The Inner Life® with Josh Raymond is one-on-one Spiritual Direction on the radio. Every day, a Catholic priest joins listeners to offer spiritual advice and guidance designed to assist you along your faith journey, speaking about a variety of topics to he
Fr. Joseph Johnson joins to discuss the essentials of Confession and why we go. - 4:15 Melania - what is a General Confession? - 11:52 Confession isn't like a car wash... - 14:46 Break 1 Dawn - How do I overcome avoiding Confession while I am overcoming drug addiction? - 29:30 Break 2 Carina - What if one doesn't really want to change? - 42:21 Shannon - How to get better at confessing venial sins - 47:00
Fr. John Eckert joins to discuss grief (3:03) Acknowledging the sadness and recognizing the separation and being in front of our Lord in the Tabernacle and be in Adoration. He knows your heart and He wants you to share those things with Him. (13:17) Break 1 Mandy - God's presence during a hard time in my life with grief. My daughter passed 2 years ago. She was a newborn. I felt God's presence during that time (3:06) Break 2 Kathy I just lost my 2nd husband in July. I lost my first after 35 years of marriage 15 years ago. I don't know how people get through this without their faith. (40:50)
Fr. Marc Lenneman joins Patrick to discuss this Sunday’s Gospel from John 3:13-17 Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night because he doesn’t understand how it is possible to be born again. Here we have the theme of salvation and eternal life being introduced in the Gospel of John for the first time. Also, the cross is a place of reality and it is a place where God’s love confronts our sins. We need to get back to the reality that Jesus is active in the World today. The way in which he fights is different but He is in our midst and manifesting His love as mercy. The cross is at the center of everything and it is where the love of God brings peace. It overcomes the chaos and overcomes the evil. (2:31) Everything I learned abut love I learned by looking at the Cross Peter - How does the sin against the Holy Spirit come into play? We become like that which we contemplate Patricia - The agony in the garden is related to what the Father was saying...he took on all of our sins and I had a reflection in Adoration 11 years ago I wanted share.
Fr. Ryan Brady joins Patrick to discuss Faith's Role in Tragedy Father shares his story and where he was during 9/11 (13:27) what is the community’s role when going through traumatic events? (15:23) Addison - My husband's birthday is today. On his 21st b-day, the planes hit. It was probably the hardest day of his life. His mom also passed from Covid. It's definitely been hard, but in the hardest times, our faith has been the safe place. (19:47) Robert - So much bad happening right now. Going through crisis. We also have faith and Jesus's apostles all suffered...we draw solace from it. (28:45) Break 1 Mickey - My brother is being buried today. Riding a bike and a car crashed and killed him instantly. He was a veteran. after 9/11, he reenlisted. All of this tragedy, makes me as a Catholic, believe in God more and to be thankful to God for peace during this time. (35:57) Ona Lee - I am the mom of Fr. Steve McGraw who was a 9/11 first responder. Took a wrong turn. Just ordained 3 months. God took him along the road and he landed in front of the Pentagon when the plane was crashing. By the grace of God...Fr. Steve was able to go there and give the last rites to 1 or 2 people. He was able to visit for many years many of the people affected. (41:13) Break 2 Eduardo - Our freewill and how God gave it to us and how we've abused it with everything happening right now. How can we have hope through difficult times.
Fr. Michael Hurley joins Patrick to discuss Living in Joy (4:47) What does it mean to possess Joy in the presence of God? How is joy more than a feeling? (13:21) John - The challenges of living with Joy from people living with trauma and psychiatric conditions. Interested in getting feedback on joy is not a feeling and people can find a sense of peace and joy if they are survivors of pretty bad stuff. (21:16) Break 1 Maria - Living in Joy is living in the presence of Jesus even if you're going through suffering. If he's first, even if you're not showing joy and there's joy in your heart which is the joy of Christ. Everything is higher with Jesus. (29:05) how do you find joy in hard times in life? (33:27) Heidi - A priest once told me that joy stands for J is for Jesus, O is for others and Y is for yourself. Serving others and not being selfish. Recipe for joy. Helped me from being selfish. (37:00) Break 2 Grant - In years past, I struggled with depression. I had the conscious knowledge and knew what was good, but felt I was lacking joy. I'm in a better place now, but at the time it was quite difficult. (44:53) Regina - How does joy relate to Our Lady of Sorrows? How does Joy help us evangelize?
Fr. John LoCoco joins Patrick to discuss Dependency on God (3:36) what is the importance of dependency of God? (7:51) How does God make himself Dependent on us? (21:42) Break 1 (23:13) Margaret - When I was becoming Catholic, I had a devotion to a particular Novena. I got was pretty much equivalent to a medical miracle. Next time wasn't a miracle but got better result. I was learning that each time I prayed, I've gotten more of a result about patience or a plan different than I thought. Amazing to me how those results come to me. (33:04) Email – how do I become dependent on God without losing out accountability? (40:03) Break 2 How can I practice dependency in our daily lives? (43:49) Email – Testimony on the need for God being shown through his weakness. How are our longing suggestions of our need for God?
Check out this third instalment of our discussion on prayer from July 30, 2025 Msgr. Tom Richter joins Patrick to discuss 6 Foundations of Prayer (part 3) (2:30) Father recaps the first four foundations of faith (18:44) Break 1 (20:18) 5th foundation of prayer: Humility. (37:47) Break 2 (38:59) 6th foundation of prayer: Purification (46:57) Regina - Humility...all the good things God gives people. What if you've been handled lousy things like an abusive family? Where's the goodness of God?
Check out this second instalment of this series on foundations of prayer June 24, 2025 Msgr. Thomas Richter joins Patrick to Discuss 6 Foundations of Prayer (part 2) What is the origin of the 6 foundations of prayer? (6:04) what are the first 3 foundations of prayer? (20:10) Break 1 (21:33) Fourth foundation of prayer- Pray from the Heart. (36:40) Break 2 (37:44) Michael - Question about my struggles with temptation. Struggling with pornography and temptation and feeling unworthy and staying away because of shame. How do I overcome that? How can I feel God’s love in a time of unrest?
Check out the first of this series on prayer from May 21, 2025 Msgr. Tom Richter joins Patrick to Discuss 6 Foundations of Prayer (Part 1) (4:01) why is it important to develop foundations of prayer? (11:05) First foundation of prayer: Awakened Faith (20:20) Break 1 David - How can I get more awaken faith if I already experience it in the past, but it has fallen away? How to reinvigorate the awaken faith and bringing it back? (26:07) What is the second foundation of faith: Getting God Right. (40:32) Break 2 Patrick shares an email about offering daily activities in getting God right? (41:46) Third foundation of prayer: The Cross
Check out this great show from August 26, 2025 Fr. Sam Martin joins Patrick to discuss Peace During Change (2:59) Change is around us all the time. Why does change shake us in our lives? (13:17) Jessica - I have a couple of his graduates going to college. People keep passing away. Trying to keep positive during change. (20:08) Break 1 (21:52) Linda - I'm a 77-year-old grandmother. Last September my son passed from a heart attack. I've had a lot of change over the last year. I'm going through all the motions because the help of my faith. Looking for encouragement and help through the grief. (35:31) Karen - 25 years ago...in a year, my kids grew up and left, elderly relative passed away, husband had a medical crisis, I had to get a job which I hadn't done for 20 years. Everything I knew about my life changed. Spent close to 2 years hating life and hit a wall or God and said, 'I give up.' I simply accepted this is my life and things changed for the better and opportunities opened up. (41:05) Beak 2 Jo Ann - Life just took everything away from me. I sat down on the couch and couldn't get up. Couldn't go to Mass. Never stopped praying, but my faith was there and felt that God was guiding me. When I did get help, it was my faith that got me through. God is good! We need to trust in him and he has a plan. (48:04) What are ways we can find peace in our lives?
Fr. Peter Armenio joins Patrick to discuss Sanctifying Work What is the importance of work? (8:41) why is there dignity in work? (21:00) Break 1 (22:12) Nick - I think of Social Teaching and the rights and dignity of workers. In the precepts, we're told to support the church financially. In retirement, give your calendar to the Lord and he'll fill it in for you. When we retire, our greatest work is thinking of God more and he fills it in for us. Mary Lou - Thanks for the reminder that my work is sacred. I'm a hairdresser. Reminded me of a project I have coming up and how meaningless and tedious it seems compared to my spiritual life, but this woman likes to talk about the Lord. She's not Catholic, but it might be a way to talk about Jesus to her. (30:37) Email from Mary – Can you cut corners if you have to in order to get your work done? What does it mean to sanctify our work? (40:40) Break 2 (45:05) Charles - I'm a retired crime scene investigator. Witnessed many murders. Throughout my career, I realized maybe nobody was praying for this person before they died. At some point, I started praying as I responded to the crime scene. Wanted to share that if there are other officers listening.
Check out this classic show from September 13, 2023, where our guest Father Chris Walsh joins Patrick to discuss the crosses we bare for the love of Christ.
Check out this great show form August 29, 2023 Father Rob Kroll joins Patrick to discuss Contemplation (4:03) What is Prayer? How do the three types of prayer, vocal, meditative and contemplative, connect with each other. (20:02) Rosemary - My mind is either blank many times or I start thinking about things going on in my day and get discouraged. (25:41) Break 1 How can you rest in the Lords presence by blanking your mind. (32:02) Carlos - First time practicing contemplation this morning. Amazed at what he received from the Lord. Glad you're talking about this today. Terri - When I try contemplative prayer, I almost feel like it's offensive to God like not giving it all. (39:13) Break 2 Monica - Has 8 kids. Homeschooled. Very busy and really longing to grow in prayer. It started with sleeping, washing dishes, being with children and coming into union with God. (46:52) Anna - Prayer also begins with what we do before or after prayer. How much time to we spend being stimulated by the world? Resources: Fr. Thomas Merton, Contemplative Prayer https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/351723.Contemplative_Prayer CS Lewis, Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly on Prayer https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Malcolm-Chiefly-C-S-Lewis/dp/0156027666 Fr. Thomas Dubay, S.M., Prayer Primer https://www.lighthousecatholicmedia.org/store/title/prayer-primer-igniting-a-fire-within Fr. Thomas Dubay, S.M., Fire Within: St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, and the Gospel—on Prayer https://ignatius.com/fire-within-fwp/ Fr. Jacques Philippe, Time for God https://scepterpublishers.org/products/copy-of-time-for-god?srsltid=AfmBOopzvCN9XxB6XBd3ZwdGmgZznUzCbOAdZHvTO-f_wu2_Duyi9qLe&variant=42370443542705 Peter Kreeft, Prayer for Beginners https://www.lighthousecatholicmedia.org/store/title/prayer-for-beginners Fr. Thomas Acklin and Fr. Boniface Hicks, Personal prayer: A Guide for Receiving the Father's Love https://stpaulcenter.com/product/personal-prayer-a-guide-for-receiving-the-fathers-love/
Fr. Tom McCarthy joins Patrick to discuss St. Augustine and Conversion (4:46) Father shares the story of Saint Augustine. How is Augustine’s story similar to our story? (16:29) Nick - Love St. Augustine. Reminds me of how merciful the Lord is. Very important to know how easy it is to be forgiven. Need to overcome bad habits. When we look at St. Monica and St. Augustine. Conversion not just a onetime thing...ongoing. (20:25) Break 1 Email – How can I discern whether I am truly living my conversion? (28:54) Joanna - Today is my birthday and he is my saint. I was raised Catholic and my grandmother raised me that way. I want to provide the same unconditional love she provided and showed me through St. Augustine. Ann - I live on St. Augustine Drive! Never thought about it when we moved here, but I've lived here since 1958. My husband became a permanent deacon and served the Diocese of Orange. Enjoy Relevant Radio. (34:35) Tom - I was a wandering Catholic and ended up in Paris. Friend had a record that had a Bob Dylan song that was about St. Augustine. I knew that I was kind of living like him (Augustine) and listened to it constantly. Went to a party and something happened where I ended up at a Cathedral and told God I was lost and needed him. Came back to the church. (39:07) Break 2 What is the importance of looking at both the good and the bad when it comes to your life? (44:22) Carol - Not being able to let go of a sin...come out of confession with a spiritual change, but hearts don't let go because they don't know a new normal. Conversion brings peace. Resources: Augustinian Vocations of North America https://www.beafriar.org/
Fr. Bobby Blood joins Patrick to discuss Fallen Away Children: Saint Monica Father gives insights and inspiration on the shooting at the MN Catholic School. (13:32) Who was St Monica? How do our prayers affect the salvation of other people? (20:19) Break 1 (29:11) Lu - Our son passed away last October. He was fallen away. It's been difficult because he had all the sacraments. Anything that can help me with that? Linda - My children are in their 40s. Both fell away from the faith and stayed away for years. My husband and I prayed to St. Monica for years. Now, both are back in the church. I believe that prayers work. (36:33) Break 2 (38:02) Stacy - Want to share...As a fallen away child who fell away and came back. The reason I came back. I went to Catholic school until 6th grade. I didn't pay attention as a child and didn't interest me. Making so many mistakes, I finally officially turned my life over to Jesus. Love the Catholic faith now. (41:52) Email – how do you pray hard? How can you talk with your child about coming back to the Church without being nagging? (47:22) Isabelle - I have a son, 66 years old, all the sacraments. 14 years and he doesn't want to have anything to do with me. He says he's an atheist. It really bothers me. What do I do?
Fr. Sam Martin joins Patrick to discuss Peace During Change (2:59) Change is around us all the time. Why does change shake us in our lives? (13:17) Jessica - I have a couple of his graduates going to college. People keep passing away. Trying to keep positive during change. (20:08) Break 1 (21:52) Linda - I'm a 77-year-old grandmother. Last September my son passed from a heart attack. I've had a lot of change over the last year. I'm going through all the motions because the help of my faith. Looking for encouragement and help through the grief. (35:31) Karen - 25 years ago...in a year, my kids grew up and left, elderly relative passed away, husband had a medical crisis, I had to get a job which I hadn't done for 20 years. Everything I knew about my life changed. Spent close to 2 years hating life and hit a wall or God and said, 'I give up.' I simply accepted this is my life and things changed for the better and opportunities opened up. (41:05) Beak 2 Jo Ann - Life just took everything away from me. I sat down on the couch and couldn't get up. Couldn't go to Mass. Never stopped praying, but my faith was there and felt that God was guiding me. When I did get help, it was my faith that got me through. God is good! We need to trust in him and he has a plan. (48:04) What are ways we can find peace in our lives?
Fr. Dave Heney joins Patrick to have a Bible Study on the Sunday's readings (3:20) What is the background behind this Sunday’s Gospel passage? Father shares the Gospel from this Sunday (12:01) Father shares his thoughts on this Gospel. (22:43) Break 1 Email - What is the difference between humility and sincerity? (31:35) Sue Ley - I have somebody in my family relating to the situation Father Dave was talking about. How can I help my children to understand that we don’t want anything in return from them? (39:05) Break 2 Email – My wife is highly transactional; how do I interact with her in this? Why is it important to give without expecting anything in return? Who are some good saints to helps learn the truth about ourselves?
Fr. Daniel Klimek joins Patrick to discuss the Queenship of Mary Father shares his new book about the Rosary (5:58) Why is Mary a queen? How does Marian devotion help us in our lives? (21:14) What is the importance of the crowning of Mary in the mysteries of the Rosary? (27:00) Break 1 (32:13) How can the Queen ship of help if we unite devotion to her with prayer and fasting? (41:26) Mireya - Something I heard from a listener from a few years ago, something I do now...offer 3 Ave Marias. That's how I honor her and my children do this as well.
Fr. John Gordon joins Patrick to discuss Keeping the Faith through Challenges (4:02) - What is the purpose of Challenges in life? How does suffering sanctify us? (17:15) Joseph - I'm going through some anxiety and paranoia right now, but I'm a firm believer. I know I have a great faith in God. Right now as I'm going through some health issues, I pray to not worry, but I still have that fear. I know the evil is trying to work on me. How can I overcome it? (27:00) Break 1 How can we regulate our emotions when dealing with challenging situations? (31:32) Nancy - In 2017, I had been diagnosed with arthritis and other ailments. They didn't have my meds worked out well, and one night my left shoulder felt like a hot stabbing pain. I looked at the crucifix and said, 'Oh dear Lord, how did you ever carry that cross?' I heard a voice that said, 'I saw your face.' I learned you have to be very specific to God. I was in such awe. Then, the pain stopped and haven't had it since. (40:23) Cindy - I'm experiencing challenges with news about my dog. I'm a person of faith and have faith in the Lord, but what do I do when things like this happen in our lives? How do we know if it's a spiritual battle or God's will?
Fr. Allen Hoffa joins Patrick to discuss The Hidden Sin (2:54) why are sins in the dark have such power over us? How does isolation make for a vicious cycle? Ted - I'm an older Catholic. I disagree that everything is hidden...everything is out in the open. There's no shame. People are encouraged to do it. (14:52) Carl - When I was younger and in the world, I was looking for love in all the wrong places. Thinking a man would make me whole and happy. Ended up getting date raped. I was so lost in my 20's. I can appreciate people who have fallen and the grace the of God. (27:00) Break 1 Jill - Is an impure thought ever a mortal sin? (30:06) Steve - Timmerie had someone on that said men think about sex every 6 to 10 seconds. I've struggled for many years. Age 60 now and I've never held a girls hand or kissed her, but I struggle with masturbation. Mike – How do you stop after you get addicted? Resources: Catholic Therapist https://catholictherapists.com/ Integrity Restored https://integrityrestored.com/ Sexaholics Anonymous https://www.sa.org/ IITAP (International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals) https://iitap.com/ CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist) What is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT)? Frequently Asked Questions Covenant Eyes https://www.covenanteyes.com/
Fr. Tom Wilson joins Patrick to discuss God's Calling in our Lives How do you prepare for the big things in life when discerning your call? (5:14) where do we begin when listening to the voice of God? (16:37) Scott - I've met with Fr. Tom in my late 20's about going into the priesthood. I sat with it for 25 years and finally applied at age 50. If I would have done it over, I would have started earlier, don't let fear in the way. (27:00) Break 1 Antonio - I just turned my life to God. I told him I can't do it my way anymore. (30:11) What do you do when you missed God’s calling in your life? (40:55) Nick - He speaks to us. If we follow that word from the USCCB, that he surely speaks to us through those readings. We need to be in tune with those around us as well. Daunting task...Lord, this day is Yours. Everyday means something and we need to take each day at a time. Submit, and He'll take us. How do you discern God’s voice from other voices?
Fr. Patrick Hyde joins Patrick to discuss Assumption of Mary (4:51) what is a Marian Dogma? What does God desire for us? (14:54) Why is the Assumption of Mary so late in being declared? (19:41) Break 1 Lauren - My mother died on that day and right before she died, the whole room was filled with orange blossoms. I knew she came to take my mother. (29:30) Did Mary die before she was assumed? How can we find hope in our own bodies through Mary? (39:20) Break 2 What are Holy days of Obligation? What can people do to celebrate Mary?
Fr. Joseph Johnson joins Patrick to discuss Preparing for Death Who was St. Maximilian Kolbe? (6:09) What happens when we die? (19:17) Jolene - My husband died before I could get the priest to anoint him. Did he still receive the last rites? (24:07) Break 1 What does it mean to have a happy death? (31:22) Robert - My mother told me a story about when her dad was passing away, he saw demons climbing outside the window and had a hard time dying. My mom and uncles witnessed that and said he said odd things when dying. Email - Can you go to heaven if you know Jesus but still reject him? (38:24) Break 2 What is the importance of a funeral Mass? (45:14) Nicole - I need to add this in my will. My children and siblings are not participating in having Masses said for loved ones. I wonder if my children will have Masses said for me and I need to put this in my will before I pass away. If it wasn't for me, there wouldn't be Mass intentions for those loved ones. Visit aunt and uncle often and they're not prepared spiritually. I fear they're missing that. What should I say to them to understand the importance?
Fr. Ramil Fajardo joins Patrick to discuss Sin (3:16) What is Sin? (13:14) what is the difference between a venial and a mortal sin? (18:37) Sal - My wife passed 5 years ago. I'm thinking about sins we committed when we were ignorant of our Catholic Church. How many times should I be confessing that or should I sit 1 on 1 with a priest and get it all off my chest? (23:52) Break 1 (25:42) Frank - Go to confession every 2 weeks. When priest absolves me, and ones I cannot remember...what about venial sins? I do forget some of them. Always saying prayers of contrition. How can confession help us combat sin? (38:51) Break 2 Email from someone in the state of unrepentant mortal sin. What should he do? (47:23) Ann - I go to confession frequently but tend to confess the same sins because I'm not sure if the priest understands me. I can't break the habit.
Fr. Robert Ryan joins Patrick to discuss Living Sacramentally (3:30) Father shares his testimony of how he became a priest. (10:55) What are sacraments and how are they misunderstood? (22:11) Break 1 What is the importance of proper disposition when receiving the Sacraments? (30:49) Karen - I have been going to confession weekly and also done weekly bible and catechism over a year. Cradle Catholic. Made an enormous difference in my faith life. What is the state of Grace and how does it deal with the Sacraments? Pat - in 1973, I was away from the church 10 years. I had broken every commandment. I thought I was going to hell. I had a profound encounter with Jesus in after being invited to a baptism. Stopped drinking, stopped sexual activities. I had an abortion. Attended project Rachel. I thank Jesus for what he did for me. I'm active in Rachel's Vineyard. (40:05) Break 2 Why can only Catholics receive the Eucharist? Email – should we ever tire of going to confession? (46:52) Theresa - I have reached out to my parish priest. I'm home bound and not able to go to confession. What do I do?
Fr. James Kubicki joins Patrick to discuss Living out Poverty: St Clare of Assisi (3:30) Who was St Care? When does something turn from a need to a want? (19:51) Break 1 (21:52) what does Luke teach us about poverty? (31:24) Email – How specific do we need to be about only having 1 coat? How can we reconcile the fear of Poverty with the path to Joy? Mary - I live in poverty because of an illness. Forced to retire early and go on disability. Very hard to feel afraid all the time and yet focus on higher things. God and scripture study. When you feel afraid about health, financial, that can so easily take over. (40:28) Break 2 (42:02) Vince - Father was talking about trust and how that order of nuns could have had a lot of money. What I wonder is I try to trust but I sometimes worry it might be laziness. I hope it's more that I'm trusting God. Where does trust, but actually doing things you're supposed to do...figuring out that line. Resources: Happy are You Poor: The Simple Life and Spiritual Freedom https://ignatius.com/happy-are-you-poor-haypp/
Fr. Michael Hurley joins Patrick to discuss Dominican Spirituality (6:09) Who was Saint Dominic? (21:09) Break 1 Why is today the feast of Saint Dominic if he died on the 6th of August? (30:57) How did Saint Dominic help make the order flourish? (37:40) Break 2 Patrick shares an email from Monica asking about the Dominican way of praying the Rosary. (43:06) Mary - I have a family story about a grandmother who saved Dominican sisters during the Mexican revolution. Who are 3rd order Dominicans?
Fr. Ethan Southard joins Patrick to discuss Eucharistic Miracles (3:52) How is the Mass a miracle in and of itself? (11:28) what are some miracles of the Eucharist? Elsa - My mother who has dementia was hospitalized with pneumonia. Priest came to visit and gave the Eucharist. mom is non-verbal. When the priest came to anoint her, she became aware. Priest gave her the Eucharist and she began to cry. She knew Jesus was present. Such a blessing. (22:19) Break 1 Patrick – explains the Real Presence Association and how it connects with Eucharistic Miracles. (34:29) Sharon - Is there actually a procedure to follow when the Eucharist falls out of the hands of the priest and onto the floor? What is actually supposed to be done? (40:34) Break 2 Julie - My brother is a Methodist minister. I have brought to him these miracles and he says Jesus can do anything. Looking for a response to him. How do I respond to this? I only hear about in the Catholic Church. Miracle of Lanciano (46:54) Rachel - I was baptized Catholic. Spent 20s and 30s going to Mass each week. Dad told me if I stopped practicing, I couldn't take communion. I'm wanting to start going to Mass every week. When should I take the Eucharist? Resources: The Eucharistic Miracles of the World https://www.miracolieucaristici.org/en/Liste/list.html Real Presents Association https://realpresence.org/
Fr. John Eckert joins Patrick to discuss Beloved Child of God: Transfiguration (4:10) What is the Transfiguration? (13:45) what is the importance of Baptism in today feast? Nick - Prevailing thought Peter makes this revelation of who Christ is. He falls many times. The Lord reveals so much to us. Yet in our pride and stupidity, we have so much to improve. We can never lose sight of how much we need to be transfigured in our lives. (25:23) Break 1 How are we affiliated with God through Jesus? (31:29) Marsha - When I listen to the Gospel, you're my chosen one...I get so emotional. My family at Mass says I shouldn't be emotional. I just want to know if it's right or wrong. (35:30) Laurie - I love how he's bringing out making the transfiguration part of our lives. We'll all fall short, but to keep grasping for that transfiguration in the lives of others. (41:49) Break 2 When is it okay to tell God that I can’t handle my cross anymore?
Fr. Robert Kroll joins Patrick to discuss Lectio Divina (4:10) what is Lectio Diivina? How can you pray with the daily readings at Mass? (15:53) What are the steps of Lectio Divina? (22:28) Break 2 What is the importance of the setting in Lectio Divina Theresa - I did my meditation on the readings featured on the show. I did a meditation on the night my grandson had an accident. I believe my grandson is chosen by God and I am encouraging him. It's amazing to be connected to God. Crashed the day I started my consecration to the BVM. (29:21) Carol – I read about 6 devotional studies per day. One of them is the Daily Word which is kind of new age-y. I like to cross check their impression of the Bible. I will read the whole chapter and get a totally different look after reading. I love the concept of reading the meditation and then the whole chapter to see how it fits with Biblical history. (37:07) Marianne - My experience...we were reading in a prayer group...the transfiguration. Very powerful experience. (41:49) Break 2 Father shares some analogies in how Lectio Divina Resources: Lectio Divina: Renewing the Ancient Practice of Praying the Scriptures https://www.amazon.com/Lectio-Divina-Renewing-Practice-Scriptures/dp/0824517369 Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina https://ascensionpress.com/products/praying-scripture-for-a-change-an-introduction-to-lectio-divina-1?srsltid=AfmBOor4oAoiNjqmdBMV2GR6cjyO19ryuO8yrfReWRQdboeDL8upqIRi
Fr. John Paul Erickson joins Patrick to discuss Temptation (4:53) why did Jesus have to face temptation? What is the difference between temptation and concupiscence? (22:00) Break 1 How does temptation start? (28:46) How do we know if a strong pull is a temptation or a legitimate call of the Holy Spirit? (37:11) Eli - How I use my imagination to combat my temptations with lust. Whenever I have a thought, I use my imagination to burn that away as if it was catching on fire. (41:52) Break 2 Mary - Negative images. One thing that has helped me is having an image of Jesus's eyes. When I have that image, and how they're filling up in tears...that curtails my desire to let that sin go. (44:50) Rachel - I have given up a smart phone. Only have a flip phone...no internet. cuts out my battle with impurity online. Donna - The very real temptation of overeating...gluttony. How difficult for me it is to fast from food.
Fr. Marcel Taillon joins Patrick to discuss Patience (3:08) How is Patience a virtue? When does impatience become a sin? (16:31) Haden - I struggle with practicing patience. It's easy to do it during my devotion to God, but the other 22 hours dealing with people that aren't with Christ...at work, on the road, etc. I need to bring it with me 24/7. (21:44) Break 1 Father answers an email from Mary who practices patience in the car. (26:45) Dave - I drive a lot. I'm aggressive. I've been taking that to the confessional. Trick I use...when I start to yell at the driver in front of me, I call him Jesus. I wouldn't call Jesus that, would I? I wouldn't tailgate Jesus, would I? This calms me down. I wouldn't treat Jesus that way. (33:12) Nicole - My own experience with patience...for a long time, I was an impatient driver and people in general. Praying the Rosary and realizing God calls us to love one another. Want to treat everyone with love now and be patient with them. (40:08) Break 2 Elaina - When I'm in traffic, I always have my duster with me, so I clean my dashboard and pray . That helps me with patience in traffic. (43:06) Belle - A friend of mine told me not to pray for patience because God will give you harder challenges to test patience. I don't know how to take that. Elisa - I had an interesting series of experiences. God was humbling and testing me. Flying into an airport and changing flights to purchase a home. Plane was delayed. I was getting extremely impatient. Kept hearing a voice saying all will be fine. I knew it was God speaking to me. Had to wait 3 hrs. Ended up meeting up with nephew. It was God's way of affirming to me all was ok. I was in his loving care. What is the importance of living in the present?
Fr. Christopher Walsh joins Patrick to discuss the Spirituality of St. Ignatius (3:25) Who was St. Ignatius of Loyola? What was his role in the Catholic Country reformation? What are the spiritual exercises? (18:45) Frank - I've been out there 42 years. It's been the biggest help of my life. It has meant so much to me and my life. (21:14) Break 1 Why are retreats helpful for us in our lives? (25:23) Elizabeth - I was involved in a program recently. It's Ignition. It's through the Los Altos retreat center. What is the missionary spirit of Saint Ignatius? (34:46) Break 2 Carlos - I never went on an Ignatian retreat, but went to Formed and had Franciscans for teachers. Jesuits in college. Asked for proof that God exists...proved the existence using Thomas Aquinas. What is the importance of education in Ignatian spirituality? (41:16) what are the Ignatian Rules for Discernment? What are some of the prayers of Saint Ignatius? Resources: The Ignatian Adventure - By: Kevin O'Brien, SJ https://store.loyolapress.com/the-ignatian-adventure
Msgr. Tom Richter joins Patrick to discuss 6 Foundations of Prayer (part 3) (2:30) Father recaps the first four foundations of faith (18:44) Break 1 (20:18) 5th foundation of prayer: Humility. (37:47) Break 2 (38:59) 6th foundation of prayer: Purification (46:57) Regina - Humility...all the good things God gives people. What if you've been handled lousy things like an abusive family? Where's the goodness of God?
Fr. Eric Nielsen joins Patrick to discuss Family and Community on the feast of saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus (3:57) what do we know about Martha, Mary and Lazarus? how does our confidence with Christ help us be vulnerable with other people? (16:18) Karen - I grew up and our family had a family business. All the community knew our business. I was known as 'the daughter' of this family business. Dad was charitable. He donated clocks to our church. Always very giving. We grew up very Catholic and very giving. I'm now a caregiver for my brother. (20:16) Break 1 Arlene - God gave me a friend for 50 years. From the time of first grade until they died. Important to have a good friend. Gone since 2001. She was always there for me an d I was always there for her. (28:24) Sebastian - How do I discern about what to do with difficult family members? We currently live with my sister and brother in law. We live different life styles. As our family grew, they say they just worry about our health and well-being. They seem to run an accounting system to our defects. How do I be Christ-like? (38:27) Break 2 Email about caring for family, is it a responsibility or an option? (43:06) Elizabeth - in my youth, very outgoing, now as I get older, I find myself not wanting to socialize. Can you offer some insights? What are some advantages and pitfalls in communicating in a digital age?
Fr. Richard Simon joins Patrick to discuss Ecumenism (3:01) what is ecumenism? Why did Patrick Conley become Catholic? (19:49) Liz - How do you guide teens that are Catholic with having friend s that are protestant? (24:04) Break 1 Donna - I'm protestant. We don't see big diff b/w protestants and Catholics. We view all each other as Christian and focus on what we have in common. I'm Lutheran Missouri Synod. I grew up Presbyterian, went to a Methodist College, and a Baptist Seminary. (33:37) Molly - I recently was invited to a non-denominational group to share about faith. How would I perceive with that, but would it be a wrong. Like a faith-sharing group? (37:56) Break 2 Chris - It is of forbidden for Catholics to participate in a worship of non-Catholics. Pope Benedict XV said that. What do you think about that Father? (43:33) Maggie - I HAVE 4 KIDS AND THREE HAVE LEFT THE FAITH. They go to a Baptist/non-Catholic Church. My son's in laws are pastors. They want me to go to Church with them. What am I supposed to do?
Fr. Marc Lenneman joins Patrick to discuss Pilgrimage (2:21) who was Saint James the greater? What is the importance of pilgrimages? (18:41) Roland - I host a state pilgrimage program for the NJ Knights of Columbus. Host pilgrimage visits in and around the state of NJ. I have gone on several pilgrimages and will go on the Camino soon. (22:17) Break 1 Email from Julie about the Camino de California. (29:29) Laura - My husband and I went on pilgrimages. It brought us together as a married couple. (37:30) Brent - Surprising turn of events in 2018. Went to our Lady of Good help. I had major reconstructive surgery on spine. Starting to make improvements. Sent prayer request to Fr. Rocky. He carried my request. Got on different meds and the right people and in July of that year, we were there. (43:25) Break 2 Mark - Vacation trip became micro pilgrimage. Gave me a new perspective. We were in Italy, and one of the trips we had was a 6000 ft. climb. We didn't realize that's how intense it was. We got to Florence and found St. Ambrose Basilica, went to Mass, received the Eucharist and I felt like was going to pass out. One of the most peaceful experiences of my life. (48:31) Carl - Went to Holy Land. Want to share the highlights I saw while there.
Fr. Ramil Fajardo joins Patrick to discuss Preparing for Marriage (4:23) what are some unrealistic experiences that we have on marriage? (15:56) Ed - Comment: The lack of catechism or formation of souls in parishes, and how that leads to bad marriages. (20:23) Break 1 Marie - Comment re: what is lacking on marriage prep... discussing addictions. (30:12) Michael - Any advice for people over 50 that have never been married, and still open to get married? Patrick shares an email about a woman who was living in a lot of sin and got married in not ideal circumstances and is looking for help in continuing her growth. (39:01) Break 2 Gerry - When we went through our marriage prep, we did not know anything about NFP, this was in 1990. I wish somebody could have talk to us more about the different methods.
Fr. Carter Griffin joins Patrick to discuss Supporting Priests (5:37) Who are priests? What are some misconceptions about being a priest? (15:02) how are priests called to spiritual fatherhood Debbie - What about priests that are called through a conversion of some sort and not necessarily 'groomed in' Does it matter how old you are? Is there a certain limit that the calling doesn't take place. I read early on in my conversion the Invitation of Christ talks about the beauty and power of a priest. (21:09) Break 1 What are some other struggles priests might have? Craig - How can people help priests? Organization for priests who have been charged with crimes, abuse, etc. and can't serve anymore. Men of Melchisidek is the organization. (31:46) Zach - If serving in the military and calling to the chaplaincy. Combined serving. Are they two separate things? (36:08) Break 2 Ed - New pastor that has just been ordained. Thanked him for the sacrifices he's made. I've been celibate for 25 years. Need to support priests and I understand how hard it is for them in this day and age. (40:28) Margaret - Our priest serves 3 parishes. He's elderly. I noticed whenever he comes down the aisle. His shoes are so broken down and old. My husband recently died. I don't know how to ask the rectory, but would it be ok to ask if he could use them (shoes)? Would that offend him? How can you help the priest in the confessional? What gifts should you give a priest? Resources: Seven Sisters Apostolate https://sevensistersapostolate.org/
Fr. Peter Armenio joins Patrick to Friendship with Christ How can we have friendship with God? (12:19) How do we understand some of the euphemism that saints use to describe their love for Christ? (18:25) Bob - I once went to confession and told the priest I was having trouble getting angry with God over disappointments. Angry about it and yelling at God. Fr. told me you probably think I'll get down on you for getting angry with God, but you know God and trust him enough that you can get angry with Him and you can handle that. I was really moved by that. Relationship with God is everything. (26:05) Break 1 Marsha - I'm a cradle Catholic. I've had a relationship with Jesus. The Baptists brought me into that relationship. They gave me a deeper dive into the intimacy with Christ. I hope they saw the beauty of the Catholic church. How does interior life help us from our relationship with Jesus? (40:40) Deedee - My relationship is one of a father and daughter. Trying to be friends with God is sacrilegious. Wouldn't there be a spiritual boundary of some sort? What does friendly speech sound like instead of prayer? (43:43) Break 2 (44:49) What can Mary Magdalene teach us about friendship with Christ?
Fr. Sam Martin joins Patrick in studio to discuss Mastering Fear (7:20) Is fear sinful? How is fear of the Lord differ from other types of fear. how does fear appear in scripture? (19:13) Rosemary - What I fear...I trust God, but not myself. I might not be eating right. End of the times are near and thoughts and fear for family members that don't believe. (25:20) Break 1 Email from Mary – When we say we trust Jesus, what are we trusting Him with? (31:25) Nick – In my brokenness I see the beauty to learn from it and share with others our vulnerability. (36:25) Break 2 Email from Adrian about how to deal with fear from your spouse. (45:02) Raquelle - I recently lost my job. Pregnant with 5th child. Recently had a horrible situation with police.... dealing with legal stuff. Feel complete and total fear for the future. I finally have been having miracle after miracle happening to us. The fear here is extremely real, but receiving so many graces now. God blesses us tenfold.
Fr. Matthew Widder joins Patrick to have a Sunday Bible Study with the Nation What is the context within this Sunday’s passage? (6:36) Father proclaims the Sunday readings Gospel. How do we know if we are doing good work? Stephanie - I totally resonate with the home work thing because I'm 37 weeks pregnant and struggle with it and just trusting God. (23:45) Break 1 Tom - I'd like to know what Father and Patrick think about the 2 images of discipleship with Martha being very busy and Mary sitting and listening. The postures and approaches when Jesus comes. Patrick shares an email about the connection between this weeks Gospel and last week’s Gospel. (23:45) Kelly - I tend to be more like Martha, but want to be more like Mary. Mary has put God first and Martha seems to be doing everything that needs to get done first. I know I need to get outside and weed, garden, etc. I don't know how to resolve it. My husband isn't Catholic and doesn't feel prayer is a priority. (37:54) Break 2 Ed - Watching the Chosen. When that part came up, I thought it was interesting they brought it up. Jesus came in and Martha said that. Apostles got up and helped with the food. Thought that was interesting. David - Perspective on Martha. Want to make sure I'm in line with church teaching...My thought was Jesus didn't correct Martha because she was busy, but corrected her because she was worried. (43:40) Mary - I hate that reading because I'm so Martha! I'm always cooking, cleaning, preparing. I'm the one missing out on events because I'm doing all the prep work. (45:45) Brittney - There have been seasons of my life where I have related to both. Getting older and having children has given me a better blend of the two in situations. I think our faith in the word of God available to us and also through the saints shows these women are two sides of the same coin. We can be offering our service and prayer as well. Motherhood and being a wife has taught me this. Sunday as the litmus test for if we are really imitating Mary Properly.