S09 E13: This Present Paradise Part 6: An Interview with Claire Dwyer

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.