Abiding Together

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 week's 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 Schchuts. 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: Word of Life is a religious education curriculum created in partnership by the Augustine Institute and Ignatius Press to help Catholic schools and parishes meet the challenges and opportunities of proclaiming the Gospel. Word of Life uses four key themes to awaken an authentic Catholic identity and demonstrate how the truths of the faith speak to the human heart. Through activities, videos, and other digital resources, students and parents can interact with faith formation materials in the classroom and at home. The Word of Life curriculum explores who we are as human persons, what our purpose in life is, why the faith is relevant in our modern culture, and how to live a truly integrated life of virtue through the grace offered by the Church. 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  Sponsor - CORDA Candles: Draw closer to the saints and create a peaceful place of prayer with CORDA candles. Handcrafted by a husband-and-wife team, and made with clean coconut wax and a beautiful, modern design, these are saint candles like you've never seen, or smelled before! 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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   "Whether we realize it or not, prayer is the encounter of God's thirst with ours. God thirsts that we may thirst for him."  - St. Augustine   “Prayer enlarges the heart until it is capable of Containing God's gift of himself.”  - Mother Teresa    “My daughter…why do you not tell me about everything that concerns you, even the smallest details? Tell Me about everything, and know that this will give Me great joy. I answered, But You know about everything, Lord.” And Jesus replied to me, “Yes I do know; but you should not excuse yourself with the fact that I know, but with childlike simplicity talk to Me about everything, for my ears and heart are inclined towards you, and your words are dear to Me.”  - St. Faustina   The Lord forms and teaches people how to pray according to who He has made them to be. - St. Catherine of Siena   Contemplative prayer in my opinion is nothing else than the close sharing between friends. It means taking time frequently to be alone with Him who we know loves us. Contemplative prayer seeks Him whom my soul loves  - St. Teresa of Avila   The Lord says: “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human rules they have been taught.” - Isaiah 29:13   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   “Our boat - your talents, your hopes, your achievements - is worth nothing whatsoever unless you leave it in Christ's hands, allowing him the freedom to come aboard. Make sure you don't turn it into an idol. In your boat by yourself, if you try to do without the Master, you are - supernaturally speaking - making straight for shipwreck. Only if you allow and seek his presence and captaincy will you be safe from the storms and setbacks of life. Place everything in God's hands. Let your thoughts, the brave adventures you have imagined, your lofty human ambitions, your noble loves, pass through the heart of Christ. Otherwise, sooner or later, they will sink to the bottom together with your selfishness.”  ― St. Josemaria Escriva “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: Ten years ago, Be Love Revolution began with the intention of helping young women know the personal and transformative love of Jesus, and empowering them to be God's love in the world today. Be Love Revolution (BLR), a dynamic Catholic ministry, desires to personally accompany young women on their journey of faith through one-on-one mentoring and discipleship. Be Love Revolution operates in cooperation with Renewal Ministries, a Catholic ministry of evangelization and renewal throughout the world. 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. Based in Ann Arbor Michigan, BLR leads weekly bible studies, Adoration Nights, small groups, retreats, service and mission opportunities, and collaborates with two high schools and four middle schools for ongoing evangelization and discipleship. Every August, Be Love Revolution hosts Pine Hills Girls Camp, where more than 200 middle schoolers and a staff of 100 young women from Michigan and beyond gather for a life-changing and unforgettable week. The Revolution of Love is on the move and there are BLR Chapters located in Traverse City, Michigan, London, Ontario, Lansing, Michigan, Leonardtown, Maryland, and Jacksonville, Florida. 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 Sponsor - 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. 

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)   Sponsor - Walking with Purpose: Are you looking for an opportunity to dive deeper into Scripture? Do you long for the wisdom of Christ as you navigate the messages of today's culture? Rooted and Radiant is the newest Bible study from Walking with Purpose, a Catholic women's ministry whose mission is to help women and girls encounter Jesus through Scripture. Rooted and Radiant is written for any woman who wants to live her life grounded in Jesus Christ. In this study, you will learn the book of Colossians verse by verse and understand the challenges that faced the Colossians, which are remarkably similar to our own challenges today. Learn how to abide in the wisdom of Christ and encounter the God of clarity and peace. AT podcast listeners can receive 15% your Rooted and Radiant study - available in both paperback and e-book format - with the code ABIDING2023 (thru 3/1/2023).

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   Double Chocolate Walnut Biscotti Yield Makes about 30 biscotti Ingredients 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 3/4 stick (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 cup walnuts, chopped 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar Preparation Preheat the oven to 350°F. Add butter and flour on a large baking sheet. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl with an electric mixer, beat together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and beat until combined well. Stir in the flour mixture to form a stiff dough. Stir in walnuts and chocolate chips. On a prepared baking sheet with floured hands, form dough into two slightly flattened logs, each 12 inches long and 2 inches wide, and sprinkle with confectioners' sugar. Bake logs for 35 minutes or until slightly firm to the touch. Cool biscotti on a baking sheet for 5 minutes. On a cutting board, cut biscotti diagonally into 3/4-inch slices. Arrange biscotti, cut sides down on the baking sheet, and bake until crisp, about 10 minutes. Cool biscotti on a rack. Biscotti keep in airtight containers for 1 week and frozen for 1 month    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: This year we are once again excited to partner with Pink Salt Riot to help you keep your word of the year close to your heart for 2023. In addition to brand new, updated versions of all of their word of the year necklaces and bracelets they have offered in the past, this year they are also offering an engraved cherry wood word of the year desk sign and a word of the year journal with prompts for each month throughout the year to help you walk even more intentionally with your word. All Pink Salt Riot word of the year products are custom made and engraved in their studio in Oklahoma. You can get 15% off your ENTIRE order at Pink Salt Riot with the coupon code AT15 at checkout through March 15, 2023 at pinksaltriot.com.

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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? How has Christ met me in the Joyful Mysteries of my life? How has Christ met me in the Sorrowful Mysteries of my life? How has Christ met me in the Luminous Mysteries of my life? How has Christ met me in the Glorious Mysteries of my life?   Journal Questions: Reflect on the past few months of your life. What are ways you have experienced joy, sorrow, illumination, and glory? Joy: A delight or an area of gratitude where you have felt the tangible presence of the LORD. Sorrow: A hurt or an obstacle. Illumination: Something the LORD brought to light: an area of pruning, longing, and an ache. 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:     What stood out to you in this week's podcast? How do you feel when changes occur in your life? 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? 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? What are some of the highlights from the podcast in season 10 and 11?   Journal Questions: 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? What are some things that you're grateful for this past school year? 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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? In what ways can you see that love is fruitful in your life and the lives of those around you? 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? “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: How are you responding to Christ's invitation to intimacy in practical ways? 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? 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? 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:       What stood out to you from this week's episode? What wounded parts of your early story might you be bringing into current relationships that inhibit your ability to love and be loved fully? Have you had an experience of a healthy, loving relationship in your life that has brought restoration to previous hurts? How has witnessing faithfulness is a loving relationship, whether in your life or in the life of others, given you hope? 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: In what relationship do you need God to give you the gift of hope? What ways do you tend to run away in your relationships? What would it be like if you chose not to run? Ponder where you bring your desires that aren't being met. Take some time to offer those desires to Jesus? “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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? What does it look like to love without reservation? With your spouse, closest friends or a small group - Do you know enough of one another's stories to love one another fully? 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: 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?  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?  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

In this episode, we wrap up our identity collection and begin a four part series on Bride. We discuss how God created us for intimate communion with Him no matter our vocation or state in life. We break open the risks of vulnerability and exposure and the deep communion and love we can only experience through intimacy.    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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? How have you witnessed a bride and groom give themselves freely to one another?  How can you grow in a commitment to continue to grow in the school of love? How do you experience God as a lover?    Journal Questions: How are you a gift to God? How can you exercise freedom in choosing to love God and give yourself to Him?  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?  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.

In this episode, we conclude 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. We discuss entering into the paschal mystery with our whole hearts. We chat about the different characters of the Passion - Judas, Mary of Bethany, Peter - and how we can experience God's extravagant love through the Holy Week liturgies. We pray that you would be open to the Holy Spirit, carry the light burden of sacrifice this week, and experience the resurrection power of Jesus!    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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? What traditions have been helpful to your family to enter into Holy Week and prepare for Easter? How can we make this week different, entering into the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus?  As we celebrate Easter, how will you live the reality of resurrection power in your daily life?  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: Research the Holy Week liturgies at your local parish. Ask Jesus how He wants you to experience one of the extraordinary liturgies this week.  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?  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.  

In this bonus episode, Sister Miriam provides a beautiful forgiveness meditation that we hope will bring healing and restoration within you and your relationships. We encourage you to find a quiet place in solitude to pray and reflect.

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 healing that comes through almsgiving. We share our own personal experiences of tithing our time, practicing obedience in our vocations, and how almsgiving is more than giving money. We pray that God would grow your capacity to see Christ in the other through the practice of almsgiving!    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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? In light of almsgiving, what does faithful stewardship look like in your life?  How can almsgiving work to help mature your love?  Where do you let others hold you accountable? Are there specific areas you resist accountability?  Journal Questions: 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? 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.  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

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 dive even deeper into the healing power of fasting and share the tendencies and temptations we notice when fasting. We discuss how God desires to identify, uproot, and heal the wounds exposed when we enter into this Lenten practice. We pray this week you would allow God to bring healing and wholeness through the discipline of fasting.   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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? How has your understanding of fasting changed since beginning this study?  What are the tendencies within yourself that you notice when you are fasting? How has fasting allowed you to see areas of woundedness and experience God's healing this Lent?   Journal Questions: As you enter into fasting - what has the Lord revealed that he still wants to heal? What's your Kraft Mac and' Cheese? “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?  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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? 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? 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?  How can this small group help one another in the area of fasting through accountability?    Journal Questions: 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? 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? 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. Rooted for Good hand makes premium all natural products that feel amazing and actually work! 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. Shop your values and experience for yourself why more than 95% of Rooted customers give their Rooted products 5 stars, and don't forget to use Abide10 to enjoy 10% off at checkout!

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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? 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?  What does God want to strip away during this season to create space and expose idols that you may be keeping? How can we approach Lent through the lens of love rather than the lens of fear? What does it mean to allow Jesus to be your guide this Lent?   Journal Questions: 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? 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? 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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? After listening to this series - what does the expansive view of motherhood look like to you? What does authentic motherhood look like?  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? Who is one woman who has mothered you well that you would like to thank?   Journal Questions: How is the Holy Spirit asking to collaborate with you to re-mother yourself?  Are you still open to God creating new life through you?  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! 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.   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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? 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? How do you create moments, space, and time for others to open up and be vulnerable or become who they are created to be? How can we as a group be more sensitive to the needs of those entrusted to us?   Journal Questions: Where have you felt the need to conform? Are there particular memories or messages that you desire healing from?  How do you live out the gift of sensitivity and when do you feel like you have had to wall off your heart? 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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? Every one of us has been born of a woman. How would you describe your relationship with your mother?  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?  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: 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.  What wounds can you recognize from your relationship with your children - natural or spiritual? How can you seek repair and restoration? 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. 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! 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 begin a 4 part series on the identity of women as mother. We talk about the power of motherhood at this time in history and how we are called to cultivate, guard, and develop true humanity. This call is innate in every woman whether they are a biological mother or not. We discuss the power and need for community where we can receive and be received by others and experience deeper healing. Be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts!    Sister Miriam's one thing - Restore (also available on Amazon) 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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? What are some ways that women can cultivate, guard, and develop true humanity? What ways do you long to be mothered, nurtured, and guarded? 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: What did the episode stir within your heart? Where do I not feel safe to myself? What are my desires in the area of motherhood? Take time to talk to the Lord about this. 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

In this episode, we declare and claim this new year as a year of God's favor! We discuss the power of repentance and blessing and the beautiful exchange that God wants to bestow on us as his beloved children. We continue our discussion on becoming a new creation in Christ through repentance, claiming God's blessings, and destroying areas of idolatry in our life. We pray this week each of you would allow yourself to be found and renewed by the God of restoration! 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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? 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)?  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: What part of Isaiah 61 is God inviting you to be rooted in, in this new year?  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? 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. Are you a Catholic innovator or entrepreneur? OSV Institute for Catholic Innovation invites you to apply for the 2022 OSV Challenge. This multi-round entrepreneurial competition seeks and builds up Catholic innovators by offering opportunities for personal development, professional guidance, and idea acceleration—and a shot at one of five $100,000 prizes. This year the OSV Challenge also includes four new idea tracks for creative arts, entrepreneurship, parishes and dioceses, and technology that are specially designed to support the applicants in each track. At least one $100,000 winner will be selected from each track. Applications for the OSV Challenge are due February 18, 2022, so don't wait to enter! Visit osvchallenge.com for full details.   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:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? Who's word - Heather: Increase, Michelle: Jubilee, Sister Miriam: Secure - 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?  Journal Questions: 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 would it look like to “live a different life, closer to God” this year ? 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:     What stood out to you from today's episode?  How do you find, cultivate, and maintain peace in your life? What role has ‘abiding'  played in creating a life of peace?  What does it look like to embody Shalom - peace that radiates wholeness, completeness, and order?  How do you make time throughout the day to breathe and intentionally open your heart up to Jesus and his peace?  Journal Questions: Take a moment to pray “Jesus, teach me to find peace in the storms of life.”  How will you ‘abide' with Jesus over the next few days as we enter into Christmas? 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?  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:     What stood out to you from today's episode?  What kind of miracle are you desiring this Christmas season? What do you hope Jesus will transform into something new? 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?” How is Mary inviting you to embrace and accept your hiddenness, littleness and poverty this Advent? Journal Questions: 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.  Do you entrust your hiddenness and littleness to God like St. Therese? Why or why not? 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:     What stood out to you from today's episode?  What are some ways you enter into praise of God? How has this changed throughout different seasons in your life?  How have you seen praise of God change the atmosphere, relationships, or situations? Take a moment to share these stories.  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: 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? Many times we cannot hear God because something else is overshadowing his voice? Ask the Lord “Tell me what I am not hearing?”  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   This episode is sponsored by Vitae Fertility Education. The Marquette Method uses daily hormone testing—instead of mucus or temps—to take the guesswork out of NFP. Download our free eBook to learn more about the method and find out if it will be a good fit for you.  Why Choose Marquette? Effective—The Marquette Method is 99% effective for women in regular cycles and 98% effective while breastfeeding. Easy—Test your hormone levels in the morning and you'll know in five minutes whether you are fertile or not. Taught by medical professionals— Only doctors and nurses can become Marquette Method instructors, so you can rest assured you're always getting the best advice, tailored to your unique fertility history. More than a thousand women have chosen to learn Marquette through Vitae Fertility's personalized online Marquette Method classes. When you sign up, we'll send our comprehensive learning package to you in the mail, including a comprehensive Marquette Method manual available only through us.

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:     What stood out to you from today's episode?  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? Are you living a life rooted in hope? Where can you be light in the darkness for others?  How can you make room for Christ this Advent season?  Journal Questions: How do you need “the Madman” to love you madly in the season of Advent this year? Are there any particular fasts the Lord may be calling you to this Advent to create room for him in your heart? 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 feedi