Podcasts about aquinas institute

“Every time I proclaim one of Francis' homilies, my heart is filled with joy,” says Greg Heille, O.P. “It's heart speaking to heart.” Recorded just hours before Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected Pope Leo XIV—while the cardinals were still in conclave—Greg joins “Preach” host Ricardo da Silva, S.J., to reflect on the homiletic legacy of Pope Francis: always on message, spoken from the heart, simple without losing depth. He proclaims a homily by Francis for the Fifth Sunday of Easter, Year C, in 2022, where those qualities shine through. Grounded in a single verse from John's Gospel—As I have loved you, so you also should love one another—the homily weaves together themes of holiness, simplicity and love in action. Guest: Greg Heille, Dominican friar, preaching professor at Aquinas Institute of Theology and author of The Preaching of Pope Francis. Get daily Scripture reflections and support “Preach” by becoming a digital subscriber to America Magazine⁠⁠ “Preach” is made possible through the generous support of the Compelling Preaching Initiative, a project of Lilly Endowment Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?' He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord you know that I love you.' He said to him, ‘Feed my lambs.' ” John 21:15    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Mary Mirrione joins us on the podcast to ponder the scripture from John 21 with Peter and Jesus. We sit with this scripture in light of the Easter season we have just entered and the many gifts it has to offer us.  Mary Mirrione began working with CGS in 1992. She and a team of catechists and parents built atria at St Anne's in Gilbert, Arizona for their 1800 children. She has been a formation leader since 1997 serving as such at home and abroad. She also works with Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity throughout the United States and around the world. Mary served on the Board for CGSUSA and is a graduate of the first cohort at Aquinas Institute of Theology to receive a Masters in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She is a faculty member of Kino Catechetical Institute in the Diocese of Phoenix. Since 2010, she serves as the National Director for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.    Growing Seeds     Become a Growing Seed Donor HERE      Items from the Store You May be Interested In:    Purchase the Religious Potential of the Child HERE    Nurturing the Whole Child      Podcast Episodes about Easter:    Episode 11 – Were Not Our Hearts Burning Within Us  Episode 61 – The Roots of the Easter Season and the Eucharist  Episode 84 – The Family in Easter         BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER!  Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:  Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.  Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.  Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.  Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.  Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.  Catechist Prayers and prayer services  and so much more!  Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!      AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

Moe Jackson's football coaching career made headlines after he parted ways with Aquinas Institute in early March. Jackson led the football team to a Section V championship, but alleges that racial bias played a role in his termination. Less than a month later, he was hired by Vertus High School, a predominantly Black all-boys charter school, to lead their young football program. While his role at Aquinas was bringing the storied program to victory, at Vertus, it's also about nurturing young Black men. This hour guest host Racquel Stephen sits down with Coach Jackson to talk about his coaching philosophy, the value of mentorship, and what those relationships mean for both young people and the adults who support them. Our guests: Moe Jackson, football coach at Vertus Charter High School Maurice Rice, lead preceptor at Vertus Charter High School Yariel Madina, student at Vertus Charter High School Michael Rogers, student at Vertus Charter High School

Preaching for Ash Wednesday, Dr. Jessie Thomas offers a reflection on living each day as Ash Wednesday:"While the Lenten journey only lasts for weeks, our journey of life is forever. Every day is an opportunity to ask for God's forgiveness. Every day you and I must be an outward sign of our faith as well as an expression of our repentance..."Dr. Jessie Thomas is a Lay Pastoral Theologian in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. She holds a master's degree in Pastoral Ministry from the Athenaeum of Ohio and a Doctor of Ministry in Preaching from Aquinas Institute of Theology St. Louis University. Dr. Thomas has served as adjunct faculty for the Diaconate Office in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati teaching Homiletics. She is also a regular presenter and guest preacher throughout the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/03052025 to learn more about Dr. Thomas, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.

“Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.” John 12:24    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Mary Heinrich joins us on the podcast to discuss how we live into the Lent season in the atrium and how that can be extended into the spiritual life of the domestic church in the home.  Mary Heinrich is the Membership Coordinator for The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Prior to joining the staff, Mary served on the CGSUSA Board of Trustees for seven years. Mary has also served as a Director of Faith Formation in the Catholic Church for twenty-nine years, as well as a consultant and editor for religious education publishers.  She earned a bachelor's degree in religious studies from Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and a master's degree in Pastoral Studies in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. Her husband, Kurt is a permanent deacon in the Diocese of Des Moines and teaches theology at the local Catholic high school, is a Level One catechist, and enjoys making materials for the atrium.  Their daughter, Clare, is the elementary faith formation coordinator at her Church, working in the Level One and Level Two atria. When not immersed in CGS, Mary enjoys reading, art and spending time with her family.    CGS Lent Resources for Families  San Damiano Crucifix Parent Page    Items from the Store You May be Interested In:    To Dance with God  Paschal Candle Set    Podcast Episodes with Mary Heinrich:   Episode 31- Even Now- a Lenten Reflection   Episode 103- Friendship of Catechists  Episode 128- CGS Advent in the Home    Podcast Episodes About Lent:  Episode 83- The Family in Lent    BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER!  Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:  Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.  Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.  Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.  Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.  Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.  Catechist Prayers and prayer services  and so much more!  Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!      AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

Episode 87 of Messy Jesus Business podcast, with Sister Julia Walsh. In this episode of Messy Jesus Business podcast, Sister Julia Walsh, FSPA talks with Dr. Ann Garrido about having difficult conversations, discerning truth, and trust. Podcast: Play in new window | Download Subscribe:  Email | RSS | More A transcript of the show can be found here. I think what is essential for bridging difference is that both persons have a deep, deep commitment to truth, to trying to pursue what's true. So if both people in the conversation, regardless of how different they are, are entering into the conversation trying to figure out what's true and willing to renegotiate what they hold at any particular point in time if they figure out what's more true, I think the conversation always has the potential of going places.  -Dr. Ann Garrido Dr. Ann Garrido ABOUT THE GUEST Ann Garrido is associate professor of homiletics at Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri, where she previously directed the school's Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching program. She is the author of multiple books, including the award-winning Redeeming Administration, Redeeming Conflict, and Let's Talk About Truth. Her newest book is Redeeming Power. She travels nationally and internationally helping communities talk about the topics they find toughest to talk about—conversations that always involve questions of truth. She lives with her husband outside Atlanta, Georgia. MESSY JESUS BUSINESS is hosted by Sister Julia Walsh.  Produced and edited by Colin Wambsgans. Email us at messyjesusbusiness@gmail.com BE SOCIAL: https://www.facebook.com/MessyJesusBusiness Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MessyJesusBusiness Twitter: @messyjesusbiz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/messyjesusbusiness SUPPORT US: https://www.patreon.com/messyjesusbusiness

Father Patrick Hyde, OP, joins Deacon Jim Friend for a conversation about the pressures on parish priests and how to stay balanced amid the many expectations they encounter. Father Patrick Hyde, OP, is the pastor of Saint Paul Catholic Center, which serves as the Newman Center and Catholic parish for the Indiana University community. He recently served at the National Eucharistic Revival as a National Eucharistic Preacher and currently serves on the provincial council of the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great, on the board of the Aquinas Institute of Theology, and as the dean of the Bloomington Deanery in the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. You can contact Father Patrick by visiting: https://hoosiercatholic.org For more information about Saint John Vianney Center, please visit our website at https://www.sjvcenter.org/

"Hear, O heavens, and listen, O earth,  for the LORD speaks:  Sons have I raised and reared,  but they have rebelled against me.  An ox knows its owner,  and an ass,* its master's manger;  But Israel does not know,  my people has not understood.” Isaiah 1:2-3      Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE    "The events of Christ's infancy appear rather difficult due to the misuse that is generally made of them by often telling them (with many diminutives!) as if they were beautiful fables. The fact is that the infancy narratives, especially in Luke, are a type of “theological tapestry” - if it is possible to call them so- whereby the evangelist stresses the grandeur of the mystery he is announcing through a variety of techniques.” The Religious Potential of the Child, pg. 76    Marty O'Bryan joins us on the podcast to ponder how deep the scriptures during this season of Christmas are and the beautiful theological tapestry that weaves them all together throughout the whole Bible are.      Marty O'Bryan began her formation in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd with Sofia Cavalletti in 1983 and has been a catechists since 1985. She conducts adult formations at Levels I, II and III throughout the United States. A retired speech and language pathologist, Marty holds a Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology. Currently, she works with children in Level I, II, and III atria in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix.    Scripture Verses to Read in Advent and Christmas Seasons:  Annunciation- Luke 1:26-38  Visitation- Luke 1:39-56  Birth of Jesus and Adoration of the Shepherds- Luke 2:1-20  Presentation of Jesus in the Temple- Luke 2: 21-33, 36-39  Adoration of the Magi- Matthew 2:1-12  Flight into Egypt- Matthew 2:13-23     Little Gospel Booklets- Infancy Narratives      Books you may be interested in:    The Religious Potential of the Child  Ways to Nurture the Relationship with God  History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: From Creation to Parousia    Books from Fr Raymond Brown:  The Birth of the Messiah  A Coming Christ in Advent  An Adult Christ as Christmas    Episodes with Marty-  Episode 15- Chapter One of Joyful Journey   Episode 95- CGS Characteristics #21 and 25 with Lynne Worthington and Marty O'Bryan  Episode 100 – Art as Prayer Response  Episode 114- Characteristic #27       Podcast Episodes about Advent and Christmas:  Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell  Episode 79- Chapter 6 of The Religious Potential of the Child  Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti   Episode 128 CGS Advent in the Home with Mary Heinrich  Episode 129- The Family in Advent with Gertrud Muller Nelson      BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER!  Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:  Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.  Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.  Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.  Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.  Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.  Catechist Prayers and prayer services  and so much more!  Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!      AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

"A voice of one crying out in the desert; Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” Luke 3:4    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE    Virtual Songbook: Songs of the Atrium HERE    Mary Heinrich joins us on the podcast to discuss how we live into the Advent season in the atrium and how that can be extended into the spiritual life of the domestic church in the home.     Mary is the Membership Coordinator for The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Prior to joining the staff, Mary served on the CGSUSA Board of Trustees for seven years. Mary has also served as a Director of Faith Formation in the Catholic Church for twenty-nine years, as well as a consultant and editor for religious education publishers.  She earned a bachelor's degree in religious studies from Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and a master's degree in Pastoral Studies in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. Her husband, Kurt is a permanent deacon in the Diocese of Des Moines and teaches theology at the local Catholic high school, is a Level One catechist, and enjoys making materials for the atrium.  Their daughter, Clare, is the elementary faith formation coordinator at her Church, working in the Level One and Level Two atria. When not immersed in CGS, Mary enjoys reading, art and spending time with her family.    CGS Advent Resources for Families  Little Gospel Booklets- Infancy Narratives  Advent Fling Wide the Doors Calendar  Advent Candles  Advent Wreath Set  Expectant Mary Statue    Books you may be interested in:  To Dance with God    Podcast Episodes with Mary Heinrich:  Episode 31- Even Now- a Lenten Reflection  Episode 103- Friendship of Catechists      Other Podcast Episodes You Might Be Interested In:  Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell  Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti       BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER!  Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:  Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.  Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.  Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.  Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.  Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.  Catechist Prayers and prayer services  and so much more!  Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!      AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:  Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves" Romans 12:10    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE    Virtual Songbook: Songs of the Atrium HERE    Ann Garrido tells us all about her book Redeeming Administration and how it shows us how administration tasks, that is a part of all ministry work, can have spiritual virtues that help shape us into the person God is calling us to be.     Ann Garrido has been a catechist of the Good Shepherd since 1996.  She currently serves as a Level One catechist at her parish while she also serves as a formation leader for the US Association at all three levels.  Ann is an Associate Professor at Aquinas Institute of Theology, a graduate school of theology and ministry in the Dominican tradition.  She is the author of multiple works, including her newest book Redeeming Power about the healthy and holy exercise of leadership.  Ann Garrido's website HERE    Books by Ann Garrido    ANN'S NEW BOOK – REDEEMING POWER    Redeeming Administration  Redeeming Conflict  A Year with Sofia Cavalletti by Ann Garrido   Preaching with Children     Podcast Episodes with Ann Garrido  Episode 19 – Typology with Ann Garrido  Episode 53 – The Birth and Infancy of Jesus with Ann Garrido  Episode 59 – Preaching with Children with Ann Garrido  Episode 68 – The CGS Heritage – Eugenio Zolli with Ann Garrido  Episode 111. About Justice, A Meditation by Fr Mongillo with Ann Garrido      Other Podcast Episodes You Might Be Interested In:  Episode 102- Theological Reflection with Autumn Domingue    Episode 37 – CGS and Spiritual Direction with Autumn Domingue  Episode 85 – CGS and Accompaniment with Fr Boniface Hicks    BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER!  Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:  Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.  Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.  Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.  Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.  Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.  Catechist Prayers and prayer services  and so much more!  Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!      AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

Rebecca Malone preaches for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time, offering a reflection on what it means to share in Jesus' glory: "In Jesus, glory can be so much more: serving, giving, caring. His glory is a radiance, a glow, a place to remain and abide. We want to be close, not to push ahead of everyone else, but so that the warmth of his glory becomes our home . . ." A resident of Montreal, Canada, Rebecca Malone serves in children's ministry at her parish. Her particular focus is the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Raised in New York, Rebecca attended the Academy of Mount Saint Ursula in the Bronx, where she was inspired and formed in faith by the Ursuline sisters. Today, she pursues a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies at the Aquinas Institute of St. Louis University and serves on the board of the Center for Children and Theology. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/10202024 to learn more about Rebecca, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.

“All of us are God's images on earth - we are to be God's representatives of power.”It's not a bold statement to say that people in power often abuse it. We see corruption of power in leadership in all facets of society: politics, school administrations, businesses both large and small, churches, and even inside homes. But what if we approached leadership in a way that is more aligned with the God who leads us?Ann Garrido (she/her), an expert in Christian leadership, invites us to find a new way forward. She encourages us to look closely at the model God sets before us: one that is about power with instead of power over. Doing so will transform us as leaders.About AnnDr. Ann Garrido is associate professor at Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri and author of the popular Redeeming series for Christian leaders from Ave Maria Press. You can find out more about Ann at anngarrido.com and be sure to check out her latest book, Redeeming Power: Using the Gift As God Intended.**this is an affiliate link; when you purchase using this link, it costs nothing extra for you, but a small percentage of your purchase goes to support this ministry.Connect with us!Donate today and support our work!Sign up to receive a little Gospel in your inbox every Monday Morning with our weekly devotional.Join our FREE bookclubCheck out our website for various resources - including devotionals, journaling prompts, and even curriculumGet some Lady Preacher Podcast swag!Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook

Carolyn A. Wright preaches for the Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, encouraging us to participate in the continuing unfolding of God's plan: "Let us deeply grasp that we are on a journey with God and others and because of our relationship with God, let us each contribute to the fullness of the realization of God's Kingdom through our one precious life in real and substantive ways." Carolyn A. Wright serves on the faculty of Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri and teaches in the area of spirituality and ministerial formation. She directs the Theological Field Education program and the Masters of Arts in Pastoral Studies - Catechesis of the Good Shepherd degree program. She holds a Doctor of Ministry degree in Christian Spirituality from Washington Theological Union, a Master of Divinity degree and a Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction from Aquinas Institute of Theology. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/09222024 to learn more about Carolyn, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.

" But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect " 1 Peter 3:15     Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Anna Hurdle and Lynne Worthington come back on the podcast to continue helping us prepare to welcome the level two and three child to the beginning of the atrium year.  They discuss those first few atrium sessions. Last year, we started the atrium year with an episode on Welcoming the Child based on the chapter in Gianna's book Nurturing the Whole Child.  That was episode 98 if you want to go back and listen to it to prepare for your level one children this year.    Anna Hurdle is a catechist and formation leader at levels I, II and III. She is a retired elementary Montessori guide and coordinator of CGS at her parish in Charlotte, NC. Anna serves the National Association through the Episcopal Committee and the Formation Advisory Council.  Lynne Worthington worked for 30 years as a catechist for children and adults at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Durham, NC. She also served as the coordinator for CGS in Immaculata School and for the parish. Since 1991 she has taken part in National Formation courses for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, earning certificates as a catechist for all three levels, ages 3-12 years old. She has participated in numerous formation leadership workshops and is recognized as a formation leader by the National Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She holds an MA degree in Pastoral Studies from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, MO.   Lynne now lives in Ball Ground, GA and volunteers in Atria in the Archdiocese of Atlanta. She and her husband, Bill, have three grown children and two grandchildren.    Other Podcast Episodes You Might Be Interested In:  Episode 17- Practical Suggestions with Lynne Worthington  Episode 41 – The Elementary Aged Child with Anna Hurdle  Episode 49 – Four Planes of Development  Episode 70 – Art of Observation with Lynne Worthington  Episode 95- Characteristic #21 and 25 with Lynne Worthington and Marty O'Bryan  Episode 98 – Welcoming the Child  Episode 115 – CGS in the Episcopal Church with Anna Hurdle and Donna Turner      AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

"Children are a gift from the Lord, the fruit of the womb, a reward. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one's youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with foes at the gate." Psalm 127: 3-5    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Last year, we started the atrium year with an episode on Welcoming the Child based on the chapter in Gianna's book Nurturing the Whole Child.  That was episode 98 if you want to go back and listen to it to prepare for your level one children this year.  This year we have invited Anna Hurdle and Lynne Worthington on the podcast to help us prepare and welcome the second plane child in level two and three. With this episode we are beginning a three part series on this topic of the second plane child, who are they, welcoming them at the beginning of the atrium year, and how they work.    Anna Hurdle is a catechist and formation leader at levels I, II and III. She is a retired elementary Montessori guide and coordinator of CGS at her parish in Charlotte, NC. Anna serves the National Association through the Episcopal Committee and the Formation Advisory Council.  Lynne Worthington worked for 30 years as a catechist for children and adults at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Durham, NC. She also served as the coordinator for CGS in Immaculata School and for the parish. Since 1991 she has taken part in National Formation courses for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, earning certificates as a catechist for all three levels, ages 3-12 years old. She has participated in numerous formation leadership workshops and is recognized as a formation leader by the National Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She holds an MA degree in Pastoral Studies from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, MO.   Lynne now lives in Ball Ground, GA and volunteers in Atria in the Archdiocese of Atlanta. She and her husband, Bill, have three grown children and two grandchildren.    Other Podcast Episodes You Might Be Interested In:  Episode 17- Practical Suggestions with Lynne Worthington  Episode 41 – The Elementary Aged Child with Anna Hurdle  Episode 49 – Four Planes of Development  Episode 70 – Art of Observation with Lynne Worthington  Episode 95- Characteristic #21 and 25 with Lynne Worthington and Marty O'Bryan  Episode 98 – Welcoming the Child  Episode 115 – CGS in the Episcopal Church with Anna Hurdle and Donna Turner      AUDIOBOOK:  Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:    Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

“Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.”  — John 6:35    Celebrate 40 Years of CGSUSA Registration for the 40th Celebration closes on August 1st, 2024!    FAQs about the 40th    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Watch a video about the CGSUSA at the NEC HERE!     At the National Eucharistic Congress, in Indianapolis, Indiana, the members and staff of CGSUSA came together to serve the children and families that came to the NEC by providing a space of prayer and encounter with God. Mary and Sue, who participated in this event, share with us about this unique event and how they saw God work through the presence of CGSUSA.  Sue Stuhlsatz-Reese began her formation in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 1996 and has been formed in Levels I, II, III and Infant-Toddler. Her ongoing formation in CGS includes the Cavalletti Heritage Course at Aquinas Institute and being formed by children in the atrium. She currently works with toddlers, Level I and Level II in the atrium. Working with children in the atrium has expanded to include serving as a Level I formation leader and as Board Chair for CGSUSA. Her very favorite people include her husband, three children, and four grandchildren. Sue's family also includes two rescued dogs.  Mary Mirrione began working with CGS in 1992. She and a team of catechists and parents built atria at St Anne's in Gilbert, Arizona for their 1800 children. She has been a formation leader since 1997 serving as such at home and abroad. She also works with Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity throughout the United States and around the world. Mary served on the Board for CGSUSA and is a graduate of the first cohort at Aquinas Institute of Theology to receive a Masters in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She is a faculty member of Kino Catechetical Institute in the Diocese of Phoenix. Since 2010, she serves as the National Director for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.      Help us prepare for the 40th Celebration:  We invite you to assist with our celebration:     Please tell us where the atrium you serve is, the names of your catechists, and the first names of the children you serve in the atrium, so we may include all their names on our prayer table when we gather next August. We ask that you email this information to Susan Stuhlsatz‑Reese at susansr@cgsusa.org   We are counting on you! We are also happy to share with you that our new and improved atrium locator is now up and running! As part of our “soft launch” to make sure all is working well we are inviting you to take a first look and add your atrium if it is not there yet: Find CGS Near Me – Atrium Locator. Please consider also listing your atrium in the atrium locator. Video for easy instructions HERE  We know many catechists have gone before us to share in the heavenly banquet. We want to remember each of them. If you know a catechist who has died, please send us their name, a small bio or obituary, the gifts they shared with our CGS community and if possible, a photo. Please share with Mary Heinrich at maryheinrich@cgsusa.org.   We have opportunities for sponsors to contribute to our event fund. Please let us know of any individuals, groups, businesses, or organizations you know who may be willing to contribute. We will have some wonderful opportunities for our sponsors, more information will be coming soon.      AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

“Praise the LORD! I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation. Great are the works of the LORD, studied by all who delight in them. Full of honor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever.”  — Psalm 111:1-3    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Celebrate 40 Years of CGSUSA    FAQs about the 40th     This year, we are celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. From August 22-25, 2024, we will gather in person in Phoenix, Arizona, and we will broadcast via livestream for those who cannot attend in person. We look forward to you joining us for this celebration.  In these days, we will remember our legacy, celebrate our present work with the children, and pray for our future in the coming of the Kingdom as we join this friendship of catechists upon which our association is founded.  Mary Mirrione began working with CGS in 1992. She and a team of catechists and parents built atria at St Anne's in Gilbert, Arizona for their 1800 children. She has been a formation leader since 1997 serving as such at home and abroad. She also works with Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity throughout the United States and around the world. Mary served on the Board for CGSUSA and is a graduate of the first cohort at Aquinas Institute of Theology to receive a Masters in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She is a faculty member of Kino Catechetical Institute in the Diocese of Phoenix. Since 2010, she serves as the National Director for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.  Karen became involved with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 1990 when her oldest daughter was four years old. She was moved by the spiritual depth offered to the youngest children and found this approach to faith formation personally enriching as well. She helped to begin all three levels of atria in the first church in Georgia to offer Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She also enjoys introducing adults to this method of catechesis as a CGS formation leader. Karen joined the staff for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2004 as Director of Formation. Her work supports formation leaders and catechists through communications, conferences, ongoing formation and resources as well as in responding to a variety of inquiries and pastoral concerns about CGS. Karen is one of two US representatives to the International Council. She also was part of the first cohort to complete a Masters in Pastoral Studies in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at Aquinas Institute of Theology. Karen currently serves as a Level III catechist for a church in her area. Her children, now young adults, all were involved in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.  For further questions about CGS you can email Karen at karenmaxwell@cgsusa.org  We invite you to assist with our celebration:     Please tell us where the atrium you serve is, the names of your catechists, and the first names of the children you serve in the atrium, so we may include all their names on our prayer table when we gather next August. We ask that you email this information to Susan Stuhlsatz‑Reese at susansr@cgsusa.org   We are counting on you! We are also happy to share with you that our new and improved atrium locator is now up and running! As part of our “soft launch” to make sure all is working well we are inviting you to take a first look and add your atrium if it is not there yet: Find CGS Near Me – Atrium Locator. Please consider also listing your atrium in the atrium locator. Video for easy instructions HERE  We know many catechists have gone before us to share in the heavenly banquet. We want to remember each of them. If you know a catechist who has died, please send us their name, a small bio or obituary, the gifts they shared with our CGS community and if possible, a photo. Please share with Mary Heinrich at maryheinrich@cgsusa.org.   We have opportunities for sponsors to contribute to our event fund. Please let us know of any individuals, groups, businesses, or organizations you know who may be willing to contribute. We will have some wonderful opportunities for our sponsors, more information will be coming soon.      AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

This lecture was given on November 18th, 2023, at the Dominican House of Studies. For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events About the Speaker: Sr. Albert Marie Surmanski, O.P. (University of St. Thomas, Houston) is a member of the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist. She is an Associate Professor of Theology at the University of St. Thomas in Houston where she also teaches at St. Mary's Seminary. Her main area of research is medieval sacramental theology with a focus on Albert the Great and Aquinas. She has published a translation of Albert the Great's work On the Body of the Lord in the CUA Fathers of the Church Medieval Continuation series as well as a translation of Aquinas's Commentary on the Psalms for the Aquinas Institute. She has published articles in various journals including Logos, Antiphon, Nova et Vetera and Franciscan Studies.

This lecture was given on November 18th, 2023, at the Dominican House of Studies. For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events About the Speaker: Sr. Albert Marie Surmanski, O.P. (University of St. Thomas, Houston) is a member of the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist. She is an Associate Professor of Theology at the University of St. Thomas in Houston where she also teaches at St. Mary's Seminary. Her main area of research is medieval sacramental theology with a focus on Albert the Great and Aquinas. She has published a translation of Albert the Great's work On the Body of the Lord in the CUA Fathers of the Church Medieval Continuation series as well as a translation of Aquinas's Commentary on the Psalms for the Aquinas Institute. She has published articles in various journals including Logos, Antiphon, Nova et Vetera and Franciscan Studies.

“Let the little children come to me; do not stop them.” Mark 10:14    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!  Read the article “Characteristics of the Good Shepherd Catechesis Number 27” HERE  What are the principal points which distinguish this catechesis and because of which it is called the “Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”?  We have 32 characteristics that are intended to represent the principal aspects of the catechesis as they have emerged after more than fifty years of work with children of different countries, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. These characteristics are reflective of the constants which have presented themselves in this work and are presented here with the invitation to go deeper into them for further reflection. Read all 32 Points of Reflection HERE    In the 2020 CGS Journal Francesca Cocchini wrote an article about characteristic #27.  Today we will listen to that article as well as discuss it with Marty O'Bryan.  Marty also answers one of our listener's questions about how to manage a level one atrium and still follow the child with many little ones. Read the article HERE    Characteristic #27:  The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is also concerned with helping adults open their eyes to the hidden riches of the child, especially to the child's spiritual wealth, so that adults will be drawn to learn from the child and to serve him/her. The guiding principles in this endeavor are:  The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd does not seek success.  It does not set about to be important or to impress others. (Isaiah 10:33-11:10)  It is faithful to the spirit of the mustard seed. (Matthew 13: 31)  It stands in solidarity with the least in the church.    Marty O'Bryan began her formation in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd with Sofia Cavalletti in 1983 and has been a catechists since 1985. She conducts adult formations at Levels I, II and III throughout the United States. A retired speech and language pathologist, Marty holds a Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology. Currently, she works with children in Level I, II, and III atria in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix.    Further Reading:    2020 Journal of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd  The Religious Potential of the Child by Sofia Cavalletti   The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old by Sofia Cavalletti    Other Episodes You Might Enjoy    Episode 94-CGS Characteristics #17, 18, 19, and 20 with Lynda Catalano and Diane Olsen  Episode 95- CGS Characteristics #21 and 25 with Lynne Worthington and Marty O'Bryan    Learn more about the 40th Anniversary Celebration of CGSUSA HERE      AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:    Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd       Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

Dennis Gonzales, Ph.D., CHA's Senior Director of Mission Innovation and Integration and Ann Garrido, author of Redeeming Power: Exercising the Gift as God Intended and associate professor of homiletics at Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, join Health Calls to discuss the importance of a leader's positive worldview in effectively navigating change. In this enlightening conversation, they explore the concept of "a spirituality of power," highlighting how managerial courage and visionary leadership appear in daily interactions within an organization. They delve into the transformative power of ongoing reflection and examine how Jesus understood and exercised power. By considering the relational nature of power, Gonzales and Garrido offer insights into how a leader's understanding of power informs their role in promoting human flourishing and working for the common good.Resources:Embracing Change: It's Who We Are by Dennis Gonzales, Ph.D. – Health Progress Spring 2024  Redeeming Power: Exercising the Gift as God Intended by Ann M. Garrido 

We have a Disney Original Crossover episode today ... with our pals from The Leader's Way Podcast! And we have just a teensy question: what is hope? Why do we have hope? What is the point of hope in Easter? Why do Christians have hope? Be sure to catch our guest episode with Hannah and Brandon where we share our call stories to the priesthood, and more!We're so excited to dive into this conversation with Hannah and Brandon! More about Hannah: Hannah Black, PhD, grew up in Southern California and had a first career as a dancer at Disneyland. She went on to earn an MPhil and a PhD in theology at the University of Cambridge. Now, she is the Assistant Director of Leadership and Communications at Berkeley. She is also a Research Fellow at Yale Divinity School's Jonathan Edwards Center, where she is collaborating on a book project. Hannah is writing a translation for St. Vladimir's Seminary Press's Popular Patristics Series of seven short works by Gregory of Nyssa on the life of virtue. She is also working on a book project based on her doctoral work on Gregory of Nyssa's use of imagery for salvation as a resource for feminist soteriology. More about Brandon: Brandon Nappi, DMin, is the Executive Director of Leadership Programs at Berkeley Divinity School. With twenty years of retreat ministry, Brandon founded Copper Beech Institute, a worldwide contemplative community of 50,000 people from over 50 countries dedicated to sharing contemplative practice to heal our aching world. Brandon's life has been deeply nourished by Christian mysticism, mindfulness, interreligious dialogue, and Zen practice. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame and Yale Divinity School, he holds a Doctor of Ministry degree in Homiletics from Aquinas Institute of Theology. Brandon walks alongside seekers, divinity students, and healers as a spiritual director and mentor.The Leader's Way convenes conversation at the intersection of leadership and spirituality. Dean Andrew McGowan shares Berkeley's vision for the podcast: “The Leader's Way podcast is one of the core elements of Berkeley's strategy to support practitioners in ministry. By offering this important content, we believe that we will meet the needs and challenges facing the leaders of churches and communities and to offer hope and inspiration.”The Leader's Way Podcast: https://berkeleydivinity.yale.edu/transforming-leaders/leaders-way-podcastLike what you hear?We'd love your support on Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/AndAlsoWithYouPodcastThere's all kinds of perks including un-aired live episodes, Zoom retreats, and mailbag episodes for our Patreons!Keep up with us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/andalsowithyoupodcast/ More about Father Lizzie:https://www.instagram.com/rev.lizzie/https://www.tiktok.com/@rev.lizzieJubilee Episcopal Church in Austin, TX - JubileeATX.org  More about Mother Laura:https://www.instagram.com/laura.peaches/https://www.tiktok.com/@mother_peachesSt. Paul's Episcopal Church in Pittsburgh, PA Theme music:"On Our Own Again" by Blue Dot Sessions (www.sessions.blue). New episodes drop Mondays at 7am EST/6am CST! 

This lecture was given on October 10th, 2023, at the University of Dallas. For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events About the Speaker: Sr. Albert Marie Surmanski, O.P. is a member of the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist. She is an Associate Professor of Theology at the University of St. Thomas in Houston where she also teaches at St. Mary's Seminary. Her main area of research is medieval sacramental theology with a focus on Albert the Great and Aquinas. She has published a translation of Albert the Great's work On the Body of the Lord in the CUA Fathers of the Church Medieval Continuation series as well as a translation of Aquinas's Commentary on the Psalms for the Aquinas Institute. She has published articles in various journals including Logos, Antiphon, Nova et Vetera and Franciscan Studies.

"One body and one Spirit, as you were also called to the one hope of your call. One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” Ephesians 4:4-6    “What have we done to Christianity? We have made it into a lot of rules; but Christianity is to enjoy a Person.” Fr Dalmazio Mongillo    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Ann Garrido joins us to discuss Fr Mongillo's article, About Justice, A Meditation, from the 1999 Journal of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd where he defines justice in the religious sense and how it applies to our life in the atrium with children.     Read Mongillo's article, About Justice, A Meditation HERE.    Ann Garrido has been a catechist of the Good Shepherd since 1996.  She currently serves as a Level One catechist at her parish while she also serves as a formation leader for the US Association at all three levels.  Ann is an Associate Professor at Aquinas Institute of Theology, a graduate school of theology and ministry in the Dominican tradition.  She is the author of multiple works, including her newest book Redeeming Power about the healthy and holy exercise of leadership.      Further Reading:    Journal Articles by Fr Mongillo:  History and Prayer 2004 Journal   About Justice: A Meditation 1999 Journal – Read HERE  Covenant, Collaboration, & Children 2007 Journal   A Letter from Father Mongillo 2006 Journal   Learning to Love 2009 Journal – Purchase HERE Read HERE  The Vocation to Become Human 2011 Journal – Purchase HERE  Sofia's article about Fr Mongillo from the 2006 Journal, read HERE  A Year with Sofia Cavalletti by Ann Garrido  Essential Realities, Ch. 2 Catechesis as Celebration by Fr Mongillo    ANN'S NEW BOOK – REDEEMING POWER     Heritage Episodes-    Episode 60- Pioneers of CGS with Betty Hissong  Episode 68- The CGS Heritage- Eugenio Zolli  Episode 76- The CGS Heritage- Romano Guardini  Episode 92- Who was Adele Costa Gnocchi       AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:    Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd      Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

Dr Steven Cheeseman, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Bridgeport, joins Bishop Caggiano this week on Let Me Be Frank. They talk about the state of the schools here, and the very many exciting programs they are putting together to proactively keep improving Catholic education. These include the Aquinas Institute, the Wellness Initiative, and the Seton Collaborative. OTHER VERITAS SHOWS Daily Gospel Reflections the Tangent  Restless Catholic Young Adults  the Front Line with Joe and Joe the Word made flesh  

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might.” Deuteronomy 6:5  “What have we done to Christianity? We have made it into a lot of rules; but Christianity is to enjoy a Person.” Fr Dalmazio Mongillo    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Who is Father Dalmazio Mongillo and how has he influenced our work in The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?    Read Sofia's article about Fr Mongillo: Christianity? To Enjoy a Person from the 2006 Journal    Sue first began implementing the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2003 while teaching at St. Peter's Catholic School in Beaufort, SC. She is certified in Levels I, II, and III and became a formation leader in 2010 after receiving her Master of Arts degree in the discipline of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, MO.  Sue has directed religious education programs in the dioceses of Milwaukee, Chicago, and NW Indiana and has facilitated the development of CGS in several parishes.  She currently serves as a Level 1 Catechist at St. James the Less in Highland, IN and works with lower-elementary children at the Montessori Children's Schoolhouse in Hammond, IN.      Further Reading:  Journal Articles by Fr Mongillo:  History and Prayer 2004 Journal   About Justice: A Meditation 1999 Journal – Read HERE  Covenant, Collaboration, & Children 2007 Journal   A Letter from Father Mongillo 2006 Journal   Learning to Love 2009 Journal – Purchase HERE Read HERE The Vocation to Become Human 2011 Journal – Purchase HERE    A Year with Sofia Cavalletti by Ann Garrido  Essential Realities    Heritage Episodes-  Episode 60- Pioneers of CGS with Betty Hissong  Episode 68- The CGS Heritage- Eugenio Zolli  Episode 76- The CGS Heritage- Romano Guardini  Episode 92- Who was Adele Costa Gnocchi       AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:    Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

After serving nearly a year of his 26 year sentence for treason in a Nicaraguan jail, Bishop Rolando Álvarez of Matagalpa was flown to Rome in January. The high profile bishop known as an outspoken critic of President Ortega's Sandinista government has been under house arrest since August 2022. He was allowed to leave the country alongside his supporter Bishop Isidoro Mora and a group of priests and seminarians, after a request from the Vatican. It's the latest development in a relationship between Nicaragua and the Holy See that has grown increasingly tense. President Ortega has had a complicated relationship with Nicaragua's Catholic clergy ever since he first came to power in the 1979 revolution. It was with the help of the Church that Daniel Ortega returned to power in 2006, but as his rule became increasingly more authoritarian he steadily repressed any sort of opposition, including critical voices from within the clergy. Mass peaceful protests over social security reforms in 2018 ramped up the repression from the Ortega government in the following years. Opposition leaders, journalists, and prominent leaders from within the R.C.Church were amongst those expelled or advised to leave the country and some like Bishop Álvarez were even imprisoned. The situation has left the Catholic Church in a difficult position. There are no diplomatic ties now between Nicaragua and the Holy See and since the end of the Cold War it appears that the international community has found more pressing concerns. Nicaragua's Catholic neighbours may have the country on their radars, but how willing they are in supporting the Pope over his concerns for Nicaragua's Catholic population remains to be seen. So, this week on The Inquiry we're asking ‘Can the Vatican stop Nicaragua's Catholic crackdown?Contributors: Brandon Van Dyck, Associate Director of the Princeton Initiative in Catholic Thought, The Aquinas Institute, New Jersey, USA Bianca Jagger, President of the Bianca Jagger Human Rights Foundation, Executive Directors Leadership Council of Amnesty International, London Andrea Gagliarducci, Vatican Analyst, EWTN /ACI Group, Rome, Italy Ryan Berg, Director, Americas Programme, Centre for Strategic and International Studies, Washington DC, USAPresenter: Tanya Beckett Producer: Jill Collins Researcher: Matt Toulson Editor: Tara McDermott Technical Producer: Cameron Ward Broadcast Co-ordinator: Tim Fernley Image Credit: Mireya AciertoGetty

Ann has been a catechist of the Good Shepherd since 1996. She is a member of the faculty at Aquinas Institute of Theology where she founded the MAPS-CGS program, a pastoral studies degree program with a concentration in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.  She now serves as spiritual formation director for the program.  Ann is a member of the formation committee of the U.S. national association of CGS and offers formation courses at all three levels. She is the author of Mustard Seed Preaching (LTP, 2004), A Year with Sofia Cavalletti (LTP, 2017), and Preaching with Children (LTP, 2022).  She joins us to talk about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd as a way to form our Children in the Faith. 

"Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other." —1 John 4:11    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Mary Heinrich discusses with us the value of friendship in this work as well as different networks you can set up to help sustain this desired support and community.  Mary is the Membership Coordinator for The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Prior to joining the staff, Mary served on the CGSUSA Board of Trustees for seven years. Mary has also served as a Director of Faith Formation in the Catholic Church for twenty-nine years, as well as a consultant and editor for religious education publishers.  She earned a bachelor's degree in religious studies from Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and a master's degree in Pastoral Studies in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. Her husband, Kurt is a permanent deacon in the Diocese of Des Moines and teaches theology at the local Catholic high school, is a Level One catechist, and enjoys making materials for the atrium.  Their daughter, Clare, is the elementary faith formation coordinator at her Church, working in the Level One and Level Two atria. When not immersed in CGS, Mary enjoys reading, art and spending time with her family.    Types of CGSUSA Memberships    Information about Regional Groups      Other Episode with Mary:   Episode 31 - “Even Now” A Lenten Reflection with Mary Heinrich    Further Reading:    Read Tina Lillig's article Life of the Catechist online   Facets of Joy          Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

Preaching for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Rosemary Johnston offers the witness of Mother Antonia, who served in prison ministry, as an example of how we are called to share our gifts: "Mother Antonia once said, 'there is no one so ugly he does not have beauty within him; no one so weak he does not have great strength and no one so poor he is not endowed with richness. Each person is of invaluable worth.' She was not only talking about those whom she served but about each of us. We are all people of invaluable worth. Share your gifts. It is a timeless blessing for those who give and for those who receive." Rosemary Johnston became involved in prison ministry at a San Diego area women's jail in 1985. At the same time she began pursuing master's degree in practical theology at the University of San Diego, graduating in 1990. After working as director of the Office of Human Life and Development at the diocesan pastoral center, she became a freelance writer for the National Catholic Reporter and was later hired to run the volunteer services program at Father Joe's Villages, the country's largest homeless shelter. She was later was hired as executive director of the Interfaith Shelter Network. In the summers of 2003, 2004 and 2005, I attended the Summer Preaching Institute at the Aquinas Institute of Theology. Since her retirement in 2013, she has served as a member of several non-profit boards and continues to organize the annual Good Friday Walk with the Suffering in downtown San Diego and the La Posada Sin Fronteras at the border fence. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/11192023 to learn more about Rosemary, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.

Preaching for the 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Paula Rush offers a reflection on knowing and being known: "And in that moment, we realize this parable is all about knowing... And this is exactly what Jesus needs us to realize. He needs us to get in touch with that desire. The desire to know and be known. We want to be wise. We want wisdom." Paula Rush is a catechist with the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd—an approach to faith formation for children. She writes a blog, “The Better Part”—three weekly Sunday Gospel reflections for children ages 3-6, 6-9, and 9-12, and records these as a podcast. She serves as a chaplain at a Catholic high school in Waterloo, Ontario, where she lives with her husband and five children. Currently, she pursues a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd through the Aquinas Institute in St. Louis, MO. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/11122023 to learn more about Paula, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.

"Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” Genesis 1:26  Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!  Diane Olsen returns to the podcast to explore who the transitioning child is, the 6 year old, the 9 year old, and the 12 year old.  We also discuss how we can best serve these children in our atria.   “We must take man himself, take him with patience and confidence, across all the planes of education. We must put everything before him, the school, culture, religion, the world itself. We must help him to develop within himself that which will make him capable of understanding. It is not merely words, it is a labor of education. This will be a be a preparation for peace, for peace cannot exist without justice and without men endowed with a strong conscience and personality.”  Montessori, Maria. The Four Planes of Education (pg 10)  Diane Olsen has been involved in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 1990. She has received all formation levels and was recognized as a formation leader in 2002. She is actively involved leading catechist formation around the country. Diane has a philosophy and math degree from St. John's College in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies-Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from the Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis, Missouri. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother.    Other Episodes that relate to this topic:  The Four Planes of Development with Claire Paglia      Other Episodes with Diane:  Episode 3 – The Environment and the Adult with Diane Olsen    Episode 51 – Prayer of Thanksgiving with Diane Olsen  Episode 94-CGS Characteristics #17, 18, 19, and 20 with Lynda Catalano and Diane Olsen      The Four Planes of Education by Maria Montessori       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd   

I'm in Rome this week, so we're revisting a conversation from last April with Dr. Ann Garrido, an associate professor of homiletics at Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri, where she previously directed the school's Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching program. Dr. Garrido has served as the Marten Faculty Fellow in Homiletics at the University of Notre Dame. She is the author of seven books, including the award-winning Redeeming Administration, Redeeming Conflict, and Let's Talk About Truth. She travels nationally and internationally helping communities discuss the topics they find toughest to talk about—conversations that always involve questions of truth. Make sure to visit patreon.com/outsidethewalls to see highlights from Rome.

"Bless the Lord, my soul; all my being, bless his holy name!” Psalm 103:1  Episode 100!!  Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!  Read Marty's article from the 2017 Journal Inspiriting Art Expression Online here.     Marty O”Bryan returns to the podcast to talk about prayer as a response in children, especially their art work.    Marty O'Bryan began her formation in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd with Sofia Cavalletti in 1983 and has been a catechists since 1985. She conducts adult formations at Levels I, II and III throughout the United States. A retired speech and language pathologist, Marty holds a Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology. Currently, she works with children in Level I, II, and III atria in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix.      Art Submissions for the CGSUSA Annual Journal: https://www.cgsusa.org/artwork-submission/  The Journal committee invites reflections by children you work with on the mysteries they encounter in the atrium, whether these are voiced or written prayer or theological expression through art. We especially seek syntheses of the various themes they have received.      Please follow these guidelines for submitting children's work or photographs for possible publication in 2024 Journal:      For the best possible image of children's art, please send the original. Otherwise, a photograph taken by a smartphone can have sufficient resolution if it is attached as file in its original size.      Every submission must have the child's name, age, and if pertinent, something the child said about his or her drawing. It can include an explanation of the circumstances that led to the child's work.      The child's art should be free from all adult writing.  Comments or explanations may be written on the permission form that accompanies the artwork.      The permission form needs to include the child's home address and signature of one of the child's parents. The permission form can be found on the website of The United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org      Please send materials to:   Journal Editors / Catechesis of the Good Shepherd   7655 East Main Street   Scottsdale, AZ 85251   Email: journal@cgsusa.org  Or submit online at:  https://www.cgsusa.org/artwork-submission/        Art Supplies for the Atrium sold by CGSUSA    The HeART of the Child Art Book      Other Episodes with Marty:  Episode 61- The Roots of the Eucharist and the Easter Mystery  Episode 95- CGS Characteristics #21 and #25       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

“For thus says the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel: “In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” Isaiah 30:15  Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!  Ruth, Mary and I discuss the unique topic of the hormone Oxytocin, the love hormone, what is it and how can it be fostered.  We also ponder how this hormone relates to our work in the atrium with children and with God.   Ruth Ehrhardt is the mother of 4 home-birthed children, a South African traditional midwife, Certified as a Professional Midwife in the US, and the author of a book called The Basic Needs of a Woman in Labour (which has been translated into 15 different languages), and a birth and midwifery teacher. You can find the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Basic-Needs-Woman-Labour/dp/0620660287      She is the daughter, granddaughter, and niece of midwives, so it seems this work was in many ways predestined from birth.      Ruth has an innate love and trust for birth, women's bodies, and babies' intelligence. In her teaching and work, she mainly focuses on guarding and protecting the environment for pregnancy and birth, as opposed to guiding or facilitating the actual birthing process.      For more information on Ruth see her website:  TrueMidwifery.com    The Basic Needs of Babies course is an adult prepared environment, offering a chance to explore what everyone's Basic Needs are and how it feels when they are met.    Mary Mirrione began working with CGS in 1992. She and a team of catechists and parents built atria at St Anne's in Gilbert, Arizona for their 1800 children. She has been a formation leader since 1997 serving as such at home and abroad. She also works with Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity throughout the United States and around the world. Mary served on the Board for CGSUSA and is a graduate of the first cohort at Aquinas Institute of Theology to receive a Masters in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She is a faculty member of Kino Catechetical Institute in the Diocese of Phoenix. Since 2010, she serves as the National Director for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.    AUDIO VERSION of The Religious Potential of the Child by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  CGSUSA has created a Premium Podcast Channel for this audiobook through Podbean.  The cost is $29.00 and does include the audio version of all chapters of The Religious Potential of the Child, 3rd Edition all read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  We have provided both video overview instructions and written instructions on accessing this audiobook.  Please use these resources. Unlike the regular podcast, which will remain free and available on many podcast players/apps, this new resource is available only on the Podbean App, which you may download from the IOS App store or the Google Play App store. Learn more here!  Step by step instructions here!     Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

“I had the great privilege of never having a man formally teach me preaching,” boasts Manuel Williams about his training for the priesthood. One of his teachers was Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, F.S.P.A.; the other was Joan Delaplane, an Adrian Dominican sister and the first Catholic woman president of the American Academy of Homiletics. “What both of these great women stressed,” he said, “is you have the privilege each and every Sunday of standing before the people of God. And they would make it personal. They'd say, ‘We don't get that privilege easily. We have to look for venues or for opportunities.' And so never step into that preaching moment unprepared.'” Manuel is a member of the Congregation of the Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ. He has been pastor of Resurrection Catholic Church in Montgomery, Ala., for 33 years. Throughout this time he has also served as director of Resurrection Catholic Missions of the South, Inc. He preaches revivals and missions throughout the U.S., with a focus on African American Catholic spirituality and history. In 2021, he co-taught a course on “Anti-Racism Preaching” at the Aquinas Institute of Theology, where he is currently pursuing doctoral studies in preaching. Listen to Manuel's homily for the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A, on this week's episode of “Preach.” In conversation after the homily, with host Ricardo da Silva, S.J., Manuel unpacks how he makes oft-heard parables relevant and how he invites his congregation into full participation in the Gospel story. Read the full text of this week's homily and Scripture readings. “Preach” is made possible through the generous support of the Compelling Preaching Initiative, a project of Lilly Endowment Inc.  Get daily Scripture reflections and support "Preach" by becoming a digital subscriber to America Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“A that time Jesus said in reply, ‘I give praise to you, Father Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these tings from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike.” Matthew 11:25  Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!  Today we listen to the words of Gianna Gobbi from her book Listening to God with Children. We have part of chapter 5 and part of chapter 6 as a way to help prepare ourselves for the beginning of the year in the atrium. The pages read include pages 41 through 53. Then Mary Mirrione joins us for a short discussion on this reading lifting up some important pieces from this beautiful work.   This precious book of Gianna's has unfortunately been out of print for 2 years.   We have been actively working on a new book which will contain Gianna's legacy with updated information and new content.  We hope to have this published by next Spring.  We will be keeping everyone informed though our Member Memos and In the Meadow emails which come monthly to our members.  Mary Mirrione began working with CGS in 1992. She and a team of catechists and parents built atria at St Anne's in Gilbert, Arizona for their 1800 children. She has been a formation leader since 1997 serving as such at home and abroad. She also works with Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity throughout the United States and around the world. Mary served on the Board for CGSUSA and is a graduate of the first cohort at Aquinas Institute of Theology to receive a Masters in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She is a faculty member of Kino Catechetical Institute in the Diocese of Phoenix. Since 2010, she serves as the National Director for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.    AUDIO VERSION of The Religious Potential of the Child by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  CGSUSA has created a Premium Podcast Channel for this audiobook through Podbean.  The cost is $29.00 and does include the audio version of all chapters of The Religious Potential of the Child, 3rd Edition all read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  We have provided both video overview instructions and written instructions on accessing this audiobook.  Please use these resources. Unlike the regular podcast, which will remain free and available on many podcast players/apps, this new resource is available only on the Podbean App, which you may download from the IOS App store or the Google Play App store. Learn more here!  Step by step instructions here!     Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

“Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.” Colossians 2:6-7  Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!  Today we hear all about the Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies - Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology!   To learn more about the program: https://www.ai.edu/academics/degree-programs/master-of-arts-in-pastoral-studies-catechesis-of-the-good-shepherd  Link for September Information Session that is on September 21st at 4:00pm CT: https://events.ai.edu/event/155986  Samantha Messier is the current Coordinator for Enrollment Management at Aquinas Institute of Theology, located in St. Louis, Missouri. She received her Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing from Indiana University. Prior to her current role at Aquinas Institute, Samantha's background includes working in communications and campus ministry at St. Paul Catholic Center in Bloomington, Indiana. To schedule a meeting with Sam: https://calendly.com/messier-1/30min?month=2023-08    Carolyn Wright, MDiv., DMin serves on the faculty of Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. She teaches in the areas of ministerial formation and Christian spirituality. Carolyn directs the Master of Arts in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (MAPS-CGS) degree program as well as the Theological Field Education program at Aquinas. Carolyn has been a longtime advocate for CGS since she completed both her Level I (2010) and Level II (2011) formations. She is available to talk further about the MAPS-CGS degree program at Aquinas (wright@ai.edu | 314-256-8879).    Hannah Turchi began her journey with The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2011 and is a catechist and Director of Discipleship at St. Robert Bellarmine in Flushing. She is a Level One Formation Leader and has a masters degree in Pastoral Studies and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (MAPS-CGS) from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, MO.    Melanie Beyers was first exposed to Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2004 as a parent assistant with her oldest child, who was three at the time. She fell in love with the method and materials, and completed her Level I formation in 2008. After serving as a catechist in her parish, Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Saginaw MI, in the Level I Atrium for 10 years, she felt it time to complete her Level II and III formation in 2018 through 2020. She continues as a volunteer catechist at her parish and at the Catholic elementary school her children attended. Melanie holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Central Michigan University and a Juris Doctor from Michigan State University Law School. She currently works for the federal government as a staff attorney/law clerk, and hopes to make Catechesis of the Good Shepherd a post-retirement focus. Melanie is currently a student in the MAPS-CGS program at the Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, MO, and is about halfway through the program.      AUDIO VERSION of The Religious Potential of the Child by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  CGSUSA has created a Premium Podcast Channel for this audiobook through Podbean.  The cost is $29.00 and does include the audio version of all chapters of The Religious Potential of the Child, 3rd Edition all read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  We have provided both video overview instructions and written instructions on accessing this audiobook.  Please use these resources. Unlike the regular podcast, which will remain free and available on many podcast players/apps, this new resource is available only on the Podbean App, which you may download from the IOS App store or the Google Play App store. Learn more here!  Step by step instructions here!     Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

Sara Fairbanks, OP preaches for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time, offering a reflection on God's love conquering all: "Elijah whispers to us across the centuries, what keeps hope alive in the shadow of the cross is God's ever-present, unsurpassed love, making us 'participants in the divine nature' (2 Pet 1:4) and 'friends of God, and prophets' (Ws 7:27)...Rooted in God's love, perhaps we will become like Jesus, whom Catherine of Siena called a 'mad lover' who ran to his cross. 'It was not nails,' she says, 'but love that kept him on the cross.'" Dr. Sara Fairbanks, OP, is an Adrian Dominican Sister. She is currently a professor of homiletics at Aquinas Institute in Saint Louis, Missouri. Before going to Aquinas, she taught systematic theology for twenty years at Barry University in Miami, Florida. Sara holds a Master of Theology from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis and a Doctorate in Theology at the University of St. Michael's College, the Toronto School of Theology in Toronto, Canada. Her areas of expertise are homiletics, theology of lay ecclesial ministry, theology of preaching, practical theology and Christian anthropology. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/08132023 to learn more about Sara, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.

Published: September 10, 2021 Join Jim Friend as we celebrate the 100th Episode of Advancing Our Church with his special guest, Fr. Benjamin Roberts, author of the new book on homiletics, The Voice of the Bridegroom. Fr. Roberts discusses his story of conversion, the artistic renovations made to his parish at Our Lady of Lourdes, Monroe, NC, his new book, and his devotion to St. Dymphna. Fr. Roberts shares his own personal journey on how the priest's spousal relationship with a parish can create connectivity that impacts a priest's homily and his ministry.Fr. Benjamin Roberts is a priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte, pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Monroe, NC, holds a doctorate in preaching from the Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, he serves as an Adjunct Professor of Theology for Saint Joseph's College of Maine and the author of the new book, The Voice of the Bridegroom. You can find Fr. Roberts on Twitter @Fr_benjamin; watch the interview we discussed on the Catholic TV Network, where he shares the artistic renovations to his parish, or watch his interview on Good Catholic, where he discusses his devotion to St. Dymphna, the patron saint of anxiety, depression, Alzheimer's, and every other mental illness. The Book: The Voice of the Bridegroom Preaching is a relational act. This book explores the relationship between the preacher and the assembly as a spousal relationship. Written by a parish pastor with a doctorate in preaching and rooted in the Roman Catholic notion of the priest as the bridegroom of the church, this work examines characteristics of the spousal relationship between husband and wife and then provides an analysis of the ministerial priesthood through this nuptial lens. This nuptial reflection on the ministerial priesthood is then applied to preaching. This book presents a nuptial hermeneutic or vision for preaching and the implications of this vision for the assembly, the preacher, the homily, and the homiletical method. The appendices include a one-page strategy for preaching summarizing the homiletical method, a rubric for homily evaluation by members of the assembly, and two sample homilies. Buy it on Amazon. Watch the video presentation of this discussion https://youtu.be/Cgmullk7G6c Recorded September 8, 2021 Don't miss Changing Our World's FORGING FORWARDDon't miss the webinar series FORGING FORWARD, a virtual philanthropic conference designed to bring you nonprofit experts from around the country who are leading through the COVID-19 crisis. Daily Spiritual Reflection and Prayers on “Kristin's Crosses” Join Jim and Kristin Friend and their family on Kristin's Crosses YouTube Channel for “Today's Catholic Prayers.” Jim and Kristin offer the daily Gospel and Reflection along with the Rosary and Catholic Prayers of the day. Click here to visit the YouTube Page and subscribe. If you would like to join the Kristin's Crosses prayer group on Facebook, click here to request to join.

“May the favor of the Lord our God be ours, prosper the work of our hands! Prosper the work of our hands!” (Ps 90:17).   Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!  In today's episode we dive into two of our 32 Characteristics of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, 21 and 25, which speak about the materials we use in this work.   Link to the 32 Characteristics of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd  Lynne Worthington worked for 30 years as a catechist for children and adults at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Durham, NC. She also served as the coordinator for CGS in Immaculata School and for the parish. Since 1991 she has taken part in National Formation courses for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, earning certificates as a catechist for all three levels, ages 3-12 years old. She has participated in numerous formation leadership workshops and is recognized as a formation leader by the National Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She holds an MA degree in Pastoral Studies from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, MO.  Lynne now lives in Ball Ground, GA and volunteers in Atria in the Archdiocese of Atlanta. She and her husband, Bill, have three grown children and two grandchildren.    Marty O'Bryan began her formation in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd with Sofia Cavalletti in 1983 and has been a catechists since 1985. She conducts adult formations at Levels I, II and III throughout the United States. A retired speech and language pathologist, Marty holds a Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology. Currently, she works with children in Level I, II, and III atria in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix.    The Meaning, Importance, and Limitations of our Catechetical Materials by Gianna Gobbi    Episode 70- Art of Observation with Lynne Worthington  Episode 61- The Roots of the Eucharist and the Easter Mystery with Marty O'Bryan  Link to a list of CGSUSA Vendors    AUDIO VERSION of The Religious Potential of the Child by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  CGSUSA has created a Premium Podcast Channel for this audiobook through Podbean.  The cost is $29.00 and does include the audio version of all chapters of The Religious Potential of the Child, 3rd Edition all read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  We have provided both video overview instructions and written instructions on accessing this audiobook.  Please use these resources. Unlike the regular podcast, which will remain free and available on many podcast players/apps, this new resource is available only on the Podbean App, which you may download from the IOS App store or the Google Play App store. Learn more here!  Step by step instructions here!     Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

“May the favor of the Lord our God be ours, prosper the work of our hands! Prosper the work of our hands!” (Ps 90:17).   Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!  In today's episode we dive into four of our 32 Characteristics of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, 17, 18, 19 and 20 which all speak about the materials we use in this work.   Lynda Catalano has been a catechist at Trinity Church in Fillmore, California for 30 years. She works weekly in the atrium with groups of 3 to 6-year-olds, 6 to 9-year-olds, and 9 to 12-year-olds. She has led Levels I, II and III catechist formation throughout the United States and internationally including serving on national formation teams. Lynda is bi-lingual in Spanish and has also offered catechist formation in Spanish. She is a member of the Formation Leader Discernment Committee and served on teams for the Formation Leader Training Courses for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Lynda is retired from teaching kindergarten and first graders in a public school. She has four adult children and three beautiful grandchildren.    Diane Olsen has been involved in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 1990. She has received all formation levels and was recognized as a formation leader in 2002. She is actively involved leading catechist formation around the country. Diane has a philosophy and math degree from St. John's College in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies-Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from the Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis, Missouri. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother.    The Meaning, Importance, and Limitations of our Catechetical Materials by Gianna Gobbi    1998 – 2002 Journals of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Volume 2    Episode 5 – Material Making with Lynda Catalano  Episode 51 – Prayer of Thanksgiving with Diane Olsen  Episode 70- Art of Observation with Lynne Worthington  Episode 81- Mystery of God Meets Mystery of the Child with Lynda Catalano  Link to a list of CGSUSA Vendors    AUDIO VERSION of The Religious Potential of the Child by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  CGSUSA has created a Premium Podcast Channel for this audiobook through Podbean.  The cost is $29.00 and does include the audio version of all chapters of The Religious Potential of the Child, 3rd Edition all read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  We have provided both video overview instructions and written instructions on accessing this audiobook.  Please use these resources. Unlike the regular podcast, which will remain free and available on many podcast players/apps, this new resource is available only on the Podbean App, which you may download from the IOS App store or the Google Play App store. Learn more here!  Step by step instructions here!     Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

In his new book, Down Deep in My Soul: An African American Catholic Theology of Preaching (Orbis Books, 2023), Father Maurice Nutt, a doctor of preaching from the Aquinas Institute of Theology and a Redemptorist priest, teaches us about African American oratorical and homiletic tradition and shows how it can enrich preaching in every church. This is a discussion about history, cultural anthropology, and the Roman Catholic Church. As always, we ask how we got here and where do we go next. I also ask Father Maurice to respond to Pope Francis's recommendation that homilies should be kept under ten minutes. Finally, Father Maurice gives guidance that will benefit all preachers—and, in fact, all public speakers. Father Maurice's webpage Father Maurice's book, Deep Down in My Soul (Orbis, 2023) Father Maurice's spiritual direction ministry Father Maurice on Almost Good Catholics, episode 21: We Shall Overcome: Sister Thea Bowman and the Black Catholic Experience Krzysztof Odyniec is a historian of Medieval and Early Modern Europe; he is also the host of the 'Almost Good Catholics' podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-american-studies

In his new book, Down Deep in My Soul: An African American Catholic Theology of Preaching (Orbis Books, 2023), Father Maurice Nutt, a doctor of preaching from the Aquinas Institute of Theology and a Redemptorist priest, teaches us about African American oratorical and homiletic tradition and shows how it can enrich preaching in every church. This is a discussion about history, cultural anthropology, and the Roman Catholic Church. As always, we ask how we got here and where do we go next. I also ask Father Maurice to respond to Pope Francis's recommendation that homilies should be kept under ten minutes. Finally, Father Maurice gives guidance that will benefit all preachers—and, in fact, all public speakers. Father Maurice's webpage Father Maurice's book, Deep Down in My Soul (Orbis, 2023) Father Maurice's spiritual direction ministry Father Maurice on Almost Good Catholics, episode 21: We Shall Overcome: Sister Thea Bowman and the Black Catholic Experience Krzysztof Odyniec is a historian of Medieval and Early Modern Europe; he is also the host of the 'Almost Good Catholics' podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

In his new book, Down Deep in My Soul: An African American Catholic Theology of Preaching (Orbis Books, 2023), Father Maurice Nutt, a doctor of preaching from the Aquinas Institute of Theology and a Redemptorist priest, teaches us about African American oratorical and homiletic tradition and shows how it can enrich preaching in every church. This is a discussion about history, cultural anthropology, and the Roman Catholic Church. As always, we ask how we got here and where do we go next. I also ask Father Maurice to respond to Pope Francis's recommendation that homilies should be kept under ten minutes. Finally, Father Maurice gives guidance that will benefit all preachers—and, in fact, all public speakers. Father Maurice's webpage Father Maurice's book, Deep Down in My Soul (Orbis, 2023) Father Maurice's spiritual direction ministry Father Maurice on Almost Good Catholics, episode 21: We Shall Overcome: Sister Thea Bowman and the Black Catholic Experience Krzysztof Odyniec is a historian of Medieval and Early Modern Europe; he is also the host of the 'Almost Good Catholics' podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Huntley Leadership Podcast, we love to unpack the topic of parish renewal through the lens of Catholic leadership. In this episode, Ron Huntley sits down with Father Ed Shuttleworth, a priest from the Diocese of La Crosse, Wisconsin, with over 33 years of experience in serving the church.   Father Ed shares his personal story of leading a struggling parish and his journey toward finding a solution. We discuss the Alpha program, which he initially hesitated to adopt due to its unfamiliarity, but later discovered its power in transforming the lives of parishioners. Father Ed emphasizes the importance of openness to new ideas and guidance from the Holy Spirit when it comes to leadership.   This episode contains valuable insights from Father Ed's experiences to help you lead and transform your parish. If you're a Catholic leader looking for inspiration and practical advice on parish renewal, or someone interested in learning about Catholic leadership, you won't want to miss this episode of the Huntley Leadership Podcast.   About Father Ed Shuttleworth:   Father Ed Shuttleworth has been a priest of the Diocese of La Crosse, WI, for 33 years. Currently, he serves as pastor of St. Bronislava Parish in Plover, WI and as Dean of the Stevens Point Deanery. He holds an M.A. in Theology from the Catholic University of America and a D.Min. in Preaching from Aquinas Institute of Theology. In addition to his priestly duties, Father Ed enjoys riding his Harley Davidson Road King. He has also been involved with the recovery community and is excited to be engaged with Hispanic ministry in his parish. SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS! We're hosting a special episode of the Huntley Leadership Podcast next month, focused on the topic of "Dealing with Conflict in a Missional Parish." This podcast will be built around questions that we receive from you, the listeners. Have a question related to conflict & leadership? Head to https://huntleyleadership.com/questions to send yours.

Dr. Ann Garrido is associate professor of homiletics at Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri, where she previously directed the school's Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching program. Dr. Garrido has served as the Marten Faculty Fellow in Homiletics at the University of Notre Dame. She is the author of seven books, including the award-winning Redeeming Administration, Redeeming Conflict, and Let's Talk About Truth. She travels nationally and internationally helping communities discuss the topics they find toughest to talk about—conversations that always involve questions of truth.

“Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our paschal lamb, has been sacrificed.” 1 Corinthians 5:7  Jo Ann Padgett speaks to us today about the beauty and depth of the paschal mystery and how it penetrates every corner of the atrium in all levels.   Jo Ann Padgett has been involved in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 1987. She is formed and holds the National Certificate for Levels 1, 2, and 2. She worked extensively with children aged three through twelve in various atria settings, also working as director of CGS at several different parishes. Prior to learning about CGS she earned AMS certification as a Primary Montessori Directress. She became recognized as a Formation Leader by the National Association in 2003 and currently leads adult formation courses at all three levels. She graduated in the first cohort from Aquinas Institute of Theology with a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies – Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. From 2008 to 2014, she served on the Board of Directors of the National Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and currently serves the Association as a member of the Journal team. She is a practicing Roman Catholic and currently resides in the Dallas area of Texas.  History of the Kingdom of God Part 1  Life in the Vine  AUDIO VERSION of The Religious Potential of the Child by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  CGSUSA has created a Premium Podcast Channel for this audiobook through Podbean.  The cost is $29.00 and does include the audio version of all chapters of The Religious Potential of the Child, 3rd Edition all read by Rebekah Rojcewicz.  We have provided both video overview instructions and written instructions on accessing this audiobook.  Please use these resources. Unlike the regular podcast, which will remain free and available on many podcast players/apps, this new resource is available only on the Podbean App, which you may download from the IOS App store or the Google Play App store. Learn more here!  Step by step instructions here!      Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- oneofhisheep 

This lecture was offered at Trinity University (San Antonio) on October 10, 2022. For more information on upcoming events, please visit our website: www.thomisticinstitute.org About the Speaker: Sr. Albert Marie Surmanski, O.P. is a member of the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist. She is an Assistant Professor of Theology at the University of St. Thomas in Houston where she also teaches at St. Mary's Seminary. Her main area of research is medieval sacramental theology with a focus on Albert the Great and Aquinas. She has published a translation of Albert the Great's work On the Body of the Lord, in the CUA Fathers of the Church Medieval Continuation series as well as a translation of Aquinas's Commentary on the Psalms for the Aquinas Institute. She has published articles in various journals including Logos, Antiphon, Nova et Vetera and Franciscan Studies.

This lecture was given at New York University on September 21, 2022. For more information on upcoming events, visit thomisticinstitute.org About the speaker: R. J. Snell is Director of Academic Programs at the Witherspoon Institute in Princeton, NJ. Prior to his appointment at the Witherspoon Institute, he was Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Philosophy Program at Eastern University and the Templeton Honors College, where he founded and directed the Agora Institute for Civic Virtue and the Common Good. He has been visiting instructor at Princeton University, where he is also executive director of the Aquinas Institute for Catholic Life. He's written books and articles on natural law, education, Bernard Lonergan, boredom, subjectivity, and sexual ethics for a variety of publications.