Catholic Momcast

Our May 2025 Book Club selection is a book honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary! Kelsey Gillespy, in her new book, Real Life with Mary: Growing in Virtue to Magnify the Lord, encourages moms to grow in friendship with Mary and learn from her how to walk the daily path to holiness. This book is written for all of us! Kelsey observed during this session that the book is a call to discipleship, a call to fellowship, and a call to sainthood. She acknowledged that when we look at the saints we see all the glamor, and it can seem like sainthood is distant — but over time, God can bring us to sainthood too. Kelsey and Allison discuss how Mary is close to us because of the grace of God, and that grace can bring us closer to God. Learn more about Mary as a powerful example and mentor as well as someone who's going to nurture us, love us, and want the best for us in our Week 2 Book Club episode.

Maria Morera Johnson and Margaret Dwyer Hogan discuss graduations and the transitions in the home.   Maria Morera Johnson and Margaret Dwyer Hogan have a lively and fun conversation about the different seasons of graduation and launching our children.  

Our May 2025 Book Club selection is a book honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary! Kelsey Gillespy, in her new book, Real Life with Mary: Growing in Virtue to Magnify the Lord, encourages moms to grow in friendship with Mary and learn from her how to walk the daily path to holiness. This book is written for all of us! Kelsey observed during this session that the book is a call to discipleship, a call to fellowship, and a call to sainthood. She acknowledged that when we look at the saints we see all the glamor, and it can seem like sainthood is distant — but over time, God can bring us to sainthood too. Kelsey and Allison discuss how Mary is close to us because of the grace of God, and that grace can bring us closer to God. Learn more about Mary as a powerful example and mentor as well as someone who's going to nurture us, love us, and want the best for us in our Week 1 Book Club episode.

Maria and Allison have a heartfelt conversation about summer memories and dive into the archives for summer ideas for the family, including some mom hacks for young children. Links for this episode:    Read all articles by Allison Gingras Allison's new book, Jesus Heals Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson Maria's new book, A Beautiful Second Act

Maria Morera Johnson and Inés Huber Mersch discuss ways they integrate tangible expressions of faith in their homes. Inés Huber Mersch is a faithful Catholic wife, mother, and grandmother residing in Mobile, Alabama. Her strong attraction to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament led to her being invited to participate in the steering committee that brought Perpetual Adoration to the Archdiocese of Mobile and continues as one of the schedulers. She has also been a guest writer at Catholic Mom. Links in Episode: - Broken By Me by Inés Mersch - Catholic Momcast 324: Detachment  

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Rosemary McGuire Berry, author of Piety and Personality: The Temperaments of the Saints (TAN Books). Rosemary McGuire Berry is a lifelong Catholic reader, storyteller, writer and traveler who homeschools the younger of her two daughters. When she's not leading international pilgrimages with her husband and family to visit shrines and saints, she resides with her family in Colorado. Links for this Show: TAN Books: Piety and Personality: The Temperaments of the Saints. Author website: Paths to His Heart: Traveling with the Saints   Free Handout about the Saints & their Temperaments here!   Catholic Posts on Instagram: @rosemary.writer   Weekly articles on Substack -  Tea, Talk & Tattered Pages

Maria Morera Johnson interviews CatholicMom.com contributor Roxane B. Salonen, award-winning children's author and freelance writer, and a radio host, speaker, and podcaster. Roxane B. Salonen, Fargo, North Dakota (“You betcha!”), is a wife and mother of a literal, mostly-grown handful, an award-winning children's author and freelance writer, and a radio host, speaker, and podcaster (“Matters of Soul Importance”). Roxane co-authored “What Would Monica Do?” to bring hope to those bearing an all-too-common cross. Her diocesan column, “Sidewalk Stories,” shares insights from her prolife sidewalk ministry. Visit roxanesalonen.com.    Links for this Show:  Read all articles by Roxane Salonen Matters of Soul Importance Podcast Sidewalk Stories column roxanesalonen.com 

Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton talk about their love of the Blessed Mother. Heidi Saxton is co-host of the CatholicMom.com Prayercast, and author of Stories of the Eucharist (OSV) and The Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers (Ave). She is also senior acquisitions editor for Ave Maria Press. She and her husband Craig divide their time between northern Michigan and West Palm Beach, Florida. You can read about her adventures on Life on the Road Less Traveled.  Maria Morera Johnson, author of A Beautiful Second Act:, My Badass Book of Saints, Super Girls and Halo, and Our Lady of Charity: How a Cuban Devotion to Mary Helped Me Grow in Faith and Love writes about all the things that she loves. A cradle Catholic, she struggles with living in the world but not being of it, and blogs about those successes and failures, too.   Link in Show:· Read all articles by Heidi Hess Saxton Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson

Maria Morera Johnson interviews CatholicMom.com contributor Allison Auth, author of Baby and Beyond: Overcoming Those Post-Childbirth Woes (Sophia Institute Press). Allison Auth lives with her woodworker husband and 5 children in the Denver area, where she homeschools her kids. She is the author of Baby and Beyond: Overcoming Those Post-Childbirth Woes (Sophia Institute Press) and contributes regularly to the Denver Catholic. She is active in her parish and homeschooling communities. Learn more about her work at AllisonAuth.com.  Links for the Show: Read all articles by Allison Auth AllisonAuth.com.  Baby and Beyond: Overcoming Those Post-Childbirth Woes (Sophia Institute Press)

Maria Morera Johnson and Allison Gingras discuss how worry shows up in every season of motherhood, from sleepless nights with newborns to the silent prayers for grown kids, and how to find peace and purpose through it all. Maria and Allison discuss how worry is a constant companion in motherhood. In this heartfelt episode, we explore how anxiety shifts across each season of raising children and how faith, community, and practical wisdom can help us anchor our hearts in peace. Tune in for this reminder that you're never alone on this journey. Links for this episode:  Read all articles by Allison Gingras Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson

Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton talk about their special prayer devotions and pray for Catholic Momcast and Prayercast listeners. Heidi Saxton is co-host of the CatholicMom.com Prayercast, and author of Stories of the Eucharist (OSV) and The Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers (Ave). She is also senior acquisitions editor for Ave Maria Press. She and her husband Craig divide their time between northern Michigan and West Palm Beach, Florida. You can read about her adventures on Life on the Road Less Traveled.  Maria Morera Johnson, author of A Beautiful Second Act:  My Badass Book of Saints, Super Girls and Halo, and Our Lady of Charity: How a Cuban Devotion to Mary Helped Me Grow in Faith and Love writes about all the things that she loves. A cradle Catholic, she struggles with living in the world but not being of it, and blogs about those successes and failures, too.   Link in Show:· Read all articles by Heidi Hess Saxton Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson  

David and Mercedes write and speak from a faith perspective as parents of a child with autism. They are available to speak, and have appeared on radio and other media. Visit DavidAndMercedesRizzo.com to learn more. Follow them on Facebook at Autism With The Rizzos. Authors of Praying For Your Special Needs Child, (Word Among Us Press) and Spiritually Able and The Adaptive First Eucharist Preparation Kit (Loyola Press). Links for this Episode:  DavidAndMercedesRizzo.com Autism With The Rizzos Praying For Your Special Needs Child, (Word Among Us Press) Spiritually Able and The Adaptive First Eucharist Preparation Kit (Loyola Press) Read all articles by David and Mercedes Rizzo

Maria Morera Johnson interviews CatholicMom.com contributor, Jennifer Thomas. As a Catholic wife and mom to three children, Jennifer earned her masters degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and recently reverted back to her Catholic faith. Jennifer is an avid stationery enthusiast who enjoys finding unique and beautiful stationery to send to her friends and family. She also enjoys researching ways to instill Catholic traditions within her family while finishing her first book. Show Links:  Read all articles by Jennifer Thomas Mourning Glory Podcast

Listen to the podcast playback or watch the video from Week 3 of the Catholic Mom Book Club featuring A Beautiful Second Act by Maria Morera Johnson. Maria and host Allison Gingras discuss Chapters 9 and 10 of our Book Club selection, chatting about the fascinating women profiled in this book and what we can learn from their successes and their difficulties. You have plenty of time to catch up on the reading if you're just getting started with this beautiful book. What's the book about? In A Beautiful Second Act, bestselling author Maria Morera Johnson explores the adventure of life's second half, drawing inspiration from twenty saints and “soul sisters” who faced these challenges with courage. As advancements in health and medicine extend our lifespan, women of the sandwich generation — those balancing the needs of both children and parents — are experiencing a multitude of challenges as they transition out of the workforce and into the promise of retirement. A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters Who Taught Me to Be a Badass Age with Grace contains encouragement and wisdom from saints and contemporary soul sisters who experienced similar challenges during their transition to midlife and beyond and offers insight into the aging process. Chapter after chapter, these inspiring saints and contemporary changemakers from all over the world will help you, too, embrace your second half and the changes it brings to our health, our personal relationships, our responsibilities, our work, and our faith.  

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Cheryl Hughes, mom, convert, and author of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: Convert Maker. Cheryl C. D. Hughes holds a Ph.D. in historical theology from Durham University in England. Her books include Katharine Drexel: The Riches-to-Rags Story of an American Catholic Saint (2014) and Crossing Boundaries and Confounding Identity: Chinese Women in Literature, Art, and Film (2023). She and her husband live in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Links in Show: Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: Convert Maker

Listen to the podcast playback or watch the video from Week 3 of the Catholic Mom Book Club featuring A Beautiful Second Act by Maria Morera Johnson. Maria and host Allison Gingras discuss Chapters 7 and 8 of our Book Club selection, chatting about the fascinating women profiled in this book and what we can learn from their successes and their difficulties. You have plenty of time to catch up on the reading if you're just getting started with this beautiful book. What's the book about? In A Beautiful Second Act, bestselling author Maria Morera Johnson explores the adventure of life's second half, drawing inspiration from twenty saints and “soul sisters” who faced these challenges with courage. As advancements in health and medicine extend our lifespan, women of the sandwich generation — those balancing the needs of both children and parents — are experiencing a multitude of challenges as they transition out of the workforce and into the promise of retirement. A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters Who Taught Me to Be a Badass Age with Grace contains encouragement and wisdom from saints and contemporary soul sisters who experienced similar challenges during their transition to midlife and beyond and offers insight into the aging process. Chapter after chapter, these inspiring saints and contemporary changemakers from all over the world will help you, too, embrace your second half and the changes it brings to our health, our personal relationships, our responsibilities, our work, and our faith.  

Maria Johnson interviews Nancy Smith, O.F.S., Director of Holy Cross Retreat House in North Easton, Massachusetts.   from the Holy Cross Retreat House intro: Launched in 1964 in a converted cow barn, the Retreat House has been a spiritual haven for thousands who have passed through its welcoming doors. It is located in Easton, Massachusetts, adjacent to Stonehill College, also founded by the Congregation of Holy Cross. The Retreat House is operated solely on private donations and retreat fees, and receives no state or federal funding. Among retreat houses in the Boston area and south of Boston, our retreat house has established its “market niche” by emphasizing Cursillo and Matt Talbot programs. Link in Show:  Holy Cross Retreat House: A Ministry of Congregation of Holy Cross Nancy Smith, Director

The March 2025 Book Club features Catholic Mom media editor Maria Morera Johnson and her new book, A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters who Taught Me to Be a Badass Age with Grace, published by Ave Maria Press. What's the book about? In A Beautiful Second Act, bestselling author Maria Morera Johnson explores the adventure of life's second half, drawing inspiration from twenty saints and “soul sisters” who faced these challenges with courage. As advancements in health and medicine extend our lifespan, women of the sandwich generation — those balancing the needs of both children and parents — are experiencing a multitude of challenges as they transition out of the workforce and into the promise of retirement. A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters Who Taught Me to Be a Badass Age with Grace contains encouragement and wisdom from saints and contemporary soul sisters who experienced similar challenges during their transition to midlife and beyond and offers insight into the aging process. Where can I get a copy of this book? Ave Maria Press, the publisher, is offering a generous discount on A Beautiful Second Act: use code CATHOLICMOM to save 10% off the purchase price of the book. This offer expires April 27, 2025.

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Catholicmom.com contributor Meg Herriot at the Catholic Mom Contributor retreat. Meg Herriot is a veterinarian and Third Order Dominican. She enjoys spending time with family, friends, and pets and blogging at All Creatures Great and Crazy about being a veterinarian, mother, wife and most of all a Catholic trying to grow closer to God in a chaotic world. Link in Show:  Read all articles by Meg Herriot All Creatures Great and Crazy

The March 2025 Book Club features Catholic Mom media editor Maria Morera Johnson and her new book, A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters who Taught Me to Be a Badass Age with Grace, published by Ave Maria Press. What's the book about? In A Beautiful Second Act, bestselling author Maria Morera Johnson explores the adventure of life's second half, drawing inspiration from twenty saints and “soul sisters” who faced these challenges with courage. As advancements in health and medicine extend our lifespan, women of the sandwich generation — those balancing the needs of both children and parents — are experiencing a multitude of challenges as they transition out of the workforce and into the promise of retirement. A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters Who Taught Me to Be a Badass Age with Grace contains encouragement and wisdom from saints and contemporary soul sisters who experienced similar challenges during their transition to midlife and beyond and offers insight into the aging process. Where can I get a copy of this book? Ave Maria Press, the publisher, is offering a generous discount on A Beautiful Second Act: use code CATHOLICMOM to save 10% off the purchase price of the book. This offer expires April 27, 2025.    

Maria Morera Johnson and Barb Szyszkiewicz interview Elizabeth Varga, founder of At Elizabeth's Table, a recipe blog that exolores the intersection of food and the Catholic faith. Elizabeth Varga is the founder of At Elizabeth's Table, a plant-based recipe blog that explores the relationship between food and the Catholic faith. With a passion for healthy living, she is a full-time food blogger and food photographer. When not in the kitchen, Elizabeth enjoys drinking coffee, working out, listening to podcasts, and going on long walks. Follow along with her blog at AtElizabethsTable.com. Links in Show: AtElizabethsTable.com. Read all articles by Elizabeth Varga Meatless Friday Recipes

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Founder and Chief Purpose Officer of Walking with Purpose (WWP), a Catholic women's ministry, and the new book for young women, Heart of Vines. Lisa Brenninkmeyer is the Founder and Chief Purpose Officer of Walking with Purpose (WWP), a Catholic women's ministry. Lisa has authored 19 WWP Bible study courses, two devotionals, BLAZE and Sisters of Strength resources for Catholic tween/teens, and a guided prayer journal, and Heart of Vines for young adults — all of which lead women and young girls to a closer relationship with the Lord.  After hearing story after story of women looking for a safe place to ask questions about faith and needing ways to refuel, Lisa decided to do something to bring change. The result of her holy discontent is Walking with Purpose. Lisa is crazy about women, loves Christ passionately, and thinks the most exciting thing in the world is to connect the former with the latter. Lisa holds a BA in psychology from St. Olaf College and is pursuing her masters degree in Theology from Franciscan University. She and her husband Leo have seven children and five grandchildren and reside in St. Augustine, Florida. Links in Show:  Heart of Vines: A Book for Young Women in their 20s Walking with Purpose website

Heidi Hess Saxton and Maria Morera Johnson interview Joan Watson, author of Opening the Holy Doors: Hope-Filled Scripture Reflections from St. Peter's Basilica. In Opening the Holy Door, scripture teacher and seasoned tour guide Joan Watson takes you on a journey through the sixteen panels of the Jubilee Holy Door. With her knack for storytelling and love for scripture, she invites you to pause, pray, and reflect on the deeper meaning behind these stunning images. Using a blend of scripture and imaginative prayer, Joan helps you see each panel not just as art, but as a doorway into the great story of salvation. Link in Show:· Opening the Holy Door: Hope-Filled Scripture Reflections from St. Peter's Basilica.

Maria Morera Johnson and Allison Gingras discuss Ash Wednesday and practices for Lent. Allison and Maria dive into the traditions of Ash Wednesday and the Lenten season, exploring both time-honored devotions and some non-traditional practices that can deepen our faith. Their lively banter mixes humor and heart while sharing stories and dipping intpo the Catholic Mom vault to rediscover articles. Links in Show: Jump Start Your Lent by Tina Mayeux Catholic Central: Ash Wednesday  

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Meigs Sturgeon, Special Assistant to the President at Holy Cross Family Ministries. Meet Meigs Sturgeon, Special Assistant to the President, Fr. Fred Jenga, C.S.C., at Holy Cross Family Ministries. Meigs joined HCFM from Austin, Texas where he most recently served as Assistant Director of the Holy Cross Institute at St. Edward's University and Adjunct Professor of Christian Theology. He graduated with a Master of Divinity from Duke University; is an expert in Holy Cross Charism and Spirituality, a prolific writer and speaker on different faith-based topics.   Link in Show: Holy Cross Family Ministries

  Heidi Hess Saxton and Maria Morera Johnson interview Morella Carta, founder of St. Jospeh's Little Stars in Jinga, Uganda. Morella Carta is the founder of “St. Joseph's Little Stars” in Jinga, Uganda. Born in Venezuela and educated in New York City, Morella retired from corporate life in order to dedicate her life to service, most recently abused and abandoned children. In three years of operations, StarsUganda has saved the lives of 40 children and supported over 100 children in the community. They were recently granted two acres of property by the Diocese of Jinga, and are in the process of building a self-sustainable community in order to expand the reach of their ministry. Links for show notes: · Day to day donation page: · “Build with us” construction of new house.

Maria Morera Johnson interviews CatholicMom.com contributor Tami Urcia. Tami is a Western Michigander who spent early adulthood as a missionary in Mexico, studying theology and philosophy, then worked and traveled extensively before finishing her bachelor's degree in Western Kentucky. She loves finding fun ways to keep her five kiddos occupied and quiet conversation with the hubby. Tami works at Diocesan and does Spanish/English translations and guest blogs. Links in Show:  Read all articles by Tami Urcia.

Looking for faith-filled ways to celebrate Valentine's Day? Maria Johnson and Allison Gingras have a fun conversation about love languages and romantic love, and being God's beloved. And you get a peek at A Beautiful Second Act (Ave Maria Press), which will be featured in the March Catholic Mom Book Club. Love isn't just for one day—it's a call we live daily as Catholic moms.  Links Discussed in Show: Simple Ways to Connect with Your Spouse This Valentine's Day Love: Scriptures to Pray This Valentine's Day St.Valentine's Day Prepares Us to Love

Heidi Hess Saxton and Maria Morera Johnson discuss the transitions in the second half of life  and how praying with the saints accompanies us in that change. Maria Morera Johnson is an award-winning author, speaker, and digital missionary passionate about encouraging women to embrace the beauty and purpose of midlife and beyond. Her books, including A Beautiful Second Act and My Badass Book of Saints, inspire readers to deepen their faith and live with boldness and joy. A lifelong educator and storyteller, Maria brings humor, wisdom, and a deep love for her Catholic faith to her writing, speaking engagements, and podcast Links for the Show: A Beautiful Second Act Maria's author page Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Catholic Mom contributor Kimberly Novak, author of Bella's Beautiful Miracle. Kimberly Novak is a wife, mother, author, and spiritual director. Her passion for inspiring and motivating those on a spiritual journey has bloomed into various ministries. Kimberly's mission is to enhance each journey by guiding others where the light of strength is…God's love. Find out more about Kimberly's life and work at KimberlyNovak.com. Additionally, Kimberly welcomes prayer requests at A Little God Time.   Links in Show: Author of Bella's Beautiful Miracle, A Caterpillar's Journey www.kimberlynovak.com www.outofthechrysalis.com Read all articles by Kimberly Novak.

Maria Morera Johnson, and guest Inés Huber Mersch sit down for a chat about the busy-ness of our lives and living for God's will in our lives. Links for Today's Show:  The Grace of Yes by Lisa Hendey

Maria Morera Johnson and Allison Gingras open up about their personal journeys as caregivers, sharing the joys, struggles, and unexpected graces they've encountered while caring for their loved ones. Drawing inspiration from articles in the Catholic Mom archives, they explore practical tips, spiritual insights, and the unique challenges that come with this loving responsibility. Links in Show: The Seven Sorrows Rosary for Caregivers by Barb Szyszkiewicz Mom, Grandmother, Caregiver: It's Not Easy by Amanda Lauer Better than Self-Care by Kate Moreland

Maria Morera Johnson and CatholicMom.com contributor Karen Estep talk about the joys and challenges of snow days. Karen Estep is a Catholic speaker and writer who brings wisdom and humor to her reflections on faith, life, and the unexpected moments in between. Today's conversation reminisces about snow days, eating snow cream, and avoiding cabin fever. Links in Show:  - Instagram: Stand, Kneel, Now What? - Stand, Kneel, Now What Podcast on Spotify - Read all articles by Karen Estep

Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton welcome Beth Sri, co-author of The Good, the Messy, and the beautiful: The Joys and Struggles of Real Married Life. Beth Sri is a Catholic speaker, author, and mentor passionate about helping women embrace the joys (and chaos) of marriage and motherhood. She and her husband, Dr. Edward Sri, co-authored The Good, the Messy, and the Beautiful: The Joys and Struggles of Real Married Life. They live in Colorado with their eight kids—where Beth balances writing, leading retreats, cooking Italian meals, and cheering on her kids at soccer games. She's also on the board for Life-Giving Wounds, supporting adult children of divorce.

Maria Johnson and Allison Gingras talk about resolutions and anti-resolutions, sprinkling a little wisdom in the mix. Maria Johnson and Allison Gingras catch up after the holidays and have a good laugh about resolutions and the efficacy of setting goals instead. Links in the Show: Style Savvy: Rethinking Resolutions by Lisa Hess Strings Attached by Amanda Lawrence Failed Resolutions by Sarah Reinhard

Fr. Edward Looney was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Green Bay June 6, 2015, and currently serves as Pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawano, WI and Priest Celebrant of St. Martin of Tours Parish, Cecil, WI. Links for the Show: Link to Praying with the Church Through Advent Fr. Edward Looney Books

In this episode of the Catholic Momcast, hosts Maria Johnson, Victoria Hassan, and Stephen Driscoll welcome relationship coach Dana Nygaard to discuss navigating dating for young people. Dana shares practical advice rooted in faith, emphasizing the importance of self-worth, clear boundaries, and open communication. Together, they explore how parents can guide their children through the challenges of modern dating with grace and wisdom. Links in Show: https://clarityplease.com/ https://www.dananygaard.com/ https://www.christiancomfortcounseling.com/

In this episode, Maria Johnson and Allison Gingras catch up on their Advent experiences and recap some recent Advent articles by contributors. Links in Show: Slow Down and Embrace the Advent Season by Tina Mayeaux Prepare for Rest This Season: It CAN Happen by MaryBeth Eberhard A Declaration of Hope by Kathryn Pasker Ineck

Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton welcome Jaymie Stuart Wolfe, author of Born to Do This: 30 Days with Joan of Arc. Jaymie Wolfe is a veteran editor and author, and Joan of Arc fan girl! Her latest book, Born to Do This: 30 Days with Joan of Arc, is available through Ave Maria Press. Links for the Show: Link to Jaymie's Born to Do This: 30 Days with Joan of Arc Pray the St Joan of Arc Novena with the Pray app

In this episode, Maria Johnson is joined by Catholic Mom contributor, Charlene Rack, for a lovely conversation with Rebecca and Stephen Grabill, authors of The Joy of Advent. Links in Show: The Joy of Advent Rebecca Grabill website Review by Charlene Rack: The Joy of Advent  

Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton welcome Shannon Schmidt, co-author of Fat Luther, Slim Pickin's. excerpt from the author profile at Ave Maria Press Shannon Wimp Schmidt is the content director of the ecumenical youth ministry collaboration TENx10, coauthor of Fat Luther, Slim Pickin's: A Black Catholic Celebration of Faith, Tradition, and Diversity, cohost of the Plaid Skirts and Basic Black podcast, and a founding member of Catholics United for Black Lives. Links for the Show: Fat Luther, Slim Pickin's Plaid Skirts and Basic Black podcast

Catch up on the Week 3 video with author Julianne Stanz for the Fall 2024 Book Club: Braving the Thin Places: Celtic Wisdom to Create a Space for Grace. Our Book Club selection for Fall 2024 is Braving the Thin Places: Celtic Wisdom to Create a Space for Grace by Julianne Stanz, published by Loyola Press. Special Book Club offer! Use promo code BRAVING to receive 30% off the cover price of Braving the Thin Places when you purchase your copy direct from the publisher. Does not include shipping and handling. This coupon code expires November 20, 2024.  Bonus Links: Visit Julianne's website, JulianneStanz.com Follow Julianne on X: @juliannestanz Follow Julianne on Instagram: @juliannestanz

Join Catholic Mom team members Maria Johnson, Barb Szyszkiewicz, Allison Gingras, and Victoria Hassan for a round robin conversation about Advent traditions and practices. Links in Show:  Advent sweatshirt from Catholic artist Nichole Lanthier on Etsy Kelly Guest article: "Prepare for Advent Prayer: Now is the time!"  Barb Szyszkiewicz book review, "3 Books to Buy Before Advent"  Advent Playlist Follow CatholicMomCommunity on Instagram for Snap Advent

Catch up on the Week 2 video with author Julianne Stanz for the Fall 2024 Book Club: Braving the Thin Places: Celtic Wisdom to Create a Space for Grace. Our Book Club selection for Fall 2024 is Braving the Thin Places: Celtic Wisdom to Create a Space for Grace by Julianne Stanz, published by Loyola Press. This week, author Julianne Stanz and our own Allison Gingras discuss the concept of a "crossing the threshold" and how that relates to our relationship with God, prayer, sharing faith with our children, four ways to combat despair, and the importance of encouraging others by calling them toward the light of Jesus. Special Book Club offer! Use promo code BRAVING to receive 30% off the cover price of Braving the Thin Places when you purchase your copy direct from the publisher. Does not include shipping and handling. This coupon code expires November 20, 2024.  Bonus Links: Visit Julianne's website, JulianneStanz.com Follow Julianne on X: @juliannestanz Follow Julianne on Instagram: @juliannestanz

Mary Clare Hallman serves as the Diocesan Secretary for Parish Life in the Diocese of Scranton, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to fostering vibrant parish communities. With a background rooted in both pastoral ministry and organizational leadership, Mary Clare oversees a wide range of initiatives designed to support parish vitality, enhance liturgical and sacramental life, and strengthen ministries within the diocese. excerpt from the Diocese of Scranton website: The Catholic Church dedicates the month of October to the Holy Rosary. This year, this month takes on added significance because parishes in the Diocese of Scranton are participating in a Rosary Crusade, leading up to a large Rosary Rally that will take place on Nov. 16, 2024, at the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Scranton. The Rosary Crusade, which is now underway, will look different in each parish. Some will celebrate Mass or schedule a special Holy Hour for the intention of an increase in family prayer. Others will have parishioners gather more often to recite the rosary – or ask families to sign a pledge card to recite the rosary as a family.... The Rosary Rally planned for Nov. 16 is being held to commemorate the first Rosary Rally held by Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C., in the United States seventy-five years ago. That 1949 rally was held in Scranton and brought together 50,000 people. Father Peyton devoted his priestly life to spreading devotion to Mary and encouraging family prayer, especially the rosary. He used radio, television, and film, and 540 Rosary Rallies worldwide to accomplish his mission. Links for the Show: Diocese of Scranton Rosary Rally Diocese to Host Rosary Rally on 75th Anniversary  Fr. Patrick Peyton Letter from the Bishop

Maria Johnson welcomes contributor Sherry Hayes-Peirce for an enlightening conversation about the Camino of Santiago and the power of pilgrimage. Catholic Mom contributor Sherry Hayes-Peirce shares her experience of walking the Way of St. James, also known as the Camino of Santiago de Compostela, a 9th century walking pilgrimage to the city of Compostela where the remains St. James, son of Zebedee, are believed to be. Many routes leading to Compostela exist, originating in France, Portugal, or within Spain. Sherry Hayes-Peirce is a Catholic social media strategist, blogger, conference speaker, podcast guest and contributing author of the Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers. She serves as Digital Engagement Coordinator for American Martyrs Catholic Community in Manhattan Beach, CA. Sherry has a devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and is grateful to be a digital disciple of Christ. Read all articles by Sherry Hayes-Peirce. Show Notes:  Walk In A Relaxed Manner: Life Lessons from the Camino by Joyce Rupp The Way, My Way: A Camino Memoir by Bill Bennett Movie: "The Way" starring Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez Instagram: church_social_tips Facebook: Sherry Sheridan Hayes-Peirce  

Heidi and Maria have a lively discussion about miracles and unexpected answers to prayers.   Links in Episode: The Hidden Life of Angels by Heidi Hess Saxton Pre-Order Maria Johnson's new book, A Beautiful Second Act

Our Book Club selection for Fall 2024 is Braving the Thin Places: Celtic Wisdom to Create a Space for Grace by Julianne Stanz, published by Loyola Press. This week, author Julianne Stanz and our own Allison Gingras discuss the concept of a "thin place" and how that relates to our spiritual life, as well as what nourishes us as women and how being together is valuable to us. It's important to remember that there is no perfect balance. Special Book Club offer! Use promo code BRAVING to receive 30% off the cover price of Braving the Thin Places when you purchase your copy direct from the publisher. Does not include shipping and handling. This coupon code expires November 20, 2024.  Bonus Links: Visit Julianne's website, JulianneStanz.com Follow Julianne on X: @juliannestanz Follow Julianne on Instagram: @juliannestanz

Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton David G. Bonagura, Jr. about his new book, Jerome's Tears (Sophia Institute Press). from our guest's website: David G. Bonagura, Jr. is an adjunct professor of classical languages at St. Joseph's Seminary, New York, and adjunct professor of theology at Catholic Distance University. He serves as Religion Editor of The University Bookman, the flagship publication of the Russell Kirk Center. He is the 2023-2024 Cardinal Newman Society Fellow for Eucharistic Education. He is the author of Steadfast in Faith: Catholicism and the Challenges of Secularism (Cluny Media, 2019) and Staying With the Church: Trusting God's Plan of Salvation (Scepter Publishers, 2021). He is the translator of Jerome's Tears: Letters to Friends in Mourning (Sophia Institute Press, October 2023). Links in Episode: David G. Bonagura, Jr. website David G. Bonagura, Jr. books

Maria Johnson and Barb Szyszkiewicz welcome Gretchen and Bill O'Brien from Room Two Productions, for a lively conversation about sound editing, music, and Fr. Patrick Peyton. Room 2 Productions helps Catholic Mom bring our stories to life through expert podcast production, audio storytelling, and digital media services. They offer personalized support from concept development to final editing, dedicated to the technical details so the Catholic Mom team can focus on great content from our guests.  Links in Show: RoomTwoProductions.com  YouTube: William R O'Brien  Spotify: William R O'Brien  Amazon Music: William R O'Brien 

Maria Johnson is joined by Andrew MacDonald, Director of Mission Advancement for Holy Cross Family Ministries, to interview Chris and Michael Flood, co-founders of Family Rosary Rallies. Chris and Michael Flood are co-founders of FamilyRosaryRallies.org.  Links for the Show: Family Rosary Rallies Fr. Patrick Peyton Rallies Instagram-- Family Rosary Rallies