Say Yes to Holiness

In this conversation, Christina Semmens reflects on the recent canonization of Saints Carlos Acutis and Piers Giorgio Frassati, emphasizing their exemplary lives of holiness and stewardship. She discusses the importance of living a meaningful life, focusing on God's calling rather than worldly success. The conversation highlights the essence of true stewardship, which involves giving selflessly and co-creating with God to build the heavenly kingdom. Semmens encourages listeners to learn from the saints and become witnesses of greatness in their own lives.TakeawaysSaint Carlos Acutis and Piers Giorgio Frassati exemplified holiness and stewardship.The process of canonization involves verifying miracles and a life of holiness.Stewardship means using our gifts and talents for God's glory.We should focus on what God is calling us to do, not worldly success.True stewardship involves giving without expecting anything in return.Co-creating with God helps build the heavenly kingdom on earth.God's gifts are abundant and available to everyone.We often perceive life through a lens of scarcity rather than abundance.Living a meaningful life requires us to serve others selflessly.We can learn from the saints to become witnesses of greatness.Sound Bites"We can't waste our lives.""We are called to co-create alongside God.""God's gifts are available to everyone."Chapters00:00 Celebrating New Saints: Carlos Acutus and Piers Giorgio Frassati04:44 Stewardship of Holiness: Living a Meaningful Life12:03 The Call to Serve: Following God's Will19:08 Co-Creating with God: Building the Heavenly Kingdom25:46 Witnesses of Greatness: Learning from the SaintsMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”

In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, host Christina Semmens interviews author Maria Riley, who shares her journey as a Catholic author and the inspiration behind her children's book series, Adventures with the Saints. Maria discusses her motivations for writing, the importance of introducing children to the lives of saints, and the challenges she faces in her writing career.The conversation emphasizes the significance of prayer, the role of family in nurturing faith, and how to provide encouragement for children to embrace their unique paths to sainthood.TakeawaysMaria Riley is a Catholic author focused on children's literature.Her series, Adventures with the Saints, aims to inspire children.St. Joseph was chosen as the first saint due to his role as a foster father.St. Therese's simplicity and message of love resonate with children.St. John Bosco's fun and engaging life is highlighted for kids.Joan of Arc teaches children about standing up for good.Maria emphasizes the importance of quality Catholic fiction for families.Prayer can be simple and spontaneous, fostering family connections.Challenges in writing include spiritual attacks and family adjustments.Maria encourages children to recognize their unique paths to sainthood.Sound Bites"We are all adopted children of God.""Prayer can be really simple.""I didn't start this to make money."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Maria Riley and Her Journey02:42 Inspiration Behind Adventures with the Saints05:15 Choosing Saints: St. Joseph, St. Therese, St. John Bosco, and St. Joan of Arc08:24 Lessons from the Saints for Children10:59 The Importance of Quality Catholic Fiction14:12 Challenges in Writing and Family Life16:30 Spiritual Growth Through Writing19:16 Key Practices for Living a Faithful Life21:55 Inspiration from Secular and Catholic Media24:59 Advice to My Younger Self27:32 Conclusion and Resources for Further LearningTo learn more, go to: https://www.mariarileyauthor.com/

In this conversation, Christina Semmens discusses the importance of hope and honesty in spiritual growth. She emphasizes the need for self-honesty and honesty with God to foster a deeper relationship with Him. The discussion highlights the power of Christian hope, especially in chaotic times, and the significance of mastering our passions to lead a fulfilling life. Christina also touches on the simplicity of seeking God's mercy as a means to navigate life's challenges and maintain a hopeful outlook.TakeawaysSpiritual growth depends on honesty with ourselves.We must be honest with God to grow closer to Him.Christian hope is about believing in God's presence and intervention.Hope is essential in the midst of chaos and challenges.We impact others in ways we may not realize.Mastering our passions leads to a more fulfilling life.God's mercy is always available to us, no matter our struggles.Every life has inherent value and purpose.We should rule our passions rather than let them control us.Reflecting on daily moments of grace can strengthen our hope.Sound Bites"We impact others more than we realize.""Hope changes everything in our lives.""God's mercy is always available to us."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast01:10 Honesty with Ourselves and God07:14 The Power of Christian Hope12:27 Finding Hope Amidst Chaos20:17 Mastering Our Passions for a Fulfilling Life23:04 God's Mercy and Our ResponseMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!” 

In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, host Christina Semmens speaks with Chase Crouse, co-founder and CEO of Hypuro Fit, a Catholic-based personal training and nutrition coaching company. They discuss the intersection of faith and fitness, the importance of self-mastery, and how physical health can enhance spiritual well-being. Chase shares his journey from ministry to fitness, the founding of Hypuro Fit, and the unique approach they take to integrate Catholic values into fitness training. The conversation also highlights client success stories and offers practical advice for those looking to start their fitness journey.Chase has a Master's degree in biblical theology and a deep love of St. Pope John Paul II's Theology of the Body, Chase's mission is to invite all Catholics to view exercise and health as a means to grow in self-mastery for the sake of self-gift. Chase lives in Austin, TX with his wife and three young children. Hypuro Fit is a Catholic fitness and personal training apostolate rooted in Theology of the Body, and has launched a new app that helps users integrate wellness goals with their Catholic faith. Hypuro Fit encourages Catholics to trade this earthly mindset for the eternal goal of living as a gift for others through self-discipline, self-mastery, and honoring the body God gave them. With its mission of combining technically excellent training with an authentically Catholic approach to fitness, Hypuro Fit offers the faithful a unique way to work out with a deeper purpose.TakeawaysChase Crouse is the co-founder and CEO of Hypuro Fit.Hypuro Fit is the world's first Catholic-based personal training and nutrition coaching company.Self-mastery is essential for self-donation, as stated by John Paul II.Fitness can significantly impact one's spiritual life and overall well-being.The goal of fitness should be rooted in love and service to others.Clients of Hypuro Fit range from priests to families seeking to improve their health.Starting with small steps in fitness is crucial for long-term success.Grace should be included in the journey towards fitness and holiness.Physical fitness can enhance cognitive function and life satisfaction.The importance of community and support in achieving fitness goals. His book, God of Endurance, co-written with Dan Burke of SpiritualDirection.com, releases on August 19th with Sophia Institute Press.To order the book, go to: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/the-god-of-endurance/?utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9GJxc4hLud2RUOjnNUUAxcHpXkzt79yOvcJL5cuKqr-fde5fsEaG6sOf9_Vv7GiIQfzGFBTo learn more, go to: https://www.hypurofit.org/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Chase Crouse and Hypuro Fit06:31 The Connection Between Faith and Fitness11:17 The Birth of Hypuro Fit16:54 The Importance of an Authentically Catholic Approach22:24 Client Experiences and Success Stories27:55 Advice for Starting Your Fitness Journey

I'm FINALLY back! After a break for travel and retreat, I'm now back at it with my podcast. I hope that you find what I have to share to be of value in helping you become the saint God has created you to be, and I am excited about what is to come in the weeks and months ahead. Enjoy!In this episode, Christina Semmens reflects on her recent pilgrimage to Ireland and Scotland, emphasizing the importance of patient trust in God's timing and grace. She shares insights from her experiences, including the beauty of nature and the lessons learned during her retreat. Christina discusses the gradual maturation of ideas and the necessity of faithfulness in spiritual practices, encouraging listeners to embrace the slow work of God in their lives. She concludes with practical resolutions for personal growth, focusing on patience and faithfulness.TakeawaysThe summer was a time of grace and reflection.Patient trust is essential in our spiritual journey.Ideas mature gradually; we must allow them to grow.Trusting in God's timing can be challenging but necessary.Faithfulness is more important than success.We often resist change due to our desire for control.Spiritual growth takes longer than we anticipate.Practicing patience can be integrated into daily tasks.Remaining faithful to spiritual practices is crucial.Accepting feelings of suspense and incompleteness is part of the journey.Sound Bites"Trust in the slow work of God""Your ideas mature gradually""Jesus, I trust in you"Chapters00:00 Return from Pilgrimage: A Journey of Grace06:47 Patient Trust: Embracing God's Timing14:46 Faithfulness in the Journey: Lessons from St. Paul22:01 Resolutions for Growth: Practicing Patience and Faithfulness

In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, host Christina Simmons interviews Jon Konz, founder of Catholic Ministry Professionals.They discuss Jon's journey in ministry, the importance of prayer, planning, and leading effectively in parish work, and the need for professionalism in Catholic ministry. Jon shares insights on transforming the church landscape, the significance of individualized approaches to ministry, and his aspirations for the future of Catholic ministry professionals. The conversation emphasizes overcoming challenges, personal growth, and the call to trust in God while serving in ministry.TakeawaysJon Konz's journey in ministry began with a deeper conversion experience.The importance of prayer as the foundation of fruitful ministry.Catholic Ministry Professionals was created to support those in parish ministry.Effective planning and leadership are crucial for ministry success.Professionalism in ministry is essential in today's church landscape.Individualized approaches can lead to transformative parish experiences.The attrition rate in the Catholic Church is a significant concern.Ministry professionals must justify their roles and responsibilities.Creativity is key to overcoming challenges in ministry.Trusting in God is essential for personal and professional growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Catholic Ministry Professionals02:52 Jon's Journey in Ministry06:13 The Birth of Catholic Ministry Professionals09:12 The Importance of Prayer in Ministry11:56 Planning and Leading Effectively14:50 The Need for Professionalism in Ministry18:14 Transforming the Church Landscape21:02 Individualized Approaches to Ministry24:04 Future Aspirations for Catholic Ministry Professionals26:51 Overcoming Challenges in Ministry30:07 Personal Growth and Trust in God32:48 Final Thoughts and EncouragementTo learn more about Jon & Catholic Ministry Professionals, go to: https://www.catholicministryprofessionals.com/

In this episode, Christina Semmens shares her personal journey as she prepares for a pilgrimage to Ireland and Scotland, reflecting on life, faith, and the importance of offering our summers to God. She discusses the significance of prayer, the contemplation of Jesus' sufferings, and the example of Mary in living a life of faith and reflection. Christina encourages listeners to embrace their spiritual journeys and to remain steadfast in their discipleship, even amidst life's challenges.TakeawaysChristina is embarking on a pilgrimage to Ireland and Scotland.She reflects on entering the 'third third' of her life after her husband's passing.Offering our summers to God is a way to live intentionally.Prayer is essential for intimacy with God and spiritual growth.Contemplating Jesus' sufferings helps us understand His love and grace.Mary serves as a model for living a life of faith and reflection.Acts of love can help us feel closer to God during difficult times.We should strive to live in union with God through prayer and action.The importance of community and support in our spiritual journeys.Faith allows us to trust in God's faithfulness through life's ups and downs.Sound Bites"I'm entering my third third of life.""We can offer our summers to the Lord.""Jesus has suffered everything for us."Chapters00:00 Embarking on a Pilgrimage: A Personal Journey03:25 Entering the Third Third: Life Reflections04:54 Offering Our Summers to God10:40 The Importance of Prayer in Our Lives14:29 Contemplating the Sufferings of Jesus20:39 Mary's Example: Living with Faith and ReflectionMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!” 

In this episode, Christina Semmens reflects on the period between Ascension and Pentecost, emphasizing the importance of being open to the Holy Spirit. She discusses the need for perseverance in prayer, the significance of treating others with good faith, and the power of love and sacrifice in our spiritual journey. Christina encourages listeners to lift their spirits and love God, preparing for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit during Pentecost.TakeawaysWe have the freedom to choose to be open to the Holy Spirit.Excuses can hinder our response to God's call.God provides us with everything we need to fulfill His will.Perseverance in prayer is essential for faith.We must treat others with good faith, presuming the best in them.Lifting up our spirit and loving God is crucial during waiting periods.Prayer combined with sacrifice brings comfort and joy.The Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome anxiety and worry.We should prepare our hearts for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.Rejoicing in the Holy Spirit is a celebration of faith.Sound Bites"We have the freedom to choose to be open.""God will give us all that we need.""We must keep knocking, keep persevering.""We need to presume the best in others.""Lift up your spirit and love God."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Reflection on Ascension to Pentecost01:53 The Importance of Being Open to the Holy Spirit09:32 Perseverance in Prayer and Faith16:32 Treating Others with Good Faith20:59 Lifting Up Our Spirit and Loving God

In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens speaks with Jason Shanks, the president of the National Eucharistic Congress. They discuss the ongoing Eucharistic revival in the Catholic Church, Jason's personal journey to Catholicism, the importance of community engagement, and the future plans for the movement. Jason shares insights on the role of synodality, the challenges faced during the revival, and the significance of priest renewal. The conversation emphasizes the call for individuals to become Eucharistic missionaries and the need for a deeper understanding of the Eucharist in everyday life.TakeawaysJason Shanks is the president of the National Eucharistic Congress.He became Catholic due to his understanding of the Eucharist.The Eucharistic revival is seen as a generational work.Community engagement is crucial for the revival's success.Synodality played a significant role in planning the revival.The movement aims to bring Jesus to the margins of society.Eucharistic missionaries will be commissioned to spread the message.Challenges faced during the Congress included resource allocation and collaboration.Personal spiritual practices, like holy hours, are essential for grounding.The revival seeks to empower individuals to become revivalists in their communities.Sound Bites"I became Catholic because of the Eucharist.""Jesus waits for us to come visit him.""This is a generational work.""The church is best when it's on mission.""We want to bring Jesus to the margins.""It's about spiritual multiplication.""Let's everybody become a revivalist."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Eucharistic Revival02:46 Personal Journey and Spiritual Awakening06:09 The Role of Synodality in the Revival09:08 Plans for the Future of the Eucharistic Movement12:05 Eucharistic Missionaries and Community Engagement14:56 Challenges and Lessons Learned17:55 Grounding Practices and Spiritual Habits20:48 The Importance of Priest Renewal24:06 Conclusion and Call to ActionFor more information, go to https://www.eucharisticrevival.org/

In this conversation, Christina Semmens discusses the significance of faith, leadership, and personal responsibility in the context of Catholic teachings. She reflects on the recent election of Pope Leo XIV, the teachings of St. Augustine, and the importance of embracing life and death with a focus on relationships and prayer. The discussion emphasizes the power of personal choice in character development and the role of Mary as an intercessor through prayer, particularly the Rosary.TakeawaysPope Leo XIV emphasizes that we are beloved children of God.St. Augustine's teachings remind us to shine brightly in the world.We must embrace the reality of death to prepare for eternal life.Personal responsibility is key to character development.We have a choice in how we respond to life's challenges.Prayer, especially the Rosary, can solve any problem.Living in the present moment is essential for spiritual growth.Relationships with God, family, and friends should take priority.The joy of Easter is rooted in the victory over sin and death.Mary serves as a powerful intercessor for our prayers. Sound Bites"We are beloved children of God.""We need to focus on relationships.""The Rosary can solve any problem.""Mary is our great intercessor.""Rejoice! He is risen!"Chapters00:00 Introduction and New Beginnings02:22 The Call to Leadership and Faith07:10 Embracing Life and Death13:32 Personal Responsibility and Character Development21:07 The Power of Prayer and Intercession

In this episode of Say Yes to Holiness, host Christina Semmens speaks with Brooke Joiner, co-founder and CEO of Catholic Owned, a platform dedicated to connecting Catholic consumers with businesses that align with their faith. Brooke shares her journey of conversion to Catholicism, the inspiration behind launching Catholic Owned, and the importance of supporting fellow Catholics through intentional spending. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of building a faith-based business, the significance of spiritual practices, and the future initiatives of Catholic Owned, including the Eastertide shopping guide.TakeawaysBrooke Joyner is a convert to Catholicism and co-founder of Catholic Owned.The mission of Catholic Owned is to connect Catholic consumers with businesses that share their values.Brooke's journey involved a significant pilgrimage that inspired the launch of Catholic Owned.The platform started as a digital magazine to test the market for Catholic businesses.Vetting businesses involves adherence to the Magisterium and personal faith practices of owners.Spending money wisely can support Catholic families and communities.Users can nominate businesses to be included in the Catholic Owned network.The Eastertide shopping guide offers curated gifts for various occasions.Catholic Owned aims to build a new Catholic economy by fostering community support.Brooke emphasizes the importance of spiritual practices in her work.Sound Bites"We need to do something better.""If we can't even help our own people, what are we doing?""Our dollars have power.""You can nominate businesses that you know of in your area.""The Eastertide shopping guide is a curated collection.""We are seeing that Catholics really care about this.""It's a very long game.""We are building the new Catholic economy."Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Catholic Owned and Its Mission 03:11 Brooke Joyner's Journey to Catholic Owned 05:52 The Birth of Catholic Owned 09:14 Pilgrimage and Inspiration 12:08 Launching the Digital Magazine 14:59 Vetting Catholic Businesses 18:08 The Importance of Spending Wisely 21:05 Nominate and Expand the Network 24:00 Eastertide Shopping Guide Overview 26:47 Future Initiatives and Growth Plans 29:59 Challenges and Rewards of the Journey 33:11 Spiritual Practices and Their Impact 35:58 Final Thoughts and Call to Action For more information about Brooke and Catholic Owned, go to: https://catholicowned.com/introduction

Day 49--The Road of Hope--What's Next?

Day 48--The Road of Hope--A Life of Hope, Part 2

Day 47--The Road of Hope--Ch 37--A Life of Hope, Part 1

Day 46--The Road of Hope--Ch 36--Hope

Day 45--The Road of Hope--Ch 35--Our Mother Mary, Part 2

Day 44--The Road of Hope--Ch 35--Our Mother Mary, Part 1

Day 43--The Road of Hope--Ch 34--Examination of Conscience

Day 42--The Road of Hope--Ch 33--Leadership, Part 2

Day 41--The Road of Hope--Ch 33--Leadership, Part 1

Day 40--The Road of Hope--Ch 32--Ordinary Work

Day 39--The Road of Hope--Ch 31--Charity, Part 2

Day 38--The Road of Hope--Ch 31--Charity, Part 1

Day 37--The Road of Hope--Ch 30--The Happy Child

Day 36--The Road of Hope--Ch 29--Suffering

Day 35--The Road of Hope--Ch 28--New Life

Day 34--The Road of Hope--Ch 27--Renewal

Day 33--The Road of Hope--Ch 26--Dedication

Day 32--The Road of Hope--Ch 25--Development

Day 31--The Road of Hope--Ch 24--Studies

Day 30--The Road of Hope--Ch 23--Wisdom

Day 29--The Road of Hope--Ch 22--Joy

Day 28--The Road of Hope--Ch 21--Restraint of Speech

Day 27--Road of Hope--Ch 20--Humility

Day 26--The Road of Hope--Ch 19--The Family Part 2

Day 25--The Road of Hope--Ch 19--The Family

Day 24--The Road of Hope--Ch 18--Chastity

Day 23--The Road of Hope--Ch 17--Poverty

In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens sits down with Edmund Mitchell, Founder of Zealous Parish Ministries and have a conversation about Edmund's journey from being a cradle Catholic to becoming a passionate parish minister. They discuss the importance of evangelization within the parish, the mission of the parish to save souls, and the transition from maintenance to mission-oriented churches. This conversation was especially near and dear to my heart due to my work at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle, so was excited to give Edmund a chance to introduce his new initiative, Zealous Parish Ministers, aimed at supporting parish ministers in their roles. Edmund also emphasized the need for continuous formation and skill development in ministry. The conversation highlights the significance of vision casting and various roles a parish minister must embody to effectively lead their community. TakeawaysEdmund's journey reflects a deep love for Jesus and evangelization.Parishes are crucial for local evangelization efforts.The mission of the parish is to invite all souls into God's family.Transitioning from maintenance to mission is essential for parish vitality.Zealous Parish Ministers aims to support parish staff in their roles.Continuous formation is vital for parish ministers' effectiveness.Understanding the three roles of a parish minister enhances ministry impact.Vision casting is a key discipline for effective leadership.The parish boundary includes all souls, not just registered members.Resources like 'The Advantage' can help parish ministers develop essential skills.Sound Bites"Parishes can't be just maintenance.""We need to help parish ministers thrive.""Zeal for my house will consume me."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Evangelization and Parish Ministry 03:01 Edmund's Journey: From Cradle Catholic to Parish Minister 06:00 The Role of the Parish in Evangelization 09:02 Defining the Mission of the Parish 11:57 Transitioning from Maintenance to Mission 15:00 Launching Zealous Parish Ministers 17:56 The Importance of Continuous Formation 20:48 Skills for Effective Parish Ministry 24:11 The Three Roles of a Parish Minister 26:52 Vision Casting and Its Importance 30:02 Conclusion and Resources for Parish MinistersFor more information about Edmund and Zealous Parish Ministers, go to: https://edmundmitchell.com/ and https://www.zealousparishministers.co/

Day 22--The Road of Hope--Ch 16--Obedience

Day 21--The Road of Hope--Ch 15--The Eucharist, Part 2

Day 20--The Road of Hope--Ch 15--The Eucharist, Part 1

Day 19--The Road of Hope--Ch 14--The Apostle, Part 2

Day 18--The Road of Hope--Ch 14--The Apostle Part 1

Day 17--The Road of Hope--Ch 13--Faith

Day 16--The Road of Hope--Ch 12--The Church

Day 15--The Road of Hope--Ch 11--The Presence of God

Day 14--The Road of Hope--Ch 10--Fortitude, Part 2

Day 13--The Road of Hope--Ch 10--Fortitude Part 1

Day 19--The Road of Hope--Ch 14--The Apostle, Part 2

Day 18--The Road of Hope--Ch 14--The Apostle Part 1