Podcasts about abiding together

In this episode, we reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis. We talk about how, during his Pontificate, Pope Francis emphasized joy and, through his example, helped us remember to embody this joy in our daily lives to bring others into the Church. We also acknowledge how God has used Pope Francis to speak to us through his writings and discuss which of these writings most profoundly impacted us, how we can pray for our next Pope, and share what we think will be his lasting legacy.    Heather's One Thing - Her Parents Sister Miriam's One Thing - Firm Foundation by Cody Carnes (and the Maverick City Music Remix ;)) Michelle's One Thing - Wrightsville Beach in Wilmington , NC   Other Resources Mentioned:  Papal Homily on the Revolution of Tenderness Pope Francis' Surprise TED Talk Patris Corde - Apostolic Letter Dilexit Nos - Encyclical Evangelii Gaudium (Joy of the Gospel) - Apostolic Exhortation  List of Cardinals attending the Conclave   Abiding Together Episodes on Pope Francis' Writings: The Joy of the Gospel Study Rejoice and Be Glad Study The Sacred Heart (three part series) C'est la Confiance (two part series) Revolution of Tenderness   Journal Questions: How have I been blessed by Pope Francis' pontificate? In what ways do I experience the Gospel as Lent without Easter? How can I embrace the lessons Pope Francis has taught me throughout his papacy in my life? How can I pray for the Church during the conclave?   Discussion Questions: How did you receive the news of Pope Francis' passing? How can we live out Pope Francis' vision of the Church as a field hospital in our own lives? Which of Pope Francis' writings left an impactful impression on you? What's one word you would use to describe Pope Francis' legacy?   Quote to Ponder: "Joy adapts and changes, but it always endures, even as a flicker of life born of our personal certainty that, when everything is said and done, we are infinitely loved." (Pope Francis)   Scripture for Lectio: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13)   Sponsor - Glory: Women's Conference: This week's episode is sponsored by the Glory: Women's Conference hosted by Steubenville Conferences and our very own Heather Khym! We want to invite you to join Heather, Michelle, and our dear friends Debbie Herbeck, Sarah Kaczmarek, Monica Richards, and Sarah Kroger who will be leading us in worship, this June 6-8 in Steubenville, Ohio as we gather with women across generations and seek God's presence. We are just about one month out from the Glory: Women's Conference and tickets are still available! This is the first one and we want you to be part of it, especially since it's over Pentecost weekend and we know the Holy Spirit will be showing up in big ways. The conference schedule will include talks, worship, prayer experiences, and the opportunity to interact with fellow Abiding Together listeners and new friends from all over who will be flying in. Heather and Michelle would absolutely love to meet you. Whether you come with your Abiding Together small group, with a close friend, or on your own, we can't wait to gather in fellowship with you. Visit steubenvilleconferences.com/events/glory for more information or to register!   Timestamps:  00:00 - Glory: Women's Conference 01:10 - Intro 02:01 - Welcome 04:14 - How We Found Out 07:02 - His Funeral and the Upcoming Conclave 08:30 - A Grace-filled Time 09:54 - Evangelii Gaudium (Joy of the Gospel) 13:36 - The Church as a Field Hospital 15:52 - Revolution of Tenderness 18:26 - The Lord Deeply Cares for Us 19:48 - Dilexit Nos (The Sacred Heart) 20:27 - The Holy Spirit and the Holy Family 21:12 - His Lasting Legacy 26:08 - How Can We Pray? 29:52 - One Things

In this episode, we celebrate eight years of abiding together with you! We want to celebrate what God has done and is doing in not only our lives, but also in yours. We reflect on why we started the podcast and how our hearts still echo with a desire to help women grow closer to our Lord through communion with others. We share why we surrender the podcast to the Holy Spirit, how we've navigated supporting each other through different seasons of life, and what our hopes are for the future of the podcast. Most of all, we want to thank you for how you've received our vulnerability, your openness to us and the Lord, and your steadfastness in journeying with us along the way. Heather's One Thing - Jubilee Spotify Playlist Sister Miriam's One Thing - Our very first episode - Coffee, Unity, and Companionship Michelle's One Thing - Our listeners! We are so grateful for you!   Announcement: Join us for our Lenten Study beginning March 5th, 2025 as we journey through “Jesus and the Jubilee: The Biblical Roots of the Year of God's Favor“ by Dr. John Bergsma. We look forward to sitting at the feet of a leading scholar as we unpack what the Lord has in store for us in the year of Jubilee. Order your copy at the St. Paul Center with promo code “ABIDE15” for 15% off. There are also bulk discounts available. While “Jesus and the Jubilee” is currently backordered, the St. Paul Center expects a new shipment of books later this week and plans to fulfill your orders by late February.   Journal Questions: Have I experienced friendships and relationships that have been anointed by the Lord? How can I steward my relationships, gifts, time, and opportunities well? When have I seen the difference between success and fruitfulness?   Discussion Questions: When did you first start listening to the podcast? Do you have a favorite episode, season, series, or study? How did it bless you? What areas of your life can you surrender to the Lord to give growth?   Quote to Ponder: "To be grateful is to recognize the Love of God in everything He has given us - and He has given us everything. Every breath we draw is a gift of His love, every moment of existence is a grace, for it brings with it immense graces from Him. Gratitude therefore takes nothing for granted, is never unresponsive, is constantly awakening to new wonder and to praise of the goodness of God. For the grateful person knows that God is good, not by hearsay but by experience. And that is what makes all the difference." (Thomas Merton)   Scripture for Lectio: "Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, 'Thus far the Lord has helped us.'" (1 Samuel 7:12)   Sponsor - The Little Rose Shop: Discover the beauty of integrating faith into your everyday life with The Little Rose Shop. Our Morning Offering Prayer Mug the perfect companion for your morning routine, allowing you to start each day with a heartfelt prayer, focusing your thoughts on Christ. Plus, explore our Quiet Books collection, including the Mass Quiet Book, Rosary Quiet Book, the Where is Jesus Quiet Book, and Wrapped in Mary's Mantle Quiet Book. These engaging books are designed for babies and toddlers, making it easy to introduce them to the wonders of faith in a quiet and interactive way—perfect for adoration or Mass. As a special treat for Abiding Together listeners, use promo code ABIDING15 for an exclusive 15% discount at checkout. Enrich your spiritual journey and bring the joy of faith into your home with The Little Rose Shop.   Timestamps: 00:00 - The Little Rose Shop 01:17 - Intro 02:09 - Lenten Book Announcement 02:54 - Welcome 04:40 - Guiding Quote and Scripture Verse 05:53 - Born Out of Friendship 09:19 - Surrendering Everything Back 10:39 - Honest Conversations 12:05 - Stewarding Well 15:22 - Thankfulness 18:23 - Hearing from Listeners 20:35 - A Collaboration 22:47 - Your Starting Point 24:26 - Hope for the Future 28:29 - One Things 31:12  - Lenten Book Study Reminder  

In this episode, we talk about how we can receive graces by making a spiritual pilgrimage to Nazareth. We reflect on the Holy Family, how they teach us to love well, and how they show us how to build a family that heals and transforms its members. We also discuss the sanctification of the ordinary, how life is found in doing our daily duty well, and how to dialogue with others. Nazareth is a place of love, and we invite you to use your imagination and make the journey with us.    Heather's One Thing - Discovering your God-given Identity Course  Heather's Other One Thing - Memorize Scripture by Jackie Angel Sister Miriam's One Thing - Last Paragraph of Pope Benedict XVI's Inaugural Homily Michelle's One Thing - Everyone who experienced the loss of home from a natural disaster. We are praying for you.   Other Resources Mentioned:  For any alumni of the JPII Healing Center's Holy Desire retreat, Jake Khym is offering a free online course “The Freedom Series: Journeying with Holy Desire”   Announcement: Join us for our Lenten Study beginning March 5th, 2025 as we journey through “Jesus and the Jubilee: The Biblical Roots of the Year of God's Favor“ by Dr. John Bergsma. We look forward to sitting at the feet of a leading scholar as we unpack what the Lord has in store for us in the year of Jubilee. Order your copy at the St. Paul Center with promo code “ABIDE15” for 15% off. Amazon has very limited copies, so we recommend you order from St. Paul Center to ensure you receive your copy before Lent begins!   Journal Questions: Have I ever prayed about life in Nazareth? How can I experience Nazareth in an ordinary way? Where do I need to be transformed in family life? Spend time this week meditating on life in Nazareth. How did I encounter the Holy Family in my meditation? When are the times that I want to rebuke and accuse others? Do I want holiness and transformation more than being right?   Discussion Questions: What renewal and transformation do you need to experience in Nazareth? How do you see ordinary life as the path to sanctification? How do you see ordinary life as an obstacle to sanctification? Where are you in bondage within family life? How can you allow an encounter of Nazareth to set you free from that bondage?   Quote to Ponder: “Pilgrimages are a call to return to the roots of our faith. Nazareth, where Jesus lived His hidden life, is a place that invites us to reflect on our own journey. It is not only a place of memory but also a place of renewal and transformation.” (Pope Francis, Homily, Mass at the Basilica of the Annunciation, 2014)   Scripture for Lectio: “And he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.” (Matthew 2:23)   Sponsor - CMF CURO: Embrace the Wholeness God Desires for You Are you looking for a community of Catholics that is open to Christ's healing love, prays together and is striving for excellence in spirit, mind and body? We know it can be hard to find that. That's why CURO offers its Belong, Thrive and Share communities.   As a listener of Abiding Together, we're excited to offer you a free session of Catholic spiritual direction or personalized wellness coaching.  We're confident that you'll love your time with our trained and experienced coaches and spiritual directors. Our members can't stop saying how grateful they are to grow closer to Christ, form new habits and progress in virtue.  If online is your thing, then check out the Belong wellness portal with a free 30-Day trial. It's designed to help you learn your strengths, discover areas to grow in, and lets you sync with your smart device to seamlessly track your progress towards your goals.  To sign up or learn more just visit: cmfcuro.com/abiding.    Timestamps: 00:00 - CMF CURO 01:37 - Intro 02:30 - Welcome 04:30 - Rest in Nazareth 06:45 - How Do We Go to Nazareth? 11:57 - Spiritual Pilgrimage of Hope 13:31 - The Sanctification of Ordinary Life 15:34 - We Find a Love that Heals 18:00 - A Place to Dialogue 20:39 - Bringing Our Littleness to Nazareth 24:07 - An Encouragement to Try 24:37 - A Place of Astonishment and Wonder 28:50 - One Things

Welcome to the season 16 kickoff with our annual tradition of the Word of the Year episode! Each year, we ask God to give us a theme to focus on for the new year and invite you to do the same. After personal prayer and reflection, we share what our words for 2025 mean to us and chat about the Saints journeying with us this year. We are excited to be back and look forward to seeing what this season will bring.   Heather's One Thing - This Strange Land Podcast Sister Miriam's One Thing - Jubilee Year podcast episode from the Poco a Poco Podcast  Michelle's One Thing - Notre Dame Football and Marcus Freeman and time with Heather and Sister at the 2025 SEEK Conference in DC   Other Resources Mentioned:  Word of the Year video from Blessed is She Beautiful Holiness Beautiful Holiness: A Spiritual Journey With Blessed Conchita to the Heart of Jesus by Kathleen Beckman  Under the Gaze of the Father by Archbishop Martinez (A retreat written for Blessed Conchita)   Journal Questions: If you've been selecting a word of the year for a few years now, reflect on how the words have built on each other over time. Through what golden lens does God want me to see my year? How can I approach this new year with a spirit of integration rather than novelty? In what circumstances of your life do you feel like God isn't showing up?   Discussion Questions: How did you experience your word for 2024? What is the Lord doing for you this year? How is the Lord inviting you to greater faithfulness in 2025? Do you feel like any particular saints have been chosen to journey with you this year? What is your word for 2025?   Quote to Ponder: “The object of a new year is not that we should have a new year, but rather that we should have a new soul.” (G.K. Chesterton)    Scripture for Lectio: “And a word spoken in due season, how good it is.” (Proverbs 15:23)   Timestamps: 00:00 - Rooted for Good  01:31 - Intro 02:23 - Welcome 04:01 - Guiding Quote and Scripture Verse 04:34 - What is a Word of the Year? 08:24 - Michelle's Word(s) 14:10 - Heather's Word 24:10 - Sister's Word 32:15 - One Things   Sponsor - Rooted for Good: Rooted For Good is your go-to destination for luxurious, all-natural skincare and self-care products designed to nurture your skin and enhance your well-being. Our products not only smell and feel incredible but also reflect your commitment to clean, wholesome living. As a Catholic-owned and operated business, Rooted For Good is dedicated to making a difference. With every purchase, 10% of the proceeds go toward uplifting individuals in need in developing countries. When you choose Rooted, you're not only caring for your skin—you're contributing to a mission of hope and generosity! We're honored to sponsor the Abiding Together podcast, a community rooted in faith, inspiration, and connection. This partnership is extra special, as many women in the Abiding Together community have been integral to Rooted's amazing growth. Today, women across the U.S. and beyond trust Rooted products as a key part of their skincare routines. Discover why over 90% of Rooted's customer reviews are 5-star testimonials! Our thoughtfully priced products make premium natural skincare accessible to everyone. Founded by a Catholic mom of six boys, Rooted For Good was built on the belief that every woman deserves high-quality skincare that aligns with her values. Make the switch to all-natural skincare in 2025—your skin will thank you, and your heart will feel good knowing you're making an impact. Join the growing community of women who love Rooted For Good and experience the difference for yourself. Use promo code Abide10 to enjoy 10% off your purchase at RootedForGood.com. Start your journey to radiant, natural beauty today!

In this week's episode, we continue with “Week Three” in our 4 part Advent study of Heather's new book Encountering Emmanuel. We meditate on the vulnerability of Jesus as a baby and how He comes as one who is little so we can know that we are loved in our littleness. We also reflect on what it looks like to have hope, how to love with an open heart, and the deeper meaning of incense. Jesus' heart is an open place of refuge where we find the comfort and relief we so desperately need this Advent season.   Heather's One Things - The upcoming women's conference at Franciscan June 6-8  (registration opens January 29, 2025) Sponsored by Abiding Together and Deacon Bob Rice's new Scriptural Rosary Cards Sister Miriam's One Thing - Restore the Glory Podcast episodes on redemptive suffering (Carrie Archual) (Part 1) (Part 2) Michelle's One Things - This mug from Deacon Bob Rice, Trader Joe's winter peonies, and The Portal of the Mystery of Hope by Charles Peguy   Other Resources Mentioned:  Encountering Emmanuel Resources Resources The Hidden Meaning of Incense w/ Fr. Boniface Hicks   Journal Questions: What does abundant life look like in my life at this time? How can I lean into Hope today? When did I become so serious? How can I allow the Lord to transform my woundedness into a sweet fragrance for the Lord?   Discussion Questions: How do you conflate abundant life with perfection? Where are you holding onto hopelessness? How can you live more openly even in the midst of pain? How can you embrace more play in your life?   Quote to Ponder: “To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly be broken.” (C.S. Lewis, The Four Loves)   Scripture for Lectio: “I led them with cords of human kindness, with bands of love. I was to them like those who lift infants to their cheeks. I bent down to them and fed them.”  (Hosea 11:4)   Sponsor - Catholic Women & Couples NFP: Catholic Women & Couples NFP (CWCNFP) is a lay Catholic organization that is pleased to offer 100% free Natural Family Planning and Fertility Awareness Classes to any Catholic woman or couple 18 years of age and older. Their ministry exists to aid Catholics in pursuing lives in full harmony with Church teaching. By learning a fertility awareness method, Catholic women can be more in tune with their hormones, understand their fertility patterns, and plan their family in accordance with Church teaching. It is estimated that only 20% of Catholics have ever attempted a NFP method. CWCNFP's ministry exists to change that statistic. They believe  all Catholic women and couples should learn a fertility awareness method, no matter their vocation or state in life. With online classes, they work with your busy schedule and offer classes in both Spanish and English. Many NFP courses can cost up to $300, but CWCNFP's classes are ALWAYS free. They specifically teach the Billings Ovulation Method ®, which is very similar to the Creighton Method. However, they know that the Billings Method might not be for everyone, so if a client would like to learn a different NFP method they have a special partnership with MyCatholicDoctor that allows them to learn any method of their choosing as long as they have qualifying insurance. With qualifying insurance, this NFP instruction through MyCatholicDoctor would be covered. In addition, teens or non-Catholics who do not qualify for CWCNFP's free NFP program will be able to find fertility awareness courses through MyCatholicDoctor, in which CWCNFP will assist with setting up. To learn more and to sign up for free classes, visit their website www.ccnfp.org or follow them on Instagram @cwcnfp   Timestamps: 00:00 - Catholic Women and Couples NFP 01:30 - Intro 02:22 - Welcome 04:20 - Vulnerability and Hope 08:12 - Loving with an Open Heart 11:41 - Incense 16:06 - The Language of Play 22:22 - Thoughts for the Third Week of Advent 24:37 - One Things

On this episode, John Cardenas welcomes Heather Khym, co-host of the Abiding Together podcast and author of Encountering Emmanuel, a new Advent journal. They discuss the inspiration behind the journal and its mission to deepen our experience of Christ's presence during Advent. Heather shares her personal faith journey, the healing power of Jesus, and the importance of trusting God's plan. Tune in and make this Advent truly meaningful. Other Resources Mentioned: Encountering Emmanuel Resources https://www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/ https://www.liferestoration.ca/ Ave Maria Press Heather Khym Encountering Emmanuel Timestamps 00:04 Introduction and Guest Welcome 02:50 Technical Difficulties and Casual Chat 03:29 Opening Prayer 05:10 Fun Fact About HeatherKhym 08:04 Heather's Advent Journal: Encountering Emmanuel 12:57 The Four Pillars of the Journal 17:51 Heather's Personal Faith Journey 27:21 The Role of Art in the Journal 31:08 Community and Additional Resources 32:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this week's episode, we reflect on how to prepare for Advent. During this busy season, it is easy to spend more time preparing our home than our hearts and we chat about the need for slowing down, quieting our hearts and surroundings, and becoming attentive to God's presence in our daily lives. We also share practical ways we prepare and wait for the coming of our Lord at Christmas. Heather's One Thing - The songs Holy Forever (YouTube) and The Story I'll Tell (YouTube) Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Carmellite Sisters (View their upcoming events here) Michelle's One Thing -  The song You Know My Name by Tasha Cobbs and This “Full of Hope” Advent Mug from Blessed is She   Announcement: Our Advent study begins next week! Be sure to subscribe to our weekly email to receive each episode, discussion questions, and videos to your inbox.   Journal Questions: Ask the Holy Spirit: What do you want me to be present to this season? Where do I need hope in my life? Where do I lack peace in my life? Where do I need joy in my life? Where do I need to birth joy in my life?   Discussion Questions: What practices do you incorporate in Advent to embrace the season of preparation? When will you take time for prayer this week and throughout Advent? How can you better embrace Advent rather than just tolerate it? How can you slow the interior pace of your heart in Advent?   Quotes to Ponder: “The liturgy of Advent…helps us to understand fully the value and meaning of the mystery of Christmas. It is not just about commemorating the historical event, which occurred some 2,000 years ago in a little village of Judea. Instead, it is necessary to understand that the whole of our life must be an ‘advent,' a vigilant awaiting of the final coming of Christ. To predispose our mind to welcome the Lord who, as we say in the Creed, one day will come to judge the living and the dead, we must learn to recognize him as present in the events of daily life. Therefore, Advent is, so to speak, an intense training that directs us decisively toward him who already came, who will come, and who comes continuously.” (St. John Paul II)   Scripture for Lectio:  “Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:13)   Sponsor - The Little Rose Shop: Discover the beauty of integrating faith into your everyday life with The Little Rose Shop. Our Morning Offering Prayer mug , is the perfect companion for your morning routine, allowing you to start each day with a heartfelt prayer, focusing your thoughts on Christ. Plus, explore our Quiet Books collection, including the Mass Quiet Book, Rosary Quiet Book, the Where is Jesus Quiet Book, and Wrapped in Mary's Mantle Quiet Book. These engaging books are designed for babies and toddlers, making it easy to introduce them to the wonders of faith in a quiet and interactive way—perfect for adoration or Mass. As a special treat for Abiding Together listeners, use promo code ABIDING15 for an exclusive 15% discount at checkout. Enrich your spiritual journey and bring the joy of faith into your home with The Little Rose Shop.   Timestamps: 00:00 - The Little Rose Shop 01:31 - Intro 02:24 - Welcome 04:44 - Guiding Quote and Scripture Verse 05:54 - Stillness 07:20 - Preparing Our Hearts 11:29 - Distractions 14:16 - Intentional and Incarnational 17:25 - Slowing Down 18:57 - Finishing Well 20:16 - Practical Ideas 25:59 - Announcement 27:36 - One Things  30:08 - Closing Prayer

On this episode of Catholic Forum, after a news update from The Dialog, we talk with Heather Khym, author of "Encountering Emmanuel: A Guided Advent Journal for Prayer and Meditation." Heather Khym is the cohost of the internationally popular Abiding Together podcast and the author of Abide. She and her husband, Jake, are the cofounders of Life Restoration Ministries, where she serves as director of vision and ministry of the British Columbia–based apostolate. She also serves as director of the Celtic Cross Foundation. Heather has more than twenty-five years of experience as a speaker and retreat leader offering workshops and conferences in the United States and Canada. She attended Franciscan University of Steubenville, where she studied theology and catechetics. She lives with her husband and three children in British Columbia, Canada. You can see a video of Bob's interview with Heather on the Diocese of Wilmington's YouTube channel. Please like and subscribe. 

In this week's episode, we continue our discussion on communion and focus on the practical aspects of living out in community. We reflect on the four main pillars of building a community: intentionality, vulnerability, proximity, and organically. We also talk about community as a journey and that we learn to love others by experiencing the love of God ourselves. This experience brings communion within us, which bears fruit, and then we are then able to give that love away to others.    Heather's One Thing - Friends of the Bridegroom Sister Miriam's One Thing - What Vegetable are You? Quiz Michelle's One Thing - Monk Manual   Announcement: Check out our new Small Group Resource page!   Journal Questions: How can I express more mercy and curiosity within my community? Who in my local community can I extend an invitation to? Is there variety in my family's community (vocations, ages, stages of life, etc)? For those not currently in an Abiding Together small group: Consider praying about starting an Abiding Together small group or study group. What fears or concerns do I have about starting a group?   Discussion Questions: When do you feel more tempted to speak out harshly instead of conversing gently with those you're in conflict with? What repeating strains and roadblocks have you observed in your relationships over the years? What do you think God may be teaching you through those strains? Throughout the episode, we covered four different aspects of community (intentionality, vulnerability, proximity, and organic engagement). Which of these aspects is hardest for you within your relationships? How can you initiate moments of organic community in your current season? Set a goal for yourself this week and check back in with each next time you connect.   Quotes to Ponder: "God is love and in himself he lives a mystery of personal loving communion. Creating the human race in his own image .... God inscribed in the humanity of man and woman the vocation, and thus the capacity and responsibility, of love and communion." (CCC 2331) “The person who loves their dream of community will destroy community, but the person who loves those around them will create community.” (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Christian Community)   Scripture for Lectio:  “And fear came upon every soul; and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common; and they sold their possessions and goods and distributed them to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they partook of food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:43-47) Sponsor - Nazareth Organics: Nazareth Organics (@nazarethorganics) is a Catholic family-owned natural skincare company that handcrafts balms with high quality, wild-crafted, and organic ingredients from nature. From facial moisturizers and serums to diaper creams and body butters, Nazareth Organics carries nourishing natural products for a wide array of skin conditions. They use grass-fed tallow from a local Catholic farm as a base for many of their balms, because it is rich in fat-soluble vitamins and fatty acids that can increase collagen production, strengthen the skin, and calm inflammation. The best thing about this business is that it's dedicated to the Holy Family of Nazareth. From website to packaging, every sustainably sourced product points back to the faith and the ultimate source of creation. They also donate a portion of all proceeds to Catholic charitable organizations. If you want to honor and care for your body using pure and natural ingredients straight from God's hands, then check out Nazareth Organics. Find them at nazareth-organics.com and use code ABIDE10 at checkout for a 10% discount. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook at: @nazarethorganics.   Timestamps: 00:00 - Nazareth Organics 01:31 - Intro 02:23 - Welcome and Recap 03:23 - Judgement vs Curiosity 06:36 - Bearing Fruit in Community  08:43 - Jesus as a Model of Community 11:05 - Aspects of Community 18:28 - Good Community Takes Time to Build 19:17 - Abiding Together Small Group Resources 22:22 - One Things  

In this week's episode, we talk about the theology of communion. Our desire for communion with others is very good and comes from God Himself. In fact, our ache for community is an ache for eternity. God desires to bring us into an eternal communion with Him and the community here on earth points towards this in a small way. We discuss what happens when we experience a broken community, the challenges faced in building community, and how community changes throughout the seasons of life.   Heather's One Thing - My art on the “They That Hope” podcast mug (add photos to website) Sister Miriam's One Thing - Best Ever Crock Pot Roast Recipe  Michelle's One Thing - Every Sacred Sunday Mass Journal   Announcement: Order your Abiding Together shirt in our shop today!   Journal Questions: How have I been wounded within community? How have I been healed through community? In what ways are my friendships free, total, faithful, and fruitful? In what ways are my friendships not free, total, faithful, and fruitful? What kind of friend do I need to tend to my heart? What kind of friend am I to my friends' hearts? How have I withheld belonging from others?   Discussion Questions: How has your need and capacity for community changed over the years? How can you extend belonging to people in your community? What lies isolate you from entering into friendship? How is God inviting you to cultivate and receive community?   Quotes to Ponder: "God is love and in himself he lives a mystery of personal loving communion. Creating the human race in his own image .... God inscribed in the humanity of man and woman the vocation, and thus the capacity and responsibility, of love and communion." (CCC 2331) “The person who loves their dream of community will destroy community, but the person who loves those around them will create community.” (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Christian Community)   Scripture for Lectio:  “And fear came upon every soul; and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common; and they sold their possessions and goods and distributed them to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they partook of food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:43-47)   Sponsor - CORDA: Connect with the saints through scent with CORDA's handcrafted Catholic candles. Each candle scent is directly inspired by different saints and aspects of the faith, and is made with clean coconut wax and a beautiful, modern design.  Be sure to sign up for the CORDA Fan Club, too: it's free and an awesome way to earn points that you can redeem for free products, gift cards, and free shipping.  You can join the club and explore CORDA's gorgeous Catholic candles (and 3,000+ reviews!) at cordacandles.com. And when you're placing your order, don't forget to enter code ABIDINGTOGETHER to save 15% on everything, now through the end of the year. Thank you for supporting this Catholic small business!   Timestamps: 00:00 - CORDA 01:23 - Intro 02:15 - Announcement 02:42 - Welcome 04:23 - Scripture Verse and Guiding Quotes 05:47 - Initial Thoughts 08:41 - The Desire for Communion is Good 13:39 - Community Takes Work 16:36 - Learning How to Love 18:04 - Identifying the Lies 24:34 - Understanding the Wounds of Others 29:00 - One Things

In this week's episode, we model what it looks like to pray Lectio Divina, which is a divine reading of Sacred Scripture. We begin by sharing the different ways we spend time in Sacred Scripture, how it has impacted our lives, and model how to pray Lectio Divina. We invite you to follow along and join us as we spend time reading and reflecting on John 15:5-8. Sacred Scripture is the voice of God and what He has said is alive forever and relevant to our lives in all situations. We encourage you to journey with us as we deepen our relationship with God through His word. Heather's One Thing - Franciscan University's Austria Study Abroad Program and Guadalupe Pilgrimage Sister Miriam's One Thing - FOCUS film Radiating Joy: The Michelle Duppong Story (trailer here) Michelle's One Thing -  Praying for anyone affected by hurricane Helene Catholic Charities    Other Resources Mentioned:  Steps for Lectio Divina The Art and Practice of Lectio Divina    Announcement(s): We are so excited to announce that we will have new Abiding Together shirts in our shop next week! Follow us on social media for all the latest updates!   Journal Questions: When do I encounter the Scriptures throughout my day? Do I incorporate Lectio Divina into my prayer routine? What obstacles prevent me from entering into Lectio Divina? How can I begin to incorporate Lectio Divina more frequently into my prayer?   Discussion Questions: How have you been nourished by the Word of God? Have you struggled to hear the voice of God in the past? When do you hear the voice of God in this season of your life? What stuck out to you during the Lectio Divina within the episode?   Quote to Ponder:  “It is especially necessary that listening to the word of God should become a life-giving encounter, in the ancient and ever valid tradition of lectio divina, which draws from the biblical text the living Word which questions, directs and shapes our lives.” (Saint Pope John Paul II, Novo Millennio Ineunte, 39)   Scripture for Lectio:  “I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit; because apart from me you can do nothing. Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire and burned. If you abide in me and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and become my disciples.” (John 15:5-8)   Sponsor - Emmaus Road Publishing: Introducing the Saints Around the World for Little Ones Collection from Emmaus Road Publishing! Building on the success of the original Saints Around the World, this six-volume series is designed for young readers aged 0-8 and presents the lives of 90 saints in an engaging and accessible way. You can purchase each volume individually or save 15% by ordering the complete set. Written by Meg Hunter Kilmer and illustrated by Lindsey Sanders, this collection features saints from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life, showing children that holiness is possible for everyone. Each book focuses on a different group of saints: “Young Saints,” “Adventurous Saints,” “Royal and Warrior Saints,” “Talented Saints,” and more. The vibrant illustrations and simple, captivating storytelling are perfect for family reading time. The books are printed on sturdy, tear-resistant paper, making them ideal for young readers.  Each saint's story includes a summary of their teachings and a map showing where they lived, helping children learn geography while deepening their faith. Whether you choose to buy a single book or the whole set, Saints Around the World for Little Ones will be a cherished addition to your family's library. Order today at stpaulcenter.com/saints and use promo code Abide10 to take an additional 10% off your purchase!   Timestamps: 00:00 - Emmaus Road Publishing 01:09 - Intro 02:01 - Welcome 07:23 - Sacred Scripture in Our Lives 12:45 - How to Pray Lectio Divina 15:37 - First Reading 17:59 - Second Reading 19:23 - Third Reading 21:01 - Reflections 28:23 - One Things 32:06 - Announcement

Truth, Wisdom, Instruction & UnderstandingProverbs 23:23 “Buy truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding.”Well, this is an interesting verse.  I wonder how we would sell truth?  I wonder why God needs to tell us to buy truth and do not sell it?  Then He also says to buy wisdom, instruction and understanding.  I was stumped on what this verse meant or what God was trying to tell us with this verse.  However, when it is put into context of our prayer group it makes a little more sense to me.  During prayer group the leader talked about how sometimes we think about all that we are lacking and we may even ask God what it is that we lack.  This is because we are looking to ourselves to gain eternal life.  We are looking to see what it is that we can do to get ourselves into heaven.  The leader talked about how we need to trade our self reliance in for reliance on God.  There isn't anything we can do to get ourselves into heaven.  We will get into heaven only through God's grace.  After the beginning part of our meeting we also had several words of prophecy that talked about how we are looking for God in all the wrong places.  We are looking for Him in places that He does not dwell.  He dwells deep within our hearts.  He also said that He is there for us, but we are not looking to Him to solve our problems, we are looking to ourselves to solve our problems.  He is asking us to turn our problems over to Him instead of trying to solve them on our own.  In this context I can see how God would want us to buy truth, wisdom, instruction and understanding.  We need to see the truth that we can't do anything on our own and yet we can “do all things through Christ who strengthens me” Philippians 4:13.  We need to not sell this truth for all the things the world tells us.  We need to not sell this truth in order to believe that we can do things on our own.  We need to not believe that God is too busy to help us.  We need to not believe that God helps others but not us.  We need to buy the truth and not sell it for any of these other false truths that the world is trying to sell us.Next, we need to ask God for Wisdom to know the difference.  Wisdom is a gift from the Holy Spirit and according to the Catholic Church wisdom is the first and highest gift of the Holy Spirit.  We believe that wisdom leads to an intimate understanding of God's Word and His commandments.  When we develop an intimate understanding of God's Word and His commandments then we can better live out our faith.  I believe this is why the verse above mentions truth and then puts wisdom, instruction and understanding in the same line.  I believe wisdom leads to instruction and understanding.  God has given us a lot of instruction in the Bible on how He wants us to live.  There is no question as to what He says in the Bible.  I think the question comes in when we try to interpret what He says in the Bible.  The Bible was written almost 2,000 years ago.  Well, the old testament was written long before that I believe.  So, reading the bible is not like reading something that was written 10 years ago.  Times have changed a lot.  Although as I write that I wonder, have they?  I mean yes technology has changed a lot, circumstances may have also changed a lot, but have we as people changed a lot?  That I am not sure of.  I think we tend to struggle with the same basic things as people struggled with back then.  The same underlying sins are there, we just have a different spin on them.  That is just my opinion.So, when it comes to reading the Bible, sometimes we can get caught up in the actual words of the Bible or the situation that they are talking about.  We can read something and think that it doesn't pertain to us because our situation is so different than that of the person of the Bible.  We can't really see any connection between how they are living and how we are living.  This is why we need wisdom, instruction and understanding.  We need wisdom to see how the situations in the Bible relate to our own situation.  We need instructions on how we are to live our life right now in this century.  We need understanding to know what is meant for us to read literally and what is meant as a story to teach us a lesson.There are different writing styles in the Bible.  There are things that are a historical recount of what happened during that time.  However, Jesus also teaches a lot of lessons through parables.  There are also stories meant to teach us a lesson.  If we have a deeper understanding of God's work we would know the difference.  Wisdom can come in many different ways I think.  For instance, we don't have to gain this understanding all on our own.  There are many people who have studied the Bible for years and are happily sharing all they know about it.  You can learn from them.I don't think anyone gains the wisdom to understand everything all at once.  For instance, I don't think you will go to bed one day and then wake up the next day with all the wisdom you have ever wanted.  I think the Holy Spirit opens your mind up to wisdom and then guides you to this wisdom.  You may be praying for wisdom and understanding and then you get an email or notice an advertisement for a Bible study in your area.  That is the Holy Spirit prompting you to gain the wisdom you are asking for.  Or, maybe you hear about a podcast that you hadn't heard of before.  There are several podcasts that have really helped me gain understanding about God's Word and about the Catholic Religion in general.  If you are looking for additional podcasts some of the ones I have tried are Father Mike Schmitz Bible In A Year Podcast, he also has another one that talks about all things Catholic.  The Jeff Cavins Show is a good one.  The Big Life Devotional with Pamela Crim is also good.  All Things Catholic with Edward Sri, I haven't listened to this one a lot, but I have heard him talk and he is really good.  The Elevation Church with Steven Furtick is good.  He is a minister that posts his sermons on this podcast.  I have never heard one that I didn't like.  Abiding Together is one that talks about three woman's journey in their faith.  That is also informational.  Your Catholic Life Podcast with Jon Leonetti is also a good one.  He is someone that loves his Catholic Faith so much and you can just hear it in his voice.  And last but not least Exploring My Strange Bible.  This one is so good.  Each episode is like a mini Bible study.  He takes all the stories and goes into a lot more detail so that you understand the Bible stories in a whole new way.  You get such a deeper understanding.  I didn't mean to deviate there, but I do think that understanding the Lord's Word is an essential part of Wisdom.  Not just His word but His instruction as well.  This is why I listed all those podcasts.  They will definitely help with understanding and wisdom.   I know it was a long list.  I don't intend for you to listen to them all, or any of them right now if you plate is full.  I have listened to different ones at different times.  This is why I am saying the Holy Spirit leads you to the wisdom you need.  If you are feeling you need more wisdom or understanding say a quick prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to the wisdom your seeking.  This list of podcasts is listed in the show notes so you can come back at any time and look through it.  Remember, rely not on yourselves and what you can do, but what God can do through you.  Dear Heavenly Father I ask that you bless all those listening to this episode today. I ask that you help us to buy truth and not sell it and buy wisdom and instruction and understanding. Lord we ask that you lead us to your wisdom and not the ways of the world.  Lord we ask you for instruction and understanding in how to live life the way you want us to. Lord we ask for a supernatural wisdom, a gift from the Holy Spirit, that will help move your word and instruction from our brain to our heart. We're asking for an intimate knowledge of your word and instruction so that we can live it with our actions. We thank you so much for all you do for us Lord you are amazing.  We love you Lord and we ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus holy name amen. www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE FOR RETREAT INFOCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

From the series: How is God developing the image of his Son in International Bible Church?(bulletin here)

Dr. Steven Roby Psalm 90:12, Ephesians5:15-21

In this bonus episode, Heather is joined by Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR live at the National Eucharistic Congress (NEC) for a special Abiding Together and They that Hope podcast mashup. They reflect on their experiences at the NEC and share how they hope God will transform the lives of not only those in attendance, but also those at home. Heather and Fr. Dave also discuss finding Jesus in our daily lives and the importance of feasting on God instead of earthly things. This episode is a production of Franciscan University and OSV. Special thanks to MAX Studios for recording and hosting the live podcast stage.   Heather's Highlight from the NEC - Adoration with Floriani  Heather's One Thing - Receiving a copy of her new book:  Encountering Emmanuel (A Guided Advent Journal for Prayer and Meditation) Fr. Dave's Highlight from the NEC - His time spent with the young people at the Congress Fr. Dave's One Thing - Deep friendships Other Resources Mentioned:  Msgr. James Shea's Full Speech at the National Eucharistic Congress   Announcement: Season 15 begins September 2024 - join our email list to receive updates!   Journal Questions: How have I experienced Eucharistic revival this year? Have you allowed the stress of your duties and burdens take your eyes off Christ in this season? How can I shift my gaze from my inner world to Christ?   Discussion Questions: How has Christ encountered you personally when you felt lost in the crowd? What obstacles cause you to miss Him when He's right in front of you? How can you put yourself back into the reality that God is sovereign and in control?   Quote to Ponder: “The One whom the Father has sent into our hearts, the Spirit of his Son, is truly God. Consubstantial with the Father and the Son, the Spirit is inseparable from them, in both the inner life of the Trinity and his gift of love for the world. In adoring the Holy Trinity, life-giving, consubstantial, and indivisible, the Church's faith also professes the distinction of persons. When the Father sends his Word, he always sends his Breath. In their joint mission, the Son and the Holy Spirit are distinct but inseparable. To be sure, it is Christ who is seen, the visible image of the invisible God, but it is the Spirit who reveals him.” (CCC 689)   Scripture for Lectio:  “When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed, and broke it, and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened and they recognized him; and he vanished out of their sight. They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the scriptures?” (Luke 24:30-32)

In this week's episode, we conclude season 14 by reflecting on what we have learned in our lives this past season. We chat about surrendering control and allowing the Holy Spirit to move in power, the need to be grateful for what we already have and the importance of being present in the present moment. We also share personal experiences of transformation and deep intimacy we have found with God, even in the midst of suffering. Thank you for an amazing season, we are truly honored to be on this journey with you. God bless!   Heather's One Thing - Her recent Healing Pilgrimage to France through Franciscan University (check out their website to join future pilgrimages) and Michelle's Sweatshirt Sister Miriam's One Thing - You :) Michelle's One Thing - Her Summer Reading List, Word on Fire's children's books, and the book Between Brothers by Sarah Metts   Announcements: Join us July 8-29 2024 as we re-release our book study on The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by CS Lewis. We will have downloadable journals for both kids and adults!  Season 15 begins September 2024 - join our email list to receive updates!   Journal Questions: Which episode, conversation, or theme resonated with me most this season? What miracles have I been managing lately? What has the process of transformation looked like in my life? How do I partner with fear in my life? What freedom and goodness does the Lord offer me in those areas?   Discussion Questions: What does it look like to move through the power of the Holy Spirit? What is God asking you to get rid of and let go of before you move into the next season of life? What graces are you grateful for in this season of your life? How will you cultivate intimacy with the Lord and community with others throughout the summer?   Quote to Ponder: “Faith walks simply, childlike, between the darkness of human life and the hope of what is to come.” (Catherine Doherty) Scripture for Lectio:  “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)   Sponsor - Behold Visio Divina: Encounter the Lord more deeply amidst all the seasons in life through Behold Visio Divina.  Behold is devoted to helping women encounter who Christ is through prayer and sacred art.  Through their books, formation, and workshops, Behold hopes women can encounter the beauty of who God created them to be and share that with the world! Offering over 10 different sacred art prayer companions on themes such as praying through fear, post abortive healing, relational healing, and many others, Behold has options for every woman's heart. Upcoming book topics include miscarriage and infant loss, iconography, and scrupulosity. Friend, you are seen, known, and loved wherever the Lord has you in life.  And we are here to provide the opportunity to invite you and Jesus into conversation through art and community.  We currently are accepting registration for our in person and virtual groups taking part this summer.  Take a look at our small groups here and join us! Because the Abiding Together community holds such a special place in our heart, Behold is offering 15% off any of their items, small group registration, and books.  Use the code “ABIDING” for this special rate at www.beholdvisiodivina.com.  On our website you can also register for our “Weekly Dose of Beauty” emails! We hope you can join our Behold family soon, please know of our prayers for you!

Series: Planted Title: Abiding Together: The 5 Distinctives Passage: Galatians 5:22-26 Preached by Pastor Mason Ballard Resurrection Church 4.21.2024 #ResurrectionChurch #Charleston #WestVirginia

In this week's episode, we continue our Lenten study on the book “A Time of Renewal” and focus on how life is a continual process of refinement and how true learning comes through the healing found in suffering and communion. We also talk about the feelings of shame that accompany situations where we fall short, the importance of recognizing our limitations in humility, and how God desires to redeem our deepest wounds to help us grow in communion and love.    Heather's One Thing -  Sarah Kroger's new song No Filter  Sister Miriam's On Thing - Heather Khym's Lenten Playlist (AGAIN!!) Michelle's One Thing - Floret Flowers   Announcement: We will be taking a two week break for Easter beginning on 4/1/24. Season 14 will continue on 4/15/24!   Journal Questions: What learning curves in my life do I react to with shame or fear? Where in my life do I feel like I need to figure it out? What are my most frequent complaints? How do they wound the Heart of Christ? How can I honor the Lord this upcoming Holy Week?   Discussion Questions: What lessons are you learning this Lent? What blocks and walls do you experience when learning new lessons? How is the Lord inviting you to put in effort in learning the lessons of this season? How can you show loving and attentive devotion to the Lord in your daily life?   Quote to Ponder: “Let us think for a few minutes about the process of learning. All real learning requires a great effort….One could perhaps define the greatest scholars as those who have put forth the most effort with the equipment that God gave them. There is always some form of suffering in all learning because there must be patience, and patience is suffering. There is always humility in learning. It is the great scholars who realize how little they know…” (Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 175)   Scripture for Lectio:  “He said to his apostles, “I have yet many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.”” (John 16:12)   Sponsor - The Christa McAuliffe Academy School of Arts and Sciences: Discover CMASAS, where education is as unique as your child. CMASAS offers a personalized learning experience that adapts to each student's passions and pace. This WASC-accredited K-12 online school is an asynchronous, mastery-based program is a great fit for families seeking flexibility.  CMASAS offers an experienced instructional support team with an average of 15 years' experience. Course Instructors and Personalized Education Coaches (PECs) work with parents and students to develop a Personalized Education Plan specific to each student's goals. The CMASAS community represents 30 countries. Students create lifelong friendships as they connect at clubs, homerooms, international trips, and in-person events. With dual-enrollment and AP options, students often graduate with college credits. We're excited to offer Abiding Together listeners a special promo code ABIDE2024 to waive the enrollment registration fee. Discover how CMASAS can redefine education for your child: Visit www.cmasas.org, Email info@cmasas.org, Call 503.226.7374

In this week's episode, we continue our Lenten study on the book “A Time of Renewal” and focus on the theme of the right kind of zeal. We chat about how we may be feeling tired and tempted to relax our Lenten penances and discuss the importance of taking time to reflect on why we felt called to take on a specific sacrifice and then recommitting ourselves with zeal to carry it out. We also talk about the joys of living in covenant with the Lord, the heartache we should experience when our hearts wander, and the beauty of giving ourselves totally to Him out of love.     Heather's One Thing - Happy 80th birthday to her dad! Heather's Other One Thing - Episode 5 of Fr. Dave's series called: My father's Father. Watch on Wildgoose TV here or Faith and Reason here. Sister Miriam's On Thing - Heather Khym's Lenten Playlist Michelle's One Thing - The song Closing Distance by Seven Hills Worship (acoustic version here)   Journal Questions: What do you need to fill your tank for the long spiritual roadtrip of Lent? What spiritual rest stops do I need to take to continue to go the distance with the Lord? How am I letting my emotions drive the bus? Do I treat my covenant with the Lord with the same respect as I show the covenants of marriage or religious life?   Discussion Questions: How do you need the Lord to love you this week? Have you been feeling empty, angsty, or frustrated this Lent? How is the Lord inviting you into deeper freedom through this experience? How can you suffer and fast with more joy? What “little foxes” in my life are getting in between me and my covenant with the Lord?   Quotes to Ponder: “The ancient name for Lent is “the season of the battle”, agonia, which was the Greek word for the final testing of the athlete or the warrior, and has become the term for the Agony in the Garden.” (Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 143)   Scripture for Lectio:  “His disciples recalled the words of Scripture, Zeal for your house will consume me.” (John 2:17)   Sponsor - JPII Healing Center:  Discover the healing God deeply desires for you.  Our brand-new Healing the Whole Person Video Series dives deep into your areas of woundedness and pain and the healing and restoration God deeply longs to give you. All 8 transformational talks by Dr. Bob Schuchts and Sr. Miriam James Heidland, as well as 10hrs of Q&As, are now available to you on our streaming platform right in the comfort of your home. To aid you in your journey to healing and wholeness use code Abiding25 to receive 25% off individual and group leader subscriptions (expires 4/1/24). Additionally, the numerous books and resources offered in our online store offer you insight and accompaniment on your path to healing. There you will find several familiar authors including Dr. Bob Schuchts and Abiding Together's very own Sr. Miriam.

The Power of SolitudeLuke 5:16 “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”The other day, I was listening to the Abiding Together podcast. The episode was called Living in Tension: Solitude and Community. This was a really interesting idea. It is important to keep in mind that we need both solitude and community. Today I want to talk to you a bit about why you also need time for solitude. No matter if we are an introvert or an extrovert, we all need both community and solitude. The solitude is not where we spend time by ourselves watching Netflix and eating ice cream. We all may need that sometimes too, but the solitude they were talking about on the podcast was that time when you go away from everyone and spend time with the Lord. Jesus did this often in the Bible. He fed the 5,000 and then went off to be alone with the Father. He did this so often in the Bible that people would go after Him and try to find Him. They wanted to know what He was doing.No matter how close we get to the Lord, this solitude will always be necessary. There is always more with the Lord. We can always go further in with Him. We can always grow closer to Him. Encounter Ministries says you can always go further up and further in. This alone time with God is essential. This is the time when He can fill us up. This is a time when He can show us what He has planned for us. God will use us if we allow Him to. God will help guide us in our lives if we allow Him to. If we never stop and spend some time with God, just us and Him, when do we learn about His plan for our life? When do we learn about what He wants us to do?Things in our life will go much better when we spend quiet time with God, asking Him what we should do before we do it. In order to recognize the Lord's voice, we need to make sure we are spending time regularly with Him. In order to have an intimate relationship with him, we need to spend time with Him. Maintaining our relationship with God is similar to maintaining our relationship with others. We need to invest our time and our attention to it, or it will fizzle out. I found an article that talks about the 6 Benefits of Solitude with God by John (Click Here for full article)Here are 6 benefits of solitude with God1.)   Exposure to God's wisdom God is all-wise and all-knowing. You can't spend time alone with Him and remain ignorant. Acts 4:13 says that when the religious leaders saw the boldness of Peter and John and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled; and they realized that they had been with Jesus. You can't spend time with the LORD and not be wiser than you are now.2.)   Recipient of divine perspectiveThrough Scripture and time with the Lord, God gives His people the capacity to see all of life from His vantage point. Having God's perspective allows us to rise above the daily grind of life and the petty actions of others and realize there is a sovereign God who rules over His creation and directs the activities of mankind.3.)   Renewal of physical and spiritual strengthWhen you spend time alone with God, you not only gain renewal of physical strength, but you also enjoy spiritual refueling and refreshment. Isaiah 40:31 says “those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” According to Psalm 68:35a, the God of Israel is “He who gives strength and power to His people.” Spend time alone with God, and He will give you power and strength.4.)   Beneficiary of Godly guidanceGod promises to guide us all the way through our lives. The psalmist writes, “For this God is our God forever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.” (Psalm 48:14). But how do we receive this guidance? Psalm 48:9 says: “meditating on your unfailing love.” The secret of guidance is alone time with God – meditating on His word. Wow, what a gift we receive in our alone time with the Lord!5.)   Experience conviction and correctionPsalm 17:4-5 says: “I have followed your commands, which keep me from following cruel and evil people. My steps have stayed on your path; I have not wavered from following you.”One of the great proofs that the Bible is really God's inspired Word is its unique ability to convict men and women of their sins. Often God will use his word to correct us and lead us onto a steady path gently. 6.)   God's great rewardGod rewards time spent alone with him in prayer. “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners so that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father, who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:5-6)God's will, His nearness, His goodness, His love – rewards freely given to those who commune with him. Make solitude a priority! All of the money in the world cannot buy the rewards God longs to give you as you commune with Him. As we get busy in this Lenten season don't forget to prioritize alone time with God this year. It's the best gift you will ever receive; one-on-one communion with your heavenly Father. You might wonder, with all these benefits, why would anyone avoid solitude? We can avoid solitude because when we think of solitude, we think of being alone, and there are all sorts of reasons why we wouldn't want to be alone. We might think that when we are alone, our mind will think of all the things we have been trying to avoid. Maybe we have trauma from our past. Maybe we have things in our lives right now that we are trying to avoid. We might be afraid if we have solitude, we might have to confront all the things we are trying to avoid.However, when we avoid solitude, we are avoiding deep connection with the Lord as well. God is calling each one of us to make the choice to find time away from everyone else and to meet Him there in that silence. Almost all the main players in the Bible spend time in solitude with the Lord. I read an article that had three things for us to consider when practicing solitude. The article was called How to Practice Solitude. I didn't fine an author. (Click Here for the full article)Three things to consider when practicing solitude:1. Solitude doesn't require silenceSilence and solitude are complementary disciplines that aid our communion with God. But while silence almost always requires solitude, solitude does not necessarily require silence. We can use our time of solitude for prayer, verbal meditation on Scripture, singing psalms or hymns of praise, or any other form of “noisy” activity. Solitude doesn't require either silence or a hushed solemnity.2. Solitude requires planningOur lives tend to be filled with people and events, making it unlikely we'll accidentally stumble into solitude. Being alone with God requires planning. Choose a place where you can be intimate with God and free from distractions. This “special place” doesn't need to be special — it just needs to be a place where you can remove yourself from the world for as much time as needed.3. Solitude requires timeOn most days, the best we can do is to get away alone for a few minutes or even an hour. We should cherish these times and guard them carefully. Yet while these solitary moments are necessary, they're hardly sufficient to meet our need for closeness with our Creator. Commit to finding creative ways to be alone with God for extended periods of solitude, ranging from a few hours to a few days.Three reasons solitude is necessary for spiritual formation1. Solitude amplifies other disciplinesWe can carry out almost every other discipline in the company of others. We can pray, meditate, and worship almost anytime and in any place. But practicing those disciplines in the context of solitude helps us achieve a greater focus and augments our efforts.2. Solitude is not about being aloneNormally when we use the term solitude, we're referring to the state of being alone. But solitude also has the meaning of “absence of human activity.” This is what we mean when we refer to the discipline; the purpose is not to be alone but to experience the absence of human activity so that we can more fully experience the presence of God.3. Solitude exposes our idolsWe might tell ourselves we prefer God's company to that of any other person or thing in the world. Solitude puts that claim to the test. By being alone with God, we get a clearer view of the idols of our hearts, and we are presented with an opportunity to repent.As you can see, there are many reasons why we need to make time to be in solitude with God. I pray you will find extra time during this Lenten season to be alone with the Lord and let Him fill you up.Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you to be with everyone listening to this episode. Lord, we thank you for wanting to be in a relationship with us. We thank you for wanting to spend time with us. We thank you for filling us up in that time alone with you. Lord, we ask that you show each one of us how you want to be in a relationship with us. Show us where and when you want to meet with us. Lord, if we are struggling to find time to be with you, we ask you to put on our hearts when in our schedule we can add more time with you. We want to be with you, Lord; we are just struggling to make it happen. Please help us. We ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus' holy name, Amen!Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. I look forward to seeing you here again tomorrow. Remember, Jesus loves you, and so do I! Have a blessed day!

In this week's episode, we begin our seven week Lenten study of the book “A Time of Renewal” by Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. In this episode we cover the introduction and the sections on the first four days of Lent. We discuss how Lent is an opportunity for us to grow in intimacy with God and how viewing fasting as a time of renewal, not suffering, can help us encounter a deeper transformation. We also reflect on our ability to help others grow in holiness, why Lent is the Springtime of the liturgical year, and how we can allow ourselves to bloom this Lenten season.    Heather's One Thing - Aspire to Live a Quiet Life by Francis Chan Sister Miriam's One Thing - the women at the Trini-tea fundraiser (pictures here) Michelle's One Thing - ABBA by Johnathan Helser and the people of Louisiana   Journal Questions: Take inventory of your heart: where are you? Where do I need to reflower? What areas of my life does the Lord want to prune? Am I approaching this Lent like “just another Lent”? How can I accept this Lent as a unique season and invitation from the Lord? What practices put me back in the gaze of the Father? How can I incorporate them into my Lenten plan?   Discussion Questions: Which fruits in my life are good fruits? Which fruits are bad fruits? How can you be more conscious of your responsibility for one another's holiness? Whose growth in holiness is God inviting you to be conscious of? Who can you offer your Lenten prayers and fasts up for? How close are you to the Lord today?   Quotes to Ponder: “I hope we will not allow ourselves to think of it as “just another Lent”. There is a very deep sense in which there is not another Lent and then another and another after that. This Lent is unlike any other. It is this acceptable time. We do not know if there will be another Lent for us, but we do know God has brought us to this acceptable time, to this prolonged day of salvation.” (Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 19)   Scripture for Lectio:  “Is not this the fast that I chose: to loose the bonds of wickedness and to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free and break every yoke?” (Isaiah 58:6)   Sponsor - The Little Rose Shop: Discover the beauty of integrating faith into your everyday life with The Little Rose Shop.  Our Morning Offering Prayer mug is the perfect companion for your morning routine, allowing you to start each day with a heartfelt prayer, focusing your thoughts on Christ. Plus, explore our Quiet Books collection, including the Mass Quiet Book, Rosary Quiet Book, and the Where is Jesus Quiet Book. These engaging books are designed for babies and toddlers, making it easy to introduce them to the wonders of faith in a quiet and interactive way—perfect for adoration or Mass.  As a special treat for Abiding Together listeners, use promo code ABIDING15 for an exclusive 15% discount at checkout. Enrich your spiritual journey and bring the joy of faith into your home with The Little Rose Shop.

//Andrew Lundy | John 15:1-9

In this week's episode, we reflect on the role both joy and sorrow simultaneously play in our lives. We chat about how pressing into grief allows us to more fully experience joy, and how when we try to numb ourselves to the sorrow we also numb ourselves to the experience of joy. We also talk about the importance of naming disappointments, intentionally maturing in our faith, and what we have personally learned while grieving the loss of a parent. When we learn to suffer well and meet God in the midst of our sufferings, we can reach a deep joy we never thought possible.    Heather's One Thing - Attending and speaking at SEEK ‘24.  Watch my session here. Sister Miriam's One Thing - Therapist's Conference with the JPII Healing Center Michelle's One Thing - Nick Sabn Retiring From College Football    Announcement: We are excited to announce that our Lenten book study will be: A Time of Renewal: Daily Reflections for the Lenten Season by Mother Mary Francis, P.C.C. Visit our website for more information!   Journal Questions: What paradoxes am I called to live in right now? How can I bring the Lord into my disappointments? Am I more prone to pushing my emotions aside or letting my emotions rule my life (emotional gluttony)? In seasons of grief, who are the people who have been my midwives and accompanied me through those seasons?   Discussion Questions: What disappointments have you experienced this past year? Is it hard for you to be honest with God about those disappointments? What is God redeeming and restoring in your life? In a current disappointment or heartbreak you are feeling, what gratitude are you experiencing alongside it? What gifts of daily bread is the Lord providing for you in this season?   Quote to Ponder: “Our life is a short time in expectation, a time in which sadness and joy kiss each other at every moment. There is a quality of sadness that pervades all the moments of our lives. It seems that there is no such thing as a clear-cut pure joy, but that even in the most happy moments of our existence we sense a tinge of sadness. In every satisfaction, there is an awareness of limitations. In every success, there is the fear of jealousy. Behind every smile, there is a tear. In every embrace, there is loneliness. In every friendship, distance. And in all forms of light, there is the knowledge of surrounding darkness . . . But this intimate experience in which every bit of life is touched by a bit of death can point us beyond the limits of our existence. It can do so by making us look forward in expectation to the day when our hearts will be filled with perfect joy, a joy that no one shall take away from us.” (Henri J.M. Nouwen, Making All Things New: An Invitation to the Spiritual Life)   Scripture for Lectio:  He turns my mourning into dancing. You have turned my mourning into dancing; you have taken off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, so that my soul may praise you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever. (Psalm 30:11-12)   Sponsor - Pilgrimage to Beauty: Pilgrimage to Beauty (www.pilgrimagetobeauty.com/abidingtogether) creates transformative experiences of true rest and retreat, for couples or individuals wired for adventure. Whether you're an adventurer or a contemplative, Pilgrimage to Beauty invites you to Guatemala July 24-31, 2024 for a unique encounter with Blessed Stanley Rother in the Mayan village he served and died for only 43 years ago. Tens of thousands of pilgrims have visited the newly opened Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City, but very few have had the experience of praying and serving in Santiago, the village where his heart resides and his mission lives on. We have already had a number of Abiding Together listeners go on this pilgrimage and describe it as one of the most transformational trips of their lives. Our very good friends Ennie and Cana Hickman and Emily Blasdell will guide you to the breathtaking shores of Lake Atitlan, feed you delicious local cuisine, and accompany you on this once in a lifetime encounter with God and His saint.  Visit PilgrimageToBeauty.com/abidingtogether to find out all the special perks for our Abiding Together listeners, including $500 off of your registration!

In this episode, we continue with part three of our four part Advent series on the book “The Reed of God” by Caryll Houselander. Today, we focus on part three and discuss the sections on the Lost Child, Idols, and the Last Confession. We chat about how when we lose sight of Jesus, we are called to imitate Mary and seek until He is found. By persevering on this journey and staying strong in the face of distraction or complacency, we cultivate a deeper union with Him. God Himself is calling us to take this journey because out of love, He desires to give Himself to us. We also talk about the various idols in our lives, how these idols block us from growing in communion with God, and how our own woundedness can distort our perception of God.  We encourage you to go at your own pace so that the Lord can fill your heart with what you need to hear this Advent season.    Heather's One Thing - First snowfall of the season and making an eggnog latte! Heather's Other One Thing - Grateful for parents living next door and family dinners Sister Miriam's Half One Thing - The Women's College Volleyball Division I National Tournament Sister Miriam's One Thing - Heather's Advent Playlist Michelle's One Thing - Her son's Catholic Youth Sports League won first place Michelle's Other One Thing - Leanne Bowen's Instagram Post on Mother's Intercessors   Journal Questions: How do I react when I am not experiencing consolation or hearing from God? How have I observed an invitation to deeper freedom in my relationship with God this Advent? How do I seek to control God? Where in my life do I believe that God doesn't love me or care for me?   Discussion Questions: How do you seek out Christ when you sense that He is lost or hidden? What “imaginary Christs” have you created in your life? How are you tempted to worship the false “convenient god”? How are you being inspired to seek Christ out after listening to this episode?   Quote to Ponder: “It is this: How is it that the lives of so many people who profess to be Christian are utterly inconsistent with Christianity?” (Houselander, Caryll. The Reed of God, page 93).   Scripture for Lectio:  “Where has your beloved gone, most beautiful of women? Which way did your beloved turn, that we may look for him with you?” (Song of Songs 6:1)    Sponsor - Rooted for Good: We are thrilled once again to be sponsoring another episode of Abiding Together. This podcast holds a special place in our hearts, not only because we love Jesus too, but also because the Abiding community has been a vital part of Rooted's unbelievable growth story! Today thousands of customers across the country and beyond LOVE using their Rooted products every day.  There are so many skincare and beauty companies today promoting values which contradict the treasures of our faith. Founded by a Catholic mom of 6 boys, Rooted stands for Goodness, Truth and Real Beauty. You don't have to sacrifice your values to experience premium skincare and essential oils that smell and feel amazing!  Experience for yourself why greater than 90% of all Rooted customer reviews are 5 stars. From skin care, to essential oils, to all natural soaps, scrubs and soaks, make Rooted a part of your skincare and wellness routine. And with every dollar you spend with us, we will donate 10 cents to uplift someone in need in the developing world! Shop your values, and make a difference all while treating yourself to your new favorite products! Join the thousands of Abiding Together customers who are now part of our growing Rooted Community at RootedforGood.com, and use Abide20 at checkout to save 20% on your whole order!

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

EP062: Heather KhymHeather Khym, co-founder of Life Restoration Ministries and co-host of the Abiding Together podcast, joins Mary to discuss cancel culture, Heather's powerful story of forgiveness and redemption, and spiritual warfare. God made us to be free and to be people who speak the truth. But how do we get there? Heather has tips on how to grow in holiness, how we all need to give and receive forgiveness, and In our journey to holiness, and how to defend against the father of lies.Watch Heather's animated EDIFY video here.Follow us on social media! Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

In this episode, we begin our five part summer study of St. Pope John Paul II's Apostolic Exhortation, Christifideles Laici: on the vocation and the mission of the lay faithful in the Church and in the world. We share why we are excited for the study, ways we have been personally convicted to grow in faith, and what the universal call to holiness looks like in our everyday lives. In a time when darkness seems to be growing, we ponder how Jesus is the hope for humanity and the sense of urgency we should feel in being His light bearers to the world. The Lord has called you to holiness and to bear fruit in this world, wherever you may find yourself.    Friends, in our study of Christifideles Laici, you will hear us talk about the recurring theme of community. While reading this apostolic exhortation and listening to each episode by yourself will certainly bear fruit in your life, we want to take a moment to encourage you to reach out to your friends and start a small group to discuss each chapter. We provide on our website journaling and discussion questions you can use, download, and print to begin the conversations. Our hope is that wherever you are, you can build authentic friendships, rooted in Christ, with those around you.   Heather's One Thing - The Ember Mug  Heather's Other One Thing - Clothed with Power from on High: A Short Catechesis on Charisms in the Life and Mission of the Church by Bishop Scott McCaig, CC.  Sister Miriam's One Thing - Just a Guy in the Pew Ministry Michelle's One Thing -  The Rule: St. John Paul II's Rule for a Joy-filled Marriage of Divine Love by Theresa Martin and the Word on Fire article about the book Michelle's Other One Thing - The song Fear is Not My Future by Todd Galberth and Tasha Cobbs   Discussion Questions: What has been your experience with papal encyclicals? What questions do you have before we dive in? How is God calling you to recognize the sacredness of the human person in your daily life? As we discussed in the Lenten study, how have you seen God invite you on mission in this season? Where is your place in the vineyard and what does it look like?   Journal Questions: What words am I speaking into my family, my community, and my culture? What sensitivities am I noticing in my heart to the challenges and limitations in the world around me? How can I help? How is God inviting me into deeper prayer and surrender in my daily life?   Quote to Ponder: The gospel records that the weeds and the good grain grew together in the farmer's field. The same is true in history, where in everyday life, there often exist contradictions in the exercise of human freedom, where there is found, side by side and at times closely intertwined, evil and good, injustice and justice, anguish and hope. (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 3)   Scripture for Lectio:  "I am the vine and you are the branches." - John 15:5   Sponsor Information: Did you know we have a website? We post the episodes, beautiful PDFs of the discussion and journal questions, links to our One Things, and more. We have a calendar of all our upcoming events — check it out!    We also post regularly on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, and we also have a private facebook group where listeners can chat about the episodes, share prayer intentions, and ask questions.    For those who prefer YouTube, on our YouTube channel we post the audio from the podcast.    Have you prayed about supporting the podcast but don't know how? First, your prayers mean so much to us. We continue to pray for you as well. Second, consider subscribing to our channel on YouTube, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and/or leaving a review. The more people who subscribe helps our ranking with the algorithms which makes it easier for others to discover Abiding Together.    Lastly, on our Patreon, you can support us financially. It takes a team effort to run this podcast, and your contributions make it possible for us to hire staff who manage the marketing and operations. Even $15 makes a difference. Go to Patreon.com/abidingtogetherpodcast. We are so grateful for each of you.

Abiding Together attacks! Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob record their podcast in the aftermath of a glitter-bomb/soy candle assault on their studio. They heroically persevere to record this episode, talking about the Cavaliers, artificial intelligence, Dennis Prager's visit to Franciscan, and ecumenism.

I'm taking a break and I want to thank you for listening and explain why I'm taking this break. God bless you and your family! Xoxo Stephanie [email me at 500secondstojoy@gmail.com if you'd like to connect] [Here are the podcasts I mentioned to go check out: Latte and Laundry, Her Pursuit, The Joy Filled Podcast, Read-Aloud Revival, The Homeschooling Journey, and Abiding Together]

In this episode, we conclude our Lenten book study Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. We share what stood out to us most from the book study, how the Holy Spirit has been moving in our lives this Lent, and practical tips to continue your healing transformation this Easter season. Friends, God's presence is always there, He does not leave us to fend for ourselves. As we journey through Holy Week and into Easter, we have the perfect opportunity to receive the Sacraments with a renewed and transformed heart. We are praying for you!   Heather's One Thing - Easter: Hallelujah is Our Song - Spotify Playlist Heather's Other One Thing - Dr. Bob Schuchts Sister Miriam's One Thing - Prayer from Healing the Whole Person Retreat Workbook  “I will let God love me in the places where I feel most vulnerable and most dependent.”  Michelle's One Thing - All My Knotted-Up Life: A Memoir by Beth Moore   Other resources mentioned in this episode: The Fear of God - talk by Francis Chan (begins at 1:31:40)   Discussion Questions: What have you learned this Lent? What gifts has God given you this Lent? Which Sacraments did you encounter deeply this Lent? Where in your life are you struggling to experience joy and freedom?   Journal Questions: When I judge others, where am I trying to protect my heart? Where am I afraid of my own needs and wounds? Where do I need the Lord to love me? How is the Lord inviting me to bring the healing I have experienced through this book study into Easter?   Quotes to Ponder: To be sure, it was not Easter Sunday but Holy Saturday, but, the more I reflect on it, the more this seems to be fitting for the nature of our human life: we are still awaiting Easter; we are not yet standing in the full light but walking toward it full of trust. - Pope Benedict XVI   Faith in the resurrection of Jesus says that there is a future for every human being;  the cry for unending life which is a part of the person is indeed answered… God exists: that is the real message of Easter. Anyone who even begins to grasp what this means also knows what it means to be redeemed. – Pope Benedict XVI   Scripture for Lectio:  “His divine power has bestowed on us everything that makes for life and devotion” - 2 Peter 1:3   Sponsor - The Little Catholic: Today's sponsor is The Little Catholic. Beauty has a powerful ability to draw people to the Church, whether it be the sound of prayers, the beautiful stained glass windows of a church, or the kindness of another person. With each hand-crafted item, the Little Catholic Shop seeks to empower women to cultivate a deeper faith and inspire a beauty that heals each person who sees or wears their pieces. Their impact extends beyond jewelry and empowering women. They also empower and partner with nonprofits around the globe, designing beautiful pieces unique to their cause and donating a portion of all proceeds back to their mission. Giving back is one of their fundamental values. The Little Catholic has jewelry for everyone. One of their most popular collections is the Holy Family Hearts Jewelry Collection. This Jewelry collection shows all three Sacred Hearts of the Holy Family: Jesus' Sacred Heart, The Immaculate Heart of Mary and the most chaste heart of St. Joseph.  The pendant shows Jesus's Sacred Heart nestled between Mary's Immaculate Heart and Joseph's Chaste Heart, just as they were on the day Jesus was born in that simple Stable. Abiding Together listeners can receive 15% their order with the code Abide 15. Head over to their shop at thelittlecatholic.com to find a piece that inspires you.

In this episode, we continue with part five of our Lenten book study Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. We discuss how Reconciliation heals the wound of shame. We chat about how we all have wounds that make us feel unlovable and send us into isolation, which opens the door for the enemy to attack us with doubts and lies about these tender places. When we go to Confession, these places are brought out of shame, into the light, and restored to the truth that we are deeply and tenderly loved by God. This Lent, we encourage you to allow God's mercy to restore you in the sacrament of confession.    Heather's One Thing - Jordan Peterson Heather's Other One Thing - The song Communion by Maverick City (feat. Steffany Gretzinger & Brandon Lake) Sister Miriam's One Thing - Springtime! Yay! Michelle's One Thing - Holy Grit - Paul George (you can find on Amazon here) Discussion Questions: How have you experienced healing in the Sacrament of Reconciliation? How do you hide in your shame and sinfulness? In what ways do you desire to more deeply experience the power of the sacrament?   Journal Questions: In what ways am I hiding my sinfulness when I confess my sins? Where do I experience shame that the Lord is inviting me to bring to Him for healing? Have I been hurt by the brokenness of priests in the Sacrament of Reconciliation? What does Jesus say to me in that wound? When was the last time I made a good confession? Quotes to Ponder: The sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the Church's primary means of communicating this incredible and completely underserved gift of God's compassion and forgiveness. Through the sacrament, the Holy Spirit is capable of reaching the deepest areas of our heart that keep us in degradation and separation. - Be Transformed, pg 123   “The whole power of the sacrament of Penance [Reconciliation] consists in restoring us to God's grace and joining us with him in an intimate friendship” (CCC, 1468). As such it heals the wounds of shame (dis-grace) and restores us to our true identity in Christ, as pure and undefiled children of the Father (see 1 Jn 3:1–3). - Be Transformed, pg 123    Scripture for Lectio:  “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on, do not sin anymore.” John 8:11   Sponsor - House of Joppa: This week's episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.  If you are looking for beautifully curated Catholic home décor, jewelry, art, rosaries, and other gifts, look no further than House of Joppa.  Each product is designed to draw you deeper into your faith and help you to fall more in love with Christ and His Church. Whether you are looking for something for yourself or a special gift for a friend, you will love House of Joppa.  My favorite products are their Vintage Sacred Heart Medallion which opens to reveal a place for prayer intentions, and their Last Supper print is so unique. Abiding Together listeners receive 15% off their purchase at checkout with discount code: ABIDE15.  Visit them online at https://www.houseofjoppa.com or on Instagram @houseofjoppa.  

This week I'm encouraging us to choose our Lenten practices and disciplines by first deciding where we want to be come Holy Week and Easter Sunday. Choosing our 'why' and 'where' will naturally lead us to the 'what' that will best support us to walking our this wilderness with Jesus who came that we might have life and have it more abundantly. Let's trust and walk with Him this Lent toward a more abundant, more holy, more joyful and peaceful life. As you'll hear in the episode, I'm taking a break from the podcast for Lent, but you can catch up with all of my older episodes and writing at my website, kerrycampbell.org, please subscribe while you're there so we can stay in touch and you can receive my written short Lenten reflections and my new monthly newsletter in your inbox. If you'd like to connect with me, find me on Instagram or at my website. If you'd like to help support this podcast financially, there's now a way to do just that, and thank you - visit me on my page at buymeacoffee.com! Thanks as always for sharing, subscribing, rating, and reviewing, as this helps our community to grow! Thanks as always to my friend, Peter Vaughan-Vail, for providing the beautiful harp music you hear in this and every episode. Here are some resources I hope will help you to engage with this week's topic in a deeper way for yourself: 1. Children's book: You Are Special, by Max Lucado 2. Came across this article after my podcast episode was written - felt like confirmation for us! 'What should I give up for Lent is the wrong question to start with,' by Joe Laramie, S.J. with America Magazine 3. Lenten Bible reading plan from She Reads Truth 4. Helpful Instagram follows Kate Boyd: Weary Christians Welcome Tim Whitaker - The New Evangelicals Craig Cooney - Daily Prophetic Lauren Winter - Brick House in the City Alissa Molina - From Here Media 5. Album: House on a Hill, by Amanda Lindsey Cook 6. Podcast and Lenten Book Study from Abiding Together

In this episode, we begin our six-part Lenten series on the book Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. We welcome Dr. Bob, as our special guest, to introduce his book and set the stage for what you can expect in the following five weeks. He shares an overview of how the seven Sacraments heal our wounds, he breaks down the three-fold transformation process, and explains why the disposition of our heart is pivotal to being transformed by the Sacraments. Friends, we are excited to continue this journey of being transformed with you next week! See you then!   Heather's One Thing- Lenten Playlist:  Songs in the Desert Sister Miriam's One Thing - Virtual Healing of the Whole Person Retreat on March 27-31 Michelle's One Thing - White Chicken Chili (or try this Seafood Chili  or White Bean and Fish Chili for Fridays in Lent)  Dr. Bob Schuchts' One Thing - Rediscovering Our Lost Fullness by Andrew Comisky and the exciting news that the JPII Healing Center will have a new publishing house!   Click here to check out Dr. Bob's podcast Restore the Glory!   Discussion Questions: How have you been approaching the Sacraments? Have you had an experience where Christ encountered you deeply in the Sacraments? Please share. Where in my life do I observe how each of the Sacraments impact my identity and my relationships? What fears, concerns, or intrigue do you have about this upcoming season of Lent and diving into the Sacraments?   Journal Questions: What am I seeking from Christ in the Sacraments this Lent? How do I currently engage in the Sacramental life of the Church? Where in my life do I need more humility? How can I create more space for communion with others in my life, my home, my church, and my community?   Quotes to Ponder: Celebrated worthily in faith, the sacraments confer the grace that they signify. They are efficacious because in them Christ himself is at work: it is he who baptizes, he who acts in his sacraments in order to communicate the grace that each sacrament signifies. The Father always hears the prayer of his Son's Church which, in the epiclesis of each sacrament, expresses her faith in the power of the Spirit. As fire transforms into itself everything it touches, so the Holy Spirit transforms into the divine life, whatever is subjected to his power.  - CCC# 1127 “The desire and work of the Spirit in the heart of the Church is that we may live the life of the risen Christ.” - CCC, 1099 The sacraments are God's chosen remedy for healing our deadly wounds and infusing our souls with Christ's resurrection life. - Be Transformed, pg xv In the words of St. John Paul II: “The Holy Spirit [working through the sacraments] . . . purifies from everything that disfigures man . . . , he heals even the deepest wounds of human existence.” - Be Transformed, pg xv But when inspired and empowered by the Holy Spirit, our personal mission becomes a dynamic participation in Jesus' work of restoring all things to the Father. - CCC 850 Fr. Jacques Philippe expresses this common human condition of ours with great insight: “It is worth reflecting on the problem of pride. We are all born with a deep wound, experienced as a lack of being. We seek to compensate by constructing a self, different from our real self. This artificial self requires large amounts of energy to maintain it; being fragile, it needs protecting. Woe to anyone who contradicts it, threatens it, questions it, or inhibits its expansion. When the Gospel says we must ‘die to ourselves,' it means this artificial ego, this constructed self, must die, so that the real self, given us by God, can emerge.” - Be Transformed, pg 2   Scripture for Lectio:  “All of us, gazing with unveiled faces on the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory.” - 2 Corinthians 3:18  Sponsor - CORDA Candles: Draw closer to the saints and create a peaceful place of prayer with CORDA candles. Handcrafted by a husband-and-wife team, and made with clean coconut wax and a beautiful, modern design, these are saint candles like you've never seen, or smelled before! There are 23 candles and counting, including ones inspired by Our Lady, St. Joseph, St. Joan of Arc, Padre Pio, and Morning and Night Prayer, with unique scents for everyone. There's even a fragrance-free option, inspired by Mary the Immaculate Conception.  And you can help SOLT, Sr. Miriam's order, by ordering the Cloistered Heart candle, inspired by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity. Its contemplative notes of cherry and violet are fresh and clean, and perfect for spring. This candle was created for the Abiding Together podcast and a portion of all sales are donated to SOLT. Each candle comes beautifully packaged and ready for gifting, with the story behind the scent inspiration on the box. And the simple design of the candle leads with beauty, helping you share the faith in a lovely and meaningful way. Explore all the candles at cordacandles.com and receive 10% off your order with promo code ABIDING, now through April 15, 2023.

In this episode, we dive into the power of prayer. Prayer is the language we use to talk to God, the Lover of our souls. Many times, it can be easy to approach prayer haphazardly, forgetting that we are meant for intimacy and speaking heart to heart with each Person of the Trinity. When we remember that prayer is really about two hearts connecting, our prayer can be transformed. Join us as we share about our prayer lives and how the different seasons of our lives have changed how we pray.    Heather's One Thing - Picture Bible  Heather's Other One Thing - Soaking Worship Instrumental Spotify Playlist Sister Miriam's One Thing - Magnificat Magazine  Michelle's One Thing - Jesus and You, Women: Ignatian Retreat for Women under the guidance of Edith Stein  By Fr. Sergio M Fita   Discussion Questions: What holds you back from approaching the Lord in prayer from the heart? What is your quickest avenue to get to the heart of God? What obstacles are you experiencing in your prayer life? How can you embrace your current season in life and its impact on your prayer life with greater freedom?   Journal Questions: How does the Lord call me to prayer uniquely? Have I been approaching prayer as something on my to-do list? What changes could I make to approach God with a more open heart? How has my prayer life changed over the years? What does intimacy with God look like today?   Quotes to Ponder: Prayer is the life of the new heart. It ought to animate us at every moment. But we tend to forget Him who is our life and our all. This is why the Fathers of the spiritual life in the Deuteronomic and prophetic traditions insist that prayer is a remembrance of God often awakened by the memory of the heart "We must remember God more often than we draw breath." But we cannot pray "at all times" if we do not pray at specific times, consciously willing it. These are the special times of Christian prayer, both in intensity and duration. CCC 2697   Through his Word, God speaks to man. By words, mental or vocal, our prayer takes flesh. Yet it is most important that the heart should be present to him to whom we are speaking in prayer: "Whether or not our prayer is heard depends not on the number of words, but on the fervor of our souls.” CCC 2700   "Prayer is a surge of the heart, it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy." - St. Therese of Lisieux   "Whether we realize it or not, prayer is the encounter of God's thirst with ours. God thirsts that we may thirst for him."  - St. Augustine   “Prayer enlarges the heart until it is capable of Containing God's gift of himself.”  - Mother Teresa    “My daughter…why do you not tell me about everything that concerns you, even the smallest details? Tell Me about everything, and know that this will give Me great joy. I answered, But You know about everything, Lord.” And Jesus replied to me, “Yes I do know; but you should not excuse yourself with the fact that I know, but with childlike simplicity talk to Me about everything, for my ears and heart are inclined towards you, and your words are dear to Me.”  - St. Faustina   The Lord forms and teaches people how to pray according to who He has made them to be. - St. Catherine of Siena   Contemplative prayer in my opinion is nothing else than the close sharing between friends. It means taking time frequently to be alone with Him who we know loves us. Contemplative prayer seeks Him whom my soul loves  - St. Teresa of Avila   The Lord says: “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human rules they have been taught.” - Isaiah 29:13   Scripture for Lectio:  “Jesus was praying in a certain place and after He had finished, one of His disciples said to Him, Lord, teach us how to pray as John taught his disciples.” - Luke 11:1   Sponsor - House of Joppa: This week's episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.  If you are looking for beautifully curated Catholic home décor, jewelry, art, rosaries, and other gifts, look no further than House of Joppa.  Each product is designed to draw you deeper into your faith and help you to fall more in love with Christ and His Church. Whether you are looking for something for yourself or a special gift for a friend, you will love House of Joppa.  Abiding Together listeners receive 15% off their purchase at checkout with discount code: ABIDE15.  Visit them online at https://www.houseofjoppa.com or on Instagram @houseofjoppa.  

In this episode, we discuss freedom in Christ. We all have places in our lives where the enemy has whispered a lie. A lie that tells us we will never escape the bondage of our sins. That we will always be slaves to something. But these whispers are just that - a lie. We are not made to be filled with weakness! We are made to live in freedom. Christ came to earth to break the chains of sin and death. He has created a pathway for us to live in freedom. Friends, what if the place of your greatest pain could become the place of your greatest holiness? Join us as we discuss how we are made for freedom.   Heather's One Thing- Live in the Prayer Room by Jeremy Riddle Michelle's One Thing - Soul of Shame, Dr. Curt Thompson  Sister Miriam's One Thing - Double Chocolate Walnut Biscotti Recipe   Double Chocolate Walnut Biscotti Yield Makes about 30 biscotti Ingredients 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 3/4 stick (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 cup walnuts, chopped 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar Preparation Preheat the oven to 350°F. Add butter and flour on a large baking sheet. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl with an electric mixer, beat together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and beat until combined well. Stir in the flour mixture to form a stiff dough. Stir in walnuts and chocolate chips. On a prepared baking sheet with floured hands, form dough into two slightly flattened logs, each 12 inches long and 2 inches wide, and sprinkle with confectioners' sugar. Bake logs for 35 minutes or until slightly firm to the touch. Cool biscotti on a baking sheet for 5 minutes. On a cutting board, cut biscotti diagonally into 3/4-inch slices. Arrange biscotti, cut sides down on the baking sheet, and bake until crisp, about 10 minutes. Cool biscotti on a rack. Biscotti keep in airtight containers for 1 week and frozen for 1 month    Discussion Questions: What would it look like for me to be free? Is it more comfortable to live in my chains or pursue freedom? When have I experienced the fruit of inner healing in the past? What is a place of bondage in my life that the Lord is inviting me into greater freedom?   Journal Questions: Where would I experience more freedom in my heart and in my life if I truly believed the power of the Resurrection lived in me? How has the Lord called me out of bondage and into freedom in the past? What are the places of self hatred in my heart? How can I receive and accept the Lord's tenderness there?   Quotes to Ponder: "If you want to hold people in chains, one must first convince them that they are meant to be bound." // from the movie “Woman King”   “As long as this attachment remains, it is impossible to make progress in perfection, even though the imperfection be very small. It makes little difference whether a bird is tied by a thin thread or by a cord. Even if it is tied by a thread, the bird will be held bound… it will be impeded from flying as long as it does not break the thread.”  // St John of the Cross, Ascent of Mt. Carmel, Book One, 11.4.   Scripture for Lectio:  “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)   Sponsor - House of Joppa: This week's episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.  If you are looking for beautifully curated Catholic home décor, jewelry, art, rosaries, and other gifts, look no further than House of Joppa.  Each product is designed to draw you deeper into your faith and help you to fall more in love with Christ and His Church. Whether you are looking for something for yourself or a special gift for a friend, you will love House of Joppa.   Abiding Together listeners receive 15% off their purchase at checkout with discount code: ABIDE15.  Visit them online at https://www.houseofjoppa.com or on Instagram @houseofjoppa.

Listen to this special episode of the Abiding Together Podcast recorded live in St. Louis at SEEK23!Hosted by Sister Miriam, Michelle Benzinger, and Heather Khym, Abiding Together provides a place of connection, rest and encouragement for people who are on the journey of living out their passion in Jesus Christ.If you're new around here, SEEK23 is a multi-day Catholic Conference with prayer, adoration, great speakers and fellowship. This January, come together with your friends, family, fellow students, parishioners, and coworkers to seek the Source of all your heart's desires and find new ways to live and share the Gospel in your daily life. Register for SEEK24. January 1-5th, 2024: https://seek.focus.org/seek24/

Prayer: Battle and Dance.  For this special SEEK23 episode of The Poco a Poco Podcast, Fr. Mark-Mary was joined by special guest CFRs Fr. Isaiah, CFR, and Br. Angelo and also by a dear friend of the podcast Michelle Benzinger from Abiding Together.  Together they explore the beauty of prayer as a battle, like Jacob wrestling with the angel, and as a dance in which we have to allow the Lord to take the lead. While the struggle is real and docility is difficult, the pearl of great price found in the depths of the interior life makes it all worth it.If you're new around here, SEEK23 is a multi-day Catholic Conference with prayer, adoration, great speakers and fellowship. This January, come together with your friends, family, fellow students, parishioners, and coworkers to seek the Source of all your heart's desires and find new ways to live and share the Gospel in your daily life. Register for SEEK24. January 1-5th, 2024: https://seek.focus.org/seek24/

Michelle Benzinger, cohost of the Abiding Together podcast, explores how childlike wonder is a source of joy and healing during Advent. Michelle says that as we contemplate the infant Jesus, we are brought into the beauty and simplicity of the incarnation. She also shares her own family's growing sense of delight in God's creation and in one another.

Heather Khym, author of Abide and cohost of the Abiding Together podcast, shares her story of healing and her journey to understand God's love for her. Khym explains why all of us are called to and deserve, an abundant and healed life in Christ.

Loved As I Am: In this episode, our conversation is with Sister Miriam James Heidland, SOLT - popular speaker and religious sister of the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity. Sister Miriam is known for her powerful witness and profound wisdom. She can be found speaking internationally at conferences and retreats, working with the John Paul II Healing Center, and co-hosting the popular podcast Abiding Together. We discuss how God delights in bringing us to wholeness, how shame often moves us to believe the lies that we are worthless and unlovable, and how God desires to begin a lifelong process of healing and restoration with us so we can live life fully and in freedom. Finally, we will look at how common religious phrases like "God loves you just the way you are'' and "God meets you where you're at" should be properly understood.--About Sr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLTSr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLT, is a popular Catholic speaker, cohost of the Abiding Together podcast, and the author of the bestselling book Loved as I Am.A former Division I athlete who had a radical conversion and joined the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity in 1998, Heidland has shared her story on EWTN's The Journey Home, at numerous SEEK and Steubenville conferences, and at the USCCB's Convocation of Catholic Leaders.In addition to speaking, Heidland has served in parish ministry and as the director of novices for her SOLT community. She also has served as an assistant to both her provincial and general superiors.Heidland earned a master's degree in theology from the Augustine Institute and speaks extensively on the topics of conversion, authentic love, forgiveness, and healing.--Purchase Sr. Miriam's latest book Restore: A Guided Lent Journal for Prayer and Meditation at Ave Maria Press. --Visit our website:https://arrayofhope.org/Sign up for FREE on the Array of Hope Channel app:https://watch.arrayofhope.net/Available on Apple TV, Roku, iOS, and Android mobile devices.Follow Array of Hope on:Facebook: @ArrayofHopeEventInstagram: @arrayofhopeshowTwitter: @arrayofhopeshowSnapchat: @arrayofhopeListen to Array of Hope's music on your streaming platform of choice:https://lnk.to/arrayofhope#faith #hope #love #Christianity #Catholicism #inspire #inspiration #holiness #life #grace #Good News #theology

Recorded live at the Power and Purpose Conference with Heather Khym (their first guest ever!) from the popular podcast, "Abiding Together." Fr. Dave, Dcn. Bob, and Heather talk about conference experiences, the dead body at Heather's wedding, and what it means to pray, "forgive us as we forgive others."

In this episode, we conclude our series on the identity of Bride: Fruitful Love. We discuss the truth that love was designed to be life generating and to bear good fruit that will last. Although this occurs through biological children within family, it also applies to community and beyond the boundaries of biological ties in the discipleship of others. We also talk honestly about how tenderness, vulnerability, and intimacy are intertwined and what is needed to feel safe and open up. Our body has meaning and was made for an other. We all are invited to grow from brokenness to wholeness in our sexuality. This conversation has some mature content so please be sensitive to little ears listening.   Sister Miriam's one thing - Our Listeners, Spirit Juice, and Michelle for her vision of the content from this series Heather's one thing - Best Ever Roasted Brussel Sprouts Michelle's one thing - Our listeners and everyone behind the scenes making this podcast happen   Discussion Questions:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? In what ways can you see that love is fruitful in your life and the lives of those around you? If you're married, do you make space for intimacy in all of it's forms within your marriage? What more can you do to make space for intimacy? If you're not married, what is your ideal view of what intimacy should look like in marriage or the consecrated life? “Every woman wants to be attended to and to be a partner on a great adventure”. Discuss your desire for this within marriage and/or relationship with Christ. How is this desire being met and in what ways are you still longing for this?   Journal Questions: How are you responding to Christ's invitation to intimacy in practical ways? All of us are called to make disciples of all nations. Who might the Lord be asking you to disciple in the faith and journey alongside? Ponder how you can support your married friends and be “for” their marriage. How have you participated in gossip and maybe disunity in your own marriage or of a friend's? Sex is holy and beautiful. Notice what this provokes in your own heart. Ask the Lord to bring healing to the areas in your life that need to be restored by this truth.   Quotes to Ponder: "Love is never something ready made, something merely given to man and woman. It is always at the same time, a task, which they are set. Love should be seen as something which is in a sense never is, but is always becoming. And what it becomes depends upon the contribution of both persons and the depth of their commitment." Saint Pope John Paul II, “Love and Responsibility.” Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.” So out of the ground the Lord God formed every animal of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to the man to see what he would call them; and whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. The man gave names to all cattle, and to the birds of the air, and to every animal of the field; but for the man there was not found a helper as his partner. So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; then he took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; this one shall be called Woman, for out of Man this one was taken.” Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked, and were not ashamed. - Genesis 2:18-25    This episode is sponsored by Soul Core. SoulCore is an invitation to nourish body, mind and soul through prayer and functional movement. SoulCore began from a simple “yes” to an inspiration of the Holy Spirit and is a movement all its own.  Engaging all of the senses, SoulCore incorporates scripture, sacred art, music, candlelight, and movement; a gentle path to grow in virtue and interior peace. Participants often say it feels like they've been on a “mini-retreat” after a SoulCore class.  There are several ways to experience SoulCore. Live classes are offered across the country, as well as DVDs, Digital Downloads and an Online Streaming Studio, which offers a wide variety of Leaders and classes. You can take advantage of their Online Streaming Studio FREE 14-day trial at soulcore.com/signup. In addition, SoulCore is extending a 20% savings to all Abiding Together listeners in their Online Shop (shop.soulcore.com)  Enter promo code: ABIDE20 at checkout.  Discover the beauty and transforming power of the rosary. Visit SoulCore.com to begin your SoulCore journey today!

Michelle Benzinger, cohost of the popular Abiding Together podcast, talks about almsgiving as an opportunity to be generous and grateful. She also discusses how you can find restoration when you give your time, treasure, and presence.

In this episode, we begin our Lenten series as we journey through Sister Miriam's book Restore. It's not too late to join us! You can find your copy today at Ave Maria Press. We share our own perspectives entering this new season of Lent before diving into the first section on prayer. We speak about the healing power of the disciplines of Lent: prayer, almsgiving and fasting as a means to lean into our desire and God's desire for us. We remind one another of the true goal of Lent: union with Christ. We pray that it blesses you.    Sister Miriam's one thing - Restore the Glory Podcast episode with Archbishop Sample Heather's one thing - Reconnecting with dear friends and community Michelle's one thing -  Dig to the Roots - Reform    Discussion Questions:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? What is your disposition as we enter the season of Lent? How is God inviting you to receive restoration rather than to white knuckle your way through fasting, prayer and penance?  What does God want to strip away during this season to create space and expose idols that you may be keeping? How can we approach Lent through the lens of love rather than the lens of fear? What does it mean to allow Jesus to be your guide this Lent?   Journal Questions: As we begin Lent, are you aware of anything that is blocking your gaze towards Jesus? How can you create space to get into the Lord's gaze again? Have you taken time to ask the Lord: What would you like to give me this Lent? What would you like to talk to me about this Lent? Where would you like to invite me into deeper intimacy and union? How can you allow yourself to experience desire and God's desire for you during this season?    Quotes to Ponder: “For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy.” - St Therese    Scripture for Lectio Divina: “But you are merciful to all, for you can do all things, and you overlook men's sins that they may repent…you spare all things, for they are yours, O Lord who love the living.” Wisdom 11: 23,26   Check out the Abiding Together Shop and Heather's new book! Check out the Abiding Together Shop and Heather's new book! Did you know that we have our very own Abiding Together shop filled with very cute mugs, t-shirts print stickers, scripture cards, and much more. Michelle has designed most of these items and they each reflect saints, quotes, and inspirations that have been a part of our podcast discussions over the years.A couple of my favorites are the quit talking to the dang snake. And our coffee is the eighth sacrament mug. This Easter we'd like to highlight the Saint story cards that would be great for your Easter baskets. Michelle created these in collaboration with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal and Our Sunday Visitor. They feature Saint John Paul the second, Mother Teresa, Saint Therese, and St. Francis of Assisi. These story cards offer a new way to learn, pray, and play together while deeply reflecting on your own journey towards sainthood, you can order these using the code abide10 for 10% off. Just head over to abidingtogetherpodcast.com/shop. Also Heather just finished writing a book called Abide: A Pathway to Transformative Healing and Intimacy with Jesus. This book asks questions like what if God's promises are real? What if we truly could live the abundant life that Jesus is offering to us? Through my personal stories, scriptural truth, church teaching and practical tools. You'll be invited to break through the barriers that prevent you from trusting and experiencing the deep love of Jesus and to be transformed by the freedom that comes when we vulnerably bring our entire selves to Jesus, the divine healer, restorer and miracle worker. You can use code abide22 at avemariapress.com for 20% off today.

In this episode, we continue our discussion on motherhood by reflecting on the gift of sensitivity. We discuss how Our Lady reveals in her motherhood how God knows us, notices us and responds to us. We chat about the temptation to conform, wall off our hearts, or see the gift of sensitivity as a liability rather than a tool for healing. We speak about the space within our hearts as mothers that allows for others to room, grow and cultivate their true humanity. We pray for you to experience healing this week!   Sister Miriam's one thing - Christ Taking Leave of His Mother - Piotr Stachiewicz Heather's one thing - The mothers in my life that teach me how to be a better mother. Michelle's one thing - The Lifegiving Home - Sally Clarkson  and The Lifegiving Table - Sally Clarkson    Discussion Questions:     What stood out to you from this week's episode? How have you experienced the gift sensitivity through mothers in your life? Is there a particular instance or memory where you experienced healing through the sensitivity of a mother? How do you create moments, space, and time for others to open up and be vulnerable or become who they are created to be? How can we as a group be more sensitive to the needs of those entrusted to us?   Journal Questions: Where have you felt the need to conform? Are there particular memories or messages that you desire healing from?  How do you live out the gift of sensitivity and when do you feel like you have had to wall off your heart? Ask Mary to mother you and show you how to mother those entrusted to you with sensitivity. What does Jesus want to reveal to you about his mother?   Quotes to Ponder: “Mary, she is the poetess and prophetess of redemption..” - Pope St. Paul VI, Homily, April 24, 1970   Scripture for Lectio Divina - “The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew ] you,before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” - Jeremiah 1:4-5    This episode is sponsored by House of Joppa. This week's episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.  If you are looking for beautiful Catholic home décor, jewelry, art, rosaries or other Catholic gifts, look no farther than House of Joppa. Each product is curated from artisans throughout the world, and is designed to uplift your spirit and share the beauty of our Catholic faith. If you are looking for something for yourself or a special gift for a friend, head over to their website in the show notes. My favorite products are their Vintage Sacred Heart Medallion, Mini Mary Garden and Miraculous Medal rosary. Abiding Together listeners receive 15% off their purchase at checkout with discount code: ABIDE15.  Visit them online at https://www.houseofjoppa.com or on Instagram @houseofjoppa. Announcing our 2022 Lenten Study  This year we will be journeying through the season of Lent with a six-part series based on Restore: A Guided Lent Journal for Prayer and Meditation written by our very own Sister Miriam James Heidland. You can pre-order your copy from Ave Maria Press here or pre-order from Amazon here. We look forward to journeying with you this Lent!