Podcasts about blessed an invitation

Apr 28, 2022 - Fr Josh Johnson is Director of Vocations for the Diocese of Baton Rouge… host of “Ask Father Josh” on Ascension… and author of “Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation”. Broken and Blessed: https://ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation  Listen live or get the podcast on the Veritas app: https://www.veritascatholic.com/listen 

NOTE: Over the next several weeks we'll be planning & discerning future episodes of the Life Beyond the Chariot Podcast. In the meantime, we'll be throwing it back to some of our favorite episodes from the past year! Having a healthy prayer life when you are a parent can be challenging. In this episode Fr. Josh Johnson, Vocations Director & Pastor in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, shares practical advice and encouragement for any parent who wants to deepen their prayer life but may not know where to begin. Social Media Twitter: @frjoshjohnson YouTube: @Fr Josh Johnson Instagram: frjoshjohnson Books by Fr. Josh Johnson: "Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation": https://ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed A Pocket Guide to Adoration": https://ascensionpress.com/products/p... "A Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation" (w/Fr. Mike Schmitz): https://ascensionpress.com/products/p... Podcast: Ask Fr. Josh Podcast: https://media.ascensionpress.com/cate... Diocese of Baton Rouge Vocations website w/links to Rosary Novena and Free E-book: https://diobr.org/vocations

Having a healthy prayer life when you are a parent can be challenging. In this episode Fr. Josh Johnson, Vocations Director & Pastor in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, shares practical advice and encouragement for any parent who wants to deepen their prayer life but may not know where to begin. Father Josh reminds us that we are called to embrace where God has us, to rest in God's presence, and to simply be with the Lord in whatever way we can in this season of life. He also discusses going to Mass with kids and how his parish found a creative way to offer Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament for parents and children. Social Media Twitter: @frjoshjohnson YouTube: @Fr Josh Johnson​ Instagram: frjoshjohnson Books by Fr. Josh Johnson: "Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation": https://ascensionpress.com/products/b...​ "A Pocket Guide to Adoration": https://ascensionpress.com/products/p...​ "A Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation" (w/Fr. Mike Schmitz): https://ascensionpress.com/products/p...​ Podcast: Ask Fr. Josh Podcast: https://media.ascensionpress.com/cate...​ Diocese of Baton Rouge Vocations website w/links to Rosary Novena and Free E-book: https://diobr.org/vocations

Race and the Eucharist w/Fr. Josh Johnson Today on the show, Fr. Josh Johnson joins me to talk about his Pocket Guide to Adoration (https://ascensionpress.com/products/pocket-guide-to-adoration) racial justice, and the importance of the former to the latter. Fr. Josh Johnson is the Vocations Director for the Diocese of Baton Rouge and is also the Pastor of Holy Rosary Catholic Church. While Fr. Josh was raised Catholic, he didn’t like the Church growing up. One day, in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, he fell in love with Jesus and perceived the call to become a priest. He is a nationally recognized speaker and he presents regularly on the topics of conversion, virtue and vice, avoiding the near occasion of sin, growing in the spiritual life and forming intentional disciples of Jesus Christ across the racial divide. He is a presenter with Ascension Press on “Altaration: The Mystery of the Mass,“ YOU: Life, Love, and The Theology of the Body," “Rejoice: Advent Meditations with Mary,” “Rejoice: Advent Meditations with Joseph,” “No Greater Love” and “the 99.” He is also the author of “Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation,” “Pocket Guide to Adoration” and a contributing author of “Power & Grace: A Guide to the Catholic Sacraments.” You can keep in touch with Fr. Josh through his weekly podcast at https://media.ascensionpress.com/category/ascension-podcasts/askfrjosh/. Prior to his ordination to the priesthood, Fr. Josh attended Southern University and graduated from St. Joseph’s Seminary College and Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans. We'd love to hear what you think of this episode! Reach out to us: Email | Instagram | Twitter | Patreon Other shows on the Vernacular Podcast Network: Vernacular | Breaking Pod | The Popped Cast | The Lineup

We know that spending time in Eucharistic Adoration is an incredible thing, but it’s so easy to get distracted! And when it comes to the practicals, should you sit, stand or kneel? Should you read a spiritual book or write in your journal? What kinds of things should you pray about? How can you listen better and actually hear God’s voice? Father Josh Johnson joins me live at the SLS20 FOCUS conference in Phoenix to share helpful advice on how exactly to spend your time in Eucharistic Adoration. In this conversation, Father Josh shares insights from his own Adoration experiences, the writings of the Saints, Church tradition, and Holy Scriptures that will help you focus on the face of our Lord in Eucharistic Adoration. _ ** Snippet from the Show If you wouldn’t look at your cell phone in the middle of your wedding ceremony, why would you look at your cell phone in the middle of your prayer time? _ ** SHOWNOTES What Should You Do in Adoration? What we know: Jesus is fully present in the Eucharist. The Eucharist is Christ’s body, blood, soul, and divinity In Adoration, we can encounter God in the Eucharist, in what’s normally called a “holy hour” But the question is, what should we do in a holy hour? Father Josh’s First Holy Hour Fr. Josh first encountered Christ in Adoration at a Steubenville Youth Conference, and the experience was so powerful for him that he vowed to go to Adoration every single day after that. However, when he went to Adoration away from the conference, without the lights and music and incense that Steubenville had, Father found himself not knowing what to do. Father realized that a lot of people are faced with this question in Adoration, which drove him to write his book, Pocket Guide to Adoration. Tips from Father on what we should and shouldn't do in Adoration: We should… Pray vocal prayers: if you’re alone, take the opportunity to pray out loud Bring our Bible: Fulton Sheen says that the Eucharist is the face of Christ, and scripture is the voice of Christ Bring our thoughts and desires to the Lord, and listen to what he says: tell the Lord what’s on your heart and mind, but then stop and listen to what he has to say Meditate on the Gospels: if you’re reading the Bible in Adoration, Fr. Josh recommends starting with the life of Jesus told in the Gospels Have a resolution upon leaving Adoration: this is recommended by the saints and will help build upon the graces you received in Adoration Be open to the Holy Spirit: it’s good to have a plan going into Adoration, but we have to make sure we’re allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to us in our prayer We shouldn’t... Adore ourselves: know who you’re talking to, and what you’re talking about Ignore the way we live outside of prayer: the way we live outside of prayer affects the way we live in prayer Have our cell phones nearby: if you have to have it for prayers, put it on airplane mode to avoid distractions Turn Adoration into study hall: it’s okay to read in the presence of the Holy Sacrament, but we shouldn’t call it Adoration because we’re not adoring the Lord Why go to Adoration? Fr. Josh explains why Adoration is so important through the context of the mass. Not only does it intensify our relationship with God, but it causes us to long for him more. When we go to Adoration and see the Lord in the Eucharist, we are drawn to him more, so much so that we want to experience his love in a more intimate way, such as in mass. Adoration calls us to live a life of worshiping God in everything we do. “Adoration leads to imitation.” The more we hang out with Christ in Adoration, the more we become like him. You’ve heard it said that you become a combination of the three people you hang with most, and the same is true with spending time with God. If we want to imitate Christ in his thoughts, words, and actions, we have to spend time with him. ** Additional tips from Fr. Josh: If you struggle with...** Getting distracted in Adoration Sit near the front of the chapel: This will prevent you from being distracted by others Focusing too much on the discomfort of kneeling Sit down or lay prostrate: It’s better to focus fully on the Lord than to do what you think is “correct” or “normal” Staying focused for a full hour Start with 15 minutes: begin with either Lectio Divinia or a rosary, and stay longer as you build endurance Resources Pocket Guide to Adoration (https://ascensionpress.com/products/pocket-guide-to-adoration?_pos=1&_sid=c48cb8010&_ss=r) by Fr. Josh Johnson He and I (https://www.amazon.com/He-I-Rev-Gabrielle-Bossis/dp/0819834386/ref=sr_1_1?gclid=CjwKCAiApOvwBRBUEiwAcZGdGAnrMqYSa5q6cuR6188chhFaOXRIrqdi6vZlEYVdA4Nruh3wApNVvBoCCsEQAvD_BwE&hvadid=241652015654&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9012276&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=12071430523350394568&hvtargid=aud-837858999240%3Akwd-4597050686&hydadcr=8265_10374952&keywords=he+and+i+gabrielle+bossis&qid=1578875081&sr=8-1) by Gabrielle Bossis Check out Fr. Josh’s podcast, “Ask Father Josh” Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation (https://ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation) by Fr. Josh Johnson Subscribe to our show by texting “allthingscatholic” to 33-777

Father Josh answers questions about how to talk about corruption in the Church’s history, whether the saints know our thoughts, and whether Mary knew that Jesus was God. **Glory Story (2:05) Feedback (3:59) ** Do Saints Know Our Thoughts? (9:04) Dear Fr. Josh, In one of your podcasts, you said that the Devil does not know our thoughts. Do the saints know our thoughts? I have always prayed silently to them. Thank you. Angela Corrupt Church History (11:22) Hey Father! Thank you for your ministry. You're my commute buddy on the way to teach grade eight American History in a public school ... Given that the Catholic Church was the only game in town for 1500+ years if you loved Jesus, we've been talking a bit about the role it played in history. I was well formed by my experience in RCIA ... so I am able to answer student questions about the Church teachings. I had a good humanities education, so I can also answer about other faiths and protestantism in general enough ways. Here's my question⁠—how do I address some of the awful things that happened in Church history? Like how the Church treated scientists during the Age of Reason, or the selling of indulgences during the Crusades, or Christopher Columbus and other explorers wiping out entire cultures of native people … People then knew that murder was wrong, and that heaven couldn't be accessed through monetary donations to a greedy pope or bishop, and this all still happened. I've talked about how people generally do the best they can, and how churches are run by perfectly imperfect men who are representatives of their time. [My students] seem to be OK with the answer of imperfect people being in charge ... but their natural conscience is telling them that someone should have tried harder to stop some of these shameful things done in the name of God. I'd love some advice. Thanks! -Heatherle Did Mary Know? (17:49) Father Josh, You’ve been talking about “Mary Did You Know” for a while now; when are you going to talk about that on the show? Blair Resources Check out Father’s Instagram page! Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation Email Father Josh at askfatherjosh@ascensionpress.com How to Pray Like Mary Matthew 16:19: Peter is given the keys to the Kingdom The Dogma of the Immaculate Conception

Father Josh answers questions about how to find healing in the midst of anxiety or depression, how to get involved in your parish, and whether or not Catholics can be Freemasons. Snippet from the Show If a Catholic man joins the freemasons, he automatically excommunicates himself from the Catholic Church. SHOWNOTES ** Glory Story (2:13) Listener Feedback (6:30) Anxiety, Depression, and Mental Illness (11:17)** Hi Fr Josh, My boyfriend introduced me to your podcast a few months ago, and absolutely love it. I think it is important to constantly learn more about the Church that Jesus Christ created. Your answers to people's questions and the way you tell stories is truly a gift from God. I recently graduated from college and am in a period of transition in my life before I start graduate school. The transition has been more difficult than I expected and I am now suffering from anxiety. I also already visit a counselor with Catholic Charities. I know the Lord's grace is sufficient and he will deliver me, however, I am still struggling to control my overwhelming feelings of doubt and worry. What is your spiritual advice for someone in my situation suffering from anxiety, depression, or a mental illness? Whose intercessions should they ask for? Are there prayers already written for this? Thank you for all you do. - Sloan Getting Involved in Your Parish (19:05) Dear Fr. Josh, You probably don’t remember me, but I will never forget you. I consider this my own little glory story. I was a member of St. Aloysius parish in Baton Rouge, LA. I was also a student at LSU and a student at Louisiana Culinary Institute, but before I became a student at the culinary school I moved back to my hometown for a semester during a really rough period of my life. During that period I left the Church and lost all hope and faith, not necessarily in Christ, but I just lost hope that he could love someone like me. Eventually I made my way back to Baton Rouge and had a little house on Stone Street. I still thank God every day for finding us a house on the same street as the church. I would often walk to Mass with my sister, not really wanting to attend and feeling guilty most of the time. One day after Mass during the final prayer, you stopped and said the following, “I don’t know who needs to hear this, but I feel God urging me to stop and share this message with someone in here tonight.” Then you continued to say, “You are so loved, and whatever you’re going through will pass. You are so loved by our Father.” I wept the entire night. It changed my life. My heart has been set on fire for Jesus ever since, and I truly perceive that to be Jesus working through you. Now, onto my question: I live in my hometown again, and as I said, my heart has been lit on fire for Jesus ever since that night. I have helped to bring so many of my friends to adoration and Mass. I love my parish, but I find myself hesitant to get more involved. I feel like I have a lot of great skills that I can use to better my parish and other young people who have fallen away from the Church. I wanna be an instrument for Jesus but I don’t know where to start. Should I ask someone in the parish office where they need help or my parish priest? Should I plan a meeting or just start volunteering in random ways? There are so many options, I would really love some guidance. With love - Avery The Freemasons (25:47) Hello Fr. Josh, Just recently found your show. I am loving how real and open you are about answering questions, even hard ones. I also enjoy your bursts of song. There’s a song for every occasion, don’t you think? As many of your listeners, I am a cradle Catholic. The organization of Masonry and its sister organization has recently been brought to my attention. My neighbors whom I respect and know to be faithful Christians, if not Catholic, are members. They are the most giving, warm, welcoming people. Always busy with various events, and community programs. I began wondering what their organization is all about. If I look it up online, there are many websites that for good or bad talk about this “secret” organization. It sorta looks like it was started maybe by Catholic Scotts… But the Church is against it…. I think… There are conspiracy theories, and occult theories… Curiosity makes me want to know more. But I am wary after all the stuff online. Making more connections with my community is something I am seeking. I am involved in my church community, but that only serves a portion of the community as a whole. I’d like to meet more and interact with more individuals in the community. What is the Church’s stance today on this organization, and why? - Catherine Resources More on the history of the Freemasons and the Catholic Church Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation by Fr. Josh Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to receive weekly emails for Fr. Josh’s podcast Sirach 38: Concerning Physicians and Health

Fr. Josh goes in depth on two questions: What principles should Catholics turn to when it comes to voting for a political candidate? And is celebrating Halloween morally acceptable? Snippet from the Show “Why would any follower of Jesus Christ vote for a candidate whose policies are diametrically and directly opposed to the core beliefs we hold sacred as Catholics?” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (2:08) Listener Feedback (4:20) Celebrating Halloween (9:49) Hi Father Josh!! First off, thank God for your existence, I appreciate you! I’ve been listening to you since July when a brother named Erik at a conference for men, called Triumph, told me about you (he’s probably listening to this shout out to him). Your content is very informative and it feeds my spirit. My question is, Is Halloween bad to celebrate? I’ve heard things from yes, because you're celebrating the devil to yes because satanic people do things on Halloween. But I wanted to hear from a Father, what’s your opinion on it? - Erik Catholic Voting (15:52) Hi Father Josh, I really enjoy your podcast and love your random singing bits! Shout out to Charles my bf as he loves you too. In Canada we just recently had our 2019 election, and I just want to know your thoughts on the election and, if anything, what does the Church teach on how to vote the “Catholic” way? - Michelle Resources * Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation by Fr. Josh (https://ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation?utm_source=website&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=brokenandblessed&utm_content=afj) * Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to receive weekly emails for Fr. Josh’s podcast * 4 Principles of Catholic Social Teaching (https://media.ascensionpress.com/2019/09/06/catholic-social-teaching-explained-by-former-anglican-priest/)

Father Josh answers questions about wearing rosaries, taize prayer, and spiritual direction. Is it sacrilegious to wear a rosary? Is a rosary without a crucifix still a rosary? Should Catholics engage in Taize prayer, or is Taize prayer a new age practice? Lastly, what’s the difference between spiritual direction and pastoral counseling? Snippet from the Show Spiritual direction is the art of leading souls progressively from the beginning of the spiritual life to the heights of Christian perfection. SHOWNOTES Glory Story (2:40) Listener Feedback (6:08) *Wearing Rosaries (9:03) * Hi, Father Josh! I've been listening to your podcast for some time now and first wanted to thank you so much for the good work you do. There really is no-one out there doing this type of podcast and I'm so thankful that I'm able to tune in weekly and get your insight on so many topics!! I had a twofold question regarding rosaries. One of my hobbies is making rosaries. I restore and use antique crucifixes and centerpieces and do all the wire work by hand. As you can imagine, much time and love goes into each one! I am part of a rosary making group on Facebook and some of the things I see in there make me question what I had been taught about the rosary itself. Firstly, I was always taught that you should NEVER wear a rosary like jewelry, as the rosary is a tool for prayer and not something to be worn and made a spectacle of. Similarly a rosary is not a car ornament and should not be hung from a rear view mirror like a pair of fuzzy dice. Was I taught properly or am I being too uptight? Secondly, I was taught that rosaries MUST have a crucifix, not just a cross. Is this true? Thank you so much in advance for your time!!! - VeiledInLove Taize Prayer (13:21) Hi Fr. Josh - I’m really glad I found your podcast a couple of months ago. I really appreciate how you handle questions from both the head and the heart. My question is about Taize prayer. In college I attended some ecumenical Taize prayer services and found this type of meditative prayer through beautiful songs to be very moving. I’ve thought about asking to coordinate a service through music ministry at my parish, but I’ve never really been sure about the theology behind Taize - it does seem a bit “new age-y” and I know it has some Protestant origins, but I also don’t know that there’s anything wrong with it. Does the Catholic Church have an official perspective on Taize prayer? Is Taize a theologically sound way for us to pray? - Sam Spiritual Direction (18:45) Hi Fr. Josh, I, as many others, listen to your podcast and appreciate all the time and effort you put into your podcasts. Your desire to become a saint and help others along their journey is truly inspiring. In listening to a recent episode, I heard you were taking questions for a possible discernment themed episode. This is one that I feel is not talked about enough when in regards to discernment. I have recently been discerning the call to the sisterhood. I have been able to get involved in one of the Little Sisters of the Poor's homes where I live. It has been such a blessing and helped me open my heart more to the Father's will. I recently have felt called to enter into spiritual direction, however, I have never gone before. How does someone begin spiritual direction? Would it be better to do it with a sister or a priest? Are only certain religious able to offer spiritual direction? Any and all advice is greatly appreciated! May Peace be with you. - Sarah Resources Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation by Fr. Josh Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to receive weekly emails for Fr. Josh’s podcast 1 Corinthians 10:31 Cardinal Sarah’s The Power of Silence Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Sirah 32:18-19 The Three Ages of the Interior Life - Volume 1 by Fr. Garrigou-Lagrange (pg. 256-264) The Theology of Christian Perfection (pg. 593-614)

Fr. Josh answers questions about non-Catholics receiving Communion in the Catholic Church, whether using essential oils is spiritually dangerous, and what St. Paul teaches about salvation and grace. Snippet from the Show “If a person receives Holy Communion and says ‘Amen’ without believing in the True Presence, they act dishonestly.” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (2:13) Listener Feedback (5:37) Holy Communion to Non-Catholics (7:45) Hi Fr Josh, Thank you for the gift that is your podcast and for all of the wisdom, guidance, and advice you offer to us, your brothers and sisters. I am recently engaged to the love of my life. I am a devout Catholic and he is a devout non-Catholic Christian. We have come a long way in our relationship with understanding each other‘s faith and beliefs and are excited to venture into the sacrament of marriage. One thing that we continue to struggle with and have conversation about is taking Communion at Mass. He feels rejected by the Church knowing that he cannot take Communion and it breaks my heart to see how it affects him. I understand that we believe the bread is the Body and wine the Blood and must protect the sacred Eucharist but if Jesus says “come to me all who are hungry, and you will be fed”, I don’t understand why someone of such great faith as my fiancé cannot receive Communion at Mass. There is a Catholic Church in Bend, Oregon, recognized by the archdiocese as a Catholic Church, that offers Communion to any Christian person. I have not had the opportunity to attend Mass there but this is the first church I’ve heard of doing this. Curious on your thoughts on this as well. Looking for any guidance and advice on understanding the Church’s teaching on the Eucharist for myself and my fiancé. Thank you so much for your desire and dedication to bringing people closer to the Lord. You are a gift! - Jordan Essential Oils (18:05) Hey Father Josh, loving the podcasts. I listen to them to help me focus before my theology homework. Anyways, I have a follow up question. A few episodes ago you mentioned that essential oils may lead to the devil or evil. Can you elaborate on that? Thanks! Praying for you! - Emma St. Paul and the Book of Galatians (23:13) Hey Father Josh, Thank you so much for constantly reading and answering my emails on your podcast. Your explanation of St. Peter as the first pope helped me a ton and affirmed what I already believed to be true in my heart. Another question, could you help me process the book of Galatians? In Galatians, Paul talks about how the law does not justify you but it is through faith that a person has life. Reading this entire book my head goes straight to the Protestant view on salvation and how they can use the book of Galatians to justify their beliefs that faith alone leads to salvation. I just need help understanding what Paul’s saying and what that means for us Catholics, help a girl out! Also shoutout to my homegirl Olivia K. for being the best Catholic friend I could ever ask for, could you say a special prayer for her? - Kennedy Resources Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation by Fr. Josh Romans: The Gospel of Salvation with Dr. Andrew Swafford and Jeff Cavins Email Fr. Josh: askfatherjosh@ascensionpress.com Walking with God: A Journey Through the Bible Galatians: Set Free to Live with Jeff Cavins & Gayle Somers

Fr. Josh answers questions about what happens to our guardian angels after we die, whether it’s OK to listen to explicit lyrics if you only pay attention to the music, and how to respond to someone who says all you have to do is love Jesus to get to heaven. Snippet from the Show “We cannot name our guardian angels because we’re implying that we have authority over them, and we don’t.” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (2:55) Listener Feedback (7:41) Guardian Angels (10:18) Good evening! I listened to your podcast for the first time yesterday. I was intrigued and learned much. On today, this feast of the guardian angels, this question came to mind: What happens to our GA when we die? What if we go to hell? Is there any biblical reference to what happens? I teach 7th grade theology so I could use your insight to help them as well....oh another question....should we name our GA? Can we pray for God to tell us their name? I have talked with various priests and received differing opinions. What is yours? -Patti Explicit Lyrics (14:59) Hey Father Josh, Hope this finds you well - loved your podcast and your book Broken & Blessed. My question's about rap. I'm 19 and have been listening to a lot of rap since I was 11 but recently I've become concerned about what exactly I'm exposing myself to. I don't want to paint a broad stroke and say it's all bad (after all, you rap about Jesus, how could that be bad?) but some of the music on my playlist is nothing more than talk of drugs/sex/money. I don't pay much attention to the lyrics and like it more for the beats, but it's gotta be affecting me in some way listening to all that, ya know? I consider my faith very important to me, and I feel it's a bit hypocritical for me to, for example, read about the Virgin Mary and then 10 seconds later start listening to music talking about women as if they're simply objects to be used for pleasure. Hoping you can provide some advice. -Anonymous Christian Denominations (22:35) Hey father Josh, I recently had a chance to tell my protestant friends about the beliefs of the Catholic faith and one of my friends told me “well we really won’t know if any of this is true until heaven and when we get there we’ll be smacked with the knowledge of what actually happens so as long as we love Jesus we're good” and I didn’t really know what to say in that situation because I didn’t want to offend her because she is a good friend and she had previously said that she didn’t think that people should get mad at each other because they have different religions, and I had agreed with her so I didn't want to be a hypocrite. So I stayed silent for a little while and then the subject was changed. What could I have said in that situation? Thank you so much. -Megan Resources * [Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation by Fr. Josh](https://ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation?utmsource=website&utmmedium=media&utmcampaign=brokenandblessed&utmcontent=afj) * Philippians 4:8 * John 17

Fr. Josh answers questions about how to minister to a coworker who looks at horoscopes and practices “white” witchcraft, what’s the deal with ember days (periods of fasting for vocations throughout the year), and why Catholics venerate saint relics and images. Snippet from the Show “Vatican II invites lay people to go out into the work environment (a place where clergy can’t go) and be the image of the body of Jesus Christ.” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (2:14) Listener Feedback (6:00) Ministering to Coworkers (8:15) Hi Fr. Josh, I‘ve been wondering whether I should keep up a friendship with a coworker whose lifestyle and beliefs are pretty opposite of mine. This coworker puts a lot of faith in horoscopes and said something about how people would be surprised if they knew that a big part of witchcraft is about natural remedies like herbs and essential oils. We don’t agree about sex or that marriage should be between a man and woman. I just listen when she talks about all of this because I don’t know if it’s my place to correct her — and honestly I‘m scared to. I don’t want to condemn her or make her think she wouldn’t be welcome in the Church. Plus, I think of Jesus eating with tax collectors. She grew up Christian and stopped practicing at some point. She says she prays, and she actually expressed an interest in joining a nondenominational church, which I think may be the result of her spending time with me and a Christian coworker. So part of me wants to be that influence who points her closer to Christ. But I really have a problem with her openness to witchcraft and horoscopes. It makes me uncomfortable and I don’t want to subject myself to any kind of occult influence. And I want friends who are pursuing holiness. So, part of me wants to distance myself, at least outside of work. We are both pretty new to our jobs and our city, and both of our social lives are mostly with coworkers. And maybe my reluctance to correct her or defend what I believe comes from a fear that it would make work awkward. Or a fear that she’d turn other coworkers against me. Besides these differences, we really do click and have bonded over a couple of interests. Plus, I know she could use a friend and use Jesus even more. I’m just struggling with knowing whether I should be that friend. Any advice is very welcome. Praying for you! - Mary Ember Days (16:04) Hi Father Josh, I am seeing on social media people talking about something in the Catholic Church called ember days. From what I can tell, ember days are a penitential season that take place 4 times a year (Lent, June, September and December) and these are a time of fasting for vocations and for good and holy priests. Will you explain in more detail how this tradition got started, and why it’s not commonly practiced? Thank you so much for your wonderful podcast and for the work you are doing for the Catholic Church. - Elaine Revering Saint Relics (20:55) Hello Father Josh. Thank you for all your podcasts. I have just started listening to them last weekend but I’ve been watching Ascension Presents for a year now. I have a question about my Catholic faith. I love it with a passion. I love the Eucharist and I love God, my goal every day is to make Him the center of my everything. I have a devotion to Mother Mary and Saint Francis of Assisi (my patron saint). I’ve been considering and discerning priesthood since 2016. I’m in college right now (I’m a freshman). I’ll wait for God to take His time. However, my question is: Why do we look at relics, images, and statues of saints with so much reverence? - Humberto Resources * Be Satisfied with Me (https://gnm.org/prayers/be-satisfied-with-me/) prayer attributed to St. Anthony of Padua * Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation (https://ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation?utm_source=website&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=brokenandblessed&utm_content=afj) by Fr. Josh * The Discernment of Spirits: An Ignatian Guide for Everyday Living (https://www.amazon.com/Discernment-Spirits-Ignatian-Everyday-Living/dp/0824522915) by Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Josh answers questions about what to do when a consecrated Host is dropped during Communion, if the devil and demons can read our thoughts when we’re tempted, and what to do about a congregation that doesn’t kneel during Mass. Snippet from the Show “Fight the devil the same way Jesus fought the devil. Whenever you recognize some temptation, quote Scripture out loud, and say ‘Get behind me Satan’. The word of God will fight for us.” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (2:20) Listener Feedback (4:58) Dropping Hosts (6:51) Last Sunday, during Communion, as I was peeking at the consecrated host from my hand I dropped it, and it fell to the floor by my feet. I gasped, and immediately grabbed it up and put it in my mouth. I was beyond mortified. I know part of it was embarrassment of those who may have seen me but I couldn't believe I’d been so careless with our Lord. Why wouldn’t I be more attentive during those few minutes I’m receiving Holy Communion. I prayed deeply about this and I heard him chuckle and say “Really, it’s okay.” I just can’t get that sight out of my mind: seeing him, Jesus, on the floor. I pray this never ever happens to me again, but if it does, what is the appropriate thing to do? Is there something more I should do now after making this awful blunder, is this a sin I need to confess? –A Clumsy Lover of Christ Devil in Our Thoughts (11:09) Dear Father Josh, My friend and I enjoy your podcast so very much. It is my favorite to listen to during commutes or travel, and some of the things you say are so profound to me I either have to stop the podcast and keep repeating it in my head, rewind and replay it over and over, and I usually write it down so I can meditate on the words even more. Your book is also amazing and I can’t wait for the new book to be released. You’re a blessing, keep up the awesome work. Here’s our question: does the devil have access to our minds? Does he know our thoughts as God knows our thoughts and our innermost being. We were thinking that the devil does not know our thoughts and the way that we can protect ourselves from his temptation and masterful lies was to never verbalize our thoughts and feelings, to never think out loud if you will. To keep thoughts inside so as to not allow the enemy to know our secrets. If he can’t access our thoughts then he can’t tempt us and control our minds, or use our thoughts and feelings against us. How exactly does the devil tempt us and can he get into our head? –Two Friends from Texas Not Kneeling at Mass (24:03) Hi Father Josh, Recently I moved away for college and started attending Mass at one of the local Catholic churches. I was a bit surprised when none of the congregation kneeled down during the Eucharistic prayers. In fact, the pews did not even have kneelers. I’ve since started attending a different Catholic church nearby. This was the first Catholic church I’d ever seen that doesn’t kneel, and it made me curious about the reason. Should I avoid going to this particular church because of this? –Claire Resources General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) (http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/the-mass/general-instruction-of-the-roman-missal/) The Litany of Humil (https://ascensionpress.com/pages/litany-of-humility)ity Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation (https://ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation?utm_source=website&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=brokenandblessed&utm_content=afj) by Fr. Josh

Fr. Josh answers questions about what to do when you’re single but feel called to marriage, what to do when you’re discerning marriage but aren’t ready for kids, and what to do when the person you’re dating isn’t Catholic. Get 15% off Jackie and Bobby’s new book, [Pray, Decide and Don’t Worry](https://ascensionpress.com/products/pray-decide-and-don-t-worry-five-steps-to-discerning-god-s-will?utmsource=podcast&utmmedium=media&utmcampaign=discernment&utmcontent=afjangels) at ascensionpress.com with promo code: DISCERN Snippet from the Show “God loves you. He has a plan for your life. And he is calling you to be a saint. ” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (5:20) Listener Feedback (8:30) Single, But Called to Marriage (12:20) Hey Fr. Josh! I never thought I would be writing into a podcast, but yet here I am! You have brought so much light to my life and have helped me apply my Catholic faith to my daily life. Ok, here's my question. I'm probably the most single person you could ever meet. I'm 26 years old and have never been asked on a date. My friends and family tell me that I would be such a catch and yet I cannot seem to get the attention of any man (Catholic or not)! [I'm not flirty by any means, yet I'm not shy … I guess just normal?] I feel called to marriage and it is so hard to trust in God's timing. I'm open to religious life if that is His will, but even after spending time with several orders, I still feel a call to family life. I know you don't know me personally, but do you have any advice on how to live a fulfilling life as a single woman (possibly for my whole life at the rate I'm going lol) who still feels called to marriage? I'm so lost! Thank you so much for any advice you may have. It’s tricky figuring out how to live in a potentially interim period yet also potentially permanent lifestyle. God bless you! -Cristina Desire Marriage but Not Ready for Kids (22:45) Hi Fr. Josh, I really enjoy your podcast and wanted to ask a question of my own. I am a 21 year old college student and have been dating my boyfriend for over a year. We both want to go to graduate school. If we continue dating in the future, is it ok to get married shortly after we’re both done with grad school? When talking with some Catholic friends, they said you should only get married if you are ready to have children starting 9 months after your wedding date. Is it wrong to get married wanting to postpone having children a year or two? Financial reasons aside, I think having a strong foundation of marriage built over a year or so would be helpful before children come into the mix. I wanted to hear your thoughts. I love the Church and her teaching and want to know how I can best follow her guidance with my future vocation. Know of my prayers for you and all our priests. -Julie Dating a Non-Catholic (32:00) Hey Father Josh. First off I wanted to say that your podcast is beyond incredible. I get something out of every podcast. Keep it up. My question is how do you go about dating someone who is not Catholic? I think he could be the one, but my Catholic faith is so important to me and I want him to be Catholic. He’s Christian, so that’s good but it’s not the same as being Catholic. I also want to help him get to heaven, but he’s pro-choice. He claims he is personally pro-life but doesn’t want to make that decision for the woman. SOS what do I do? Thank you for any advice. I will be praying for you Fr. Josh! -Maggie and Lauren Resources * Pray, Decide, and Don’t Worry (https://ascensionpress.com/products/pray-decide-and-don-t-worry-five-steps-to-discerning-god-s-will?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=discernment&utm_content=afjangels) by Jackie and Bobby Angel * Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation (https://shop.ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation?utm_source=website&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=brokenandblessed&utm_content=afj) by Fr. Josh * PrayMoreNovenas.com

Fr. Josh answers questions about holding hands when we say the Our Father during Mass, what to do about a dry spiritual life, and whether it’s possible to reconcile a love of rap and a religious vocation. Snippet from the Show “Holding hands is not a required posture during Mass. The only thing required in the GIRM is that we’re standing during the Our Father.” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (2:32) Listener Feedback (9:50) Holding Hands During the Our Father (12:10) What's up with holding hands during the Lord's Prayer? I don't see anything wrong with it but question why people do it to begin with. What's the history behind this and what does the Church say about it? -David Loss of Zeal (18:20) I recently found your podcast and I love listening to it as it is down to earth and practical. I'm a young religious sister recently professed (1 yr). Since my profession, I have been in a desert period and I'm tired of being in this place. I want to regain the zeal I once had to spread the love of Christ. How can I overcome this? -Natania Rap (27:35) Hi Fr. Josh, I am a Ghanaian from West Africa, the motherland. I am graduating from the university this year and I hope to join the Franciscan conventuals next year. I love rap music and I myself can write raps but I fear it will be a hinderance to my vocation as I love both my vocation and rap music so much. Please I need your advice on what to do. Thank you so much. -Stephen Resources * Acedia- The Noonday Devil (https://media.ascensionpress.com/podcast/acedia-the-noonday-devil/) video by Fr. Mike Schmitz * Pocket Guide to the Rosary (https://ascensionpress.com/collections/romans-the-gospel-of-salvation?utm_source=website&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=pocketguidetotherosary&utm_content=afj) by Matt Fradd * Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation (https://shop.ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation?utm_source=website&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=brokenandblessed&utm_content=afj) by Fr. Josh

Fr. Josh and Kevin McCall talk about prayer, asking God for signs and how to have a relationship with the Holy Spirit. If you have a question, comment, or response for Fr. Josh, email us at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com. You may hear your question or comment in an upcoming podcast episode! Snippet from the Show “When you pray with someone, it’s not about the level of revelation that you have, it’s about when you finish, does that person feel like they’ve been kissed by Jesus.” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (1:39) Listener Feedback (4:08) Kevin’s Story (7:22) Praying for a Sign (26:44) Hi Father Josh, I really love your Podcast. Thanks so much for helping me grow in my faith. I was raised in a Christian home but never attended Catholic school. I became Catholic as an adult. I still feel like I have so much to learn. ( I just graduated from a medical residency, so I struggle with finding time and constantly working on balance) I was wondering when you pray is it ok to ask for a sign from God? Or like say “Lord show me this sign, so I know this is what your leading me to do?” Is it wrong to pray for a sign? I never really have done this before but I have been so busy. I just said it in a prayer real quick. I met this really cool guy on a plane and felt an instant connection to him. We kept in contact just as friends because we both been in the Navy. Later I found out he was raised Catholic. I felt like it was a sign from God that he might be the spouse I have been praying for. I kind of brushed it off and just focused on my life/residency saying God if it is really you please let him win this really hard fitness award out of like 45 people. I didn't tell him what I prayed for and like one day he just texts me a picture his award. He has a girlfriend now and I am nervous and I want to tell him how I feel now before he is married....or forever hold my peace” I know that he can always say “No”. I guess I am just trying to understand are these signs from God? I honestly am a pretty scientific and logical person so I really don't know what to make of it and to understand better Catholic teaching. -Bridget Building a Relationship with the Holy Spirit (32:51) How do you “have a relationship” with the Holy Spirit? He seems like an idea.. not a person. I’ve been told to have faith and ask Him to come, but I’m sort of weary of doing that anymore because when I put my faith or expectation in God to show up to the other side of my prayer, I get let down. If I keep doing that, I’m scared I will lose my faith all together. -Kathryn Resources * Fr. Josh Johnson - Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation (https://shop.ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation)

Public speaking to teens: a favorite pastime of … no one. But somebody has to do it, and with some prayer and preparation, your talk can be a great opportunity to change hearts and minds—just look at the fruits that come from Steubenville Conferences. Dave “Father of Wildlings” VanVickle and I go over how to prepare a talk for high school students that will bring the house down. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your story, question, or comment—or if you’ve got a new nickname for Dave. Snippet from the Show “Christ is the one who destroys the walls of hostility that we keep building up. Every new barrier we put up, Christ is the one who tears them down. God is pursuing us.” SHOWNOTES How to prepare a talk for high schoolers * Select a piece of Scripture: The Word of God is the only thing that gives real clarity in the world. * Be yourself: teens appreciate authenticity * Speak to their experience. 5 Practical Tips 1. Find three narratives where Jesus pursues (or talks about) going after someone outside and brings them in. Write down your thoughts and observations. 2. Take a half page and try to write a tract that you think would be compelling to bring someone to the Lord. 3. Ask someone in your life to pray for you and your call to evangelize. 4. Reach out to someone in your life and compliment them on some part of their life. 5. Pray for the RCIA team and the adults to be baptized in your parish. Resources from the Show The Great Adventure Bible (https://ascensionpress.com/collections/collection-book/products/the-great-adventure-catholic-bible) Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation (https://ascensionpress.com/collections/collection-book/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation) - Fr Josh Johnson Ascension’s soon-to-be-released program for evangelization, The 99, at evangelization.com (https://ascensionpress.com/pages/the-99-coming-soon)

In today’s episode of the Abiding Together Podcast, we interview the wonderful Fr. Josh Johnson! Fr. Josh shares with us his insights about how the feminine genius complimenting masculinity is meant to restore the Church. He shares about his personal encounters with Christ in the deepest places of his wounds and how that changed his life and shaped his ministry. We also talk about how all of this impacts the current scandals in the Church and our response to our own sin, hiding, and pursuit of personal holiness. One Thing We Love This Week: Fr. Josh’s One Thing - His book “Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation” https://shop.ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation His other one thing - Book “In Sinu Jesu” When Heart Speaks to Heart” by A Benedictine Monk https://www.amazon.com/Sinu-Jesu-Speaks-Journal-Priest/dp/1621382192 Sr. Miriam's One Thing - This series on “The Place We Find Ourselves” podcast. How Healing Happens-Part 1 https://adamyoungcounseling.com/24-how-healing-happens-part-1/ How Healing Happens-Part 2 https://adamyoungcounseling.com/25-how-healing-happens-part-2/ How Healing Happens-Part 3 http://theplacewefindourselves.libsyn.com/26-how-healing-happens-part-3 Michelle's One Thing - The Greatest Showman - Re-imagined https://open.spotify.com/user/atlanticrecords/playlist/21KCZhsVe5JZCEWpQWiKIl The book Mother Angelica: The Remarkable Story of a Nun, Her Nerve, and a Network of Miracles by Raymond Arroyo - https://www.amazon.com/Mother-Angelica-Remarkable-Network-Miracles/dp/0385510934/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1541622157&sr=8-1 Heather's One Thing - Fr. Josh’s podcast “Ask Fr. Josh” https://media.ascensionpress.com/category/ascension-podcasts/askfrjosh/ Also the song “It is Well” by Kristine DiMarco https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNqo4Un2uZI Discussion Questions: How can your femininity compliment masculine hearts in healthy ways? Fr. Josh said that you can’t take a vacation from your vocation. How can you embrace your vocation in a deeper way? Share your thoughts about the concept of fasting from talking so you can listen more to people around you (lectio divina of the person). When is a time that you have experienced the tenderness of God? Journal Questions: How can you be more tender with people you are walking with in your life? Where is a room in your heart that God asked to enter that you have said “no” to Him? What would it look like to give God total access into your heart and life? Quote to Ponder: “Womanhood and manhood are complementary not only from the physical and psychological points of view, it is only through the duality of the "masculine" and the "feminine" that the "human" finds full realization.” Saint John Paul The Great, Letter to Women Scripture of the Week - Luke 1:78-79 “By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”