage here. Register for the pilgrimage here. Get involved on social media: Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.

Sister Miriam’s Other One Thing - The Song -  Break Every Chain

Michelle’s One Thing - Young Moms

Discussion Questions:

• Where in your life is the Lord inviting you to go to the roots? 
• Where in my life am I keeping the Lord at an arm’s length? 
• How is Jesus teaching you how to love and be loved? 
• What lies have you been identifying with in this season of my life?

Journal Questions:

• Where is my connection broken with the Father? 
• Where do I not trust the Lord? 
• Where in my heart do I earnestly need and desire the Father’s blessing? 
• Where in my life, my heart, and my story do I experience the most wounds and the most spiritual attack? 
• What do I believe about myself? What do I believe about the Lord?

Quotes to Ponder:

“The seven sacraments touch all the stages and all the important moments of Christian life: they give birth and increase, healing and mission to the Christian’s life of faith” (CCC, 1210). 

“From the very beginning, God blessed all living beings, especially man and woman” (CCC, 1080).

This is why St. John Paul II concludes, “At the root of human sin is the lie which is a radical rejection of the truth contained in the word of the Father.”  - Be Transformed, Page 25

Baptism is a public blessing declaring that you and I are precious and unrepeatable gifts of the Father. By restoring our relationship with God, Baptism fundamentally heals the wounds of rejection that have plagued the human race since our fall from grace.  - Be Transformed, page 37

The goal of our spiritual life is to be transformed into the image of Christ so that we share in the divine intimacy that He enjoys with the Father and the Holy Spirit.  - Be Transformed, page 17

“Catholic theology can help us understand how a sacrament can be valid and legal but ‘unreleased’ . . . if its fruit remains bound or unused. . . . Sacraments are not magic rites that act mechanically, without people’s knowledge or collaboration. . . . The fruit of the sacrament depends wholly on divine grace, however this divine grace does not act without the ‘yes’—the consent and affirmation—of the person.” (Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa)  - Be Transformed, page 39

In the exercises, Ignatius identifies two opposing spirits that he says are always at work in our lives and in the world. He simply calls them the “good spirit” (which represents our hearts attuned to the Holy Spirit) and the “evil spirit” (which refers to our fallen human nature influenced by the father of lies and subject to the world’s influences).  - Be Transformed, page 46

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Behold, I make all things new.” (Revelation 21:5)

Sponsor - Word of Life:

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Word of Life is proud to serve over 50,000 students in more than 700 schools and religious education programs across the United States. Learn more about Word of Life and how to bring it to your parish or school by visiting wordoflifeseries.org.

In this episode, we begin our six-part Lenten series on the book Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. We welcome Dr. Bob, as our special guest, to introduce his book and set the stage for what you can expect in the following five weeks. He shares an overview of how the seven Sacraments heal our wounds, he breaks down the three-fold transformation process, and explains why the disposition of our heart is pivotal to being transformed by the Sacraments. Friends, we are excited to continue this journey of being transformed with you next week! See you then!

Heather’s One Thing- Lenten Playlist:  Songs in the Desert

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Virtual Healing of the Whole Person Retreat on March 27-31

Michelle’s One Thing - White Chicken Chili (or try this Seafood Chili  or White Bean and Fish Chili for Fridays in Lent) 

Dr. Bob Schuchts’ One Thing - Rediscovering Our Lost Fullness by Andrew Comisky and the exciting news that the JPII Healing Center will have a new publishing house!

Click here to check out Dr. Bob’s podcast Restore the Glory!

Discussion Questions:

• How have you been approaching the Sacraments?

• Have you had an experience where Christ encountered you deeply in the Sacraments? Please share.

• Where in my life do I observe how each of the Sacraments impact my identity and my relationships?

• What fears, concerns, or intrigue do you have about this upcoming season of Lent and diving into the Sacraments?

Journal Questions:

• What am I seeking from Christ in the Sacraments this Lent?

• How do I currently engage in the Sacramental life of the Church?

• Where in my life do I need more humility?

• How can I create more space for communion with others in my life, my home, my church, and my community?

Quotes to Ponder:

Celebrated worthily in faith, the sacraments confer the grace that they signify. They are efficacious because in them Christ himself is at work: it is he who baptizes, he who acts in his sacraments in order to communicate the grace that each sacrament signifies. The Father always hears the prayer of his Son's Church which, in the epiclesis of each sacrament, expresses her faith in the power of the Spirit. As fire transforms into itself everything it touches, so the Holy Spirit transforms into the divine life, whatever is subjected to his power.  - CCC# 1127

“The desire and work of the Spirit in the heart of the Church is that we may live the life of the risen Christ.” - CCC, 1099

The sacraments are God’s chosen remedy for healing our deadly wounds and infusing our souls with Christ’s resurrection life. - Be Transformed, pg xv

In the words of St. John Paul II: “The Holy Spirit [working through the sacraments] . . . purifies from everything that disfigures man . . . , he heals even the deepest wounds of human existence.” - Be Transformed, pg xv

But when inspired and empowered by the Holy Spirit, our personal mission becomes a dynamic participation in Jesus’ work of restoring all things to the Father. - CCC 850

Fr. Jacques Philippe expresses this common human condition of ours with great insight: “It is worth reflecting on the problem of pride. We are all born with a deep wound, experienced as a lack of being. We seek to compensate by constructing a self, different from our real self. This artificial self requires large amounts of energy to maintain it; being fragile, it needs protecting. Woe to anyone who contradicts it, threatens it, questions it, or inhibits its expansion. When the Gospel says we must ‘die to ourselves,’ it means this artificial ego, this constructed self, must die, so that the real self, given us by God, can emerge.” - Be Transformed, pg 2

Scripture for Lectio: 

“All of us, gazing with unveiled faces on the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory.” - 2 Corinthians 3:18 

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In this episode, we dive into the power of prayer. Prayer is the language we use to talk to God, the Lover of our souls. Many times, it can be easy to approach prayer haphazardly, forgetting that we are meant for intimacy and speaking heart to heart with each Person of the Trinity. When we remember that prayer is really about two hearts connecting, our prayer can be transformed. Join us as we share about our prayer lives and how the different seasons of our lives have changed how we pray. 

Heather’s One Thing - Picture Bible 

Heather’s Other One Thing - Soaking Worship Instrumental Spotify Playlist

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Magnificat Magazine 

Michelle’s One Thing - Jesus and You, Women: Ignatian Retreat for Women under the guidance of Edith Stein  By Fr. Sergio M Fita

Discussion Questions:

• What holds you back from approaching the Lord in prayer from the heart?
• What is your quickest avenue to get to the heart of God?
• What obstacles are you experiencing in your prayer life?
• How can you embrace your current season in life and its impact on your prayer life with greater freedom?

Journal Questions:

• How does the Lord call me to prayer uniquely?
• Have I been approaching prayer as something on my to-do list?
• What changes could I make to approach God with a more open heart?
• How has my prayer life changed over the years? What does intimacy with God look like today?
•  

Quotes to Ponder:

Prayer is the life of the new heart. It ought to animate us at every moment. But we tend to forget Him who is our life and our all. This is why the Fathers of the spiritual life in the Deuteronomic and prophetic traditions insist that prayer is a remembrance of God often awakened by the memory of the heart "We must remember God more often than we draw breath." But we cannot pray "at all times" if we do not pray at specific times, consciously willing it. These are the special times of Christian prayer, both in intensity and duration. (CCC, 2697)

Through his Word, God speaks to man. By words, mental or vocal, our prayer takes flesh. Yet it is most important that the heart should be present to him to whom we are speaking in prayer: "Whether or not our prayer is heard depends not on the number of words, but on the fervor of our souls.” (CCC, 2700)

"Prayer is a surge of the heart, it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy." - St. Therese of Lisieux

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Jesus was praying in a certain place and after He had finished, one of His disciples said to Him, Lord, teach us how to pray as John taught his disciples.” - Luke 11:1

Sponsor - House of Joppa:

This week’s episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.  If you are looking for beautifully curated Catholic home décor, jewelry, art, rosaries, and other gifts, look no further than House of Joppa.  Each product is designed to draw you deeper into your faith and help you to fall more in love with Christ and His Church. Whether you are looking for something for yourself or a special gift for a friend, you will love House of Joppa.  Abiding Together listeners receive 15% off their purchase at checkout with discount code: ABIDE15.  Visit them online at https://www.houseofjoppa.com or on Instagram @houseofjoppa.

In this episode, we discuss how easy it is to settle for less than what God offers by clinging to earthly idols and loving other things more than Him. We share about some of our own idols and how turning to God instead has transformed our hearts. We admit how easy it is to accept less than the fullness of life in Jesus and turn to something or someone else in our sorrows. The truth is that Jesus is the only One who can truly satisfy us and bring real comfort in the broken places.  

Heather’s One Thing - As the Deer

Heather’s Other One Thing -  “Return”  by Fr. John Burns 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Surrender Novena (can also be found on the Hallow app)

Michelle’s One Thing - Amy Heyes Art 

Michelle’s Other One Thing - Comforter, Amanda Cook 

Michelle’s Other Other One Thing - Revival, Judah and the Lion 

Michelle’s Other Other Other One Thing - Blessed is She "Burn” Virtual Retreat 

Discussion Questions:

• When you are in pain, who or what do you reach for first?
• What good things in your life is the Lord calling you to reorder?
• How might the Lord be inviting you to give up your idols in Lent?
• What healing have I experienced in the past from loving Christ the most?

Journal Questions:

• Who/what do I love the most?
• What am I placing my salvation in rather than God?
• What idols is the Lord inviting me to give up?
• What fears do I have about intimacy with the Lord?

Quotes to Ponder:

“It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.” 

― C.S. Lewis, The Weight of Glory

“Let yourself be vulnerable. Let your walls down, your carefully constructed fortresses breached, your fiercely guarded heart laid bare. Let your wounds be touched, your fears revealed, your deepest desires, damaged dreams, and most daring hopes unveiled before the Bridegroom, who has the power to redeem, restore, and resurrect them. Drop your independence and the idea—which you clutch so tightly—that you can do anything to protect and save yourself. And LET HIM LOVE YOU.”  

― St Elizabeth

Scripture for Lectio: 

 “‘For I will take you out of the nations; I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.  And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.”

―Ezekiel 36:24 - 27 

Sponsor - Be Love Revolution:

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Be Love Revolution’s mission is three-fold:

BE HIS: To help young women meet Jesus and grow in a life-long, personal relationship with Him.

BE FREE: To help young women live freely and confidently in their identity as beloved daughters of God.

BE LOVE: To equip and empower young women to be God’s love in the world today.

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Learn more about the Be Love Revolution here

Connect with Be Love Revolution on Instagram here

Learn more about Pine Hills Camp here

Connect with Pine Hills Girls Camp on Instagram here

In this episode, we reflect on how “humility and tenderness are not virtues of the weak but of the strong (Pope Francis)”. We discuss how we as Christians are called to cultivate a posture of humility and tenderness in a culture that is quick to criticize and condemn. We also chat about how often we forget that we belong to each other and end up picking sides, which results in more division and hostility than relationships that are filled with vulnerable love and truth. Today let us ask for the tenderness of God to be a gift that He gives us in our own hearts first, so that we can then give it to others.

Heather’s One Thing- Lessons from the School of love - Debbie and Peter Herbeck

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Spicy Korean Style Gochujang Meatballs 

Michelle’s One Thing - The Olive Tree from Jackie Mulligan

Discussion Questions:

• What does it mean to receive the tender and compassionate love of the Lord?
• What does it mean to be tender to other people?
• What shuts down our sensitivity?
• How is God inviting you to receive and give His Tenderness?

Journal Questions:

• How can I grow in tenderness towards myself?
• How is God inviting me to show tenderness with the person I struggle with most?
• Where are the places in my heart where I have been hurt and allowed a coldness to enter my heart?
• Where in my life and my heart am I struggling to receive the Tenderness of God?

Quotes to Ponder:

I no longer need the armor, my softness is the strongest part of me. 

 - Brianna Wiest

The Heart of Christ is so great it wants to welcome us all into the revolution of tenderness. 

 - Pope Francis 

Tenderness is not a weakness. Tenderness is the path for the strongest, most courageous men and women. It is the path of humility. The more powerful you are, the more your actions will have an impact on the people. the more responsible you are to act humbly. If you don’t, your power will ruin you and you will ruin the other. Connect your power with humility and tenderness. 

 - Pope Francis 

Mary gave us a mother’s warmth, the warmth that shelters us amid troubles, the maternal warmth that keeps anything or anyone from extinguishing in the heart of the Church the revolution of tenderness inaugurated by her Son. Where there is a mother, there is tenderness. By her motherhood, Mary shows us that humility and tenderness are not virtues of the weak but of the strong. She teaches us that we do not have to mistreat others in order to feel important. 

 - Pope Francis 

The lack of physical (and not virtual) contact is cauterizing our hearts (cf. Laudato Si’, 49) and making us lose the capacity for tenderness and wonder, for pity and compassion. Spiritual orphanhood makes us forget what it means to be children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents, friends, and believers. It makes us forget the importance of playing, of singing, of a smile, of rest, of gratitude.

 - Pope Francis

Tenderness is the best way to touch the frailty within us. 

 - Pope Francis

Prayer: 

Saint Joseph, father in tenderness,

Teach us to accept that we are loved precisely in that which is weakest in us.

Grant that we may place no obstacle between our poverty and the greatness of God’s love.

Stir in us the desire to approach to Reconciliation,

That we may be forgiven and also made capable of loving tenderly our brothers and sisters in their poverty.

Be close to those who have done wrong and are paying the price for it.

Help them to find not only justice but also tenderness so that they can start again.

And teach them that the first way to begin again

Is to sincerely ask for forgiveness, to feel the Father’s caress.

Amen.

Scripture for Lectio: 

So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.

 - Luke 15:20

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This week, we have a very special episode that was recorded live from the FOCUS SEEK 2023 Conference in St. Louis! Here we discussed the importance of surrendering to God the tender and wounded places of our soul. Just as salt can flavor a dish from the inside out, so must we allow God’s abundant love to transform our hearts. Only once we do this, can we be a light to others. This transformation can sometimes be a painful process. Many times, when we see the struggle ahead, we can be tempted to turn away from the good. But friends, pain is part of the process, and it makes us love the outcome even more. As you listen to today’s episode, ask yourself, “if you just said yes to God, what would your light look like if you let it shine?”

Heather’s One Thing- Glass Canvas 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Michelle and Heather’s kids

Michelle’s One Thing - Everyone at the SEEK conference and all our listeners

Michelle’s Other One Thing - the FOCUS staff

Michelle’s Other Other One Thing - Pope Benedict XVI

Michelle’s Other Other Other One Thing - College Football (especially SEC University of Georgia)

Discussion Questions:

• What is the Lord calling you to in this season?
• How are you responding to the Lord’s calling in your life?
• How has Christ conquered you with Love? How is He conquering you with Love now?
• What do you think Jesus believes about you in your weaknesses?

Journal Questions:

• Where in my life am I choosing lukewarmness or mediocrity over abundant life?
• How do you experience your own weaknesses?
• What do you believe about yourself in your own weaknesses? 
• What do you think Jesus believes about you in your weaknesses?
• How do you experience other people’s weaknesses?

Quotes to Ponder:

“Each of you has a personal vocation which He has given you for your own joy and sanctity. When a person is conquered by the fire of His gaze, no sacrifice seems too great to follow Him and give Him the best of ourselves. This is what the saints have always done, spreading the light of the Lord ... and transforming the world into a welcoming home for everyone.” 

― Pope Benedict XVI

“Fear not; rise, He is calling you.” 

 ― Mark 10:49

“I have called you by name & you are mine.”

 ― Isaiah 43:1 

“God came into the world to reawaken the thirst for great things in us.”

― Pope Benedict XVI

“Holiness never goes out of fashion.”

― Pope Benedict XVI

Scripture for Lectio: 

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13-16)

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In this episode, we discuss freedom in Christ. We all have places in our lives where the enemy has whispered a lie. A lie that tells us we will never escape the bondage of our sins. That we will always be slaves to something. But these whispers are just that - a lie. We are not made to be filled with weakness! We are made to live in freedom. Christ came to earth to break the chains of sin and death. He has created a pathway for us to live in freedom. Friends, what if the place of your greatest pain could become the place of your greatest holiness? Join us as we discuss how we are made for freedom.

Heather’s One Thing- Live in the Prayer Room by Jeremy Riddle

Michelle’s One Thing - Soul of Shame, Dr. Curt Thompson 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Double Chocolate Walnut Biscotti Recipe

Discussion Questions:

• What would it look like for me to be free?
• Is it more comfortable to live in my chains or pursue freedom?
• When have I experienced the fruit of inner healing in the past?
• What is a place of bondage in my life that the Lord is inviting me into greater freedom?

Journal Questions:

• Where would I experience more freedom in my heart and in my life if I truly believed the power of the Resurrection lived in me?
• How has the Lord called me out of bondage and into freedom in the past?
• What are the places of self hatred in my heart? How can I receive and accept the Lord’s tenderness there?

Quotes to Ponder:

"If you want to hold people in chains, one must first convince them that they are meant to be bound." // from the movie “Woman King”

“As long as this attachment remains, it is impossible to make progress in perfection, even though the imperfection be very small. It makes little difference whether a bird is tied by a thin thread or by a cord. Even if it is tied by a thread, the bird will be held bound… it will be impeded from flying as long as it does not break the thread.”  // St John of the Cross, Ascent of Mt. Carmel, Book One, 11.4.

Scripture for Lectio: 

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)

Sponsor - House of Joppa:

This week’s episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.  If you are looking for beautifully curated Catholic home décor, jewelry, art, rosaries, and other gifts, look no further than House of Joppa.  Each product is designed to draw you deeper into your faith and help you to fall more in love with Christ and His Church. Whether you are looking for something for yourself or a special gift for a friend, you will love House of Joppa.  

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

In this episode, we continue our annual tradition, sharing our Word of the Year! Each year we each ask God to give us a theme to focus on for the new year and invite you to do the same. After personal prayer and reflection, we share our words for 2023 and how our words of the year have been connected over time. At the end of the episode, we also share an exciting announcement about our upcoming Lenten Book Study and insights into the theme for Season 12 of the podcast! 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Belovedness by Sarah Kroger

Heather’s One Thing- Only Jesus Playlist

Michelle’s One Thing - Amanda Cook Edens 

Michelle’s Other One Thing - Placemakers: Cultivating Places of Comfort, Beauty, and Peace - Christie Purifoy 

Discussion Questions:

• What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
• Which podcast host’s “word” resonated most with you and why?
• After prayer and reflection, what’s your word of the year? 
• How can you see your spiritual progress through the evolution of your words of the year over the past few years? How have these words or themes built upon each other? 
• If you have never done word of the year and want to, what ways can you ask God what it is? 

Journal Questions:

• How was God present to you in your word for 2022?
• Take some time to reflect on what God desires to reveal to you as your word of the year. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal this to you. Make sure to write it down and memorialize it in a way that will keep it at the forefront of your mind throughout the year. 
• What is one change you can make in the coming year to be more open to the will of God?
• What themes has God been using as an opportunity to encounter Him? 
• Are there specific scriptures, saints, or quotes that will serve as a guide or reminder of your word during the year?

Quotes to Ponder:

Trust makes us willing to be what God wants us to be, however great or however little that may prove. Trust accepts God as illimitable Love.” // Caryll Houselander, 

“No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly.” // J. R. R. Tolkien

“He who climbs never stops going from beginning to beginning, through beginnings that have no end. He never stops desiring what he already knows.” // Saint Gregory of Nissa

“We can only learn to know ourselves and do what we can, namely, surrender our will and fulfill God’s will in us.” // Saint Teresa of Avila

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” (Hebrews 12:1-3)

Announcements: 

We are excited to announce our Lenten Book study!! This year, we will be reading Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. Through the guide of this book, we will discuss how the Sacraments can heal and transform your relationship with Jesus Christ. Supplies are limited so we recommend you order your copy of the book as soon as possible. Ave Maria Press is in the process ordering more and by purchasing early, you can help them estimate how many are needed. 

Ave Maria Press has graciously provided us a discount code if you order the book through their website. Use the code TRANSFORM at checkout to receive 25% off not only Be Transformed, but your entire order (through 3.31.23 with some exclusions)! 

You can also order the book through Amazon using our affiliate link. We do receive a small commission if you use our Amazon link. Anything we receive is used to help support our ministry. Click here for Amazon in the US. 

Sponsor - Pink Salt Riot:

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We are so excited to be back! In this episode, we reconnect after an extended break to share with you updates from each of our lives according to the mysteries of the Rosary: joyful, sorrowful, luminous, and glorious. While our first episode back is traditionally our “Word of the Year” episode, we felt the need to open up about what has been going on in our lives the past seven months. Stay tuned for next week’s episode to discover each of our words for 2023. Thank you for being a part of our journey. We are so incredibly grateful for you.

Heather’s One Thing- Fr. Mike Schmitz Catechism in a Year Podcast (Trailer Here)

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Hope’s Garden

Michelle’s One Thing - Elizabeth Wade Studios 

Michelle’s Other One Thing - With all Her Mind: A Call to the Intellectual Life; Rachel Bulman Amazon or Word on Fire Bookstore

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. How has Christ met me in the Joyful Mysteries of my life?
3. How has Christ met me in the Sorrowful Mysteries of my life?
4. How has Christ met me in the Luminous Mysteries of my life?
5. How has Christ met me in the Glorious Mysteries of my life?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect on the past few months of your life. What are ways you have experienced joy, sorrow, illumination, and glory?
   1. Joy: A delight or an area of gratitude where you have felt the tangible presence of the LORD.
   2. Sorrow: A hurt or an obstacle.
   3. Illumination: Something the LORD brought to light: an area of pruning, longing, and an ache.
   4. Glory: Something you see the LORD redeeming and restoring. It can be in process.

Quotes to Ponder: 

“The Rosary mystically transports us to Mary's side as she is busy watching over the human growth of Christ in the home of Nazareth. This enables her to train us and to mold us with the same care, until Christ is ‘fully formed’ in us.” -JP2

“Mary lived with her eyes fixed on Christ, treasuring His every word: “She kept all these things, pondering them in her heart” (Lk2:19; cf. 2:51). The memories of Jesus, impressed upon her heart, were always with her, leading her to reflect on the various moments of her life at her Son's side. In a way those memories were to be the ‘rosary’ which she recited uninterruptedly throughout her earthly life.” -JP2 

Scripture for Lectio Divina -   “Mary pondered all these things in her heart.” Luke 2:19

This episode is sponsored by Reform Wellness.

This week’s episode is sponsored by Reform, a functional medicine and holistic wellness practice rooted in Christ. Reform redefines health as the state of your body and soul, and their mission is to empower others to find well-being in Christ, thrive in whole-person health, and become the best versions of themselves—physically, mentally, and spiritually. We highly recommend Reform Online, a twelve-week course that walks you through Reform’s nine Wellness Pillars to help you reclaim your identity in Christ, optimize nutrition and sleep, manage stress, and much more. Reform is for everyone because everyone is made for wholeness and holiness. No matter how far away you may feel from wholeness in body and holiness in spirit, the Divine Physician desires to heal you. We invite you to learn more about Reform on their website, reformwellness.co, and on IG @reform_wellness. Reform is offering an exclusive discount for all our listeners on their upcoming Lenten Reform Online course. Use code “Abide10'' for your exclusive discount through January 31. 

In this final episode of Season 11, we chat about our favorite parts of the last year’s episodes and have a special announcement about what is coming next for the podcast. We discuss how there is a season for everything and how we are invited to not grasp onto the things that God entrusts to us, but to hold them loosely with a posture of trust and freedom. We also talk about taking time to be quiet and discern what the Lord has for us, what changes need to be made, and what to let go of. We pray that you have a wonderful summer filled with simplicity and moments to spend with Christ.

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Prudence - Choose Confidently, Live Boldly by Fr. Gregory Pine, OP 

Heather’s one thing - Heather’s playlist - Only Jesus 

Michelle’s one thing -   Live Today Well - Creative God 

Michelle’s Summer Reading List 

Mentioned on the Podcast: 

Bryan Stevenson’s Talk from Communion and Liberations’s New York Encounter

Searching for and Maintaining Peace Lenten Series

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you in this week’s podcast?
2. How do you feel when changes occur in your life?
3. Is it easy or challenging for you to let go of things you might enjoy to make room for something new that God has in store?
4. Sr. Miriam said, “When we take the next right step, the Lord provides”. Do you believe that God will provide what you need if you make a change in your life for Him. Why or why not?
5. What are some of the highlights from the podcast in season 10 and 11?

Journal Questions:

1. Take some time to reflect, what is the Holy Spirit saying in your life right now? Are there some new things you need to say yes to and some things you need to say no to?
2. What are some things that you’re grateful for this past school year?
3. How has the podcast over the years, taught you more about your own heart and your relationship with God? What are some things you want to never forget?

Quotes to Ponder: If there be among the gifts of God none greater than love, and there is no greater gift of God than the Holy Spirit, what follows more naturally than that He is Himself love….” (Saint Augustine)

Scripture for Lectio Divina: Ecclesiastes Chapter 3: 1- 7 

For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven: 2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak.

In this episode, we conclude our series on the identity of Bride: Fruitful Love. We discuss the truth that love was designed to be life generating and to bear good fruit that will last. Although this occurs through biological children within family, it also applies to community and beyond the boundaries of biological ties in the discipleship of others. We also talk honestly about how tenderness, vulnerability, and intimacy are intertwined and what is needed to feel safe and open up. Our body has meaning and was made for an other. We all are invited to grow from brokenness to wholeness in our sexuality. This conversation has some mature content so please be sensitive to little ears listening.

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Our Listeners, Spirit Juice, and Michelle for her vision of the content from this series

Heather’s one thing - Best Ever Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Michelle’s one thing - Our listeners and everyone behind the scenes making this podcast happen

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. In what ways can you see that love is fruitful in your life and the lives of those around you?
3. If you’re married, do you make space for intimacy in all of it’s forms within your marriage? What more can you do to make space for intimacy? If you’re not married, what is your ideal view of what intimacy should look like in marriage or the consecrated life?
4. “Every woman wants to be attended to and to be a partner on a great adventure”. Discuss your desire for this within marriage and/or relationship with Christ. How is this desire being met and in what ways are you still longing for this?

Journal Questions:

1. How are you responding to Christ’s invitation to intimacy in practical ways?
2. All of us are called to make disciples of all nations. Who might the Lord be asking you to disciple in the faith and journey alongside?
3. Ponder how you can support your married friends and be “for” their marriage. How have you participated in gossip and maybe disunity in your own marriage or of a friend’s?
4. Sex is holy and beautiful. Notice what this provokes in your own heart. Ask the Lord to bring healing to the areas in your life that need to be restored by this truth.

Quotes to Ponder: "Love is never something ready made, something merely given to man and woman. It is always at the same time, a task, which they are set. Love should be seen as something which is in a sense never is, but is always becoming. And what it becomes depends upon the contribution of both persons and the depth of their commitment." Saint Pope John Paul II, “Love and Responsibility.”

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.” So out of the ground the Lord God formed every animal of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to the man to see what he would call them; and whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. The man gave names to all cattle, and to the birds of the air, and to every animal of the field; but for the man there was not found a helper as his partner. So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; then he took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; this one shall be called Woman, for out of Man this one was taken.” Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked, and were not ashamed. - Genesis 2:18-25 

This episode is sponsored by Soul Core.

SoulCore is an invitation to nourish body, mind and soul through prayer and functional movement. SoulCore began from a simple “yes” to an inspiration of the Holy Spirit and is a movement all its own. 

Engaging all of the senses, SoulCore incorporates scripture, sacred art, music, candlelight, and movement; a gentle path to grow in virtue and interior peace. Participants often say it feels like they’ve been on a “mini-retreat” after a SoulCore class. 

There are several ways to experience SoulCore. Live classes are offered across the country, as well as DVDs, Digital Downloads and an Online Streaming Studio, which offers a wide variety of Leaders and classes.

You can take advantage of their Online Streaming Studio FREE 14-day trial at soulcore.com/signup. In addition, SoulCore is extending a 20% savings to all Abiding Together listeners in their Online Shop (shop.soulcore.com)  Enter promo code: ABIDE20 at checkout. 

Discover the beauty and transforming power of the rosary. Visit SoulCore.com to begin your SoulCore journey today!

In this episode, we continue with part three of our series on the identity of Bride: Faithful and Honoring Love. We discuss where we have been wounded or where we have wounded others and how that affects current relationships. We chat about how being guarded can inhibit vulnerability and how to navigate our blocks to grow in intimacy. We offer insights into how to come before the Lord with our preconceived ideas and allow Him to speak the truth, as well as how to maintain fidelity in relationships. This week, let us not resign ourselves to mediocrity, but recommit to loving well. 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Tweet about faithful married love

Heather’s one thing - Restore the Glory Episode 35 “Healing in Marriage with Heather Khym”

Michelle’s one thing - “Be Devoted” by Dr. Bob Schuchts, “Intimate Allies” by Dan Allender and Tremper Longman III, and “Men, Women, and the Mystery of Love” by Dr. Edward Sri

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. What wounded parts of your early story might you be bringing into current relationships that inhibit your ability to love and be loved fully?
3. Have you had an experience of a healthy, loving relationship in your life that has brought restoration to previous hurts?
4. How has witnessing faithfulness is a loving relationship, whether in your life or in the life of others, given you hope?
5. Vows need to be lived out daily. If you’re married or consecrated, how do you live out your vows daily? If you’re not married, allow yourself to sit at the feet of those who share.

Journal Questions:

1. In what relationship do you need God to give you the gift of hope?
2. What ways do you tend to run away in your relationships? What would it be like if you chose not to run?
3. Ponder where you bring your desires that aren’t being met. Take some time to offer those desires to Jesus?
4. “We are better in community”. Who makes you a better person? Offer some prayers of thanksgiving and blessing for them.

Quotes to Ponder: 

“Nothing cools love quite like resigning oneself to mediocrity.” - Fr. Jacques Philippe

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.” So out of the ground the Lord God formed every animal of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to the man to see what he would call them; and whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. The man gave names to all cattle, and to the birds of the air, and to every animal of the field; but for the man[a] there was not found a helper as his partner. So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; then he took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; this one shall be called Woman, for out of Man this one was taken.” Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked, and were not ashamed. - Genesis 2:18-25 

This episode is sponsored by Scapulars.com.

Scapulars.com is proud to offer the most durable and comfortable scapulars in the world. These scapulars are made of super-strong American paracord and super-soft Australian merino wool—so it’s as tough as it is comfy.  They hold up to all the daily wear and tear that your life can throw at it. In fact, if a scapular breaks within 7 years, they’ll replace it for FREE. Plus, most sizes include a secret pocket—so you can safely store your sacred medals without wearing out the cord. They come in a variety of gorgeous, original designs. It’s a beautiful way to honor our Blessed Mother through the devotion that she gave to the Carmelite Order. Scapulars.com has more than 1,000 5-star reviews (and counting!). They are proud to offer large family discounts so you can place your entire family under the protection of Our Lady. Orders of 2 or more scapulars ship for free. Visit scapulars.com to order your today! Use code ABIDING10 for 10% off one purchase per customer.

In this episode, we continue with part two of our series on the identity of Bride: Full and Total Love. We discuss the perfect model we have in Christ of love without reservation and the distinction between co-existing with those we love and living in complete union. We pray this week you would allow your heart to be transformed to love those around you fully and totally.

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Some People Do - Old Dominion

Heather’s one thing - Love Heals ring - Pink Salt Riot

Michelle’s one thing - Mary

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. What does it look like to love without reservation?
3. With your spouse, closest friends or a small group - Do you know enough of one another’s stories to love one another fully?
4. How do we learn to love another when they have parts that aren't beautiful in that moment? How can we learn to be like Christ then?

Journal Questions:

1. Where is yout heart holding back, guarding itself, or not loving fully, and why? Is there a fear of rejection, a fear of misunderstanding, or a fear of vulnerability? 
2. Are you co-existing alongside your spouse, your family, or your community? Take a moment to pray for the grace of a deeper union. What would it look like to give more of your heart to these relationships? 
3. How have you seen your love grow in maturity over time?

Quotes to Ponder: “My dear young friends, I want to invite you to ‘dare to love.’ Do not desire anything less for your life than a love that is strong and beautiful and that is capable of making the whole of your existence a joyful undertaking of giving yourselves as a gift to God and your brothers and sisters, in imitation of the One who vanquished hatred and death for ever through love (cf. Rev 5:13). Love is the only force capable of changing the heart of the human person and of all humanity, by making fruitful the relations between men and women, between rich and poor, between cultures and civilizations.” (Message for the 22nd World Youth Day: Palm Sunday, 1 April 2007) ― Pope Benedict XVI

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.” So out of the ground the Lord God formed every animal of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to the man to see what he would call them; and whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. The man gave names to all cattle, and to the birds of the air, and to every animal of the field; but for the man[a] there was not found a helper as his partner. So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; then he took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; this one shall be called Woman, for out of Man this one was taken.” Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked, and were not ashamed. - Genesis 2:18-25

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Kale Salad

Heather’s one thing - The Hidden Life Playlist on Spotify

Michelle’s one thing - Redeeming Love - Francine Rivers 

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. How have you witnessed a bride and groom give themselves freely to one another? 
3. How can you grow in a commitment to continue to grow in the school of love?
4. How do you experience God as a lover? 

Journal Questions:

1. How are you a gift to God? How can you exercise freedom in choosing to love God and give yourself to Him? 
2. If married - how do you allow your spouse into your inner garden to bring your hearts to the Lord together? How do you love your spouse with your whole heart and God with your whole heart- bringing deeper communion in both relationships? 
3. For those that are hard to love - ask “how is this person a gift to me?””

Quotes to Ponder:  “Limitation of one's freedom might seem to be something negative and unpleasant, but love makes it a positive, joyful and creative thing. Freedom exists for the sake of love.” 

― John Paul II, Love and Responsibility

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.” So out of the ground the Lord God formed every animal of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to the man to see what he would call them; and whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. The man gave names to all cattle, and to the birds of the air, and to every animal of the field; but for the man[a] there was not found a helper as his partner. So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; then he took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bonesand flesh of my flesh; this one shall be called Woman, for out of Man this one was taken.” Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked, and were not ashamed.

- Genesis 2:18-25 

This episode is sponsored by Chews Life. 

The mission of Chews Life is to equip all Catholics with Rosaries for life. How do they do that? By creating Rosaries for every age group and every person. For little ones, they have soft silicone rosaries. These rosaries are strung on durable organic cotton chord and have food grade silicone for the beads. These Rosaries are a beautiful way to bring your little ones to Mary and also offer something to soothe and delight them. For slightly older kids, Chews Life offers their Shepherd Kids Rosaries. These Rosaries are also made with silicone beads but are slightly smaller and have more space between beads so that kids learning their Rosary can slide each bead as they pray. Finally, for adults Chews Life has beautiful Rosary Bracelets. With many different styles and colors, the Rosary Bracelets are a great tool for someone trying to form the daily habit of praying the Rosary. Not only is it very accessible on your wrist, but it also features a “bookmark” crucifix medal that can be used to keep your spot in your Rosary. So if you only have a minute here and there to pray throughout your day, no worries, hold your place with the crucifix medal and continue when you have your next chance. Chews Life aims to provide beautiful and durable tools to help you pray the Rosary every single day. You can find their Rosaries and a number of other wonderful products on their website: www.chewslife.com. Use the code ABIDE10 to get 10% off your next order.

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Soaking in His Presence - William Augusto Bethel 

Heather’s one thing - The Life on Purpose Series by Alpha

Michelle’s one thing - The Gift of Brother Priests 

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. What traditions have been helpful to your family to enter into Holy Week and prepare for Easter?
3. How can we make this week different, entering into the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus? 
4. As we celebrate Easter, how will you live the reality of resurrection power in your daily life? 
5. As we prepare for Pentecost, how can you allow the Lord to use you by being more open and receptive to the Holy Spirit? 

Journal Questions:

1. Research the Holy Week liturgies at your local parish. Ask Jesus how He wants you to experience one of the extraordinary liturgies this week. 
2. Read Matthew 26:6-13. Put yourself in the scene as Mary of Bethany and take time to imagine what it smells like, what it feels like, and how Jesus looks at you. What does Jesus want to reveal to you through this? 
3. Read Matthew 26: 69-75. Imagine yourself as Peter and allow Jesus to see you even in your betrayals. What does Jesus want to say to you through this?

Quotes to Ponder: “He will provide the way and the means, such as you could never have imagined. Leave it all to Him, let go of yourself, lose yourself on the Cross, and you will find yourself entirely.” - St. Catherine of Siena

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Hosanna to the Son of David, blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.” -Matthew 21:9

This episode is sponsored by Pilgrimage to Beauty.

Pilgrimage to Beauty’s (@guatehickman) sole aim is to give you a unique once-in-a-lifetime experience that transforms and renews your spirit, no matter your vocation or state in life. Join them on a pilgrimage to the breathtaking shores of Lake Atitlan, Guatemala this December 2022, and rest, pray, and experience beauty. Mention Abiding Together and get $100 off registration.

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Homemade Vegetarian Chili

Heather’s one thing - Heather’s Zucchini Pecan Muffins

Michelle’s one thing - Once Upon a Wardrobe - Patti Callahan

Michelle’s other one thing -  God is Beauty - TOB Institute 

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. In light of almsgiving, what does faithful stewardship look like in your life? 
3. How can almsgiving work to help mature your love? 
4. Where do you let others hold you accountable? Are there specific areas you resist accountability? 

Journal Questions:

1. How is God asking you to surrender your loaves and fishes? Do you trust him to do his work while you exercise dominion over what he has entrusted to you?
2. Take a moment to name any places in your life where darkness has dominion. If necessary, make a commitment to go to confession and experience healing. 
3. Have you ever thought of confession as a means of almsgiving? How might this encourage you to experience healing through confession this Lent?

Quotes to Ponder: “No one heals himself by wounding another.” - St Ambrose

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine, is yours.” - Luke 15:31

Sister Miriam’s one thing - The Hobbit Audiobook

Heather’s one thing - Lent playlist: Songs in the Desert

Michelle’s one thing - On Earth as it is Heaven - Father Josh Johnson 

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. How has your understanding of fasting changed since beginning this study? 
3. What are the tendencies within yourself that you notice when you are fasting?
4. How has fasting allowed you to see areas of woundedness and experience God’s healing this Lent?

Journal Questions:

1. As you enter into fasting - what has the Lord revealed that he still wants to heal? What’s your Kraft Mac and’ Cheese?
2. “Behind every disordered desire is a good and holy desire, an unmet need, an unhealed wound, or a hidden pattern of sin”. How have you seen this present in your life this Lent? 
3. Pray with the image of God holding your face and seeing your wounds. What does he want to say to you in that moment.

Quotes to Ponder: “Jesus, may I hunger more deeply for you today. May my aches lead me to call out to you, so you can fill me.” - Sister Miriam James Heidland

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses…and I will put my spirit within you.” Ezekiel 36:25, 27

This episode is sponsored by Chews Life.

The mission of Chews Life is to equip all Catholics with Rosaries for life. How do they do that? By creating Rosaries for every age group and every person. For little ones, they have soft silicone rosaries. These rosaries are strung on durable organic cotton chord and have food grade silicone for the beads. These Rosaries are a beautiful way to bring your little ones to Mary and also offer something to soothe and delight them. For slightly older kids, Chews Life offers their Shepherd Kids Rosaries. These Rosaries are also made with silicone beads but are slightly smaller and have more space between beads so that kids learning their Rosary can slide each bead as they pray. Finally, for adults Chews Life has beautiful Rosary Bracelets. With many different styles and colors, the Rosary Bracelets are a great tool for someone trying to form the daily habit of praying the Rosary. Not only is it very accessible on your wrist, but it also features a “bookmark” crucifix medal that can be used to keep your spot in your Rosary. So if you only have a minute here and there to pray throughout your day, no worries, hold your place with the crucifix medal and continue when you have your next chance. Chews Life aims to provide beautiful and durable tools to help you pray the Rosary every single day. You can find their Rosaries and a number of other wonderful products on their website: www.chewslife.com. Use the code ABIDE10 to get 10% off your next order.

In this episode, we continue in our Lenten series as we journey through Sister Miriam’s book Restore. It’s not too late to join us! You can find your copy today at Ave Maria Press. This week we discuss the power of fasting and sacrifices to bring healing within ourselves and deeper communion with Jesus. We chat about how fasting can bring forth repentance and right ordered love when we remember we are saying no, so that we can say a greater yes to Jesus, our lover. We pray that your fasting would bring about healing and restoration this Lent!

Sister Miriam’s one thing - French Onion Soup 

Heather’s one thing - I Shall Not Want - The Worship Initiative

Michelle’s one thing -  Abide: A Pathway to Transformative Healing and Intimacy with Jesus - Heather Khym

Michelle’s other one thing - Sunday Bead Co. 

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. Can you recognize any disordered desires or loves in your day to day life that become more right-ordered through fasting? Is there something you could never imagine giving up for the Lord?
3. When it comes to fasting during Lent - do you see God as a slave driver with high expectations, hoops to jump though, and demands upon you or as a lover worthy of your sacrifices? 
4. How can this small group help one another in the area of fasting through accountability? 

Journal Questions:

1. What do you hunger and thirst for? Do you allow the Lord to satisfy your desires? How do you dull your desires, choosing comfort or convenience first?
2. What lies - “God won’t satisfy. God cannot provide the comfort I desire. I have to do it for myself because God won’t provide.” -  are you tempted to believe when you choose fasting?
3. Instead of allowing shame and condemnation about the things you crave, how can you feel your desires as a sign to come closer to Jesus? 

Quotes to Ponder: “Penitential fasting is obviously something very different from a therapeutic diet, but in its own way it can be considered therapy for the soul. In fact, practiced as a sign of conversion, it helps one in the interior effort of listening to God.” - St John Paul II

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “It is well that we are here.” Mark 9:5

This episode is sponsored by Rooted for Good.

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In this episode, we begin our Lenten series as we journey through Sister Miriam’s book Restore. It’s not too late to join us! You can find your copy today at Ave Maria Press. We share our own perspectives entering this new season of Lent before diving into the first section on prayer. We speak about the healing power of the disciplines of Lent: prayer, almsgiving and fasting as a means to lean into our desire and God’s desire for us. We remind one another of the true goal of Lent: union with Christ. We pray that it blesses you.    Sister Miriam’s one thing - Restore the Glory Podcast episode with Archbishop Sample

Heather’s one thing - Reconnecting with dear friends and community

Michelle’s one thing -  Dig to the Roots - Reform 

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. What is your disposition as we enter the season of Lent? How is God inviting you to receive restoration rather than to white knuckle your way through fasting, prayer and penance? 
3. What does God want to strip away during this season to create space and expose idols that you may be keeping?
4. How can we approach Lent through the lens of love rather than the lens of fear?
5. What does it mean to allow Jesus to be your guide this Lent?

Journal Questions:

1. As we begin Lent, are you aware of anything that is blocking your gaze towards Jesus? How can you create space to get into the Lord’s gaze again?
2. Have you taken time to ask the Lord: What would you like to give me this Lent? What would you like to talk to me about this Lent? Where would you like to invite me into deeper intimacy and union?
3. How can you allow yourself to experience desire and God’s desire for you during this season? 

Quotes to Ponder: “For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy.” - St Therese 

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “But you are merciful to all, for you can do all things, and you overlook men’s sins that they may repent…you spare all things, for they are yours, O Lord who love the living.” Wisdom 11: 23,26

Check out the Abiding Together Shop and Heather’s new book!

Check out the Abiding Together Shop and Heather’s new book!

Did you know that we have our very own Abiding Together shop filled with very cute mugs, t-shirts print stickers, scripture cards, and much more. Michelle has designed most of these items and they each reflect saints, quotes, and inspirations that have been a part of our podcast discussions over the years.A couple of my favorites are the quit talking to the dang snake. And our coffee is the eighth sacrament mug. This Easter we'd like to highlight the Saint story cards that would be great for your Easter baskets. Michelle created these in collaboration with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal and Our Sunday Visitor. They feature Saint John Paul the second, Mother Teresa, Saint Therese, and St. Francis of Assisi. These story cards offer a new way to learn, pray, and play together while deeply reflecting on your own journey towards sainthood, you can order these using the code abide10 for 10% off. Just head over to abidingtogetherpodcast.com/shop.

Also Heather just finished writing a book called Abide: A Pathway to Transformative Healing and Intimacy with Jesus. This book asks questions like what if God's promises are real? What if we truly could live the abundant life that Jesus is offering to us? Through my personal stories, scriptural truth, church teaching and practical tools. You'll be invited to break through the barriers that prevent you from trusting and experiencing the deep love of Jesus and to be transformed by the freedom that comes when we vulnerably bring our entire selves to Jesus, the divine healer, restorer and miracle worker. You can use code abide22 at avemariapress.com for 20% off today.

In this episode, we conclude our conversation on motherhood focusing on the feminine genius of maternity. We speak about how to grow in spiritual maternity to allow new life and lasting fruit to come forth through us. We discuss the need to continue to allow others to mother us, as well as the importance of showing up for ourselves and tending to our own needs. We revisit the ideas of abiding in the Lord and living a right-ordered life in community in order to live our vocations as mothers. We pray this week you would bring forth the life God desires to birth in you.

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Prayer from Mother Mary Francis

“Our Lady is a home where people are helped to be what they can be, to grow to the maturity for which God has destined them. Like her, the family is called to be a place where someone helps me to rise when I stumble. Always a hand reaches out to sustain me, and my hand goes out to help the stumbling one. All these appellations that the Church heaps upon Our Lady show her as both homemaker and the home.  When we are homemakers, we are ourselves a home. We must be all these things to one another: a lookout tower, a place of beauty, a refuge, a help, a strength and a consolation. Let us be engaged more earnestly than ever before in being homemakers. Despite the word being used in a somewhat condescending term in our time, to be a homemaker is the greatest glory of woman. It is essentially the mission of the Church, the Bride of Christ. She is the home and the homemaker. She is the home for us all. Our Lady is essentially the first physical home of God himself, and always our home. We must strive to make a home for one another: a home of peace, of love, of worship, and of focus on God.” 

Heather’s one thing - Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe from Mel’s Kitchen 

Michelle’s one thing - Amazing Grace - Aretha Franklin 

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. After listening to this series - what does the expansive view of motherhood look like to you? What does authentic motherhood look like? 
3. What does it look like to put your own needs first (in right order),  to show up for yourself and allow others to mother you?
4. Who is one woman who has mothered you well that you would like to thank?

Journal Questions:

1. How is the Holy Spirit asking to collaborate with you to re-mother yourself? 
2. Are you still open to God creating new life through you? 
3. With mindfulness of the difference between productivity and fruitfulness - where  is God inviting you to be fruitful? What may need to be pruned to create fruit that lasts? 

Quotes to Ponder: “For an understanding of our unique feminine nature, let us look to the pure love and spiritual maternity of Mary. This spiritual maternity is the core of a woman’s soul. Wherever a woman functions authentically in this spirit of maternal pure love, Mary collaborates with her. This holds true whether the woman is married or single, professional or domestic or both, a Religious in the world or in the convent. Through this love, a woman is God’s special weapon in His fight against evil. Her intrinsic value is that she is able to do so because she has a special susceptibility for the works of God in souls — her own and others. She relates to others in His spirit of love.” - Edith Stein

Scripture for Lectio Divina - “The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew ] you,before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” - Jeremiah 1:4-5 

This episode is sponsored by Scapulars.com!

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Announcing our 2022 Lenten Study

This year we will be journeying through the season of Lent with a six-part series based on Restore: A Guided Lent Journal for Prayer and Meditation written by our very own Sister Miriam James Heidland. You can pre-order your copy from Ave Maria Press here or pre-order from Amazon here. We look forward to journeying with you this Lent!

In this episode, we continue our discussion on motherhood by reflecting on the gift of sensitivity. We discuss how Our Lady reveals in her motherhood how God knows us, notices us and responds to us. We chat about the temptation to conform, wall off our hearts, or see the gift of sensitivity as a liability rather than a tool for healing. We speak about the space within our hearts as mothers that allows for others to room, grow and cultivate their true humanity. We pray for you to experience healing this week!

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Christ Taking Leave of His Mother - Piotr Stachiewicz

Heather’s one thing - The mothers in my life that teach me how to be a better mother.

Michelle’s one thing - The Lifegiving Home - Sally Clarkson  and The Lifegiving Table - Sally Clarkson 

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. How have you experienced the gift sensitivity through mothers in your life? Is there a particular instance or memory where you experienced healing through the sensitivity of a mother?
3. How do you create moments, space, and time for others to open up and be vulnerable or become who they are created to be?
4. How can we as a group be more sensitive to the needs of those entrusted to us?

Journal Questions:

1. Where have you felt the need to conform? Are there particular memories or messages that you desire healing from? 
2. How do you live out the gift of sensitivity and when do you feel like you have had to wall off your heart?
3. Ask Mary to mother you and show you how to mother those entrusted to you with sensitivity. What does Jesus want to reveal to you about his mother?

Quotes to Ponder: “Mary, she is the poetess and prophetess of redemption..” - Pope St. Paul VI, Homily, April 24, 1970

Scripture for Lectio Divina - “The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew ] you,before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” - Jeremiah 1:4-5 

This episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.

This week’s episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.  If you are looking for beautiful Catholic home décor, jewelry, art, rosaries or other Catholic gifts, look no farther than House of Joppa.

Each product is curated from artisans throughout the world, and is designed to uplift your spirit and share the beauty of our Catholic faith. If you are looking for something for yourself or a special gift for a friend, head over to their website in the show notes.

My favorite products are their Vintage Sacred Heart Medallion, Mini Mary Garden and Miraculous Medal rosary.

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

Announcing our 2022 Lenten Study 

This year we will be journeying through the season of Lent with a six-part series based on Restore: A Guided Lent Journal for Prayer and Meditation written by our very own Sister Miriam James Heidland. You can pre-order your copy from Ave Maria Press here or pre-order from Amazon here. We look forward to journeying with you this Lent! 

In this episode, we speak about the impact of maternal wounds caused by distraction, harsh words, and abandonment. We discuss repairing relationships through time, perspective, and understanding the context of the situations our mothers experienced as women. We speak about the importance of maturity as mothers, especially when our children hurt us and how to seek healing, restoration and repair immediately. We pray this week the Lord would respond and be the healer of your wounds!

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Verso Alto Coffee

Heather’s one thing - On the Altar - Upperroom 

Michelle’s one thing - A Mother Like You - JJ Heller 

Other Books Mentioned:

Sheltered Within Her Heart : 33 days to deeper entrustment to Mary - Joshua Elzner 

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. Every one of us has been born of a woman. How would you describe your relationship with your mother? 
3. How have you seen the power of words at play with your mother, your children (if you have them) or in other maternal relationships? How have your actions spoken certain messages? 
4. When you find yourself hurt by your children (natural or spiritual) - what is your first reaction? How can you rise above, see their true needs, and ask the Holy Spirit to help you respond in love?

Journal Questions:

1. What wounds can you recognize from your relationship with your mother? Are there wounds your mother inflicted - intentionally or unintentionally? Take a moment to invite Jesus into these moments. 
2. What wounds can you recognize from your relationship with your children - natural or spiritual? How can you seek repair and restoration?
3. As you make your own journey of healing and you notice certain patterns of behavior or belief, have you ever asked your children or people who look up to you “I am noticing ‘x’ in myself. How has this affected you?” How could this conversation bring about greater love in that relationship? 

Quotes to Ponder: “Love can be reborn.” - Pope St. John Paul II

Scripture for Lectio Divina - “The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew ] you,before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” - Jeremiah 1:4-5 

This episode is sponsored by Catholic Match.

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Announcing our 2022 Lenten Study

This year we will be journeying through the season of Lent with a six-part series based on Restore: A Guided Lent Journal for Prayer and Meditation written by our very own Sister Miriam James Heidland. You can pre-order your copy from Ave Maria Press here or pre-order from Amazon here. We look forward to journeying with you this Lent!

Heather’s one thing - Faith of My Father album by Steffany Gretzinger

Michelle’s one thing - Sheltered Within Her Heart: 33 Days to Deeper Entrustment to Mary

Other Books Mentioned:

Essays on Women (Edith Stein) — also available on Amazon 

Living from the Heart (E James Wilder)

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. What are some ways that women can cultivate, guard, and develop true humanity?
3. What ways do you long to be mothered, nurtured, and guarded?
4. What ways do you desire to experience healing in the area of motherhood either in how you are called to offer it or in how you have received it?

Journal Questions:

1. What did the episode stir within your heart?
2. Where do I not feel safe to myself?
3. What are my desires in the area of motherhood? Take time to talk to the Lord about this.
4. What disappointments do you need to offer to the Lord?

Quotes to Ponder: “To be a mother innately means to cultivate, to guard, and to develop true humanity.”  Edith Stein 

Scripture for Lectio Divina - “The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew ] you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” - Jeremiah 1:4-5

Sister Miriam’s one thing - The King of Love My Shepherd Is - Sarah Kroger

Heather’s one thing - Hail O Queen - Damascus Worship

Michelle’s one thing - Rhythm - Lisa Keeven

Michelle’s other one thing - Crowned for Ashes. You can read more about this ministry through the following interview.

Other Books Mentioned:

Deliverance Prayers for the Laity

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. Where does God want to bestow a beautiful exchange in your life (a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning,  a garment of praise instead of the spirit of despair)? 
3. How can you cultivate the spiritual practices of repentance and renouncing? How can you cultivate the spiritual practices of claiming blessing and calling forth goodness?

Journal Questions:

1. What part of Isaiah 61 is God inviting you to be rooted in, in this new year? 
2. Michelle shared a quote from Andy Couch, “Idols promise everything and deliver nothing.” What areas of idolatry is God asking you to repent as you move into a new year?
3. Are there areas of dysfunction, sin, or idolatry you would like to renounce especially for the sake of restoration in your family and future generations? 

Quotes to Ponder: “… in this new year that God is giving us to sanctify us and unite us more closely to Himself, let us make Him grow in our souls, let us keep alone and set apart; may He be truly King.” - St. Elizabeth of the Trinity 

Scripture for Lectio Divina - “...to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor… ” - Isaiah 61:2

This episode is sponsored by OSV Challenge.

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Announcing our 2022 Lenten Study

This year we will be journeying through the season of Lent with a six-part series based on Restore: A Guided Lent Journal for Prayer and Meditation written by our very own Sister Miriam James Heidland. You can pre-order your copy from Ave Maria Press here or pre-order from Amazon here. We look forward to journeying with you this Lent!

In this episode, we reconnect after an extended winter break to continue our annual tradition, sharing our Word of the Year! Each year we each ask God to give us a theme to focus on for the new year and invite you to do the same. After personal prayer and reflection, we share our words for 2022 and how our words of the year have been connected. We discuss the importance of claiming this year for Christ and invite you to join us on the journey again! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Christmas Cards 

Heather’s one thing - Peace Vol. II - Bethel Music

Michelle’s one thing - Word on Fire Bible Volume 2 

Michelle’s other one thing - Born of Wonder Podcast

Michelle’s other other one thing - Revelations 19 - Maverick City Music 

Discussion Questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. Who’s word - Heather: Increase, Michelle: Jubilee, Sister Miriam: Secure - resonated most with you and why?
3. After prayer and reflection, what’s your word of the year? 
4. How can you see your spiritual progress through the evolution of your words of the year over the past few years? How have these words or themes built upon each other? 

Journal Questions:

1. Take some time to reflect on what God desires to reveal to you as your word of the year. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal this to you. Make sure to write it down and memorialize it in a way that will keep it at the forefront of your mind throughout the year. 
2. What would it look like to “live a different life, closer to God” this year ?
3. Are there specific scriptures, saints, or quotes that will serve as a guide or reminder of your word during the year?

Quotes to Ponder: “During this new year I resolve to begin a new life. I do not know what will happen to me during this year. But I abandon myself entirely to you, my God. And my aspirations and all my affections will be for You. I feel so weak, dear Jesus, but with Your help I hope and resolve to live a different life, that is, a life closer to You." - Saint Gemma Galgani 

Scripture for Lectio Divina - “...to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor… ” - Isaiah 61:2

This episode is sponsored by Pink Salt Riot.

To keep your Word of the Year top of mind all year long, we encourage you to check out the custom word of the year pieces from Pink Salt Riot. They offer a variety of pieces, from jewelry to keychains, that are totally customizable - not only with your word, but your personal style as well. But hurry! They only make their custom word of the year pieces through February 15, so order ASAP.  Abiding Together listeners can get an exclusive 15% discount on all regularly priced items in their order with the code abide15.

Announcing our 2022 Lenten Study!

This year we will be journeying through the season of Lent with a six-part series based on Restore: A Guided Lent Journal for Prayer and Meditation written by our very own Sister Miriam James Heidland. You can pre-order your copy from Ave Maria Press here or pre-order from Amazon here. We look forward to journeying with you this Lent!

In this episode, we conclude our four part Advent series revisiting the women Doctors of the Church with a discussion on peace through the life of St. Teresa of Avila. We discuss the key to peace as abiding in the love of Christ despite the storms of life. We chat about peace that comes from rightly ordered relationships and the need to cultivate peace through daily acts of trust, rest, and surrender. We pray that as we near Christmas, you would experience the peace of Christ in a new way! For further listening, check out Restore the Beauty, a five part series on the women Doctors of the Church from Season 4 and be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Oh Come Let us Adore Him - Maverick City Music

Michelle’s one thing - All of our Abiding Together Podcast Staff - Lizzie, Emily, Katie, Kristina - and the staff at Spirit Juice Studios 

Heather’s one thing - All of our Patrons

Other Books Mentioned - The Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Therese of Lisieux 

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from today’s episode? 
2. How do you find, cultivate, and maintain peace in your life? What role has ‘abiding’  played in creating a life of peace? 
3. What does it look like to embody Shalom - peace that radiates wholeness, completeness, and order? 
4. How do you make time throughout the day to breathe and intentionally open your heart up to Jesus and his peace? 

Journal Questions:

1. Take a moment to pray “Jesus, teach me to find peace in the storms of life.” 
2. How will you ‘abide’ with Jesus over the next few days as we enter into Christmas?
3. Imagine yourself in the boat with Jesus and the disciples in the storm. What is your posture and expression and why? How does this reveal Christ as the king of peace or not? 
4. Take a moment to pray, reflect and prepare for Christ’s birth through a brief examination of conscience. In the areas we have discussed this Advent - faith, hope, joy and peace - where have you gone astray? Where do you need God’s mercy? If you haven’t yet, commit to making space for the sacrament of confession before Christmas. 

Quote to Ponder: 

"Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you, all things are passing away. God never changes. Patience obtains all things. Whoever has God lacks nothing, God alone suffices."- St. Teresa of Avila

Scripture for Lectio Divina:

In the beginning, was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and without Him, not one thing came into being. What has come into being in Him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. - John 1:1-5

This episode is sponsored by Walking With Purpose.

Are you ready to discover not only what matters most in life but also how to prioritize those things? Are you ready to build a life that you don’t want to escape? Another glass of wine, just one more episode on Netflix, a little more scrolling on Instagram…Women are numbing out at ever-increasing rates. Why? What is it about our lives that make us feel so overwhelmed? What might change if we figured out how to build lives that we like?

Ordering Your Priorities is the latest Bible study from Walking with Purpose, a women’s ministry whose mission is to help every Catholic woman and girl in America encounter Jesus through scripture. Ordering Your Priorities is an immensely practical Bible study that will help you put the most important things first. We’ll begin by paying attention to the One who made us because He can best tell us what we need for our lives to run well. AT podcast listeners can receive 15% Ordering Your Priorities study with the code ABIDING15 (thru 1/31/22).

In this episode, we continue our four part Advent series revisiting the women Doctors of the Church with a discussion on joy through the life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. We discuss trust, simplicity and self surrender as the keys to experiencing the beauty of Christmas and the miracle of Christ’s birth. We share our own personal stories of God bringing radical transformation in our lives, doing things for us and in us that we could not do ourselves. We pray that this Advent you would be able to joyfully accept the gifts God desires to give to you.  For further listening, check out Restore the Beauty, a five part series on the women Doctors of the Church from Season 4 and be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts!

Sister Miriam’s one thing - The National Shrine and Museum of Saint Thérèse - Darien, Illinois

Michelle’s one thing - Behold: The Luminous Mysteries Visio Divina Book 

Heather’s one thing - Forever, Amen - Steffany Gretzinger

Other Books Mentioned - The Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Therese of Lisieux 

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from today’s episode? 
2. What kind of miracle are you desiring this Christmas season? What do you hope Jesus will transform into something new?
3. Where is God inviting you to greater self surrender this Advent? What situations/relationships is He inviting you to ask “How can I surrender it?” instead of asking “How can I fix it?”
4. How is Mary inviting you to embrace and accept your hiddenness, littleness and poverty this Advent?

Journal Questions:

1. Take some time to reflect on your own ‘Christmas miracles’. Ask the Lord to call to mind a time when He did something for you, that you could not do for yourself. 
2. Do you entrust your hiddenness and littleness to God like St. Therese? Why or why not?
3. Where have you over-complicated your spiritual life, vocation, and relationship with God? How can you reintroduce simplicity this Advent?

Quotes to Ponder: 

“Jesus, help me to simplify my life by learning what you want me to be and becoming that person.” - St. Therese

Scripture for Lectio Divina:

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

This episode is sponsored by Reform Wellness.

This week’s episode is sponsored by Reform, a functional medicine and holistic wellness practice rooted in Christ. Reform redefines health as the state of your body and soul, and their mission is to empower others to find well-being in Christ, thrive in whole-person health, and become the best versions of themselves—physically, mentally, and spiritually. We highly recommend Reform Online, a twelve-week course that walks you through Reform’s nine Wellness Pillars to help you reclaim your identity in Christ, optimize nutrition and sleep, manage stress, and much more. We invite you to say “yes” to Christ-centered wellness and begin your journey to wholiness™ today with discount code ABIDE10 for the next Reform Online class beginning in January. Learn more at reformwellness.co and on Instagram: @reform_wellness.

In this episode, we continue our four part Advent series revisiting the women Doctors of the Church with a discussion on praise through the life of St. Hildegard of Bingen. We discuss the value of praise: speaking the truth about who God is and who we are and reflect on how all creation was made to praise the Creator. We chat about Advent as a particular time to create space to hear God’s voice and the unique ways each of us enter into praise of God. We pray this week you would hear the voice of God over you and join in the joyful praise of all creation.

For further listening, check out Restore the Beauty, a five part series on the women doctors of the church from Season 4 and be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - The Litany of Self-Love - Micole Amalu

Michelle’s one thing - Breath of Heaven - Amy Grant

Heather’s one thing - Deliverance Prayers: For Use by the Laity - Fr. Chad A Ripperger PhD

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from today’s episode? 
2. What are some ways you enter into praise of God? How has this changed throughout different seasons in your life? 
3. How have you seen praise of God change the atmosphere, relationships, or situations? Take a moment to share these stories. 
4. How can we continue to cultivate the “inner place” for God to speak to us and for us to praise God this Advent? 

Journal Questions:

1. Do you believe you were created to praise? How can you begin to live out this calling in practical ways and particularly during this Advent season?
2. Many times we cannot hear God because something else is overshadowing his voice? Ask the Lord “Tell me what I am not hearing?” 
3. Take a moment to imagine yourself with Mary singing praises over the child Jesus in her womb or as an infant. What words of praise do you want to speak to Jesus? What does he want to say back to you?

Quotes to Ponder: 

“Sometimes when we hear a song we breathe deeply and sigh. This reminds the prophet that the soul arises from heavenly harmony. In thinking about this, he was aware that the soul itself has something in itself of this music...” - St. Hildegard of Bingen

Scripture for Lectio Divina:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and without Him, not one thing came into being. What has come into being in Him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. - John 1:1-5

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

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

Michelle’s one thing - Seeing Christmas - Karen Stacy

Heather’s one thing - Advent Playlist on Spotify

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quotes to Ponder: 

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina:

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

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

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

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

Michelle’s one thing - Sweet Cross - Laura Phelps 

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

Magnus’s one thing -  His Acorn Tree 

Other Books Mentioned -

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

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

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

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

Michelle’s one thing - A Sisterhood Movie Night List

Heather’s one thing - Steady Love Playlist on Spotify

Other Books Mentioned -  Priestly Fatherhood - Fr. Jacques Philippe

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina: At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth.  When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.  Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

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

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

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Tiny Hands

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quotes to Ponder: 

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina:

At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth.  When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.  In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!  But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.  Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

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

This episode is sponsored by Monk Manual.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina

At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth.  When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.  In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!  But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.  Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

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

This episode is sponsored by Ave Maria Press. 

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

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

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

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

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

Heather’s one thing - Chicken Carnitas Recipe

Other Books Mentioned - 

Friendship in the Lord - Fr. Paul Hinnebusch 

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth.  When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.  In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!  But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.  Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

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

This episode is sponsored by Home School Connections.

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

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

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

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

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

Other Books Mentioned - 

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quotes to Ponder: 

Because their shame was twofold

and disgrace was proclaimed their portion,

They will possess twofold in their own land;

everlasting joy shall be theirs.

 Isaiah 61:7

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

This episode is sponsored by Every Sacred Sunday.

The Every Sacred Sunday Mass journal is designed to help you intentionally prepare and engage with the Mass each week. It contains the readings for each Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation for one liturgical year with a simple journaling template after each reading. Other features include thick quality paper, a durable hardbound cover, original illustrations, and key prayers of the Mass. This journal is lovingly & thoughtfully designed by hand, and we hope that it invites you to say yes to God, one Sunday at a time. Use the promo code abide5 for $5 off your next purchase! Available now on our website, www.everysacredsunday.com/shop.

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

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

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

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

Other Books Mentioned - 

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by Corda Candles.

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

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

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

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by Rooted for Good.

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

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

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

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

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

Other Books Mentioned -

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by CatholicMatch.

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

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

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

Heather’s one thing -  ID Intentional Disciples

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

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by Chews Life.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

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

Michelle’s one thing - Summer Reading List

Heather’s one thing -  Our Patreon Supporters!

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

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

Other Links Related to This Episode:

Read Pope Francis’s 2020 Easter Homily

Live Differently Mug from the Abiding Together Shop

Season 2 Episode 5: Hope in Seasons of Darkness

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Healthy Granola Recipe

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.

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

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

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

Michelle’s one thing - Rosemary Fig Sauce

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

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

Other Episodes on This Topic: 

S05 E24: Forgiveness 

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by MyCatholicDoctor.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Episodes on This Topic: 

Season 4, Episode 1: On Summer and Scandal

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by Chews Life.

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

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

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

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

Michelles other one thing - My Backyard Lights

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Jane Austen Coloring Book 

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

Other Links mentioned in this episode:

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by Chews Life.

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

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

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

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

Michelle’s one thing -  My Heart - Corinna Luyken

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

Heather’s one thing - Joyful - Dante Bowe

Other Links mentioned in this episode:

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

Michelle’s Fallow Blog Post

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by Reform Wellness. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sister Miriam’s one thing - WoodWick Candles

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

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

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

Michelle’s one thing -  The Technicolor of Spring!

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

This episode is sponsored by SoulCore.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other books discussed in this episode -

Let the Fire Fall - Father Michel Scanlan 

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement: The Abiding Together Podcast is reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer for Lent. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions, additional resources and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. 

This episode is sponsored by SpiritualDirection.com.

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

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

Heather’s one thing - Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Recipe

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

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Institute of Catholic Culture

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement: The Abiding Together Podcast is reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer for Lent. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions, additional resources and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. 

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

Heather’s one thing - Bees!

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

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

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

Other Links mentioned in the episode-

The Visitation Sisters & Monastery in Mobile, Alabama 

The Nashville Dominicans 

Father John Burns Podcast on Religious Life 

Prayer from Cardinal John Henry Newman -

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement: The Abiding Together Podcast is reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer for Lent. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions, additional resources and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. 

This episode is sponsored by Rooted for Good Skincare.

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

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

Michelle’s one thing - Anna from CORDA candles

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

Other links mentioned in the episode:

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement: The Abiding Together Podcast is reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer for Lent. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions, additional resources and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. 

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

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

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

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

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

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

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

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

Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement: The Abiding Together Podcast is reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer for Lent. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise.

In this episode, we begin a six-part Lenten series on the book “This Present Paradise” by Claire Dwyer. We discuss the sufferings in the early life of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity, the humbling moments of parenthood and surrendering your giftedness to be refined by God and used for his glory. We chat about the “little way” of recognizing the Trinity in our everyday lives and how often our woundedness and our glory lie side by side. We are excited to continue this journey with St. Elizabeth of the Trinity and you next week!

Heather’s one thing - Heather’s Spotify Lenten Playlist

Michelle’s one thing -  Restoration House: Creating a Space that gives life and connection - Kennesha Buycks 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Monica at Damascus Catholic Mission Campus

Carmelite Examen mentioned by Michelle

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quote to Ponder:  “May my life be a continual prayer, one long act of love. May nothing be able to distract me from you.” - St. Elizabeth of the Trinity

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” - 1 Corinthians 3:16

This episode is sponsored by Corda Candles.

CORDA brings the light of the saints to the domestic church. Each handcrafted candle has a custom scent blended in-house that is directly inspired by saints and the faith, such as Joan of Arc, Michael the Archangel, and Divine Mercy. And the candles are made with great ingredients, including CORDA's proprietary, all-natural coconut wax blend and phthalate-free fragrances. Explore all of CORDA's modern saint candles at www.cordacandles.com. 

CORDA is pleased to offer an Elizabeth of the Trinity candle in collaboration with the Abiding Together Podcast and benefiting Sister Miriam's order, the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity. Listeners can use code abide10 through 3/31 for 10% off your order excluding the St. Elizabeth of the Trinity candle, Cloistered Heart.

Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement: The Abiding Together Podcast is reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer for Lent. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise.

In this episode, we continue our conversation with Fr. Josh Johnson on the Sacrament of Confession and God’s enduring delight in His children. We discuss how to uncover what might be at the root of our sin and what longings or desires we may be seeking to fulfill when we are in these situations. We finish with a healing prayer led by Fr. Josh and an encouragement to encounter Jesus in confession for greater freedom and healing this Lent! You can find the Pocket Guide to Reconciliation at AscensionPress.com or Amazon. 

Fr. Josh Johnson’s one thing -  You are Welcome in This Place - Maverick City Music 

Fr. Josh Johnsons’s other one thing - Through and Through - Will Reagan

Sister Miriam’s one thing - The gift of the priesthood

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

Michelle’s one thing - “O Ineffable Love, although in your light you saw all the evils that your creature would commit against your infinite goodness, you acted as if you did not see; rather, you kept your eye on the beauty of your creature with whom you fell in love, as if you were crazy and drunk with love, and through love you drew her out of yourself and gave her being.” - St. Catherine of Sienna 

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quote to Ponder:  Even if you were to commit all the sins in the world, Jesus would repeat to you: “Many of your sins are forgiven because you have loved much.” -Padre Pio

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Surely You desire truth in the inmost being; You teach me wisdom in the inmost place. Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” - Psalm 51:6 - 7 

Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement: The Abiding Together Podcast will be reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. If you don’t have your book yet - you can buy it via Amazon in a paperback or kindle version. 

This episode is sponsored by Ascension Press.

New from Ascension, "The Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation" is a beautiful, prayerful book by Fr. Mike Schmitz and Fr. Josh Johnson. This small but powerful guide is the perfect size to slip into your pocket or purse, and will give you reflections, guidance, and an examination of conscience that you can bring with you to prepare for your sacramental encounter with God's mercy and forgiveness. Whether you have been away from Confession for a long time or you are looking for a fresh way to enliven your regular routine, The Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation will help you encounter God's merciful love and forgiveness in new and beautiful ways. Get your copy at www.AscensionPress.com/Reconciliation. The book is available for pre-order and is expected to start shipping February 19 and listeners will receive 15% off with code abide15.

In this episode we spend some time with one of our dearest friends, Fr. Josh Johnson, to discuss the invitation to God’s mercy as we prepare for the season of Lent. Fr. Josh shares his own personal stories of healing through the sacrament of confession, as well his heart behind his new book A Pocket Guide to Reconciliation. We discuss confession as a sacrament of healing and God’s heart to restore our relationship with Him rather than condemn or shame us. We will be back next week with part two of our conversation with Fr. Josh, and you can find the Pocket Guide to Reconciliation at AscensionPress.com or Amazon. 

Fr. Josh Johnson’s one thing -  Make us one - Maverick City Music

Come and Get your Love - Father Commercial Father Josh referenced  

Sister Miriam’s one thing - The students at Hillsdale College

Heather’s one thing - Helena and Serra at Franciscan University

Heather’s other one thing - Fresh Wind - Hillsong

Michelle’s one thing - La La Lu - Christy Nockles from the Album Be Held: Lullabies for the Beloved

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quote to Ponder: “Today the Lord said to me, ‘Daughter, when you go to confession, to this fountain of My mercy, the Blood and Water which came forth from My Heart always flows down upon your soul and ennobles it.  Every time you go to confession, immerse yourself entirely in My mercy, with great trust, so that I may pour the bounty of My grace upon your soul.  When you approach the confessional, know this, that I Myself am waiting there for you. I am only hidden by the priest, but I Myself act in your soul.  Here the misery of the soul meets the God of mercy.  Tell souls that from this fount of mercy souls draw graces solely with the vessel of trust.  If their trust is great, there is no limit to My generosity. The torrents of grace inundate humble souls. The proud remain always in poverty and misery, because My grace turns away from them to humble souls.’” -  St. Faustina , The Diary of St. Faustina, 1602

Scripture for Lectio Divina:

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” - 1 John 1:9 

Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement:

The Abiding Together Podcast will be reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise.

This episode is sponsored by Ascension Press. New from Ascension, "The Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation" is a beautiful, prayerful book by Fr. Mike Schmitz and Fr. Josh Johnson.  This small but powerful guide is the perfect size to slip into your pocket or purse, and will give you reflections, guidance, and an examination of conscience that you can bring with you to prepare for your sacramental encounter with God's mercy and forgiveness.  Whether you have been away from Confession for a long time or you are looking for a fresh way to enliven your regular routine, The Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation will help you encounter God's merciful love and forgiveness in new and beautiful ways. Get your copy at www.AscensionPress.com/Reconciliation.

The book is available for pre-order and is expected to start shipping February 19 and listeners will receive 15% off with code abide15.

In this episode, we focus on the patron of the universal Church, St Joseph. Since Pope Francis has declared this as the “Year of St Joseph”, we desire to uncover the gift of this humble and faithful adoptive father of Jesus. We discuss Joseph as a tender, loving Father who shows us that God can use our frailty and weakness to bring about great things for the Kingdom. We consider how in the face of disappointment, Joseph chose to surrender and continue to give his daily fiat. We pray that you would allow Joseph to take you into his home as he does with Mary and be open to the healing God wants to work in your heart this year.

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Dear Father: A Message of Love for Priests - Catherine De Hueck Doherty 

Heather’s one thing - Recipe for baked black pepper ranch chicken fingers

Michelle’s one thing - Becket Wants to Be a Priest - Matt Regitz

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quote to Ponder:  “When God wishes to raise a soul to greater heights, he unites it to St. Joseph by giving it a strong love for the good saint” — St. Peter Julian Eymard

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means, “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus. - Matthew 1:18-25

Additional Resources:

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

The Abiding Together Podcast will be reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise.

This episode is sponsored by the Given Institute Forum.

Are you a woman with a heart for mission and an aptitude for leadership? Come to the GIVEN Catholic Young Women’s Leadership Forum to develop your personal gifts and leadership skills and put them at the service of the Gospel! The GIVEN Forum will take place June 9th-13th at Catholic University in Washington DC and is open to emerging Catholic female leaders ages 21-30. You’ll receive faith formation, leadership development, and mentoring and leave with a concrete action plan that you’ll take back to the communities you love. The GIVEN Forum is the signature program of the GIVEN Institute, which seeks to raise up Catholic female leaders both lay and religious. The feminine genius is at the heart of the Church, and God has entrusted you with a gift only YOU can give, because of the gift that you are. Applications for the GIVEN Forum are now open! Visit www.giveninstitute.com to learn more about the Forum and apply today. Applications close on February 12th!

In this episode, we continue a mini-series on four women in scripture with the story of Deborah. We discuss the story of the prophetess Deborah who takes a posture of receptivity as she collaborates and mothers the people of Israel. We consider Deborah's magnificat and the ways we can give God praise for what he has done in our own lives. We chat about the importance of being attuned and attentive to God’s voice and where he may be inviting us to call others on to who they were meant to be. We pray that you would hear God’s invitation to rise up this week and allow the Holy Spirit full access that God may bring about his kingdom through you.

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Beholding Beauty: Mary and the Song of Songs - Fr. Gregory Cleveland, OMV 

Heather’s one thing -  My daughter Maria and the blessings of spiritual fathers like Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR at Franciscan where she is going off to University.

Michelle’s one thing - Set a Fire for Kids Lent Journal - Blessed is She

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quotes to Ponder: “Women of the entire universe, whether Christian or non-believing, you to whom life is entrusted at this grave moment in history, it is for you to save the peace of the world.” - Saint Paul VI

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  “Villagers in Israel would not fight; they held back until I, Deborah, arose, until I arose, a mother in Israel.” - Judges 5:7 

The Abiding Together Podcast will be reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise.

In this episode, we begin a mini-series on four women in scripture with the story of Hannah. We discuss the importance of acknowledging our desires and the ache of longing much like Hannah’s desire for a child. We chat about the temptation to compare our areas of barrenness to other people’s fruitfulness and the freedom of surrender and keeping our eyes on Christ. We acknowledge the importance of remembering that union with God is the promise, not the things we desire, and how God’s delayed response is sometimes a great mercy. Sister Miriam closes this episode with a prayer inviting the Lord to meet you in the places of fear, despair and longing. 

Sister Miriam’s one thing -  Bible in a Year Podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz featuring Jeff Cavins  from Ascension Press

Heather’s one thing - The 2021 Passion Conference

Heather’s other one thing - Promises - Maverick City Music

Michelle’s one thing - The Given Forum 

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quotes to Ponder: “To limit your desires and your hopes is to misunderstand God’s infinite goodness.” - St. Therese 

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  

“Daughter, the God of Israel has granted your petition as you have asked of Him.” - 1 Samuel 1:17  

“My heart exults in the Lord, my horn is exalted in my God. I have swallowed up my enemies; I rejoice in my victory. There is no Holy One like the Lord; there is no Rock like our God.” - 1 Samuel 2:1-2

This episode is sponsored by Walking With Purpose.

Do you long for healing and wholeness? Would you like to be rooted and grounded in a love that will never fail you? Fearless and Free, a Catholic Bible study from Walking with Purpose, will allow you to experience healing and wholeness in Christ. In this transformational study, you'll journey through the book of Ephesians to gain a firm Biblical foundation to stand on no matter what life throws your way. The six-lesson format of Fearless and Free makes it an ideal Bible study for Lent, and a free leader's guide can be downloaded from the Walking with Purpose website. Use code abide15 for 15% off Fearless and Free, now through Ash Wednesday, February 17.

We also announce our 2021 Lenten Book Study - This Present Paradise - Claire Dwyer. 

In this episode we interview our special guest and friend, Fr. Mike Schmitz and introduce you to a brand new podcast from Ascension Press, The Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz featuring Jeff Cavins. We discuss the importance of developing a biblical worldview: a lens to view our relationships, circumstances and choices through how the scripture teaches us to think about ourselves and about God. We chat with one of the most recognizable priests in the modern church about humility, the scripture that speaks to him, and what we all can receive by opening the scriptures every day for a year. You can find a daily reading plan and more information about The Bible in Year Podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz featuring Jeff Cavins at AscensionPress.com. 

Father Mike’s one thing - I Celebrate the Day - Relient K

Father Mike’s other one thing - simplifying and decluttering his life

Sister Miriam’s one thing -  O Come Let Us Adore Him - Maverick City Music 

Heather’s one thing - Holy Mass Candle from Providential Co. 

Michelle’s one thing - 'Tabernacle' print from Ascension Press

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quote to Ponder:  “My strength returns to me with my cup of coffee and the reading of the psalms” - Dorothy Day

Scripture for Lectio Divina:  “Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light to my path.” - Psalm 119:105

Announcements: We will be announcing our Lenten book study title and where to buy your book on Monday, January 18. Subscribe to our weekly listener email to be the first to know!

In this episode, we continue our annual tradition of the word of the year! Each year we each ask God to give us a theme to focus on for the new year and invite you to do the same. After personal prayer and reflection, we share our word for 2021 and how God has led us on a journey from year to year. After a difficult 2020, we discuss the importance of hope, not in a thing, but in the Person of Jesus. We chat about how sometimes a new yes to the Holy Spirit requires saying no to something else, to make room in our lives for something new that God is doing. We encourage you to pray, reflect and ask the Lord to reveal to you a new word of hope and renewal for this new year!

Sister Miriam’s one thing -  The new year!

Heather’s one thing - Sunday dinners with her family

Michelle’s one thing - Rooted Skincare - Brooke Summers

Michelle’s other one thing - The One Who Gave Myrrh - Kate Capato and Visual Grace

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quotes to Ponder:  “A new beginning! We must learn to live each day, each hour, yes, each minute as a new beginning, as a unique opportunity to make everything new. Imagine that we could live each moment as a moment pregnant with new life. Imagine that we could live each day as a day full of promises. Imagine that we could walk through the new year always listening to a voice saying to us:  “I have a gift for you and can’t wait for you to see it! Imagine!”
 — Henri Nouwen, You Are the Beloved: Daily Meditations for Spiritual Living

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  “You crown the year with your bounty,  and your carts overflow with abundance” - Psalm 65:11 

This episode is sponsored by Pink Salt Riot.

Pink Salt Riot is a Catholic women’s lifestyle brand that specializes in outfitting joyful hometown missionaries - the women living the joy of the gospel in their own unique life and calling. Now through January 24 Pink Salt Riot is offering custom made word of the year jewelry and keychains to help you keep your 2021 word top of mind all year long. Shop the full selection at pinksaltriot.com/collections/word-of-the-year/, including brand new beaded and chain bracelets! Abiding Together listeners can get an exclusive 15% discount on all regularly priced items in their order with the code abide15.

In this episode, we conclude our four part Advent series on the nature and character of Mary, our Mother. We chat about the nurturing. protecting motherhood that Mary wants to offer each of us this Christmas season. We discuss how Mary is the perfect model of loving excellently, even through suffering, and that love is always worth the risk of birth. We pray that our hearts would stay open like Mary to be able to see the joy of the resurrection on the other side of our crosses. Thank you for a great season 8 and we will see you in January!

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen

Sister Miriam’s other one thing - Little Women - Louisa May Alcott 

Michelle’s one thing - Ascension’s Bible in a Year podcast hosted by Fr. Mike Schmitz 

Michelle’s other one thing - The Crown season 4 

Heather’s one thing - Noel - Chris Tomlin featuring Lauren Daigle

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quotes to Ponder: 

 "Hear me and understand well, that nothing should frighten or grieve you. Let not your heart be disturbed. Do not fear that sickness, nor any other sickness or anguish. Am I not here, who is your Mother? Are you not under my protection? Am I not your health? Are you not happily within my mantle? What else do you wish? Do not grieve nor be disturbed by anything. ― Our Lady of Guadalupe to Juan Diego

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home. After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the scripture might be fulfilled,* Jesus said, “I thirst.” There was a vessel filled with common wine.* So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, “It is finished.” And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit. - John 19:25-30

This episode is created under the patronage of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Learn more about Our Lady of Guadalupe here or pray a novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe here.

In this episode, we continue our four part Advent series on the nature and character of Mary, our Mother. We discuss the call for women to be tender and strong, to fight for those we love with the power of the feminine genius. We chat about the tender strength required to watch Jesus suffer and die and the importance of trust, surrender and strength submitted under the will of God. Mary is offering her motherhood to us if we are willing to receive her invitation of protection.

Michelle’s one thing - In Full Boom - Claire Swinarski

Michelle’s other one thing - Rekindled - Mallory Smyth

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Essays on Women - Edith Stein. ENDOW also created an online study on these writings that you can purchase online here.

Heather’s one thing - Watching epic movies like Gladiator and Braveheart with her family 

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quote to Ponder: 

One instant in a still light,

He saw Our Lady then,

Her dress was soft as western sky,

And she was queen most womanly–

But she was queen of men.

Over the iron forest

He saw Our Lady stand;

Her eyes were sad withouten art,

And seven swords were in her heart–

But one was in her hand. 

- G.K. Chesterton, The Ballad of the White Horse

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:  “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,  you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation  which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel. The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” - Luke 2: 25-35

This episode is sponsored by Project Light Ministries.

Project Light Ministries resources are designed to create space and starting points for conversations where the secular can intersect with the sacred. Their resources make no assumptions and meet each person right where they are. They use the power of storytelling on film because each one of us needs to know we are not alone. The aim of creating a film is not just about getting a message out there. The process dictates that our media is raw, honest, and beautiful. For this reason, they make documentary style films, a specialty of their partner 4PM Media. They achieve captivating cinematography by appealing to truth and beauty in everything they approach.‍

Nine years ago, they dreamed of helping others create a safe space where individuals could sit and find the courage to tell their story. Where men & women, young & old, would affirm their worth by sharing bits of brokenness of their past chapters & current struggles. A space that would confront the uncomfortable, talk about the “taboo” and shine light into the darkest parts of our hearts. A place that would offer hope, grace, mercy and an invitation to rewrite the script of society. We are the ones called to speak truth over one another of a God who calls us by name who can redeem the darkest parts of our story.

You can find Project Light Ministries films as a DVD or digital download at www.projectlightministries.com. Enter the code "abide10" for 10% off of the DVD Bundle which includes a copy of both "Speaking to Sparrows" and "The 4th Man".

This episode is created under the patronage of Our Lady of Sorrows. Learn more about the novena to our Lady of Sorrows here or the Seven Sorrows Rosary here. 

In this episode, we continue with Part 2 of our Advent series on Mary, our Mother. The garden of her womb represents safety, tenderness, being wanted, and love. We discuss the restoration of Eve’s failures that came about through Mary’s surrender and the restoration God wants to work in our lives through our surrender and trust. We chat about the importance of saying yes in the moment by moment of every day. We reflect on the idea of placing ourselves in the womb of Mary and allowing her to mother us as the Holy Spirit transforms us. We pray you allow the Holy Spirit to visit you this advent and create new life!

Michelle’s one thing - Holding babies and young children

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Red Lentil Curry Soup recipe

Heather’s one thing - Unveiled Marriage Retreat by the John Paul II Healing Center. You can find all the retreats hosted by the John Paul II Healing Center at: https://jpiihealingcenter.org/events/. 

Books Mentioned - Reed of God - Caryll Houselander

Discussion questions:    

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

Journal Questions:

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

Quotes to Ponder: 

“When the angel appeared to Mary, God was announcing this love for the new humanity. It was the beginning of a new earth, and Mary became ‘a flesh-gift Paradise to be gardened by the new Adam.’ As in the first garden, Eve brought destruction, so in the garden of her womb Mary would now bring Redemption.” - Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen 

“Christ must be born from every soul, formed in every life. If we had a picture of Our Lady's personality we might be dazzled into thinking that only one sort of person could form Christ in himself, and we should miss the meaning of our own being. Nothing but things essential for us are revealed to us about the Mother of God: the fact that she was wed to the Holy Spirit and bore Christ into the world. Our crowning joy is that she did this as a lay person and through the ordinary daily life that we all live; through natural love made supernatural, as the water at Cana was, at her request, turned into wine.” ― Caryll Houselander, The Reed of God: A New Edition of a Spiritual Classic

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  During those days Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” - Luke 1:39-45

This episode is sponsored by Leanne Bowen Fine Art.

Leanne Bowen is a Catholic artist who strives to make beautiful things that radiate Christ’s love. Check out her work for images of the Sacred, Immaculate, and Most Chaste Hearts, portraits of the Saints, and images from prayer. She makes beautiful wedding and Sacrament cards, as well as Christmas Cards. She also has great stocking stuffers like vinyl stickers, magnets, and pins. If you are looking for a truly beautiful and unique gift to put beneath the tree this year, visit www.leannebowen.com. She is offering 15% off to all our listeners through January 1st with the code ABIDE15.

This episode is created under the patronage of Mary, Our Lady of Carmel. You can find a novena to Our Lady of Carmel here.