Rebuilding the Church, continuing the call to St. Francis of Assisi. How can we as individuals continue the mission of Francis and become Heralds of the Great King?
In this episode we conclude our reflection on the Examen prayer by contemplating steps 4 and 5; asking forgiveness and looking forward to the next day. We begin by exploring what the Catechism teaches regarding forgiveness. We walk through the Psalms and Canticles in the Liturgy of the Hours as they relate to mercy and forgiveness. We realize that approaching God with a humble and contrite heart pleases God. God wants to forgive us, but we must do our part and ask for His mercy. Part 5 is where we conclude the Examen by looking forward to the next day. What can I do better? Where can I grow in holiness and be more conformed to Christ? How can I do better in thought, word, and deed? How can I carry on the process of On-Going Conversion. I hope you have enjoyed this series on the Examen. It is one of many beautiful devotions and practices that have developed over the centuries. The beauty of the Catholic Church is that there are so many ways to be Catholic, one is not necessarily better than the other. Find what devotions and practices speak to you and are suitable to your unique individual person and soul. May the Lord grant you His peace! David Seitz, OFS david@tauministries.com Tau Ministries Web Site Support the show
In this episode we continue our reflection on the practice of the Examen. The third step is to review our day. This is where we get to "Know our sins and to rid ourselves of them."We begin by having a discussion on the uncomfortable topic of sin. Sin is mentioned over 750 times in the scriptures, and so, we must take sin seriously. Sin, we discover, is a breach of our relationship with God. We reflect on the story of the first sin in the garden. We learn that God, even in the midst of our sins, calls out to us to heal that breach of relationship. The goal of the Examen is to help us deepen our relationship with God, to conform oursleves more closely to the person of Jesus.Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J., insturcts us to examine oursleves in the light of the beatitudes. He says meditation on the beautitudes helps us to get to know the heart of Jesus. Our goal is to conform our hearts to His.We end this reflection by quoting St. Pope John XXIII. "I often persuaded men to pray, to ponder the gospels, to reform the morals of the world by first reforming themselves."We continude to build ourselves into strong "living stones", the foundation of the Church, which will, in the end, be a witness of Christ to the world, drawing souls to heaven. May the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.comTau Ministries Website Support the show
As we continue to explore the Examen Prayer, we delve into Thanksgiving. As you recall, the first part of the Examen is to call on the Holy Spirit to guide us. Step 2, we examine our day and give thanks to God for all He has done for us. We will Explore:1. The Scriptural Roots of Thanksgiving The Psalms of Thanksgiving Old Testament Examples of Thanksgiving Thanksgiving in the Liturgy and Prayers of the Church2. We will explore how living a life of Thanksgiving affects our Mental and Physical well being. Emotional Social Peronality Career Physical Health Thanksgiving and RecoveryThere is an excellent article on 28 benefits of Thanksfulness that can be found at the websitePositivepsychology.com and you can read the article by clicking the link to the site.For more information on the book I referenced "Finding True Happiness" by Fr. Rober Spitzer, S.J. go to Ignatius Press. I highly recommend this book.For more information on Franciscan Dave and Tau Ministries visit our website Here.May the Lord grant you HIs peace.David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.com Support the show
In this episode we introduce the "Examen". Developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola, (1471-1556), the Examine is a part of the spiritual exercises. The practice of a daily Examine is part of the formation and life of those in the Society of Jesus, the Jesuits. The Exame consists of 5 parts: 1. Ask God to send his Spirit 2. Give thanks for the day 3. Review the day 4. Ask for forgiveness 5. Pray for the next day In this episode, I discuss Step 1, Asking God to send the Holy Spirt. I talk about 12 aspects of the Holy Spirit that lend themselves to our Examen. While these 12 are not all encompassing of the Holy Spirit, I believe they give a good understanding of what the Holy Spirit can bring to help us make a good and thorough Examine of our day. 1. A Spirit of Life 2. A Spirit of Glory 3. The Spirit as Comforter 4. A Spirit of Wisdom 5. A Spirit of Truth 6. A Spirit of Revelation 7. A Spirit of Right Judgment 8. A Spirit of Prophecy 9. The Spirit of the Father 10. The Spirit of Christ 11. A Spirit of Holiness 12. The Spirit as Advocate You may not practice the Examen daily, as to the Jesuits, however, even a weekly, or monthly Examen is worth the effort as it will help you orient your life towards a life centered on God. May the Lord grant you His peace. David Seitz, OFS david@tauministries.com www.tauministries.comWant to learn more? Check out the book The Spritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola: With Points for Personal Prayer From Jesuit Spiritual Masters by Fr. Sean Salai, S.J.For a more in depth study of the Holy Spirit Check out the book, The Sanctifier: The Classic Work on the Holy Spirit Support the show
In this episode David shares insights into what he has learned by the masters of the spiritual life. What has he found in common? There are 7 commonalities that seem to resonate with those saints we hold up as heros and teachers of the faith. David summarizes these 7 common traits.1. Eucharistic Focus2. Frequent Confession3. Live a Life Centered on Prayer4. Sacrifice / Redemptive Suffering5. Humility6. Put on the Armor of Christ (Eph 6:10-19)7. Be FerventYou can download a summary document by visiting the following link at the Tau Ministreis Website. Prayers (tauministries.com) and opening up the 7 Guidepost document.As always, we pray that you found this reflection helpful and encourage you to share and recommend to others who you feel may find it inspiring.May the Lord grant you His peace!David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.comTau Ministires Support the show
In Episode 1 of Season 2, Franciscan Dave talks about how we are called to share the good news of the Risen Lord. What happens after Easter? We Rejoice and we tell the good news. Faith comes by "hearing". It is not enough to simply live a good life, we must go forth and witness to the good news of the Gospel.1. What not to do.2. Always be ready to offer a reason for the hope in you.3. What is the main message of the Gospels? Why did Jesus come?4. What did Jesus command us to do?5. What it means to live out our baptismal commission to be prophets?6. What price are we willing to pay for spreading the Gospel?Franciscan Dave is a production of Tau Ministries, rebuilding the Church by helping the "living stones" grow in faith and a life of holiness.You can reach Franciscan Dave at: david@tauministries.comMay the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFS Support the show
In this episode we are joined by Felician Sr. Mary Bernadette, CSSP and Br. Al Mascia, OFM. Sr. Bernadette is the program director for the Maryville Retreat Center, Holly, Michigan. Br. Al Mascia is a professional musician and singer songwriter.What is the value of taking time out from our busy and noisy life by spending time at a retreat center?How can music draw us closer to Jesus and deepen our relationship with him?What brought these two evangelists and ministries together?If you can come to Mid-Michigan on March 30, 2022, mark your calendar. The Maryville Retreat Center is hosting a one man musical play, performed by Br. Al which will teach us, through song, the life and lessons we can learn from Blessed Solanus Casey. This will be the premier of this exciting new musical production. Reserve your seat now by visiting the registration page.If you are not in Mid-Michigan, you will still benefit from hearing about the ministries of Sr. Bernadette and Br. Al, and following the link to Blessed Solanus Casey, where you, too, can learn about a Hero of the Church.May the Lord grant you His peace!David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.comTau Ministries Website Support the show
This episode was presented to the Immaculate Conception Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order in Mishawaka, IN on February 19, 2022.Have the events of the past two years robbed you of Joy and Peace?Can we have joy in our hearts with all that is going on in the world today?How has Satan contributed to stealing our peace and joy?Have you experience your joy being impacted by the divisions in our politics, Church and families?What did St. Francis of Assisi teach about Joy?What does Sacred Scripture teach us about Joy?How can you cultivate "Perfect Joy" in your life?May the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.comTau Ministries Website Support the show
Is holiness attainable in this life?Can we become like Christ?Are the Sacraments necessary for Salvation?How do we participate in the salvific work of Christ?So what is a sacrament?Do you need to be an expert to evangelize?Listen in as Tom Nash shares his expertise. Tom Nash has served the Church professionally for more than 30 years, including as a theology advisor at EWTN and as an editor. He is a contributing apologist for Catholic Answers, and a contributor for the National Catholic Register and Catholic World Report. Tom is a guest host for Kresta in the Afternoon, and a regular guest apologist on Catholic Answers Live. Tom has a B.A. from the University of Michigan, and M.A. in Journalism from the University of Missouri and an M.A. in Theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville.Tom is the author of several books including, "What Did Jesus Do? The Biblical Roots of the Catholic Church", "The Biblical Roots of the Mass", Catholic for a Reason III, Scripture and the Mystery of the Mass" and a new "20 Answers About the Rosary" booklet available from Catholic Answers.Find out more about Tom by visiting the Catholic Answers Website and clicking on his profile, where you may schedule him to speak at your parish or other event.May the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.comTau Ministries Website Support the show
What is the 40 Hours Devotion?What spiritual and physical miracles have occurred during the 40 hours?Can the 40 hours devotion reclaim our turf for Jesus, the King of Kings?Listen as Karen Japzon, founder of John Leaps Evangelization, discusses the ministry and the resurgence of the practice of the 40 hours devotion in the United States. How can the 40 hours benefit your parish? How can the 40 hours devotion benefit your spiritual life? How can you go about organizing this powerful devotion?Find out more about John Leaps Evangelization by visiting JohnLeaps.com40 Hours Devotion VideoFind out more about Karen's book, "Love Club" HereInterested in exploring bringing the 40 Hours Devotion to your parish? Contact Karen:email: karen@johnleaps.comTau Ministries WebsiteMay the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.com Support the show
What does Jesus teach about caring for our neighbors in need? Does just believing in Jesus assure our salvation?What is the message of hope and warning in Chapter 25 in Matthew's Gospel?Are you a "Bird Bath Christian"?Christian charity converted Rome. Can our witness to Christ by being servants of the least among us re-convert our culture? Support the show
In this short episode we discuss how the incarnate Jesus is still present with us today.1. In the Holy word of Sacred Scripture2. In the Mystical Body of Christ, taught by St. Paul in Corinthians Chapters 6 and 123. In the Holy Sacrement of the Eucharist.May the Lord grant you His peace!David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.comTau Ministries Website Support the show
In the Hymn of the Exultet changed at the Easter Vigil we here these words that can one to think."O truly necessary sin of Adam, destroyed completely by the death of Christ. O happy fault that earned so great, so glorious a redeemer."Was sin necessary in order for Jesus to become incarnate and take on our human nature?Was Jesus becoming man and dying on the cross to redeem us from our sins God's fall back plan?Would Jesus have taken on human nature, even if we had no original sin, nothing that needed to be redeemed?Some have speculated that Jesus would have come regardless. Listen and give some thought to this idea.May the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.comTau Ministries Website Support the show
Dr. Robert Fastiggi is a professor of theology at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. He is a prolific author and esteemed professor, teaching at Sacred Heart since 1999. Listen in as he discusses how parents can cultivate a life of faith in the family. 1. What does the Church teach regarding the duty of parents as primary educators of their children?2. What does Vatican II and Popes John Paul II and Pope Francis teach about the family?3. What are some suggestions for begining to practice a life of faith in the family?4. What can we learn from the example of St. Joseph as the guardian and earthly father of Jesus and husband to Mary?May the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.comTau Ministreis Website Support the show
Listen as Bill Schmitt shares his expertise from a career in journalism, both as a journalist and a teacher of journalism and multi-platform communication, and enlightens us on current trends in communication and how we need to communicate in such a way as to encourage the pursuit of truth. Jesus Christ is the truth, so seeking and communicating truth leads us closer to the Truth which is Jesus Christ.Can telling the truth be sinful?Is there a moral aspect to how we communicate and use words?Does our culture embrace truth-based communication?What is disinformation? Is it different from outright lies?What does the Church teach about morally responsible communication?What can we do to ensure what we communicate does not detract us from a life of holiness?Find out more about Bill Schmitt Onward CommunicationsRead Pope Francis 2018 World Day Communication addressWhen Headlines Hurt, by Bill SchmittMay the Lord grant you His peaceDavid Seitz, OFS Support the show
"Nones", or those who have no religious affiliation are a growing segment of the population, with research showing that up to 1/3 of the population fits into this demographic.Dr. Tamra Fromm has done extensive research into this demographic and has interesting insights to share.1. Who and what are the "Nones".2. How did this segment grow so large in the space of one generation?3. How can we engage in dialogue with a "None"?4. What does this growing segment of the population mean for the future of the Church?5. How are we each called to witness and evangelize the faith to the "Nones" and in our culture today?Check out Dr. Fromm's blog to learn more by clicking HERERead Dr. Fromm's articles in the Detroit Catholic by clicking HERELearn about Dr. Fromm's book, "Pre-Evangelization and Young Adult "Native Nones" HERE Tau Ministries WebsiteMay the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.com Support the show
In this episode, Fr. Albert Haase, OFM, discusses the Apostolic Exhortation of Pope Francis, Gaudete et Exsultate. The call to holiness in today's world. Click here for the documentThe call to holiness is more ancient than the Church.Can anyone strive to become holy as God is holy?Can you become holy all at once, or is it a lifetime journey?What are the 5 attributes of holiness, per Pope Francis?Find out more about Fr. Albert, his books and other teaching resources here: AlbertOFM WebsiteTau Ministries WebsiteMay the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFMdavid@tauministries.com Support the show
In this episode, we discuss God's Providential care for us. We need to cultivate faith and trust that God really does want what is best for us. Taking a leap of faith.Trusting in God.How can we look at our lives through the lens of faith and recognize the hand of God?Scriptures that inspire us to trust in God.May the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.comTau Ministries WebsiteCome, Let Us Worship Book Support the show
Cathryn Torgerson is the Director of Curriculum Development for the Catholic Biblical School of Michigan. Listen as she shares her passion for God's Word and enlightens us on how one might approach a more in-depth study of the sacred text.Whether you are a beginner to the study of scripture or a seasoned pro, you will find something in this episode that you did not know...I certainly did. Cathryn's enthusiasm and knowledge gained through 12 years of teaching courses on Scripture are contagious. Warning! After listening to her, you will want to open up your Bible and dive in!Is there a particularly Catholic way to approach scripture?Is Scripture opposed to science?Is the God of the Old Testament different from the God of the New?What resources are available to one who desires to begin a more formal Bible Study?You can learn more about Cathryn and her work by visiting the Catholic Biblical School of Michigan. CBSMICH.ORGYou can contact them directly at CONTACT CBSM (586) 438-3085 Support the show
In this episode, Fr. Brian Mullady, O.P., host of EWTN's Open Line Thursday, discusses the nature of Jesus Christ. What are some of the misconceptions about Jesus that may cause one to misunderstand the mission of Jesus?What is the nature of Jesus?What was the primary reason for Jesus becoming Incarnate?Is Jesus just a social and political reformer?Why did the Church develop creedal statements such as the Nicene Creed? You can learn more about this topic in Fr. Mullady's book, "Captivated by the Master" available through EWTN or Amazon:Captivated by the MasterYou can learn more about Fr. Mullady and avail yourself of his collection of teaching materials by visiting The Rosary Center of Portland Oregon at:The Rosary CenterMay the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFSDavid@tauministries.comTau Ministries Website Support the show
Sr. Agnes Marie is a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration in Mishawaka, Indiana. She has served the Church as an educator in grades K-12 and college, diocesan director of liturgy, and spiritual assistant to the Secular Franciscan Order.In this episode, Sr. Agnes Marie shares what it means to be a prophet. By our baptism, we are all called to be a priest, prophet, and king.1. What does it mean to be a prophet?2. Do I need special training or gifts to be a prophet?3. What challenges will one encounter when acting on the baptismal call to be a prophet?Listen in as Sr. Agnes Marie shares her joy and passion to live out a life of prophetic creativity!You can learn more about her community by clicking on the link below:Franciscan Sister of Perpetual AdorationMay the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFShttps://www.tauministries.com/aboutdavid@tauministries.com Support the show
Fr. Larry Rice, CSP, currently serves as the campus chaplain for Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY. His past assignments included serving at "The" Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, and The University of Texas, Austin.He has spent many years working in telecommunications evangelization for the Paulist Fathers and is fluent in print, podcasting, radio, and social media-based communication. You may be familiar with his frequent appearances on "The Busted Halo" show on Sirius XM channel 129. He also has a popular podcast with his thoughts, reflections, and homilies. His newest project is a YouTube channel, "In the Kitchen with Fr. Larry Rice" where he demonstrates his culinary arts skill.In this episode, Fr. Larry shares his insights on how to reach and communicate with young Catholic adults. He shares his advice on how to approach them, and the social media platforms that are relevant today.You can learn more about Fr. Larry Rice and his ministries by visiting:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqVjW52bYE0-yhizEiEbfhwFr. Larry Rice's Podcast (podbean.com)Fr. Larry Rice, C.S.P. – Paulist FathersMay the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFSdavid@tauministries.comhttps://www.tauministries.com Support the show
In this episode, we discuss how the Franciscan Charism can lead one to live a life of holiness. Why did people flock to the little poor man of Assisi?What are the elements of the Franciscan Charism that anyone can apply to their daily life?St. Francis was called to rebuild the Church with the living stones - We are those living stones.How can you achieve peace and joy in your life in the midst of chaos in the world?How can you begin or deepen the life of holiness in the family?Who will rebuild the Church? You and I, individually and collectively witnessing an authentic Gospel life.May the Lord grant you His peace.David Seitz, OFShttps:www.tauministries.com Support the show
Discover the little way of St. Therese.Holiness is accessible to all, not just for those in convents and monasteries. Drawing on the Autobiography of St. Therese, "The Story of a Soul", Dave takes us on a journey to discover just how easy it is to live an authentic holy life.Prayer - Humility - Redemptive suffering. St. Therese did not impose a complicated system or complex theology in order to live a holy life. Accepting what God sends you in the everyday circumstances of life will take you to the heights of holiness and bring the peace of Christ to your heart. Support the show
In this episode, Fr. Albert Haase, OFM, discusses spiritual direction. What it is. What it is not. The benefits of spiritual direction. The characteristics of a good spiritual director. Resources for finding a spiritual director. Fr. Albert was ordained a Franciscan priest in 1983, He is a popular preacher, teacher, spiritual director, and radio personality. Fr. Albert also spent 11 years as a missionary to mainland China. He has authored twelve books on popular spirituality, his most recent being the award-winning SOUL TRAINING WITH THE PEACE PRAYER OF SAINT FRANCIS. He is also the presenter on five bestselling DVDs. He has trained spiritual directors for ten years and currently serves as the chaplain at Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center in Temple TX Which is in the diocese of Austin. You can learn more about Fr. Albert at his website at www.AlbertOFM.orgFranciscan Dave is a production of Tau Ministries: https://www.tauministries.com Support the show
In this introductory Episode, Franciscan Dave lays the foundation for his teaching ministry. He evaluates information by four pillars.1. Truth is objective in nature2. Jesus is divine, the Son of God, and the 2nd person of the Blessed Trinity3. Scripture is the inspired word of God.4. Jesus founded a Church with AuthorityDavid Seitz, OFS, is a professed member of the Secular Franciscan Order in the Catholic Church. He has served the order as a Regional minister, and as a member of the National Justice and Peace Commission. David wishes to be like St. Francis of Assisi, a "Herald of the Great King, Jesus." Continuing the call to St. Francis to Rebuild the Church with the "Living Stones", he presents retreats, parish missions and keynote talks focused on leading souls to a deeper relationship with God in the Blessed Trinity.David studied Sacred Scripture in the MA Theology program of Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Detroit, and earned a certification in the New Evangelization, also from Sacred Heart.Follow David at https://www.tauministries.comSupport the show (https://tauministries.com/donate)
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