Open Doors: Conversations with Heart of the Father

Season 4 Begins!!Matt and Jenn kick off our Open Doors podcast announcing the theme of Season Four: “Come and See!” Together they offer scriptures from the Apostle John's writings that invite us to “Come and See” what the Lord is doing.Due to sin, the world we live in is dark. We can't see in the dark, but Jesus' life illuminates things for us.He joined us, became flesh. He even enlightens the human body, enabling us to see and making the Father known to us. Philip, Andrew, Nathanial, the Samaritan woman, Lazarus' sisters, and the disciple Thomas and others are included in this brief, yet broad touch of scriptures – all of which invite us to “Come and See!”Matt and Jenn present the first exhortation of the season: Invite the Lord  into your heart, your darkness, your light. Listen to how He is calling you to come and see. Follow Him in a way you haven't followed him before.Matt compares faith to a part of the body – can you guess which? Find out in Episode One of this exciting new season of the Open Doors podcast!Join us for our November Freedom in Christ Conference near PhiladelphiaSAVE THE DATE for our Leadership Conference March 14-16 in PhiladelphiaSee our other upcoming events.Release: September 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by Christian Harper

Jacqueline hosts Neal as he shares about speaking in Rome at the Course on the Ministry of Exorcism and Deliverance sponsored by the Sacerdos Institute. Neal presented a non-confrontational approach to deliverance, which is Unbound ministry, to 195 people from 46 countries worldwide.  His talks were translated into four languages.“It was a very different atmosphere for me. They were all professors and they gave me the title professor.” Asking about this, Neal was told, “You're a professor this week!”Encouraging listeners to be open to a new way, Neal offered questions to consider: Is it possible that many people are receiving a confrontational style of deliverance or exorcism who do not need one? Is there another approach to help people?The Unbound approach addresses the person needing help, not the evil one. “We need to understand a person's heart,” said Neal, adding the necessity to uncover past traumas, responses to traumas, the enemy's lies, and unforgiveness. “If we give too much attention to the demonic element, we're going to miss the person. We see Unbound more as a model for evangelization than just deliverance.”From there, Neal offered numerous testimonials of individuals set free through Unbound ministry, one being himself!Overall, “It was well-received and I made a connection,” concluded Neal.Trivia Quiz1. What surprised Neal the most during his trip to Rome?2. How long have Jacqueline and Neal known each other?Find out these things and far more in this fascinating episode!Sjoquist, B.S. (2021) “The virtuous use of private exorcism by laypersons,” Antiphon: A Journal for Liturgical Renewal, 25(1), pp. 63–90. It is not intrinsically immoral for laypersons to issue such commands, and, if done rightly, it is virtuous for them to do so. Moral theologians and canonists writing after the Council of Trent up until the Second Vatican Council referred to this practice as “private exorcism.” A close look at the writings of these authors reveals a nearly universal understanding that no ecclesiastical positive law prohibited such actions. When current laws and instructions related to exorcism are read within the context of this tradition, I believe it is also the case that no ecclesiastical positive law categorically prohibits such actions today.Bradley S. Sjoquist, Doctor of Moral TheologyDr. Mary Healy on the authority of lay people to command or cast out

Neal and Janet connect with ministry friend Bohus Zivcak who prays Unbound in post-communist countries. Half his life was spent under communism and now he ministers among a people still struggling to live in freedom.Janet and Neal speak of Slovakia, hiking in the mountains with Bohus, and people's openness while receiving personal freedom and then taking message to others.Bohus speaks fondly of breakfasts at Neal and Janet's kitchen table, and once dubbed himself “Bohus Lozano.” He tells of his youth, the underground church, retreats with Fr. Michael – a secretly-ordained priest – and starting a mission community in Slovakia's mountains.After meeting the Lozanos in the 1990s, Bohus felt compelled to invite them to Slovakia. “When Neal and Janet came with the Unbound it was a shock…like the whole universe opened in front of us.”Now Bohus works to address the unique fears, connections, beliefs, and lies common to those living in post-communist countries. He sees relief in people's faces when realizing they are not at fault, they do count, and have a voice, and can make their own decisions.“Taking responsibility for their lives is a great discovery in Unbound,” he says. “It provides great hope for people to be healed by the Lord.”How would you pronounce “Zivcak?” Give it a try and then learn from Bohus in this absorbing episode.Find out more about Bohus here and about his community here.  See our upcoming eventsRelease: May 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by  Henry Aquino

Got cabin fever? Meet Aaron Richards of Damascus Camps, whose serious case of cabin fervor ignites his mission to train and disciple year-round missionaries.Aaron and his wife, Monica, met as teens during their first summer of camp ministry and their five children have grown up spending every summer at camp. “A true encounter with Jesus leads us to a life of mission and a life of mission leads us back to a true encounter with Jesus,” states Aaron, who says his kids have a 470-acre back yard. He describes his family once sleeping in a cabin basement, with dripping water and crawling bugs. Hear how his young son reacted, and better yet - his wife!!Having grown up in Ohio, Aaron talks of his faithful parents, church involvement, and the power of an invitation. As a teen, he was invited to be a camp counselor, “Stepping into that awkward place, I had an encounter with Jesus.” That experience spurred Aaron towards a life of youth ministry.We hear how Damascus Camps grew to include quality worship now found on all major music platforms, and about their two-year formation program, which includes Unbound concepts, for young adults. “From the walls of our dining hall we want to show our kids that life with Christ is a wonderful adventure,” says Aaron.Listen now for s'more of Aaron's stories!Learn more about Damascus Camps, Missions, the podcast, and more!See our upcoming eventsRelease: May 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by  Henry Aquino

Neal hosts the Open Doors podcast and shares a first for Unbound – prison ministry!Joining Neal are Dan Gahagan of Unbound Maryland and Jakob Kerlin, a pastor at Victory Church. Both were part of the Unbound team that recently ministered inside a Pennsylvania maximum-security prison.Invited there by the prison chaplain, it “felt like it was a divine appointment,” said Neal. “It had a profound effect on each of us.”Neal, Dan and Jakob describe their experiences and offer their personal take-aways from within the prison walls.A core team of inmates, well- trusted men who had studied Unbound materials in preparation, were dubbed “The Magnificent Seven.” They felt excited to shed their bondage through Unbound prayer on day one of the team's visit. On the second day, twenty more prisoners received prayer.After Unbound prayer, one inmate declared, “I got my identity back – now I know who I am.” Another prisoner ditched his negative nickname and assumed a new, more accurate name for himself.Dan, Jakob, and Neal all testify of inmates who found freedom and hope through Unbound ministry most beautifully expressed by the one who said, “I'm freer now than I ever was on the other side!”“There was no holding back of forgiveness,” stated Dan.You won't want to miss this riveting episode of Unbound unbarred!See our upcoming eventsRelease: May 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by  Henry Aquino

“This is where the real stuff happens,” says longtime Unbound partner and Polish interpreter, Gosia Wojcik. Gosia joins Matt in this informative episode that covers exciting ministry developments in United Arab Emirates and Ukraine! Hear Gosia's Unbound story beginning with the “First-ever Unbound conference,” in Poland and how she interpreted for Neal and Janet as they returned year after year. “All that I learned from Neal and Janet has really shaped me – who I am as a follower in Christ. They introduced me to the Holy Spirit and how he works in people and what he does for them.” Gosia describes ministering with Matt in United Arab Emirates, an experience quite different from Poland. Struck by their humility and openness, she described conference attendees like “an army destined to change the country they come from and maybe the region.” Gosia tells of exciting developments in a peaceful region of Ukraine where a Bishop, who learned Unbound directly from Neal, dreams of establishing Houses of Mercy – permanent sites of Unbound ministry – such as are found in Poland. “Neal planted the first seeds and now we are helping to make them grow,” says Gosia. Can Unbound prayer work in a hurry? Find out from Gosia in this chock-full episode!See our upcoming eventsJoin us for our April Freedom in Christ Conference near PhiladelphiaRelease: April 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by  Henry Aquino

Author Matt Lozano talks with Lisa Livezey and host Jacqueline HarperTempted to jump out a window when it comes to holiness? In this final episode of our Free to Be Holy book study, the author himself speaks!We discuss Chapter Seven where Matt invites us to learn from his own mistakes. He shares his personal backstory of realizing he had believed the enemy's lie. We learn what led Matt to write this book which he calls, “One of the graces of the pandemic.”Chapter Seven is an informal introduction to Unbound ministry – helping people expose deceptions that keep them in bondage, to practice the Five Keys, and to walk in freedom.If you've hit a wall while pursuing a lifestyle of holiness, ask the Holy Spirit, “Show me what I'm not seeing,” suggests Matt. The Holy Spirit can help us identify internal struggles, patterns of thinking and behaviors which reflect ways we aren't free.Hear a “Cliff-notes version” of Common Lies of the Enemy and know that God can take what the devil intended for destruction and turn it into great blessing,Our Free to Be Holy series ends with Matt speaking the last lines of his book as a prayer. Join us!Find Matt's book Free to Be HolySee our upcoming eventsJoin us for our April Freedom in Christ Conference near PhiladelphiaRelease: April 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by  Henry Aquino

He's Right Here!!Jenn hosts Neal and Lisa for a distinctive discussion during Week Three of our Free to Be Holy book study.Free to Be Holy means being “free to walk in holiness,” says Neal and “free to grow in holiness,” adds Lisa.One reason we fail is because we aren't free. Hear Neal's story about a prayer recipient exclaiming at The Father's Blessing, “He's right here! He was always right here!”Even when we mess up, Jesus is with us. He respects our free will, but is always there with the hope and the knowledge that we will yield. We discuss Matt's list of what God will do and won't do, followed by a beautiful story surrounding the one question God may ask at life's end: “Did you learn how to love?”Growth in holiness looks different for each individual, like spring flower bulbs that push up through dirt towards the light, each one displaying unique beauty.Trivia Quiz from this episode:1. What was Neal's original title for his book Unbound?2. What theological thought does Neal first remember having at age four?3. What four-year-old in Lisa's life exemplified discipleship?Find these answers and more inside this podcast. We'll meet you there!Find Matt's book Free to Be HolySee our upcoming eventsJoin us for our April Freedom in Christ Conference near PhiladelphiaRelease: April 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by  Henry Aquino

“The J's are in the house” this week as Jenn and Janet Lozano along with Jacqueline Harper sum up Chapters Three and Four of Matt Lozano's book Free to Be Holy.“Reading Chapter 3 was like going into the throne room. I just encountered the Lord,” said Jenn.God is totally other – completely unique and excellent in every way. And yet He's excellently accessible to us!Jesus carried the world's sin on the cross, but it didn't change Him. He emanated perfect excellent love.Listen to Janet describe an Unbound conference in Poland where she profoundly experienced God's presence, giving her courage to intercept security guards and minister to someone in desperate need.Learn what we can do to see God with the eyes of our heart, plus three aspects of God's grace. Discover the difference between guilt and shame.Picture Matt seeing the stars unhindered while on a camping trip to West Virginia. Compare that to Unbound ministry, where a filter is removed allowing someone to see God's love, presence, his activity in their lives.If you haven't yet read Free to Be Holy, check it out. Go somewhere quiet, sit down, and expect an encounter with God. At the very least, listen to this podcast! “There is always more to see,” writes Matt.Find Matt's book Free to Be HolySee our upcoming eventsJoin us for our April Freedom in Christ Conference near PhiladelphiaRelease: April 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by  Henry Aquino

On this Holy Thursday, we begin studying Matt Lozano's book Free to Be Holy.  What is Holiness? The Hebrew word kadosh translates as “set apart, sacred, holy.”  This applied to items used in the temple vessels and nothing made holy could be returned to ordinary service. Proper ritual allowed outward participation, but not interior restoration. Through Jesus, God removes our hearts of stone and gives us hearts of flesh.There are fascinating parallels between the purposes of blood in the human body and the work of Jesus' blood upon our soul. Blood animates, heals, and reproduces. Holiness is a lifestyle of making oneself available to God. We limit holiness by continuing to earn God's favor yet“We can't be holy without Jesus,” writes Matt.What isn't holiness? False approaches to holiness include: performance, out-of-reach holiness, and having false standards. When we put something above Jesus, we inevitably fail and can fall prey to the enemy's traps of shame, self-hatred, or pride. Escaping our sense of inferiority means putting off self-justification and pressing into Jesus. Our relationship with Christ is what we need to rely on. The Pharisees were so focused on Jesus actions that they missed Him – the Savior right in front of them.Deepening our walk in holiness means being available to Jesus. It's not just about what we avoid but what and Whom we embrace.Find Matt's book Free to Be HolyUse code FREE2B for 20% off of Free to Be Holy  through the remainder of Holy Thursday, March 28.See our upcoming eventsJoin us for our April Freedom in Christ Conference near PhiladelphiaRelease: March 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by  Jacqueline Harper

As we approach Palm Sunday, Matt and Lisa discuss the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem from Mark 11: 1-10.See parallels to the crowning of King Solomon, who was placed on David's mule and cloaks laid down. What was symbolized by laying down cloaks before Jesus?Zechariah 9 prophecies about the king entering on a colt. What might have been the hidden meaning behind the unridden colt?Matt continues offering intriguing, thought-provoking questions:Why were the people so excited?Why did Jesus suddenly allow a dramatic display of his kingship?Where do we picture ourselves in the triumphal entry scene and why?What might Jesus have been thinking as he was riding through Jerusalem?Why does the story close in an anticlimactic way?Enjoy Matt and Lisa's answers to these questions and discover where in the story they picture themselves. Where do you place yourself in this sacred scene from Mark 11?In closure, we pray together the Prayer of Abandonment by Charles de Foucauld.You won't want to miss this final episode in our 2024 Lenten Reflection Series.Find Matt's book Free to Be HolyUse code FREE2B for 20% off of Free to Be Holy  through Holy Thursday, March 28.See our upcoming eventsJoin us for our April Freedom in Christ Conference near PhiladelphiaRelease: March 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by  Henry Aquino

Grab a cuppa and enjoy some time with Jacqueline and Jenn as they continue our Lenten series, reflecting upon Jeremiah 31:31-34 where the word ‘covenant' is mentioned four times.Jeremiah, the weeping prophet, felt so sad about the condition of his people. Amidst Israel's failure, he offered hope – a promise that God would forgive all our sins and remember them no more.In the Old Covenant, people couldn't uphold their end of the things, so God made a new covenant – one people can keep.In the new covenant, everything is simplified. Jesus Himself is the new covenant, the law made flesh, offering the cup of His blood. Jesus walked the road to his death and resurrection and we also walk it in relationship with him.God writes His law on our hearts through the Holy Spirit. In the Old Covenant, the law was external, but now it's alive inside of us. Just like our beating hearts pump blood through our bodies, the Holy Spirit infuses us.How does God “remember our sin no more?” When God looks at us, He sees His son. He is already seeing what's going to happen through His son. The criteria for the new covenant is not circumcision or the law, it was relationship with God through Jesus by declaring that Jesus is Lord.Hear Jacqueline's story of her progression of faith in college and listen to Jenn as she closes with Joel 2:12-13 where we are exhorted to return to God with our whole heart.Find Matt's book Free to Be HolyUse code FREE2B for 20% off of Free to Be Holy  through Holy Thursday, March 28.See our upcoming eventsJoin us for our April Freedom in Christ Conference near PhiladelphiaRelease: March 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by Jacqueline Harper

What a treat to hear Matt and Jenn Lozano together for Week Four of our Lenten series as they cover the story in John 9 about Jesus' healing a man born blind!Jesus makes room in His day to heal this man and he does the same for us!During Lent, we consider the darkness and undergo self-reflection. Why is there so much brokenness in the world? We join the disciples in asking Jesus why bad things happen.In the Scriptures, the Torah conveys the idea of divine retribution, but then we see righteous Job questioning God about suffering. God's answer to Job, coupled with Jesus' reply to the disciples in John 9 shows that suffering allows the works God to be made visible. “That's the why,” says Matt. We all are blind and Jesus is doing something in time that gives us sight.God created light on the first day but brings salvation on the seventh day – the day of rest. Jesus proclaims His kingdom on the Sabbath by doing things like restoring sight to the blind and casting out demons.Just as the blind man received mud on his eyes and obediently went to the pool of Siloam, we each can be touched by Jesus and we too can participate in our own healing. Learn what the word “Siloam” means and how that applies to each of us!At Lent we live in the darkness, knowing that sight is coming. The answer is Jesus – He is the Light of the World!Find Matt's book Free to Be HolyUse code FREE2B for 20% off of Free to Be Holy  through Holy Thursday, March 28.See our upcoming eventsJoin us for our April Freedom in Christ Conference near PhiladelphiaRelease: March 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by Henry Aquino

Amidst the cold of winter, enjoy warm conversation and memories shared by Janet and Lisa as they discuss Romans 5:1-2, 5-8.God poured out His Word into our hearts. Pouring relates to our baptism and God himself infuses the virtues of faith, hope, and love into us when we are open to receive them.Through our faith, we rejoice in hope. Janet explains the difference between hope and optimism.We hear of an early Unbound session when a deeply painful story brought about weeping by all participating. God's love was spoken, poured out and the recipient experienced freedom to forgive, saying, “Thank you. Now I have hope!”Tissues are kept handy in an Unbound session because tears of both sorrow and joy often spring forth. These tears help water the seeds of the gospel.Listen with us to these deeper examples of hope, love, and faith, and also a lighter story of how Lisa found hope in a gift shop!Find Matt's book Free to Be HolyUse code FREE2B for 20% off of Free to Be Holy through Holy Thursday, March 28.See our upcoming eventsRelease: February 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by Henry Aquino

Are you going deeper this Lent?Join Neal and Jacqueline as they reflect on the liturgical readings for this coming Sunday.You'll be blessed as they discuss many beautiful themes, beginning with a word on testing. The first reading is from Genesis chapter 22.  Sometimes we complain about the testing we are going through.  Yet, here Abraham is asked to do what God the Father would do.Such an amazing story of faith. Neal and Jacqueline converse about Abraham and more including life's purpose,  the uniqueness of our destiny, and knowing who we are as sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father. You will want to listen over and over again.Find Matt's book Free to Be HolyUse code FREE2B for 20% off of Free to Be Holy through Holy Thursday, March 28.See our upcoming eventsRelease: February 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by Jacqueline Harper

Jenn and Lisa kick off our Lenten series!Join us as Lent begins, talking about God's covenant in Genesis 9: 8-15.We start with the theme of light in the Scriptures. Light bursts from darkness in creation, the post-flood prism of light is the rainbow, and Jesus comes as the Light of the World.A covenant offers three aspects: a promise, a family, and a sign and each relates to these “light” moments in Scripture.PROMISE: At Creation, consequences are promised if eating the forbidden fruit. After the flood, God promises never to flood to world again. Jesus offered promises such as eternal life, the Holy Spirit, and the sharing in His sufferings.FAMILY: The Creation family was Adam and Eve. Noah's family was saved at the flood. With Jesus, we have the family of Christ. Jenn reminds us that Jesus' invitation is for all people.SIGN: A sign is the Holy Spirit being present at each event. The Spirit of God hovered over the waters at Creation, the dove of the Holy Spirit brought an olive branch to Noah, and the descent of the Dove at Jesus' baptism.Don't miss Lisa's story about seeing a literal “sign from God.”This episode is a treasure – a spiritual pot of gold surrounding God's rainbow of hope.Find Matt's book Free to Be HolySee our upcoming eventsRelease: February 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by Henry Aquino

Join Matt Lozano and Gilbert Rodriguez as they share details from the Freedom In Christ conference held in San Juan, Mexico, last summer.Gilbert is Associate Director of Adult Faith Formation in the New York Archdiocese and has extensive ministry experience. He helps run Freedom in Christ conferences in Spanish. Gilbert tells of first benefitting from Unbound ministry in 2012 and how he was set free from fear. He continued on to make major life decisions, including a marriage proposal!We hear Matt extol the hospitality of the Mexican people and the goodness of heart he witnessed there, saying, “The Father's blessing is imbedded in them.”Stories are shared about individuals set free through Unbound prayer with joy, even to the point of abounding laughter! Gilbert relates a funny memory involving caramel at a Cathedral and Matt follows up with a tale about a stolen Rolex watch. We even learn of a skeptical priest who was won over, saying the Unbound session he witnessed was “like heart surgery!”This encouraging episode reminds us that Unbound ministry is growing amidst our southern neighbors in Mexico. Listen and enjoy!Release: February 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by Jacqueline Harper

“We want to be saints, not celebrities!”In this meaty episode, we hear from popular author and theologian Dr. ScottHahn, founder and president of the Saint Paul Center for Biblical Theology.Dr. Hahn chronicles his personal understanding of holiness beginning with hisearliest experiences as a juvenile delinquent and how he discoveredscripture and encountered Christ on a Young Life retreat. Hear then how Dr.Hahn's presence at Dr. R.C. Sproul's Bible studies shaped his approachtowards God.Holiness became a topic of primary interest culminating in Dr. Hahn's book,Holy is His Name: The Transforming Power of God's Holiness in Scripturewhich represents years of research and biblical study, but also draws one tothe cross. “We are free to be holy, and we are only truly fully holy when weare freed,” he states.Learn what Dr. Hahn considers to be the job description of a theologian andhear his comparison between holiness and righteousness.This deep discussion mentions Greek words like “caritas agape” andindividuals like Augustine, Aquinas, King Uzziah, and the prophet Isaiah. You'll find out why Dr. Hahn considers his book, Holy is His Name, and Matt'sbook, Free to Be Holy a “one-two combination.”The episode concludes with Dr. Hahn sharing what he believes to be a sliceof Heaven on Earth.You won't want to miss this deep discussion on a topic relevant to allChristians.Release: February 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by Henry Aquino

Do you ever think about angels or just wonder about divine mysteries? In this fascinating episode, we hear from Msgr. Brian Bransfield who served as the General Secretary of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops from 2015 to 2020.  He's a priest in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, has his doctorate in moral theology,  and is the author of many books including his recent Angels: OurGuardians in Spiritual Battle, which he describes as “a user-friendly, easy toread map” that can help us see where the angels lead us.Msgr. Bransfield tells of first meeting angels as a child and continues with anexploration of the role angels play in our lives, their power, and what theirinvisibility suggests to us.We learn what angels aren't - ghosts, phantoms, fiction - and what they are- real, personal beings, created by God who are present to assist us.“The holy angels always begin something in us and they beckon us farther andthey serve as our guardian,” states Msgr. Bransfield. He lists the threecommon misconceptions regarding angels and how misguided expectationscan place a burden upon us.Jesus was ministered to by angels when he hit rock bottom and we can besure that God has given us these special helpers as well to challenge, coach,protect and help us to follow the light of Jesus.Don't wing it in your assumptions about angels. Listen and understand thethe reality of these unseen beings.Find Msgr. Bransfield's book  Angels: Our Guardians in Spiritual BattleMeet us in AustinJoin us at one of our other Freedom in Christ conferences in 2024Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: January 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary StrohmProduction by Henry Aquino

“And then the beginnings of Unbound began!!”Get ready for this exciting second part of Neal and Janet's story about the beginnings of Unbound. Hear how God used a prophetic word spoken over Neal to help him find someone's name in his Rolodex!Neal shares of the exciting 30-Day Renewal and Reconciliation event that brought people from various ethnicities, cultures, and denominations together. Janet expounds, saying, “This is what the church is supposed to be!”Hearing more teachings on deliverance helps Neal refine the pattern of prayer he had already been developing when ministering to people.From there, we go to Poland where Neal leads a conference and sees extraordinary results when applying this specific prayer pattern. Neal receives prophetic words about being a father to people, even to the soles of his sandals!Upon return to the States, Neal hears the same question from two different sources, “When are you going to write your book?” Neal describes what he pictured as he wrote and prayed.You won't want to miss this second episode celebrating the Platinum Anniversary of Unbound!Meet us in Austin Join us at one of our other Freedom in Christ conferences in 2024Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: January 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm

In this sweet episode, Neal and Janet describe their individual spiritual journeys in the early years leading up to Unbound. They tell of specific people and places where they experienced God's call on each of their lives.Neal reveals what event caused him to begin searching for spiritual answers and how the prayer of his cousin Fr. Mike Scanlan was later followed by his own sincere prayer and how he experienced God's loving presence.Janet shares her story of being invited to a prayer group in college, responding to God, and finding Christian community in the process.Neal and Janet continue their story together, sharing what inspired them to begin living in community with other Christians. After some years, Neal sought God amidst the ups-and-downs and shared the moment when God melted his heart allowing him to identify unexpectedly with the prodigal son's older brother.Hear how Janet received a surprising prophetic word that seemed strange and random but has indeed proven true.In the end, we discover who the mystery person was who invited Janet to her first prayer group meeting!Join us in the first of two episodes with our beloved Neal and Janet Lozano hosted by Jenn Lozano.Meet us in Austin  Join us at one of our other Freedom in Christ conferences in 2024Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: January 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm

To kick off the New Year, we thought it would be a great time to discuss hope. Since the beginning of a New Year often is a time filled with hope,  joining Jenn today is a friend who is infectious in her hope and her fervor for the Lord. With the grace of God and inspired by the love of Christ, Terry Riggins has been on evangelistic trips all around the world, most notably to the underground church in China.  She worked with the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia as coordinator of Deliverance Ministry, bringing Unbound Ministry to the diocese, as well as served as liaison for the Charismatic Renewal for 10 years until her recent retirement.Some of the highlights of this episode:"If God wants me to do it, He's going to equip me. So that was the trajectory that Unbound just completely changed. Because then, here I became the person who received every phone call from everybody in the diocese that wanted deliverance. And I had to evangelize them, catechize them, love them, talk to them, just be there for them, as well as present their case to the team and figure out what approach we were going to take with those individuals.And 90 percent of the time it was Unbound prayer. And we prayed with folks and we trained teams. Heart of the Father came down to help me train teams and  I would train teams on my own. We prayed with thousands of people and we never got a complaint to the Bishop about unbound prayer ever. That's awesome. Isn't that amazing?Yes. It's amazing when we open ourselves up to God and allow Him to come in and remove those obstacles. That's what He can set us up to do! "Listen to more wonderful stories as Terry shares about her mission trips to the underground church in China, walking through cancer,  and more. Guaranteed, you will not be the same after this episode!Join us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferences in 2024Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: January 2024Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm

Amid your Advent busyness, take some time for joy and reflection with Heart of the Father Ministries!Jenn hosts Matt and Jacqueline in this final podcast of our Advent series. Scripture Luke 1:26-38In this episode, Matt reflects on how God shows up and delivers Israel at a very low point. We learn how Miriam and Leah in the Old Testament relate to Mary and Elisabeth in the New Testament.In barrenness we say to ourselves, “I dreamed my life would be this and now it's this.” And yet the barrenness can turn into conception because nothing is impossible with God.The legacy of sin is shown in Rachel weeping for her children because they are no more. We cry out, “How long oh Lord, how long?” We wait for the tears to be overtaken with joy. We long for that great reversal, that our mouths will be filled with laughter again. There is a profound connection between Eve and the Virgin Mary—how Eve's disobedience brought death and Mary's obedience brought life.We may not know how our barrenness will be taken away, but we can give God our ‘yes' and our obedience as we wait for God and look with eyes of faith as Mary did.Listen and have hope that whatever barrenness you're experiencing, the promise of Jesus is an overflowing cup and His promises will be fulfilled. Support our mission and donate today to our annual appeal- Dream and ExpectJoin us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferences in 2024Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: December 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Looking for a way to find joy amid the hustle and bustle of the Advent season? Meet Heart of the Father's newest servant team member, Lisa Livezey as Jacqueline hosts this second episode in our Advent series. Jacqueline references Gaudete Sunday, from the liturgical calendar, meaning joy and signified by the Advent wreath's pink candle.We read I Thessalonians 5:16-24, which begins with “Rejoice always” and ends with “The one who calls you is faithful and He will also accomplish it.”The work of God can be compared to the life cycles of a garden, encouraging us that even in the dormant season God is active. As we draw near to God, He meets us and initiates growth.The Lord prepared a way for us to draw near to Him. We can rest, knowing the work was done by Jesus on the cross and we can trust Him with the plan. He is faithful, even when we don't understand what He is doing.Be challenged to approach Christ this season while awaiting the celebration of His coming at Christmas.Support our mission and donate today to our annual appeal- Dream and ExpectJoin us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferences in 2024Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: December 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Jenn hosts Neal and Jacqueline as the Open Doors Advent series begins. The text is Isaiah 40:3-5 with Neal reflecting on the richness and beauty of Advent and the meaning of the Latin word Adventus.Hear Neal's favorite definition of faith and a lively discussion surrounding the Advent themes of Preparation and Promise with Jenn relating these to having company over and Jacqueline likening them to an ongoing construction project. The first Advent candle stands for hope and Neal talks about the prophet Simeon's example of waiting, preparation, and prophecy. Listen to real-life examples surrounding waiting and anticipation, including Neal's story of losing his wedding ring!Advent is a season of encounter not only surrounding Jesus' birth, but a present everyday encounter through the Holy Spirit. Begin your Advent season with this encouraging episode and remember His arrival and presence changed everything!Find Unbound and Abba's HeartListen to Evidence by Josh BaldwinJoin us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferencesSupport our mission and donate today to our annual appeal!Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: December 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

In this episode Matt and Jenn speak with Sister Miriam Heidland, former Division One college athlete whose life was revolutionized by encountering the love of Christ, resulting in her entering the Society of the Most Holy Trinity in 1998.Sister Miriam shares her story of growing up Catholic, falling away in college, her history of trauma, brokenness, addiction and how God sent a Catholic priest who loved Jesus into her life. Matt, Jenn and Sister Miriam reveal individual moments where they saw the Gospel lived in everyday life by those around them. Sister Miriam saw it in the priest who mentored her, Matt saw it in his friends at school, and Jenn sees it in the Unbound “family” around the world.The trio then discuss how Satan targets our deepest areas of shame and ruptured love. Sister Miriam heralds the healing power of love, the mystery of why God allows some things to happen, and how Christ can make beauty from ashes.Sister Miriam voices God's kindness in the areas from which she's been healed: addiction, depression, and an auto-immune disease that is in remission. She offers to the Lord a chronic ankle injury from which she has yet to experience healing. For fun, Sister Miriam, Matt, and Jenn each tell of a favorite place to which they've traveled. Then Sister Miriam closes with a prayer, asking Jesus to have His love meet us where we most need it and asks the Lord to set our hearts on fire. Listen to hear about the transforming power of Christ's love.Learn more about Sister Miriam James Heidland here.Find Sister Miriam's Abiding Together podcast here. Find Unbound and Abba's Heart. Join us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferencesSupport our mission and donate today to our annual appeal!Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: November 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

 With the American Thanksgiving holiday coming up next week, we thought this would be a great time to talk about gratitude. We love our Thanksgiving tradition , but the heart behind it is really taking time to be grateful and to express our thanksgiving to the Lord.Have you ever considered that gratitude is a profound response to God's love and goodness? Join us as  Neal and Jacqueline reflect on significant experiences of giving thanks. Neal mentions  1 Thessalonians 5, highlighting that it is God's will we express thanks in all circumstances.Neal and Jacqueline touch on several other scriptural passages:  Psalm 136:1-3Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.His love endures forever.Give thanks to the God of gods.His love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords:His love endures forever.Give thanks in all circumstances. It's at the heart of our personal relationship with Him.Neal then offers suggestions for ways that we can grow in that act, in that discipline of giving thanks. Psalm 50: 23The one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies me; to one who orders His way rightly I will show the salvation of God! Colossians 3:17And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Philippians 4:6Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.God's word makes it super clear that a thanksful heart is a heart that pleases Him. Listen today and have your thankful heart restored.Find Unbound and Abba's Heart. Join us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferencesSupport our mission and donate today!Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: November 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

In this episode, Matt interviews Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, President of Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio, who speaks forthrightly about seeing God's freedom at work in the students and really all of God's people.In the context of discussing freedom in Christ, Fr. Dave tells the story that led Franciscan University to offer new students free tuition for a semester. He and Matt discuss how unexpected ideas from the Lord require discernment and stepping out in faith!We learn that freedom is a constant theme throughout the scriptures and how God always invites us back, even after we have compromised that freedom.Fr. Dave teaches how “freedom from” something leads to “freedom for” a new future. He describes what freedom looks like, his inspiration by students who come from difficult situations into beautiful faith, and gives poignant examples of people allowing their suffering to count for the kingdom.Be drawn into deeper freedom in your own life, and learn to walk in  the spirit through a more personal encounter with the Lord, reclaiming the kingdom of God in your heart.Join us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferencesSupport our mission and donate today!Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: November 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

In this episode, Jenn Lozano and board member Ann Stevens explore the art of listening in an Unbound session or simply to a friend or someone in need.Ann describes three overall ways one can respond when listening to hard things shared. Responses of fear or pride may be human responses, but God will give us grace to respond in humility, extending compassion to the individual receiving prayer. Join them as Ann shares the importance of taking personal time prior to an Unbound ministry session to seek the Lord and meditate, even briefly, on a passage from Matthew 7. She reminds us about the depth and unlimited nature of God's forgiveness.There is the “small story,” and the “big story.” The small story being the details of a prayer recipient's account and the big story of God's power forgiveness and the ability to move into the bigger place of what God is doing.Ann speaks about the importance of staying present in the moment and being aware of one's own body language so the recipient feels heard.The idea of redirecting within an Unbound session is discussed, with Jenn giving an example of a time when she was leading and a recipient withdrew because they felt unheard in the moment. Listening is an art and tips are provided to be compassionate without getting stuck rehashing the hard things someone has been through. Ann shares a personal example of a time that she received compassion during a therapy session and describes how the empathy shown by the therapist helped her feel heard in the moment. The biblical account of the disciples on the road to Emmaus is explored, showing how Jesus came alongside the disciples and, after listening to their story, helped draw them out of their small story into the bigger picture of what God was doing. Ann concludes with the reminder that as we remember God's unlimited compassion and mercy for each of us personally, we can through the Holy Spirit not judge and can help a prayer recipient step into recognizing God's big story. Find a great talk by Fr. Boniface Hicks that also teaches on listening.Join us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferencesSupport our mission and donate today!Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: November 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

In this  episode, Janet, Jenn, and Jacqueline offer a beautiful exploration of grief,  examining some of its deepest challenges.  As they share personal stories, you'll hear about the growth, grace, and gratitude that can emerge from loss.Join them as they look at Jesus and Mary for inspiration. In this conversation they also touch on the  importance of companionship and support in the grieving process, and discuss how giving God our grief can open us up to receive powerful blessings and tangible grace. Listen and be blessed.  Join us at one of our other Freedom in Christ conferencesSupport our mission and donate today!Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: October 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Join Rachel, Jenn, and Jacqueline as they dig deeper into the impacts of trauma and loss. Together, they explore how to identify specific instances of pain, opportunities for forgiveness, and the processing of grief. In this episode, we "piggyback" on last week's conversartion with traumatologist Margaret Vasquez. We hope our reflections, insights, and anecdotes will allow you to go deeper with the Lord in healing and freedom!You'll also learn how to better identify trauma in someone else, provide compassionate support to them, and create a safe space for someone to share their story. We know that it is Jesus who can heal all wounds, so as we lead people to Him amid their pain, we can have hope for healing.Listen and share with a friend! Psalm 91:4 He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.Open Doors listeners use opendoors15 for discount at our Philly ConferenceJoin us at one of our other Freedom in Christ conferences Check out Margaret's online workshop on Human & Spiritual Integration Nov 6-9. Spots are limited.Support our mission and donate today!Check out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: October 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Have you ever wondered why some of us get stuck, as in really stuck?Did you know that sometimes we are held back from living our best selves, the person we were made to be, by our past hurts and traumatic experiences?Back in the spring, our Heart of the Father team had the opportunity to attend a workshop on trauma informed care in ministry, hosted by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Office of the New Evangelization.This two day workshop was led by the brilliant professional counselor and trauma therapist Margaret Vasquez, who shared her insight and depth of understanding on this complex subject in a way that was both accessible and hopeful. We know you'll be blessed by this conversation where Margaret  beautifully explains the shaping influences of our past experiences,  her own transformative journey, and her passion for human and spiritual integration.“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear." 1 John 4:18  Find Margaret's books and other resources:Human & Spiritual Integration Self-InventoryMore Than Words: The Freedom to Thrive After TraumaFearless: Life Through Infinite LoveWholeness and Holiness podcastSacred Heart MinistriesCheck out Margaret's online workshop on Human & Spiritual Integration Nov 6-9. Spots are limited. Support our mission and donate today!Open Doors listeners use opendoors15 for discount at our Philly ConferenceJoin us at one of our other Freedom in Christ conferencesCheck out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: October 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Join Matt as he and our dear friend Miriam Wright recount their recent mission to Cameroon in this episode packed with tales of faith, forgiveness, and freedom during their 9-day adventure. Miriam has been an active part of our ministry here at Heart of the Father as she travels around the globe with us, teaches several of our ecourses, leads an Unbound Ministry team, and serves on our board. Now she's  also fondly called "Mama Miriam" by her new Cameroonian friends!Walk with Matt and Miriam through the highs (and some lows) of this powerful mission. Hear about incredible moments of grace and power despite physical exhaustion, lost luggage, and even serious illness. God showed up! Be prepared to be moved!Support our mission and donate today!Open Doors listeners use opendoors15 for discount at our Philly ConferenceJoin us at one of our other Freedom in Christ conferencesCheck out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: October 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Have you ever felt like you're carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? Ever want to fix a problem for someone else and struggle to know what is yours and not yours to carry? Sometimes, life can seem like a never-ending battle, and it's tough to remember to give God our burdens, even the struggles of our friends and family members, instead of trying to deal with them on our own. In this episode, Janet joins Rachel and lends her wisdom on surrendering and giving our grief to the Lord as they recognize that in surrendering, we can discover a peace that goes beyond our understanding."He bore His burdens alone so we wouldn't have to." Be encouraged as they share personal experiences and walk you through practical ways to let go. Listen in and be comforted in your journey!Support our mission and donate today!Open Doors listeners use opendoors15 for discount at our Philly ConferenceJoin us at one of our other Freedom in Christ conferencesCheck out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: September 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Have you missed us? We are so excited to be back for Season 3 and can't wait for you to hear all the special episodes we've lined up for you!Today we kick off this season "Swinging for the Fences" as Matt and Jenn take a deep dive into the heart of surrender.Surrender, though often so challenging, is a central expression of faith to give the Lord our "Yes",  let go of the things that we tend to hold on to, and embrace Him as Lord. We're not just surrendering for the sake of ourselves; we're surrendering to God and for God and for His will and for His purposes.  It's for His sake."In order for Him to be our Savior, we have to stop trying to save ourselves.In order for Him to be our deliverer, we have to stop trying to deliver ourselves."Surrendering to God isn't a one-time act, but a daily process. Reflecting on their own walk with God, Matt and Jenn share personal stories and challenges, but reveal the truth that giving Him an open hand allows the Lord to satisfy our deepest desires! Discover how letting go can lead to a transformative spiritual renewal. Tune in and invite a friend! Philippians 2:5-8In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; rather, He made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!Support our mission and donate today!Open Doors listeners use opendoors15 for discount at our Philly ConferenceJoin us at one of our other Freedom in Christ conferencesCheck out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: September 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Have you ever thought, "This wasn't the life I expected?"You thought you'd be farther along in your career by now. You thought you'd be married by now. You thought you'd have more money saved by now. You didn't think that your children would be going in these different directions that you don't believe are healthy for them. You didn't think that your kids wouldn't want to come back and see you.There are all different kinds of ways that we can be disappointed with life, and the question that this powerful episode offers is- are we willing to set aside those things, those expectations that we had, and accept what is, or will we continue to try to white knuckle our way through life, holding on to control everywhere that we can?Join Rachel as she interviews Bonnie O'Neil on her life-changing book Chronic Hope. Bonnie is a spiritual director and the executive director of Alpha Mid Atlantic, a faith-based nonprofit, and part of the board here at Heart of the Father Ministries. Bonnie is also a hope hunter. Join them today and bring your tissues.  Find Bonnie's book Chronic HopeLearn about  Alpha Mid AtlanticSupport our mission and donate today!Join us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferencesCheck out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: July 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Today Neal hosts a dear friend John Doman. Neal has known John and his beautiful wife Michele for over 35 years. Together they have 10 children and 56 grandchildren. WOW!These superheroes have led an amazing life, bringing their family up to know the Lord and to know the truth. Among their children (who are all grown) are worship leaders, Christian authors, ministry leaders and more, but most of all they're moms and dads committed to Jesus and committed to raising their families for Him.Some of you met their daughter Alicia Hernon from Messy Family Project through last week's podcast with her husband Mike. They mentioned John, and we knew you'd be blessed to meet him!John and Michele have a beautiful life together, but John shares with Neal just how hard life can be, filled with incredible joy and unbelievable sorrow. From the minefields of the Vietnam War to the realities of tragic accidents, we are reminded to trust the Lord.Jeremiah 29:11. For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. God has good plans for each of us. The truth is God is good.Whether you are struggling today to believe that, or you just want to hear some powerful, life-changing stories, listen in. You won't be disappointed!Support our mission and donate today!Join us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferencesCheck out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: July 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Matt and Jenn have two special guests joining them today, good friends Michael and Alicia Hernon. The Hernons are on a mission to empower parents to embrace their sacred calling, which they believe is the key to the renewal of the Church and our society. Learn how Unbound has greatly impacted them both personally and as a family.  Their ministry The Messy Family Project began as a podcast just like ours and has grown into a multimedia platform that provides free resources to couples to help them nurture their marriage, as well as build a Catholic culture within their home. The podcast reaches roughly 50,000 families every month, the Hernons also travel throughout the US inspiring husbands and wives to have deeper conversions and giving them the insight, inspiration, and practical tools to do that. They live in Steubenville, Ohio. They have ten kids and five grandkids with one more on the way. You can learn more about them and their ministry @messyfamilyproject.org. You'll love this conversation filled with candid humor and godly insight-one of the best episodes out there!Enjoy and invite a friend to listen!Support our mission and donate today!Join us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferencesCheck out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: July 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Join us for our final Summer Podcast Book Study as we explore Jesus's promise to show us His Father--and ours. Do you know that your Heavenly Father loves you, that you belong to Him, that He longs for you to be FREE to be FULLY yourself?Have you recognized the enemy's tactics in your own life, and what does that look like for you?How does Jesus model worship for us? What does it mean to worship in Spirit and in Truth?Laugh and cry along with Jenn, Rachel, and Jacqueline in a beautiful conversation.Support our mission and donate today!Join us at one of our Freedom in Christ conferencesCheck out Unbound and find other resourcesRelease: June 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Join us for a terrific episode you don't want to miss...but... bear with us as one of our tracks had some minor technical issues so you have to listen a little more closely to what Janet is sharing, We've included the beginning of the transcript here in our show notes and click the TRANSCRIPT tab for the rest.  Jacqueline: So welcome everyone to week five of our Abba's Heart Book Study that we've been doing this summer. It's just been so much fun and such a blessing to  take a deep dive into the book Abba's Heart. And if you have not read it and haven't been able to join us in past episodes, don't turn off this podcast.You will still be so blessed. Today we're going to be talking about chapters 13 and 14- "Empowered to Serve" and "Walking in Forgiveness." Today I'm here with Janet and Jenn Lozano, and I have great expectation for some really beautiful conversations, so thank you Lord. We are at the end of June, and summer is in full swing.How are you guys? Anything exciting going on? Jenn: I have two kids at overnight camp right now. Woohoo. And because two adult "large" children came home from college, it's nice to have a little breathing space in our house again. Jacqueline: That's awesome. That's really great. Jenn: I don't have to double our recipes at dinner. It's, so far it's, it's just really nice. I miss them, but they're having a blast, so it's, it's  nice. The camp is called Summer's Best Two Weeks, and at home we're also referring to it as Summer's Best Two Weeks. Jacqueline: It's so fun to mix it up, like you swapped out the little kids for the big kids and yeah, how great is that?Jenn: So great. So mom, what's happening in your summer?Janet: Well, our summer started out with a wonderful celebration of our 50th Anniversary, and since then we had a few out of town family guests stay with us for a few days.  Currently I have a nephew on my side of the family stay with us for several days, so I feel like my summer has begun with a lot of hosting.Yes. The opposite of you, Jenn. I'm cooking more than I usually do, but it's been wonderful just to have time to connect with family members  and continue to celebrate what God has done in our lives over the past 50 years that Neal and I have been married. Jacqueline: Wow. And for those of you who have not been a guest in Janet's house for dinner or overnight, she is the Hostess with the Mostess. So she's going all out for her guests. We know that for sure. Jenn: Chocolate's on the pillow. Yeah, exactly. Like we're going high end. Jacqueline: It's a real gift that she has. So speaking of gifts, I feel like these two chapters are really just gifts to me and to all of us listening. Chapter 13 is about humility and just how Jesus came to serve us in humility.Then chapter 14 talks about forgiveness.  Humility and forgiveness are central themes, they're pillars of our faith. It's sort of like what Jesus taught us to be humble and walk in forgiveness. But I love how he not only led by example and teaches us, but that God equips us and changes us and transforms us so that humility and forgiveness can become part of our everyday walk. Find the rest of the transcripts on TRANSCRIPT tab!Support our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesRelease: June 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

 If this is your first time tuning in and you are thinking, "What are they talking about? What is this Abba's Heart book study? " don't worry, don't turn this off.This podcast is for you, even if you haven't been reading Abba's Heart along with us. Today Matt, Jenn, and Rachel Lozano are talking about life in the Father's house, and don't we all want to hear more about that? Don't we all want to dwell in our Heavenly Father's house, to live as His sons and daughters? "I have regular prayer time, but...the question is, do I show up to that prayer time?A lot of times I'm there and can go through my laundry list of what I want to ask God, I can read the scriptures... and I can pray. But the challenge to me lately is, Am I bringing my heart? Am I allowing myself to reflect on what's going on inside of me?Am I able to share that with God, to ask Him to reveal my heart? And with a heart to obey, with a heart to receive, to be transformed. That takes a lot of trust. You have to trust the person you're speaking to. "Listen and learn to better walk as His son or daughter, bring your heart to your Heavenly Father, and trust Him with everything.Listen and invite a friend!Support our mission and donate today!Join our intercessors email list by emailing info@heartofthefather.com (put intercessor in the subject line)Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: June 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

“Everything written in the book (Abba's Heart), every great idea about what home could be, should be, is waiting for us in the Father's heart. “ “What will it be like to hear His voice without any veil between us? " Join us today for our Abba's Heart Summer Book Study- even if you have not read the book!Neal joins Jenn and Rachel for a beautiful conversation, incredible insight, and heartwarming stories and testimonies of the Father's love.Listen and invite a friend!Join our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: June 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Do you know that your Heavenly Father loves you, that you belong to Him, and that He longs for you to be FREE to be FULLY yourself? Listen today, and you'll  leave with some gold nuggets to ponder and reflect on as we discuss chapters 4-6 of Abba's Heart. "What is the ultimate and complete self revelation of God? ... It was the sending of the Son- that He sent Jesus.And I think what jumped out to me was that I always think Jesus came to rescue us, but He also came to show us the Father. God bends low to meet with us."Draw near to the Heart of the Father...be drawn, not just near, but into the Heart of the Father. May we be drawn into His heart today. Listen and tell a friend!Join our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: June 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Join us on this journey back to the Father's delight.Before we kick off the discussion of Chapters 1-3 of Abba's Heart , Rachel sets up the framework of Abba's Heart  so you have a vision of where we are going. The book is split up into four sections. The first is the Way Home, where we look at our separation from our home in God the Father, and how He made a way for us to return. The second section is the Father's heart, where we gain a deeper understanding of God's heart and the home we are returning to.The third is coming home where we learn to walk that path the Lord has set before us to be with Him. And finally, Life in the Father's House, where we get a vision of what it means for us to live in the Father's Heart once we are there. Our prayer for ourselves and all of you joining us on this journey is that  we would be drawn into the heart of the Father.These are Neal's words in the preface:Draw near to the Heart of the Father...be drawn, not just near, but into the Heart of the Father. May we be drawn into His heart today. Today, Jen, Jacqueline and Rachel  discuss the first three chapters, the Promise, A Broken Heart, and The Tragedy of Slavery. Join us and tell a friend!Join our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: June 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

The gospel is the answer to the deepest questions of the heart.In this episode, Jenn and Neal discuss the power of the gospel as a transformational proclamation, one that carries a personal invitation to respond from the heart. It is the fulfilment of a promise, in the form of Jesus Christ our Savior.The power of the gospel is the love of God. When a preacher of the gospel desires to communicate the love of God, this self-giving love accompanies the speaker's words and actions. The presentation of the Five Keys is a presentation of the gospel. Unbound's mission is to help people generate a heart response to the gospel and experience the transformational power of the Holy Spirit. How often have you heard the gospel, but had no response? Consider the good news that you have heard, and how you might seek to surrender to Jesus.Scriptures from this episode:Luke 2:10-11: "But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'"Mark 1:14: "After John was put in prison, Jesus went to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God."Ezekiel 36:26 "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."1 Corinthians 2:1-2: "And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified." Romans 5:5: "And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us."Acts 4:33: "With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God's grace was so powerfully at work in them all."1 Corinthians 1:17: "For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel--not with wisdom and eloquence, less the cross of Christ be emptied of its power." Join our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: May 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

What does living in freedom mean?In this episode, Rachel sits down with Dan Gahagan, Unbound board member and Baltimore native, to discuss Dan's ties with Unbound Ministry that began fifteen years ago. They reflect on Dan's personal experience of renouncing the enemy's lies and choosing to walk in the freedom of the Gospel every single day. "I developed the self-perception that I was not good, that I don't measure up, and that I don't have what it takes."After Dan renounced these lies, he began to walk in the things that God had held for him that he had previously shied away from.Unbound shows people who their enemy is and brings it into the light, where it loses its power. Once you understand the Five Keys as a proclamation of the Gospel, they become a powerful tool in your walk with the Lord. What lies has the enemy told you that you still identify with? What do you need to repent of? Who do you need to forgive? What do you need to renounce? "Today, I walk in the knowledge and understanding that I am loved, that I am a beloved son of the Father."Learn about our Catholic Priest Retreat and find other Unbound eventsJoin our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: May 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Before starting her own Unbound team, Bucks Unbound in Pennsylvania, Anita Colahan was part of our local  Heart of the Father team. Now she serves on two Unbound teams when shes not doing Spiritual Direction, wearing many other hats in her parish, or spending time with her family.Listen as she shares insight into one of her deeply buried wounds that had manifested itself in so many relationships, and how her healing and freedom changed everything. “Unbound ministry has been such an amazing blessings and gift to me... which has opened the door to other healings in relationships...I regained a sense of myself!"Learn from Rachel and Anita how to really listen and accompany someone in their story and join them in the journeys to peace, joy, and a renewed sense of identity. May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it. 1 Thes 5:23-24Learn about our Catholic Priest Retreat and find other Unbound eventsJoin our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: May 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

In today's episode, Matt and Jenn Lozano sit down to discuss Matt's new book, Free to Be Holy. Instead of teaching us how to "become holy," this book boldly proclaims that we are already made holy by the blood of Jesus.Why is freedom important to holiness?How does God make us holy?How do we live a lifestyle of holiness?How are we limited by the enemy in the pursuit of holiness?What are approaches to holiness that are healthy? Unhealthy? Together, Matt and Jenn discuss these questions and why this message of holiness is important today. God is so beyond what we can put into words, but Matt gives us a little taste to able to explain what is beyond our greatest imagination. Free to Be Holy is a guide to understanding how Jesus made us and how we can approach a life of holiness with confident faith and joyful hope. The compelling promise of this book is that the pursuit of holiness is not a struggle but an adventure of discovering who we really are in Jesus. Join the adventure and get your copy today!Write an Amazon review if you can!Learn about our Catholic Priest Retreat and find other Unbound events Join our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: May 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

Be awakened, empowered and equipped as you listen to Matt and good friend Dan DeMatte, founder and Executive Director of Damascus Catholic Mission, the Catholic Youth Summer Camp and Mission in Columbus, OH that reaches young people, enabling them to encounter Jesus and raise up missionary people to live missionary lives. Together, Matt and Dan discuss the power of  the Gospel. By proclaiming the Good News of Jesus' victory, we are given the authority to set the captives free and release the prisoners from darkness.It is not by our own strength but by the transformation of the Holy Spirit that we can walk in righteousness, joy, and peace. In Christ, we find new life and are set free!Want to experience more righteousness, more joy, more peace?Listen to these two men on FIRE for Jesus share wisdom and insights and be called to go deeper in your journey with Jesus!The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,because the Lord has anointed meto proclaim good news to the poor.He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim freedom for the captivesand release from darkness for the prisoners. Isaiah 61:1Find out more about Dan and the Damascis Story, the worship, and Damascus Summer Camp Learn about our Catholic Priest RetreatJoin our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: April 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

You won't want to miss this week's episode with special guest Dr. Bob Schuchts of Restore the Glory Podcast and the John Paul II Healing Center. What is healing? What is deliverance? We cannot understand one without the other.Dr. Schuchts defines healing as an "ongoing encounter with the love of God that brings us into wholeness and communion." In light of 2 Corinthians 3:18, healing is gazing at the face of Jesus until we become the face of Jesus for others. Deliverance is the freedom from barriers that perpetuate our brokenness. Like Unbound, Dr.  Schuchts' ministry advocates for the transformation of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of those who experience wounds, such as abandonment, rejection, and broken trust. How often do we treat woundedness with unforgiveness, judgment, identity lies, or sinful patterns instead of turning to the Lord? The deliverance and healing promised by Our Father is experienced through the salvation of Jesus Christ. This one's so good you'll want to listen again!And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV Find Dr. Bob Schuchts' book Be Healed and his other books as well. Learn about our Catholic Priest RetreatJoin our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: April 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S

 A short conversation in her counselor's office ultimately led Priscilla Strapp of New Life Philly to bring Unbound to her church. Before long, she found herself across the world leading an Unbound conference in Japan -- the same place her journey of faith began as a child of missionaries. Priscilla's experience with Unbound is a story of deliverance and bridging divides, with an ending yet to unfold. Listen to this joyful conversation as Rachel and Priscilla reflect on what the Lord can do, often behind the scenes, working all things together to bring glory and healing. Every day God calls to share the Good News. It is easy to be discouraged by obstacles, and oftentimes we do not see the fruit of His work. Other times He places opportunities right in our laps, where we serve as His hands and feet with a front-row seat to powerful testimonies of lives changed by deliverance. That's the way the gospel spreads.  You always hear people say,  it's just a one starving person saying to another, 'this is where I found bread.'"Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen." Hebrews 13:20-21 NIVView Cincinnati conference informationFind out more about the conference in AustraliaLearn about our Catholic Priest RetreatJoin our mission and donate today!Check out Unboound and find other resourcesFind an Unbound team near youLike us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramExplore with us on TwitterRelease: April 2023Music by Christian HarperArtwork by Rosemary Strohm at Command-S