Podcasts about franciscan

Sentenced by St. Charles Borromeo for heresy, a Franciscan friar escapes the Roman Inquisition. With his life spared only in effigy, this daring escape shocked the Church. Discover the story of The Heretic Friar Who Escaped the Roman Inquisition.

The Outer Realm welcomes back Marilynn Hughes Host: Michelle Desrochers Date: August 27th, 2025 Episode: 607 Discussion: Marilynn will be discussing Mystical Theology, Astral Projection, Divine Unions, OBEs and more Contact for the show - theouterrealmcontact@gmail.com Michelle Desrochers and The Outer Realm :https://linktr.ee/michelledesrochers_ Please support us by Liking, Subscribing, Sharing and Commenting. Thank you all !!! About Marilynn: "Marilynn Hughes founded The Out-of-Body Travel Foundation in 2003 (Mission: Reduce Spiritual Hunger Worldwide). Marilynn has experienced, researched, written, and taught about Out of Body Travel and Mysticism since 1987 and has spoken on dozens of radio and television programs to discuss her thousands of out of body experiences. She has studied the Ancient Sacred Texts of all Major and Minor World Religions, as well as Catholic Mystical, Ascetical, Biblical, Doctrinal, Dogmatic, Systematic, Liturgical, Catechetical and Moral Theology. She has also studied Individual Schools of Theology, to include Franciscan, Carmelite, Ignatian, Dominican, and Benedictine. Marilynn has also trained as a Remote Viewer in Transdimensional, Controlled and Associative Remote Viewing and is a Hypnotherapist. She received certifications in various psychological and therapeutic modalities including NLP, REBT, CBT, ACT, DBT, MBCT, EFT, TFT, SFBT and NBA Therapies. Marilynn Hughes has authored 138 books, 40 magazines and 18 CD's on Out of Body Travel and Comparative Religious Mysticism including her seminal classic The Mysteries of the Redemption: A Treatise on Out-of-Body Travel and Mysticism, which was in development to become a feature film/tv series. She was featured in the documentary film, The Road to Armageddon: A Spiritual Documentary, and in Documentary Film Productions: The Grand Phases of the Soul, The Stairway from Earth to Heaven, How to Have an Out-of-Body Experience, The Tao of Mysticism, The Initiations into the Mysteries, The Rites of Passage, The Prayer of the Twelfth Hour and At the Feet of the Masters. She is the author of an English Language Encyclopedia of Ancient Sacred Texts, The Voice of the Prophets: Wisdom of the Ages (In Twelve Volumes). Her out of body travel work has been featured in The Encyclopedia of the Unseen World, by Constance Victoria Briggs and in Extra-Planetary Experiences: Alien Human Contact and the Expansion of Consciousness, (along with Dr. Edgar Mitchell and Ingo Swann) by Dr. Thomas Streicher. KC Armstrong, (Former Producer of the Howard Stern Show), in his book named Marilynn as one of thirteen Simply Amazing Women. Marilynn Hughes has been the subject of several Research Studies including The Out-of-Body Experiment by Alex Tsakiris of Skeptiko. Marilynn Hughes and Dr. Rudy Schild (Professor Emeritus Astrophysics Harvard) co-authored a chapter entitled The Science for Moral Law. She has been featured to speak about Out-of-Body Travel on Coast to Coast AM with George Noory, Midnight in the Desert with Art Bell, the Joan Rivers Show among others. Marilynn Hughes was on the the original board of The Dr. Edgar Mitchell Foundation for Research into Extraordinary Experiences and is a continuing contributor. She came across her vocation unexpectedly. When she was nine years old, she had her first profound out of body experience wherein she saw the heavens open and a beautiful marble staircase surrounded by angels which led to the throne of God. In this experience, she was told many things, among them that He would return to her later in her life and give her a mission to fulfill in relation to out of body travel. When she was 22 years old, she had her first out-of-body experience in adulthood which began a process of journaling which would unleash thousands of out of body travel and mystical experiences over the next decades." Marilynn Hughes The Out-of-Body Travel Foundation https://outofbodytravel.org MarilynnHughes@outofbodytravel.org

Have you ever felt a longing for something more in your life? Join us as Fr. Jeremiah Myriam Shryock, CFR, shares his personal journey of faith and the life-changing impact of this sacred sacrament. In this episode, you will learn: Hear how visiting a church changed Fr. Jeremiah's life and helped him grow closer to God. Discover the Eucharist as the real presence of Jesus. Learn how receiving Jesus in the Eucharist brings peace, strength, and new life. Explore now: Guest information and additional resources to stay up to date with Fr. Jeremiah Myriam Shryock. Jewel for the Journey: "Jesus said to them, 'Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you." (John 6:53) Fr. Jeremiah Myriam Shryock's Talk recorded at the 2025 Catholic Women's Conference, on July 26, 2025, in San Antonio, TX Do you like what you hear? Become a Missionary of Hope by sponsoring a week of Journeys of Hope. Click here to get started. Learn more at PilgrimCenterOfHope.org/Journeys Help us spread hope! PilgrimCenterOfHope.org/Donate

The Outer Realm welcomes back Marilynn Hughes Host: Michelle Desrochers Date: August 27th, 2025 Episode: 607 Discussion: Marilynn will be discussing Mystical Theology, Astral Projection, Divine Unions, OBEs and more Contact for the show - theouterrealmcontact@gmail.com Michelle Desrochers and The Outer Realm :https://linktr.ee/michelledesrochers_ Please support us by Liking, Subscribing, Sharing and Commenting. Thank you all !!! About Marilynn: "Marilynn Hughes founded The Out-of-Body Travel Foundation in 2003 (Mission: Reduce Spiritual Hunger Worldwide). Marilynn has experienced, researched, written, and taught about Out of Body Travel and Mysticism since 1987 and has spoken on dozens of radio and television programs to discuss her thousands of out of body experiences. She has studied the Ancient Sacred Texts of all Major and Minor World Religions, as well as Catholic Mystical, Ascetical, Biblical, Doctrinal, Dogmatic, Systematic, Liturgical, Catechetical and Moral Theology. She has also studied Individual Schools of Theology, to include Franciscan, Carmelite, Ignatian, Dominican, and Benedictine. Marilynn has also trained as a Remote Viewer in Transdimensional, Controlled and Associative Remote Viewing and is a Hypnotherapist. She received certifications in various psychological and therapeutic modalities including NLP, REBT, CBT, ACT, DBT, MBCT, EFT, TFT, SFBT and NBA Therapies. Marilynn Hughes has authored 138 books, 40 magazines and 18 CD's on Out of Body Travel and Comparative Religious Mysticism including her seminal classic The Mysteries of the Redemption: A Treatise on Out-of-Body Travel and Mysticism, which was in development to become a feature film/tv series. She was featured in the documentary film, The Road to Armageddon: A Spiritual Documentary, and in Documentary Film Productions: The Grand Phases of the Soul, The Stairway from Earth to Heaven, How to Have an Out-of-Body Experience, The Tao of Mysticism, The Initiations into the Mysteries, The Rites of Passage, The Prayer of the Twelfth Hour and At the Feet of the Masters. She is the author of an English Language Encyclopedia of Ancient Sacred Texts, The Voice of the Prophets: Wisdom of the Ages (In Twelve Volumes). Her out of body travel work has been featured in The Encyclopedia of the Unseen World, by Constance Victoria Briggs and in Extra-Planetary Experiences: Alien Human Contact and the Expansion of Consciousness, (along with Dr. Edgar Mitchell and Ingo Swann) by Dr. Thomas Streicher. KC Armstrong, (Former Producer of the Howard Stern Show), in his book named Marilynn as one of thirteen Simply Amazing Women. Marilynn Hughes has been the subject of several Research Studies including The Out-of-Body Experiment by Alex Tsakiris of Skeptiko. Marilynn Hughes and Dr. Rudy Schild (Professor Emeritus Astrophysics Harvard) co-authored a chapter entitled The Science for Moral Law. She has been featured to speak about Out-of-Body Travel on Coast to Coast AM with George Noory, Midnight in the Desert with Art Bell, the Joan Rivers Show among others. Marilynn Hughes was on the the original board of The Dr. Edgar Mitchell Foundation for Research into Extraordinary Experiences and is a continuing contributor. She came across her vocation unexpectedly. When she was nine years old, she had her first profound out of body experience wherein she saw the heavens open and a beautiful marble staircase surrounded by angels which led to the throne of God. In this experience, she was told many things, among them that He would return to her later in her life and give her a mission to fulfill in relation to out of body travel. When she was 22 years old, she had her first out-of-body experience in adulthood which began a process of journaling which would unleash thousands of out of body travel and mystical experiences over the next decades." Marilynn Hughes The Out-of-Body Travel Foundation https://outofbodytravel.org MarilynnHughes@outofbodytravel.org

From Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh (“The Big Dumper”) to Cracker Barrel pancakes to mother-son saints, Father Dave and Deacon Bob serve up another classic mix of sports, pop culture, and faith. This week's wide-ranging conversation moves from baseball nicknames and Ryder Cup golf to the Solemn Blessing of Christ the King Chapel and Franciscan University's theme for the year: keeping Jesus at the center.  Along the way, they debate Cracker Barrel's new logo, celebrate St. Monica and St. Augustine, and swap stories from recent travels to Corpus Christi and Superior. And since the podcast is nearing its final episodes, they invite listeners to share both favorite nicknames and treasured podcast memories as this chapter draws to a close.    Highlighted Sections  (00:00) A Podcast Nearing the Finish Line  Father Dave and Deacon Bob reflect on the bittersweet reality of wrapping up the show and invite listeners to send in nicknames and stories from past episodes.  (01:22) Nicknames and Sports Roundup  The guys kick things off their sports banter with Cal Raleigh's unforgettable nickname before rolling into football predictions, Buccaneers talk, and Ryder Cup golf. They even touch on Notre Dame's Sunday night matchup with Miami and the return of the so-called “Catholics vs. Convicts” rivalry, popularized in ESPN's 30 for 30 documentary.  (11:46) Cracker Barrel and Breakfast Theology  Cracker Barrel's new logo sparks a lively debate about breakfast chains, maple syrup, and cultural shifts. From First Watch to Bob Evans, the guys weigh in on their favorites.  (15:47) The Best-Named Diocese  From Superior, Wisconsin, to Corpus Christi, Texas, the hosts trade stories from recent travels and give shout-outs to friends and listeners along the way.  (19:07) Christ the King Chapel Blessing  Franciscan's newly expanded chapel is blessed and opened, a joyful moment for the University and its largest freshman class. The new space is full of Franciscan beauty, from the San Damiano Cross to a nativity carving at the altar.  (22:01) Saints of the Week and Theme of the Year  St. Monica and St. Augustine take center stage, with reflections on Monica's perseverance as encouragement for parents praying for their children. The episode closes with Franciscan's theme for the year: Jesus at the center of all things.    Resources Mentioned  Why is Cal Raleigh nicknamed 'Big Dumper'?– USA Today  Notre Dame vs. Miami Rivalry: Catholics vs. Convicts– ESPN 30 for 30 documentary  Cracker Barrel Rebrand Coverage – Coverage of the new logo and redesign  Christ the King Solemn Blessing Mass – Watch the solemn blessing  Catechesi Tradendae (On Catechesis in Our Time) – St. John Paul II on catechesis 

On 28th August 1588, the year of the Spanish Armada, a young Franciscan friar named Thomas Felton was hanged near Brentford, Middlesex. Felton's “crime”? His Catholic faith, and his refusal to acknowledge Elizabeth I as head of the Church. The son of Blessed John Felton (executed in 1570 for posting the papal bull of Elizabeth's excommunication), young Thomas endured brutal imprisonment and torture — confined in the Little Ease, flogged, and even hanged by his hands until they bled. Yet he refused to betray his faith or the priests who sheltered English Catholics. He was just 21 years old when he went to the gallows — turning down a pardon rather than compromise his beliefs. In this podcast, I, Claire Ridgway, historian and author, share the tragic yet inspiring story of Thomas Felton, and why his courage deserves to be remembered. If you enjoy deep dives into Tudor history, please like and subscribe, and consider joining my channel membership for exclusive talks, resources, and a monthly Tudor magazine. #TudorHistory #ElizabethI #SpanishArmada #CatholicMartyrs #OnThisDay

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary Lectionary: 423The Saint of the day is Queenship of the Blessed Virgin MaryThe Story of the Queenship of Mary Pope Pius XII established this feast in 1954. But the Blessed Virgin Mary's queenship has roots in Scripture. At the Annunciation, Gabriel announced that Mary's Son would receive the throne of David and rule forever. At the Visitation, Elizabeth calls Mary “mother of my Lord.” As in all the mysteries of Mary's life, she is closely associated with Jesus: Her queenship is a share in Jesus' kingship. We can also recall that in the Old Testament the mother of the king has great influence in court. In the fourth century Saint Ephrem called Mary “Lady” and “Queen.” Later Church fathers and doctors continued to use the title. Hymns of the 11th to 13th centuries address Mary as queen: “Hail, Holy Queen,” “Hail, Queen of Heaven,” “Queen of Heaven.” The Dominican rosary and the Franciscan crown as well as numerous invocations in Mary's litany celebrate her queenship. The feast is a logical follow-up to the Assumption, and is now celebrated on the octave day of that feast. In his 1954 encyclical To the Queen of Heaven, Pius XII points out that Mary deserves the title because she is Mother of God, because she is closely associated as the New Eve with Jesus' redemptive work, because of her preeminent perfection, and because of her intercessory power. Reflection As Saint Paul suggests in Romans 8:28–30, God has predestined human beings from all eternity to share the image of his Son. All the more was Mary predestined to be the mother of Jesus. As Jesus was to be king of all creation, Mary, in dependence on Jesus, was to be queen. All other titles to queenship derive from this eternal intention of God. As Jesus exercised his kingship on earth by serving his Father and his fellow human beings, so did Mary exercise her queenship. As the glorified Jesus remains with us as our king till the end of time (Matthew 28:20), so does Mary, who was assumed into heaven and crowned queen of heaven and earth. Learn more about the Queenship of Mary! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of ReadingsMonday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 419The Saint of the day is Saint Louis of ToulouseSaint Louis of Toulouse’s Story When he died at the age of 23, Louis was already a Franciscan, a bishop, and a saint! Louis's parents were Charles II of Naples and Sicily, and Mary, daughter of the King of Hungary. Louis was related to Saint Louis IX on his father's side and to Elizabeth of Hungary on his mother's side. Louis showed early signs of attachment to prayer and to the corporal works of mercy. As a child he used to take food from the castle to feed the poor. When he was 14, Louis and two of his brothers were taken as hostages to the king of Aragon's court as part of a political deal involving Louis's father. At the court, Louis was tutored by Franciscan friars under whom he made great progress both in his studies and in the spiritual life. Like Saint Francis he developed a special love for those afflicted with leprosy. While he was still a hostage, Louis decided to renounce his royal title and become a priest. When he was 20, he was allowed to leave the king of Aragon's court. He renounced his title in favor of his brother Robert and was ordained the next year. Very shortly after, he was appointed bishop of Toulouse, but the pope agreed to Louis's request to become a Franciscan first. The Franciscan spirit pervaded Louis. “Jesus Christ is all my riches; he alone is sufficient for me,” Louis kept repeating. Even as a bishop he wore the Franciscan habit and sometimes begged. He assigned a friar to offer him correction—in public if necessary—and the friar did his job. Louis's service to the Diocese of Toulouse was richly blessed. In no time he was considered a saint. Louis set aside 75 percent of his income as bishop to feed the poor and maintain churches. Each day he fed 25 poor people at his table. Louis was canonized in 1317 by Pope John XXII, one of his former teachers. His liturgical feast is celebrated on August 19. Reflection When Cardinal Hugolino, the future Pope Gregory IX, suggested to Francis that some of the friars would make fine bishops, Francis protested that they might lose some of their humility and simplicity if appointed to those positions. Those two virtues are needed everywhere in the Church, and Louis shows us how they can be lived out by bishops. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

On today's episode of the podcast, I am joined by Jamie Baxter, the Founder and CEO of Exodus 90 to discuss why Catholics, and particularly Catholic men, should revive the tradition of St. Michael's Lent. This tradition, which was popularized by St. Francis of Assisi, was a staple of Western Christianity, and the Franciscan tradition in particular, for more than 800 years. In fact, it was in 1224 during St. Michael's Lent when Francis received the grace of the Stigmata, the Five Wounds of Christ. Join Jamie and I as we delve into this beautiful tradition!Exodus 90 App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/exodus-90-live-different/id1448034275Exodus 90 Website: https://exodus90.com/Get 15% Off TAN Books using code "TRUTH15" at checkout: https://tanbooks.com/?rfsn=7031065.cf6efa1

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Priest and Martyr Lectionary: 416The Saint of the day is Saint Maximilian Mary KolbeSaint Maximilian Mary Kolbe's Story “I don't know what's going to become of you!” How many parents have said that? Maximilian Mary Kolbe's reaction was, “I prayed very hard to Our Lady to tell me what would happen to me. She appeared, holding in her hands two crowns, one white, one red. She asked if I would like to have them—one was for purity, the other for martyrdom. I said, ‘I choose both.' She smiled and disappeared.” After that he was not the same. He entered the minor seminary of the Conventual Franciscans in Lvív–then Poland, now Ukraine—near his birthplace, and at 16 became a novice. Though Maximilian later achieved doctorates in philosophy and theology, he was deeply interested in science, even drawing plans for rocket ships. Ordained at 24, Maximilian saw religious indifference as the deadliest poison of the day. His mission was to combat it. He had already founded the Militia of the Immaculata, whose aim was to fight evil with the witness of the good life, prayer, work, and suffering. He dreamed of and then founded Knight of the Immaculata, a religious magazine under Mary's protection to preach the Good News to all nations. For the work of publication he established a “City of the Immaculata”—Niepokalanow—which housed 700 of his Franciscan brothers. He later founded another one in Nagasaki, Japan. Both the Militia and the magazine ultimately reached the one-million mark in members and subscribers. His love of God was daily filtered through devotion to Mary. In 1939, the Nazi panzers overran Poland with deadly speed. Niepokalanow was severely bombed. Kolbe and his friars were arrested, then released in less than three months, on the feast of the Immaculate Conception. In 1941, Fr. Kolbe was arrested again. The Nazis' purpose was to liquidate the select ones, the leaders. The end came quickly, three months later in Auschwitz, after terrible beatings and humiliations. A prisoner had escaped. The commandant announced that 10 men would die. He relished walking along the ranks. “This one. That one.” As they were being marched away to the starvation bunkers, Number 16670 dared to step from the line. “I would like to take that man's place. He has a wife and children.”“Who are you?”“A priest.” No name, no mention of fame. Silence. The commandant, dumbfounded, perhaps with a fleeting thought of history, kicked Sergeant Francis Gajowniczek out of line and ordered Fr. Kolbe to go with the nine. In the “block of death” they were ordered to strip naked, and their slow starvation began in darkness. But there was no screaming—the prisoners sang. By the eve of the Assumption, four were left alive. The jailer came to finish Kolbe off as he sat in a corner praying. He lifted his fleshless arm to receive the bite of the hypodermic needle. It was filled with carbolic acid. They burned his body with all the others. Fr. Kolbe was beatified in 1971 and canonized in 1982. Reflection Father Kolbe's death was not a sudden, last-minute act of heroism. His whole life had been a preparation. His holiness was a limitless, passionate desire to convert the whole world to God. And his beloved Immaculata was his inspiration. Saint Maximilian Mary Kolbe is a Patron Saint of: AddictsRecovery from drug addiction Learn about Kolbe House Prison Ministry! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Preorder John's new book HERE!Key Ideas from this episode:* John Fugelsang's background: son of former nun and Franciscan brother, raised in a progressive Catholic household.* Discussion of his new book, "Separation of Church and Hate," which critiques the weaponization of Christianity by right-wing fundamentalists.* Exploration of how fundamentalism distorts the teachings of Jesus and promotes exclusion, fear, and political power.* Personal stories of questioning and deconstructing faith, both from John and Leslie.* The difference between following Jesus' teachings and adhering to organized religion or literal interpretations of scripture.* The role of empathy, love, and humility in true Christian practice.* The challenge of engaging with family and community members who hold rigid or exclusionary beliefs.* Encouragement to use scripture thoughtfully in discussions, focusing on compassion rather than condemnation.* The importance of modeling kindness and understanding, even when disagreeing with others.* A call to reclaim faith from those who use it to justify hate or political agendas. Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease.Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE.Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here.Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here!If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community! Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!

Beat the heat with Brenda and Brian on The Morning Blend. Get the latest news from the weekend and hear ways to live like a Franciscan. Today is the feast of St. Clare of Assisi. Start your day with Mater Dei Radio.Subscribe to the Morning Blend on your favorite podcast platform.Find this show on the free Hail Mary Media App, along with a radio live-stream, prayers, news, and more.Look through past episodes or support this podcast.The Morning Blend is a production of Mater Dei Radio in Portland, Oregon.

This episode gives an introduction to the life and work of Fr. Peter Damian Fehlner. Dr Joey Belleza, Dr Matthew Minerd, and Fr. Charles Robinson of the Sacra Doctrina Project interview Dr. Jared Goff, the publisher of the recent edition of Fr. Fehlner's collected works.

From coffee aroma to Christs presence, Nick shares how a simple morning ritual became a cue to behold God, moving from performance to intimacy. Anchored in Mark 8:2226, Matthew 6, and Luke 9:23, this talk invites you to seek the kingdom first and begin again after every distraction, one honest prayer at a time. To catch up on the latest sermons from Deep Creek, go to iTunes, Spotify ordeepcreekanglican.comand check out the website for more info about whats happening. We are a welcoming and growing multigenerational church in Doncaster East in Melbourne with refreshing faith in Jesus Christ. We think that looks like being life-giving to the believer, surprising to the world, and strengthening to the weary and doubting. Read the transcript Pursuing Gods Good Purposes Welcome Bible Reading (Mark 8:2226) Today's Bible reading comes from the book of Mark, and we're reading chapter eight, verses 22 to 26. If you have the Read Bible that is on page 1570. They came to Bethsaida, and some people bought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he put when he had spit on the man's eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, do you see anything? He looked up and said, I see people. They look like trees walking around. Once more, Jesus put his hands on the man's eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. Jesus sent him home, saying, don't even go into the village. This is the word of the Lord. Opening Coffee Illustration Morning church. How are we going? You all right? Okay. All right. Don't mind me. I'm just going to. While I kick things off for us. I'm just going to, make a coffee because I'm really thirsty, and I need one. No. Why am I making a coffee on stage? Well, I'm sure, like many of us, this is how our day starts. Maybe it's tea. Maybe it's coffee. Maybe it's something like this. But I think it's reasonable to assume that we're doing something fairly routine. So usually at home, actually, to confess, make an espresso machine. But I thought that would be a little bit difficult to try and bring down here. Then make that on stage would be a little bit more distracting, but that is okay. this is how my day starts, and in this space, I am intentionally wanting to invite God into my life as it's the first thing in my day. I make filter coffee. I make it all the time at church with the staff team. It's been really fun to share, you know, fun brews, really expensive beans, all these kinds of things. It's been a pleasure to show that to the staff team. Well, most of the staff team, I would like us maybe to take a moment to pray for Rachel at some particular point today. That would be great. No. In this space, I don't say the same thing every day, but what I do is say something along these lines. loving God, I welcome you in my life today. You are welcome in this place. I want to do what you have planned for me. I'm going to pray. Opening Prayer Church. As we get into our message today. Loving God, thanks for this time. Thanks that you are wonderful. That your works are wonderful. And. Yeah. Help us to seek you for your good purposes. Amen. Intentional Morning Practice So, as mentioned, this is my daily desire that I invite the Lord into my life through making coffee. you know, sometimes even say things like the Lord's Prayer, the Apostles Creed, all these kinds of things. I invite God to have his will in this place at the start of my day, and then to speak in for the rest of my day. so why am I preaching? Why am I talking about coffee today? Well, at the start of the year, the staff team we were talking about when we might like to preach and I really, really confidently stated that I would like to preach in the Stay Weird series and why I think it's just because I'm really happy to be associated with being weird. I feel like it's in my blood, in my DNA. No, not not just that. Also, because our October last year, Rachel, Mike, Nikki and I, we went to a conference called Renaissance where it was a really great weekend. We went in sort of like a ministry experience, and then we did a lot of things. So much of it was great, but I think the particular highlight was hearing from this man, this eyes, he's so gorgeous. I love this man. His name is Strawn Coleman. he's a musician. he's from he's from New Zealand. He's a beautiful man with a beautiful accent. but he actually didn't do any singing. He actually spoke on prayer and what it means to have an intimate prayer life with God. He's the founder and director of the Commoners Communion. It's called He's also involved with practicing the way, which is what a lot of our growth groups are going to be doing this term. So to be sure to get into that. Beholding Prayer (Strawn Coleman) this was his main message across the weekend. He wants prayer to be more than a mental dialogue, but as a way of existing with God in our everyday, ordinary lives. He calls this beholding, which is the title of one of his books, Beholding Prayer. So did I come out of this conference absolutely gushing on this man? Well, I'm not going to comment or deny that. is that weird to say? I don't know. I don't think it's weird. Maybe that's weird. I don't know who it is anyway, but I was inspired, right? I was inspired to read what he said. I came out of that weekend making a conscious effort to explore a deeper prayer life and all that comes with that. Intimacy, vulnerability, silence, prayer. And I set myself on the journey of seeking this. And I thought by the time, you know, maybe like six, eight months down the line, I thought, by the time I get to church today, I'd be like, great. I'm so excited to stand up here and share everything that I have learned. Well, that day is here, and I think it's fair to say the journey didn't go as planned, but I also think that is for the better. Taste and See Coffee as a Cue So morning starts. I make my coffee and as I said, the intention is to invite the Lord into this space. Psalm 34, verse eight. Taste and see that he is good. This is not me preaching a theology of coffee, by the way. although that sounds like a really good idea, someone should do that. This is me. What I love about coffee is mostly the smell, amongst the taste. Because. And actually, to do with my prayer life, I use the aroma, particularly. Filter coffee is particularly potent. I use that as kind of a way to connect back with God. I find in my prayers I'm deeply distracted all the time, and I use the aroma to function as an incense, and I want the smell to draw me back to the father. And then from there, my morning looks like hopefully some prayer, some Bible reading. At the moment I've been working through a podcast which just sort of does a little devotion on a particular part of the Bible each day. And yeah, that's been my intention to pray with God. And honestly, I don't I don't nail this every, every day. Habits, All-or-Nothing, and Grace And for my whole life for routines and habits. I've struggled with a bit of an all or nothing complex. And what I mean by that is I want to do a habit and I really want to do it well. And then I miss a couple of days, I slip up and then I just crash out of doing it. And it wasn't just for prayer and following God. It's kind of been for everything. To be honest, it's been for for trying to, like, practice a musical instrument, whether it's trying to do exercise. It's kind of just been with me and I don't really know why, but that's okay. It's been there. And in my journey of seeking Christ this year, he's actually shown me that. And God has shown me the lies in this thinking. In all of our shortcomings. God is ready to welcome us back with open arms like the prodigal son. You know, he looks down on us with so much grace. You know whether I'm coming back to God later that day. The next day. The day after. He simply just desires an intimate friendship with me. I love this quote from Rich Villegas. Also in practicing the way, as I learned from week one of our session just this Tuesday, a thousand distractions in prayer. A thousand reasons to come back to God. Seeing God in All Things So, through a single daily task, I invite the Lord into all of my life. And slowly and softly, I'm just seeing him more in in all things. So looking back now that looking back at October, it's clear when I set the goal of doing this, seeking God more. If I'm honest, I went in with my heart in the wrong place. I was seeking God, yes, but it kind of began with seeking him for my purpose. To learn to be better, to be more like Strawn. And I am relieved to say this did not go the way that I planned. You know, God, even in my wrong ideas, God kind of did. Just God in here is he's going to do. He got into my heart, my body and mind and and he showed me the ways of this, even in selfish pursuits. He can use your prayer and your life for good purposes. And Matthew chapter six teaches us this. Seek First His Kingdom (Matthew 6) So do not worry. Saying, what shall we eat? What shall we drink, or what shall we wear? For the pagans run after all these things. And your heavenly father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you. To seek his kingdom and his righteousness is to seek first God for his good. Purposes. And this call from Jesus sets us apart. In our world, we're in one where we're encouraged to think for ourselves, whether it be for material gain, our own sense of purpose, power, influence, emotional gain, security. Even in my prayer life, I was using prayer for just gaining, you know, spiritual knowledge and and wisdom and thank the Lord that he showed me the errors of that. Deny Yourself Find Freedom (Luke 9:23) And what is Christ say about this? Well, he calls us to deny yourself, deny gain for your purposes. Luke 923 Jesus said to them all, whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. This idea of of self gain is is not how we are supposed to be living. It's not how God intended. His. His good purposes are our gain and our path to victory and freedom. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. This call from Christ is for our benefit. This is for our good city alike are this amazing Christian song writing group and I love the music, particularly for their lyrics. And one song I've been adoring this year is called His Glory is My Good and I think I just love it for the title. I love saying that his glory is my good. There is. There is a precious freedom in wanting to live more like him and be more like him as we work towards holiness. Matthew six but seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. You know, these verses encourage us to prioritize God and God's will go after his good purposes. And our other needs will be met. When Routine Becomes an Idol So last year, I convinced myself I had a thriving prayer life. In the mornings, I'd make my morning coffee. Please hold. Yeah, that was good. Make my morning coffee. And then I'd basically find a spot in my. In my room. In my living room. Sorry. In my living room. Rug on the ground. Particular cushion I'd sit on down on the floor and I'd be just doing some praying and meditating. I generally start about five minutes or so, and then slowly over time, I increased that timer, turned to ten minutes, turned into 15, turned into 20. And yeah, this was my prayer life and these are good things I was doing. But I realized my intentions were really unhealthy and my goal unintentionally became not spending time with God, but the amount of time. I was spending with God. I began to idolize routine and I honestly just lose sight of the true purpose I lost sight of of seeking God. I was seeking God for my good purpose. And it became became prideful. It was. It's a very worldly way of looking at spending time with God. It was it was consumerist. It was transactional. Transaction Culture Prayer Our world is is consumerist. And that, sadly, can affect the way we approach God. I mean, everything around us, we we pay for a service to happen. We work to get paid for our service. We use our screens as a transaction of distraction, escapism. We put things up on socials for often for a reaction, whether it be positive or negative, that is still a type of transaction. And we wanted to do this to receive something. In his book Beholding, Strawn, who I was talking about before, puts it like this the theology of consumerism subtly underlies much of the way we see the world experienced church, and sadly. How we pray. I'd go into prayer and meditation, seeking something, strength, hope or revelation. And I'd be just disappointed when that didn't happen. And and I wasn't disappointed in in God as much as myself, to be honest. I had this unhealthy assumption that I disappointed him, and I did make most of my time. I wasn't in tune, I was distracted. Sometimes I approached prayer for guilt, for lack of words or revelation. And with God there, there is not. There is no pressure for productivity or performance. You know, there is a worldly pressure in all our environments for productivity and performance, but not with God. That sets us apart. We can overanalyze and scrutinize our prayer lives. From a worldly perspective. But God is simply. Desires you just as you are. And this is from one of Strand's prayer books, which I just love. Saying these words, God, you're not a product to be consumed, but a wonder to behold. Father, make me your beholder. Psalm 34, verse eight. Taste and see that the Lord is good. His goodness is there for us to reach out and touch this creator. Overwhelmingly awesome. Magnificent. Worthy of our praise. God simply desires you. Mark 8: Intimacy Healing in Stages So our Bible reading today came from the gospel of Mark, and it points us towards God's desire for close relationship and intimacy with each of us. Mark eight, verse 22. They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. This man is brought to Jesus not by his own accord. And what is Jesus's first response? It's it's just to spend time with him. Away from the others. Intimacy, you know, to parallel Matthew chapter six, Jesus sought first an intimate friendship with the man as he does with you. We need to first seek Christ. Seek come from the Greek word. With few meanings, one of which is the desire to possess. We desperately need the desire to possess intimate friendship with God. I think this this space I'm talking about. Right? It's it's a pretty scary one because it talks about things like vulnerability and and intimacy. And I think that's really scary because it's often in these spaces right, where we. God reveals things about us that we actually don't want to admit about ourselves. It's those deep fears, those habits we need to change the things we are not ready to deny about ourselves. But it's a space. This is a space to be vulnerable with. The Lord is a space that overflows with beauty. And Mark 823 paints an incredible description of this. He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. Just think about that. If you couldn't see and you just your hand out. Jesus, take my hand. Lead the way. It's so beautiful. God is desiring you. The Power of Being With God And this is from Strawn. I was learning that the greatest power in prayer is just to be together with God, and that being with God is often as much the answer to the prayers we're praying as the answers we are seeking ourselves. Storm was an active touring musician for the first part of the 20 tens, and in about 2015 he became chronically ill, for which there wasn't any cure, and he stopped short of touring. Being on the road as a musician, and he didn't work in this time, and he spent extended stints at a Franciscan retreat. This is what his days looked like. He would journal, he would pray. He would look out the window, he would be silent and he would sleep, because that's actually all he was able to do at the time. And he documents in his book, he documents his anger about this, his lament in this space. He felt no answer to his prayers, no answer to his pain. And he writes how he gave up in praying for healing. He gave up. And he said instead a prayer of acceptance and everything. Changed. He thanked God for his life. And then he said this. Father, if this is it. If this is what my life will look like till the day I die. Financially strapped, vocationally stuffed, relationally strained and medically confused. Then it's okay. I have you. I have life. I have this beautiful world and my beautiful family. Let me be alive to enjoy and behold you. Whatever may come. That's awesome, isn't it? Prayer for strong became just sitting in front of the Lord. Just watching. Learning to discover that the beauty was just already present all around him, you know. He decided that his painting and this, this struggle was not going to affect his gazing at God. That's what he calls all this gazing at God. Reflection: What Would You Pray? Church. I wonder if I wonder if I had the prayer on the screen and put some empty spaces there, what would what would you put in there? Do you feel a weight of expectation to be dependable to those around you? Do you struggle to support those around you? Are you feeling pressure to provide? Do you? Do you fail to love yourself? Those deep parts of yourself? Do you feel held back by a lack of purpose? If I'm honest, church that is one. Being being held back by lack of purpose is something I am petrified about. I, I don't clearly know God's plan for me. I've never had a plan for me. I've never known what to do. And that is a deep. That's a deep fear that I carry. Right. Church. Well, we're set apart because these things, these burdens that we carry are insignificant compared to the wonder of Christ. You know, because Christ is so much bigger and better than these burdens that we carry. You know, we're invited to sit with him just as you are to be real with him in all my questions and challenges. I want to taste and see that the Lord is good. I will strive to do this. Psalms of Desire Praise Psalm 27. For one thing, I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord, and to seek him in his temple. Psalm 3423 I will extol the Lord at all times. His praise will be always on my lips. I will glory in the Lord. Let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the Lord with me. Let us exalt his name together. Approach the Throne with Confidence Church, you don't need to have it all together to sit with God. We can boldly approach him with confidence. God does not require perfection. He just requires you. Hebrews 416. Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and grace to help us in our time of need. My name is Nick and I am a hot mess. But I'm a hot mess with God. The Lord is is desperate to to take you by the hand and have an intimate. Intimate friendship with all of you. Jesus Persistence in Healing So we took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he'd spit on the man's eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, do you see anything? He looked up and said, I see people. They look like trees walking around. What I love about this particular healing is that it's not immediate. It is in it's in stages, and it's done quietly in intimate friendship with God. Verse 25, once more, Jesus put his hands on the man's eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. Jesus just simply continued his good work in this man for his good. Purposes. I love this quote from Alan Cole in his commentary on this passage. It's so simple and so beautiful. Jesus did not desist until the man was fully healed. And it's so, so reflective of his pursuit of us. Jesus will not desist in his pursuit of you. And finally, in verse 26, Jesus sent him home, saying, don't even go into the village. For God, this this miracle is. It's it's not about the people. It's not about the people in the village. This was just something intimate between God and the blind man. And it shows us the friendship that we need to seek with God. Your relationship with Christ is unique to you and is always. Always chasing after you. Beholding Like Oxygen Through our pursuit of God for his good purposes. We will come to see him more and more in our life. You know, often I. I don't feel a thrill in my prayers. If I'm honest, I don't. I don't get revelation sometimes. There's not really a sense of encounter or or even like a direct sense of your spirit. And you know that. That's fine. What has formed in this journey is something more softly. I think it's it's a comfort in his omnipotence, which just means, like I'm comfortable knowing that he's everywhere around me. Here's another strong quote for you. Beholding prayer is a dis position of openness to God in every moment. Whether we see or feel him there or not. He's there like oxygen. You know, my hope and prayer is is not about seeking answers. Seeking revelation because his good purposes exceed my ideas of greatest purposes. You know, taste and see that the Lord is good. Judge. I've. This is a very big topic, and I'm not an expert. I've. I've barely scratched the surface. Let's let's be real here, but please read the word. Please seek this. Seek an intimate friendship with him. Because it is what matters. Our burdens are insignificant compared to our pursuit of this. Make sure you get to a growth group if you're not in one already. Get along to practicing the way because it kind of talks all about this in more detail. spend time gazing at God. Here's a few of my own terminologies that I have made so strong. Calls it Gazing at God. Here are some of mine. being bored with the Lord. Be a mess with the Messiah. Time out with the Trinity. Reveling with the Redeemer. Opportunistic omnipotence. Or you could pick something that doesn't use alliteration. Whatever works for you but church. Seek first his kingdom for his good purposes, because he is worthy of all of our seeking. We as Christians, we have a blessed assurance that there is a prize waiting for us at the end, an eternity with the father, the son, and the spirit. But even, even if there wasn't an assurance, to be honest, I I'd still seek Jesus, because he's worthy of all of my seeking, and he's worthy of yours. To finish, I'm going to invite the band to come on up church. I'm going to lead us in a time of prayer. I'm going to lead us in some adapted prayers from from Strawn in his prayer book. And please let us be seeking him in our prayers, our church, please, whatever posture you like. Let's pray, shall we? Closing Prayer Loving God. One thing we ask from you this only. Do we want to seek. That we may dwell in the house of the Lord. All the days of our lives. To gaze on the beauty of you and to seek you in your temple. To see that you are everywhere. Your dwelling place is all across, all around us. Thank you, God, for for my life, for our lives. Father, if if this is it, if this is what our lives look like, if this is what my life looks like until the day we die, then. It's okay. Help us to see that it's okay. We have you. We have life. We have this beautiful world. And let us be alive to enjoy you and behold you. Whatever may come. Amen.

She played basketball and softball in high school and also participated in archery. Present day, she serves in a role at Alvernia University - a private Franciscan university in Reading, Pennsylvania - where she works with the 38 varsity teams, including activities ranging from attending coaches meetings to praying with teams before practices and games, and joining the bus with teams to offer support and prayer. On behalf of Alvernia athletics she also serves on the Thoughtful Assessment Group, and her goal is to continue to expand her work with student-athletes and across campus in order to support and minister to as many students as possible.

Monday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Saint of the Day: St. Alphonsa of the Immaculate Conception, 1910-1946; Franciscan religious sister; first canonized saint from India, and the first canonized saint of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, an eastern Catholic Church of the St. Thomas Christian Community Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 7/28/25 Gospel: Matthew 13:31-35

July 22, 2025: Charles Christian, VP of Technology and CTO at Franciscan Health, joins Nayan Patel, SVP of FinThrive, to discuss their healthcare innovation lab and supporting clinicians. What happens when a tech giant realizes it can't just provide a platform but must become a true partner in life-safety systems? Charles reveals how Franciscan's tech innovation lab uses donated equipment and a "fail fast" approach to test everything from ambient listening to virtual care solutions before rolling them out. How do you balance innovation with the reality that clinical staff expect technology to work seamlessly? The conversation explores application rationalization strategies that eliminated over 150 redundant systems and the ongoing challenge of measuring ROI when reimbursement rules constantly shift. Key Points: 03:49 Challenges and Solutions in Cloud Migration 07:17 Tech Innovation Lab and Pilot Projects 17:23 Application Rationalization and Cost Management 23:14 Final Thoughts and Fun Questions X: This Week Health LinkedIn: This Week Health Donate: Alex's Lemonade Stand: Foundation for Childhood Cancer

40 years on they still see her move in Ballinspittle and tributes paid to Franciscan brewer.

In this intimate new episode of the Free Radical Podcast, host Swami Padmanabha sits down for a second recorded conversation with renowned Franciscan teacher and author, Father Richard Rohr, at his hermitage in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Filmed in the relaxed setting of Richard's home—with his dog Opie by his side—this unique encounter flows through a series of symbolic gifts Swami brought, sparking rich reflections on:The eternal becoming of love, God, soul, and matterInsights from Richard's book, "The Tears of Things", including the need for collective grief and training prophetsHis men's rites of passage programSacred critique within tradition, and confronting systemic evil The episode also touches on the mystical dance of divine reality, Richard's generous endorsement of Swami's book Evolution in Divine Love, and the beauty of aging into authenticity—even in bathrobes. Watch Richard and Swami on their first podcast: "Bhakti Meets with Christianity"https://www.youtube.com/live/H0hzieM4... https://youtu.be/2lwR8f3XjP8?si=K4DvhiXT6IJTGsct ▶ CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Gaudiya Reform Forum on Facebook .~ Swami Padmanabha's Channels ▶ FACEBOOK ▶ YOUTUBE ▶ INSTAGRAM ▶ WEBSITE ▶ PURCHASE RADICAL PERSONALISM: Revival Manifesto for Proactive Devotion in hardcover, paperback, and/or Kindle formats on Amazon ▶ WRITE your REVIEW of RADICAL PERSONALISM ~ Tadatmya Sangha's Channels ▶ WEBSITE ▶ FACEBOOK ▶ INSTAGRAM ▶ YOUTUBE

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saint Bonaventure, Bishop and Doctor of the Church Lectionary: 390The Saint of the day is Saint BonaventureSaint Bonaventure’s Story Perhaps not a household name for most people, Saint Bonaventure, nevertheless, played an important role in both the medieval Church and the history of the Franciscan Order. A senior faculty member at the University of Paris, Saint Bonaventure certainly captured the hearts of his students through his academic skills and insights. But more importantly, he captured their hearts through his Franciscan love for Jesus and the Church. Like his model, Saint Francis, Jesus was the center of everything—his teaching, his administration, his writing, and his life. So much so, that he was given the title “Seraphic Doctor.” Born in Bagnoregio in 1221, Saint Bonaventure was baptized John, but received the name Bonaventure when he became a Franciscan at the age of 22. Little is known about his childhood, but we do know that his parents were Giovanni di Fidanza and Maria Ritell. It seems that his father was a physician and a man of means. While Saint Francis died about five years after the saint's birth, he is credited with healing Bonaventure as a boy of a serious illness. Saint Bonaventure's teaching career came to a halt when the Friars elected him to serve as their General Minister. His 17 years of service were not easy as the Order was embroiled in conflicts over the interpretation of poverty. Some friars even ended up in heresy saying that Saint Francis and his community were inaugurating the era of the Holy Spirit which was to replace Jesus, the Church, and Scripture. But because he was a man of prayer and a good administrator, Saint Bonaventure managed to structure the Order through effective legislation. But more importantly, he offered the Friars an organized spirituality based on the vision and insights of Saint Francis. Always a Franciscan at heart and a mystical writer, Bonaventure managed to unite the pastoral, practical aspects of life with the doctrines of the Church. Thus, there is a noticeable warmth to his teachings and writings that make him very appealing. Shortly before he ended his service as General Minister, Pope Gregory X created him a Cardinal and appointed him bishop of Albano. But a little over a year later, while participating in the Second Council of Lyon, Saint Bonaventure died suddenly on July 15, 1274. There is a theory that he was poisoned. Saint Bonaventure left behind a structured and renewed Franciscan Order and a body of work all of which glorifies his major love—Jesus. Reflection Bonaventure so united holiness and theological knowledge that he rose to the heights of mysticism while remaining a very active preacher and teacher, one beloved by all who met him. To know him was to love him; to read him is still for us today to meet a true Franciscan and a gentleman. Click here for more on Saint Bonaventure! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Friends of the Rosary,Today is the Memorial of St. Bonaventure (1221-1274), bishop and doctor of the Church, the General of the Franciscan Order at that time, and known because of his wisdom, eloquence, and sanctity as the Seraphic Teacher.His contemporaries believed that no one was "more handsome, more holy, or more learned" than he.Dante had already included him among the inhabitants of his "Paradise."Bonaventure was a subtle scholastic and a profound mystic. He had a heart full of love and rich in virtue.In philosophy, he was the principal leader of the Platonic-Augustinian school of Franciscan thought. As such, he stood opposed to the Aristotelianism that was gaining influence in the schools of the time, represented by Thomas Aquinas.Bonaventure's Life of St. Francis was a favorite book of the Middle Ages.When St. Thomas was told about Bonaventure's work, he said: "Let us allow one saint to labor for another."Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play•⁠ July 15, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Tuesday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time Memorial of St. Bonaventure, 1221-1274; St. Francis is credited with healing him when he was a child; Bonaventure became a Franciscan at the age of 22; he was ultimately elected to serve as General Minister of the order, and his 17 years of service were not easy, since the friars were arguing the definition of "poverty"; Bonaventure structured the order through effective legislation, and offered an organized spirituality based on the vision and insights of St. Francis; shortly before the end of his service as General Minister, Pope Gregory X created him a cardinal and appointed him bishop of Albano; but Bonaventure died suddenly just over a year later Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 7/15/25 Gospel: Matthew 11:20-24

Full Text of ReadingsMonday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 383The Saint of the day is Blessed Emmanuel Ruiz and CompanionsBlessed Emmanuel Ruiz and Companions’ Story Not much is known of the early life of Emmanuel Ruiz, but details of his heroic death in defense of the faith have come down to us. Born of humble parents in Santander, Spain, he became a Franciscan priest and served as a missionary in Damascus. This was at a time when anti-Christian riots shook Syria and thousands lost their lives in just a short time. Among these were Emmanuel, superior of the Franciscan convent, seven other friars, and three laymen. When a menacing crowd came looking for the men, they refused to renounce their faith and become Muslims. The men were subjected to horrible tortures before their martyrdom. Emmanuel, his brother Franciscans and the three Maronite laymen were beatified by Pope Pius XI in 1926. Reflection The Church in Syria has known persecution throughout its history. Yet it has produced saints whose blood was shed for the faith. Let us pray for the Church in Syria. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of ReadingsFriday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 381The Saint of the day is Saint Elizabeth of PortugalSaint Elizabeth of Portugal’s Story Elizabeth is usually depicted in royal garb with a dove or an olive branch. At her birth in 1271, her father Pedro III, future king of Aragon, was reconciled with his father James, the reigning monarch. This proved to be a portent of things to come. Under the healthful influences surrounding her early years, she quickly learned self-discipline and acquired a taste for spirituality. Thus fortunately prepared, Elizabeth was able to meet the challenge when at the age of 12, she was given in marriage to Denis, king of Portugal. She was able to establish for herself a pattern of life conducive to growth in God's love, not merely through her exercises of piety, including daily Mass, but also through her exercise of charity, by which she was able to befriend and help pilgrims, strangers, the sick, the poor—in a word, all those whose need came to her notice. At the same time she remained devoted to her husband, whose infidelity to her was a scandal to the kingdom. Denis, too, was the object of many of her peace endeavors. Elizabeth long sought peace for him with God, and was finally rewarded when he gave up his life of sin. She repeatedly sought and effected peace between the king and their rebellious son Alfonso, who thought that he was passed over to favor the king's illegitimate children. She acted as peacemaker in the struggle between Ferdinand, king of Aragon, and his cousin James, who claimed the crown. And finally from Coimbra, where she had retired as a Franciscan tertiary to the monastery of the Poor Clares after the death of her husband, Elizabeth set out and was able to bring about a lasting peace between her son Alfonso, now king of Portugal, and his son-in-law, the king of Castile. Reflection The work of promoting peace is anything but a calm and quiet endeavor. It takes a clear mind, a steady spirit and a brave soul to intervene between people whose emotions are so aroused that they are ready to destroy one another. This is all the more true of a woman in the early 14th century. But Elizabeth had a deep and sincere love and sympathy for humankind, an almost total lack of concern for herself, and an abiding confidence in God. These were the tools of her success. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

7/2/25 - Blessed Elizabeth Canori Mora (1774–1825) was a Roman wife, mother, and mystic who turned personal suffering into profound holiness. Trapped in a difficult marriage marked by her husband's infidelity, abuse, and financial ruin, Elizabeth remained steadfast in her faith, raising two daughters while working as a maid and caring for the poor. After a miraculous healing in 1801, she began receiving mystical visions of Christ and the Virgin Mary, and joined the Third Order of the Most Holy Trinity. Despite enduring poverty and abandonment, she prayed constantly for her husband's conversion, a prayer answered after her death when he became a Franciscan priest. Beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1994, Elizabeth's life is a powerful testament to forgiveness, fidelity, and redemptive suffering.

Full Text of ReadingsTuesday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 378The Saint of the day is Saint Junipero SerraSaint Junipero Serra’s Story In 1776, when the American Revolution was beginning in the east, another part of the future United States was being born in California. That year a gray-robed Franciscan founded Mission San Juan Capistrano, now famous for its annually returning swallows. San Juan was the seventh of nine missions established under the direction of this indomitable Spaniard. Born on Spain's island of Mallorca, Serra entered the Franciscan Order taking the name of Saint Francis' childlike companion, Brother Juniper. Until he was 35, he spent most of his time in the classroom—first as a student of theology and then as a professor. He also became famous for his preaching. Suddenly he gave it all up and followed the yearning that had begun years before when he heard about the missionary work of Saint Francis Solano in South America. Junipero's desire was to convert native peoples in the New World. Arriving by ship at Vera Cruz, Mexico, he and a companion walked the 250 miles to Mexico City. On the way Junipero's left leg became infected by an insect bite and would remain a cross—sometimes life-threatening—for the rest of his life. For 18 years, he worked in central Mexico and in the Baja Peninsula. He became president of the missions there. Enter politics: the threat of a Russian invasion south from Alaska. Charles III of Spain ordered an expedition to beat Russia to the territory. So the last two conquistadors—one military, one spiritual—began their quest. José de Galvez persuaded Junipero to set out with him for present-day Monterey, California. The first mission founded after the 900-mile journey north was San Diego in 1769. That year a shortage of food almost canceled the expedition. Vowing to stay with the local people, Junipero and another friar began a novena in preparation for St. Joseph's day, March 19, the scheduled day of departure. On that day, the relief ship arrived. Other missions followed: Monterey/Carmel (1770); San Antonio and San Gabriel (1771); San Luís Obispo (1772); San Francisco and San Juan Capistrano (1776); Santa Clara (1777); San Buenaventura (1782). Twelve more were founded after Serra's death. Junipero made the long trip to Mexico City to settle great differences with the military commander. He arrived at the point of death. The outcome was substantially what Junipero sought: the famous “Regulation” protecting the Indians and the missions. It was the basis for the first significant legislation in California, a “Bill of Rights” for Native Americans. Because the Native Americans were living a nonhuman life from the Spanish point of view, the friars were made their legal guardians. The Native Americans were kept at the mission after baptism lest they be corrupted in their former haunts—a move that has brought cries of “injustice” from some moderns. Junipero's missionary life was a long battle with cold and hunger, with unsympathetic military commanders and even with danger of death from non-Christian native peoples. Through it all his unquenchable zeal was fed by prayer each night, often from midnight till dawn. He baptized over 6,000 people and confirmed 5,000. His travels would have circled the globe. He brought the Native Americans not only the gift of faith but also a decent standard of living. He won their love, as witnessed especially by their grief at his death. He is buried at Mission San Carlo Borromeo, Carmel, and was beatified in 1988. Pope Francis canonized him in Washington, D.C., on September 23, 2015. Reflection The word that best describes Junipero is zeal. It was a spirit that came from his deep prayer and dauntless will. “Always forward, never back” was his motto. His work bore fruit for 50 years after his death as the rest of the missions were founded in a kind of Christian communal living by the Indians. When both Mexican and American greed caused the secularization of the missions, the Chumash people went back to what they had been—God again writing straight with crooked lines. Saint Junipero Serra is the Patron Saint of: California Missions Click here for more on Saint Junipero Serra! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

There's nothing like the NBA and NHL Finals… unless you count professional pillow fighting.  In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob celebrate the end of the sports season with a rundown of the Stanley Cup, the NBA Finals, and the rise of summer's strangest athletic events, including the Pillow Fighting Championship (yes, it's real).  But the heart of the episode is hope—the kind that doesn't come from scores or summer plans, but from Christ. They reflect on the Eucharist, the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts, and the graces poured out at recent conferences at Franciscan and Notre Dame. From youth ministry to marriage milestones, they explore what it means to trust God with both our spiritual and everyday needs.  Naturally, they go off on tangents, from hotel bathrobes and awkward airline announcements to anniversary shoutouts and the idea of launching a Franciscan pillow-fighting team (tentative name: the Franciscan Feathers).    Highlighted Sections  (00:00) Bathrobes, Notre Dame, and the $175 Upcharge  Deacon Bob checks in from the Morris Inn at the University of Notre Dame, complimentary robe included. He's there for Notre Dame Vision, a youth program inviting high schoolers into deeper faith. (03:30) Sports Wrap and the Rise of Pillow Fighting  From there, they pivot to sports: the Florida Panthers clinch the Stanley Cup, Oklahoma City Thunder top the Pacers in Game 7, and Canada's Stanley Cup drought continues. And just when you think sports can't get weirder—enter the Pillow Fighting Championship, now with corporate sponsorships and, apparently, rules.  (10:31) Augustine and Airport Public Shaming  Fr. Dave highlights a recent In Focus episode featuring Dr. Shane Owens, where they unpack the enduring relevance of St. Augustine's Confessions in a world increasingly shaped by AI and secular culture. The conversation quickly pivots, though, as Deacon Bob shares a less lofty moment: a painfully awkward moment from his flight to South Bend, where a bathroom break turned into a public shaming over the intercom.  (19:29) Hope as Grace: Conferences and Franciscan Honeymoon  Father Dave shares stories from the Power and Purpose Conference, themed around hope. He reflects on hope as a grace—not just good vibes or optimism—and mentions a couple who spent their 50th wedding anniversary and a couple on their honeymoon at the same event.  (23:01) Corpus Christi and the God Who Satisfies  Jesus didn't just meet spiritual needs. He fed the crowds too. Father Dave and Deacon Bob explore how our trust in God is often strong in the abstract, but wavers in daily stresses. They tie it back to Corpus Christi, Romans 5, and the gift of the Holy Spirit.  (28:34) Sacred Hearts, Summer Kickoffs, and Marriage Milestones  Deacon Bob celebrates 28 years of marriage on the same day as the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. He also gives a shoutout to the kickoff of Franciscan's high school youth conferences and the ongoing Priests, Deacons, and Seminarians Retreat.  (31:10) Praying for Peace in a Complicated World  The hosts close with a prayer for peace amid global tensions, especially in the Middle East and Ukraine. They close with a reflection on Pope Leo's Angelus invitation to prayer and remind listeners that lasting peace only comes from the Heart of Christ.    Resources & Mentions  ·                     Power and Purpose Conference – A weekend of renewal, prayer, and worship through Steubenville Conferences.   ·                     Notre Dame Vision – A summer youth program helping teens hear God's call.  ·                     Romans 15:13 and Romans 5:5 – Scriptures that anchor this episode's theme of hope  ·                     Pope Leo XIV: Son of St. Augustine– Watch the latest In Focus episode with guest Dr. Shane Owens on Faith & Reason.   ·                     Pillow Fighting Championship– Yes, it's real. Yes, it has rules. Yes, you're going to Google it. 

Madness, piety, gore, and reason! Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, host Dcn. Harrison Garlick and the always insightful Dr. Frank Grabowski delve into the first part of Euripides' The Bacchae—a chilling yet captivating Greek tragedy that explores piety, eros, the nature of the divine, and the fragility of societal order.The guys explore Dionysus, a god transformed from Homer's jovial wine deity into a “cruel” and “diabolical” figure worshipped through “frenzied madness and the bestial release of sex and violence." With its graphic imagery, raw intensity, and ambiguous morality, this play offers a rich discussion, serving as a critical antecedent to Plato's Symposium and revealing surprising parallels to Jesus Christ amidst its sordid chaos.Join us as we peel back the “bloody, terrible layers” of this darkly mesmerizing drama.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule and more!Visit our Patreon page to view all our guides to the great books!Guest: Dr. Frank Grabowski: At the time of recordin, a professor of philosophy at Rogers State University, third-order Franciscan, and a valued member of the Sunday Great Books group. His profound insights into Greek literature and philosophy illuminate the complexities of The Bacchae. Dr. Grabowski now serves as the Dean of Faculty at Holy Family Classical School.Why should you read The Bacchae?The Bacchae challenges readers to explore religion, erotics, piety, cosmic order, and human nature in a controversial and unsettling landscape. Euripides' intent is not clear; thus, the reader is left to interpret a drama that seems to test longstanding Greek concepts, like piety and the gods. Dr. Grabowski acknowledges the play as an integral part of the “great conversation” in the Western canon, and Dcn. Garlick agrees by highlighting the play as an important antecedent to Plato's Euthyphro and Symposium.Though the work includes disturbing imagery, it is within those images that Euripides is wrestling with erotics, piety, and the cosmos. Somewhat shockingly, the play presents several parallels to Jesus Christ and invites the reader into challenging comparisons. Overall, The Bacchae stands as an important—though controversial—work in exploring the nature of man and his relation to the divine.Next Episodes:Next week, we continue with Part 2 of The Bacchae, diving into Pentheus' tragic fall, the Bacchae's destructive frenzy, and the play's enigmatic conclusion. Upcoming episodes feature Aristophanes' The Clouds with guest Zena Hits and The Frogs with Tish Oxenreider, as we pave the way for Plato's dialogues.Thank You:A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Frank Grabowski for his brilliant insights and to our listeners for joining us on this ascent through the great books. Keep exploring, and we'll see you next week for more of The Bacchae's darkly mesmerizing drama!

Ilia Delio, founder of the Center for Christogenesis and a Franciscan sister of Washington, DC, and Noreen Herzfeld, the Nicholas and Bernice Reuter professor of science and religion at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University, discuss how religious worldviews and spiritual traditions can inform global AI policy and explore the role of faith leaders in shaping inclusive, ethical, and internationally responsible governance of artificial intelligence. 

Full Text of ReadingsThursday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 362The Saint of the day is Blessed Jolenta of PolandBlessed Jolenta of Poland's Story Jolenta was the daughter of Bela IV, King of Hungary. Her sister, St. Kunigunde, was married to the Duke of Poland. Jolenta was sent to Poland where her sister was to supervise her education. Eventually married to Boleslaus, the Duke of Greater Poland, Jolenta was able to use her material means to assist the poor, the sick, widows, and orphans. Her husband joined her in building hospitals, convents, and churches so that he was surnamed “the Pious.” Upon the death of her husband and the marriage of two of her daughters, Jolenta and her third daughter entered the convent of the Poor Clares. War forced Jolenta to move to another convent where despite her reluctance, she was made abbess. So well did Jolenta serve her Franciscan sisters by word and example, that her fame and good works continued to spread beyond the walls of the cloister. Her favorite devotion was the Passion of Christ. Indeed, Jesus appeared to her, telling her of her coming death. Many miracles, down to our own day, are said to have occurred at her grave. Reflection Jolenta's story begins like a fairy tale. But fairy tales seldom include the death of the prince and never end with the princess living out her days in a convent. Nonetheless, Jolenta's story has a happy ending. Her life of charity toward the poor and devotion to her Franciscan sisters indeed brought her to a “happily ever after.” Our lives may be short on fairy tale elements, but our generosity and our willingness to serve well the people we live with lead us toward an ending happier than we can imagine. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Send us a textWhat do Lake Como, a stomach bug, and a Franciscan confessional have in common? Apparently… everything! In this episode, Bizzy shares the highs of magical Lake Como, the holiness of Assisi, and the unexpected spiritual freedom that came through getting sick and slowing down. With a heart wide open and a little less on her stomach, she reflects on the power of stillness, forgiveness, and the beautiful truth that letting go leads to peace.Tune in for a conversation full of heart, honesty, and a reminder that it's never too late to change your story.

The earliest documented use of the term pro-life was in a book on parenting and child education. The book, Summerhill: A Radical Approach to Child Rearing, by A.S. Neil, was published in 1960 and contained the statement that “no pro-life parent or teacher would ever strike a child. No pro-life citizen would tolerate our penal code, our hangings, our punishment of homosexuals.”  However, that's not how the term is typically used today. In the early 1970s, following Roe v. Wade, anti-abortion activists began using the term pro-life in reference to their opposition to legalized abortion. Even then, many activists thought being pro-life ought to entail a holistic approach to life issues: that people should oppose not only abortion, but also war, the death penalty, income inequality, and racism.  This idea that pro-life ought to refer to all life really began to pick up steam in 2016, partially as a response to the mainstream pro-life movement's alliance with far right political leaders. Today, many people who used to identify as pro-life no longer do so. They feel the term has been tarnished.  Should “pro-life” mean opposition to abortion, or should it be more inclusive? Has the term been compromised by its association with various political agendas? And how should Catholics respond to this debate?  On this episode of Glad You Asked, the hosts talk to Bishop John Stowe about what it means to be a pro-life Catholic. Stowe is bishop of the diocese of Lexington, Kentucky and a priest in the Order of Friars Minor Conventual. In keeping with the Franciscan tradition, Stowe has long been a pastoral voice for justice for the poor and for environmental justice. He's also spoken repeatedly for immigrant rights and LGBTQ+ inclusion.  Learn more about this topic in these links. “U.S. Catholic readers critique the pro-life movement,” by Kathleen Bonnette U.S. Catholic readers critique the pro-life movement - U.S. Catholic “As election nears, Catholics reflect on abortion politics,” by Cassidy Klein As election nears, Catholics reflect on abortion politics - U.S. Catholic “4 ways progressive pro-lifers can reengage with Democratic leaders,” by Rebecca Bratten Weiss 4 ways progressive pro-lifers can reengage with Democratic leaders | National Catholic Reporter “Will the synod listen to women on reproductive issues?” by Ashley Wilson Will the synod listen to women on reproductive issues? - U.S. Catholic  “In debates about reproductive health, listen to Black women,” a U.S. Catholic interview In debates about reproductive health, listen to Black women - U.S. Catholic “A new way to think about the ‘consistent ethic of life',” by Steven P. Millies A new way to think about the ‘consistent ethic of life' “It's Time to Move Past the Pro-Life / Pro-Choice Dividing Line,” by Rebecca Bratten Weiss It's Time To Move Past The Pro-Life / Pro-Choice Dividing Line | Rebecca Bratten Weiss “Do restrictive abortion laws actually reduce abortion? A global map offers insights,” by Michaeleen Doucleff MAP: Click to see abortion laws — and rates of abortion — around the world : Goats and Soda : NPR “The movement against abortion rights is nearing its apex. But it began way before Roe,” by Deepa Shivaram The history of the anti-abortion movement in the U.S. : NPR Glad You Asked is sponsored by the Claretian Missionaries.

Inside INdiana Business Radio for the afternoon of June 5, 2025. The company behind a planned bioplastics facility in Vincennes is expressing concerns over the potential impact of tariffs on the project. Plus, Franciscan Health is planning a freestanding emergency department in West Lafayette. Get the latest business news from throughout the state at InsideINdianaBusiness.com.

Full Text of ReadingsWednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter Lectionary: 299The Saint of the day is Blessed Angelina of MarscianoBlessed Angeline of Marsciano's Story Blessed Angeline founded the first community of Franciscan women other than Poor Clares to receive papal approval. Angeline was born to the Duke of Marsciano near Orvieto. She was 12 when her mother died. Three years later, the young woman made a vow of perpetual chastity. That same year, however, she yielded to her father's decision that she marry the Duke of Civitella. Her husband agreed to respect her previous vow. When he died two years later, Angeline joined the Secular Franciscans and with several other women dedicated herself to caring for the sick, the poor, widows and orphans. When many other young women were attracted to Angeline's community, some people accused her of condemning the married vocation. Legend has it that when she came before the King of Naples to answer these charges, she had burning coals hidden in the folds of her cloak. When she proclaimed her innocence and showed the king that these coals had not harmed her, he dropped the case. Angeline and her companions later went to Foligno, where her community of Third Order sisters received papal approval in 1397. She soon established 15 similar communities of women in other Italian cities. Angeline died on July 14, 1435, and was beatified in 1825. Her liturgical feast is celebrated on July 13. Reflection Priests, sisters and brothers cannot be signs of God's love for the human family if they belittle the vocation of marriage. Angeline respected marriage, but felt called to another way of living out the gospel. Her choice was life-giving in its own way. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

In this episode of In the Circle, I am extremely privileged to speak with Father Richard Rohr.Richard Rohr is a Franciscan friar, author, and spiritual teacher renowned for his work in Christian mysticism and contemplative spirituality. Born in 1943 in Kansas, he was ordained a Catholic priest in 1970 and later founded the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Through the CAC and the Living School for Action and Contemplation, Rohr has helped thousands explore a deeper, more experiential faith.Rohr's teachings emphasize the union of action and contemplation, encouraging spiritual growth through lived experience rather than rigid doctrine. His message includes ideas like the “true self,” the “universal Christ,” and the transformative power of embracing paradox, suffering, and mystery. He is known for offering an “alternative orthodoxy” that bridges traditional Christian thought with modern spiritual needs.He has authored numerous influential books, including Falling Upward, The Universal Christ, and The Divine Dance. Though recent health challenges have led him to step back from public speaking, Rohr continues to write and guide through his work at the CAC, remaining a vital voice in contemporary spirituality.Tommy Discusses:The role of practiceReligion, spirituality, and science The true recovery goalHealthy vs unhealthy religion Would you like to be a guest on the In The Circle Podcast? Submit Your Question Here: R20.com/inthecircleFurther Links & ResourcesCatch a Meeting. We offer 40+ Live Online Recovery meetings every week. Come and find your community here. Meetings are always free.Want ongoing recovery insights and inspiration delivered to your inbox? Subscribe to the Weekly UPLIFTJoin our Recovery 2.0 Community: access your authentic power, connect with others on a similar path, and thrive in life beyond addictionSubscribe to The Recovery Channel on YouTubeVisit our websiteCome and experience an in-person event or retreat: r20.com/eventsAddiction is part of everyone's journey, but recovery is not. The Recovery 2.0 Membership is a place where you can explore the topics that interest you, find community, and connect with Tommy Rosen on a personal level. It's here that we'll dig into spirituality and union of the mind, body, and spirit, and transform from the inside out. You will learn and grow alongside a community of supportive, conscious, compassionate, and vibrant individuals, like you!Join us at r20.com/welcome to explore how to move beyond addiction and thrive in your life.Connect with TommyInstagramFacebookTikTokRecovery 2.0

Fake Pope? Franciscan Alleges Illegitimate Election of Leo XIV | My Reaction

Fr. Francisco Nahoe OFMConv. has served the Church and the Franciscan Order in Catholic education, campus ministry, parochial ministry and catechesis. Today he teaches humanities at the undergraduate level, while focusing his scholarly efforts on Renaissance rhetoric and Polynesian ethnohistory.   In Today's Show Did St. Aquinas say “tyranny has no rights?” If so, what does that mean? Can you explain the meaning of the parable in Mark 12:1-8? Why did everyone live longer prior to the great flood? How do stories from the Bible come to life in 2025? How does a Catholic get into Heaven according to Franciscan spirituality? What is the difference between the Discalced Carmelites & Conventual? What is the Church's stance on Voodoo? How can Jesus be God's son if the Trinity is involved? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

A special episode to celebrate our 150th Chapter, with a look at the rather seedy side of London in the 15th century- its sex life. This is a city where the sheer bewildering variety of events in this field leave us wondering what to focus upon. Threesomes with Franciscan monks; respectable political figures profiting from the sex trade; women pimping out their daughters; and what appears to be the first recorded case of a transwoman sex worker; all come along in a remarkably fluid era where many of the ideas of how we imagined sexuality in the Middle Ages was conceptualised seem to run into a city whose intent was to break as many rules as possible. Obviously, this episode contains adult content.

We talk about Pope Le(t)o's striking critiques of AI and the needs for luddism to be an intersectional movement. Then we get into the Republicans' advocacy for AI rights over States' rights, which contributes to a greater hollowing out of government capacity at all levels in an attempt to usher in the great fracturing of society into zones of special economic interest. Finally we sketch a vision of a bold future of post-apartheid integration sparked by Grok's obsession with white genocide. ••• Will Pope Leo XIV be an ally against AI? https://www.disconnect.blog/p/will-pope-leo-xiv-be-an-ally-against ••• The Franciscan monk helping the Vatican take on — and tame — AI https://www.ft.com/content/1fa17d8b-5902-4aff-a69d-419b96722c83 ••• Republicans propose prohibiting US states from regulating AI for 10 years https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/14/republican-budget-bill-ai-laws ••• Republicans Try to Cram Ban on AI Regulation Into Budget Reconciliation Bill https://www.404media.co/republicans-try-to-cram-ban-on-ai-regulation-into-budget-reconciliation-bill/ ••• AI agents: from co-pilot to autopilot https://www.ft.com/content/3e862e23-6e2c-4670-a68c-e204379fe01f ••• Insurers launch cover for losses caused by AI chatbot errors https://www.ft.com/content/1d35759f-f2a9-46c4-904b-4a78ccc027df Standing Plugs: ••• Order Jathan's new book: https://www.ucpress.edu/book/9780520398078/the-mechanic-and-the-luddite ••• Subscribe to Ed's substack: https://substack.com/@thetechbubble ••• Subscribe to TMK on patreon for premium episodes: https://www.patreon.com/thismachinekills Hosted by Jathan Sadowski (bsky.app/profile/jathansadowski.com) and Edward Ongweso Jr. (www.x.com/bigblackjacobin). Production / Music by Jereme Brown (bsky.app/profile/jebr.bsky.social)

Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Easter Optional Memorial of St. Bernardine of Siena, 1380-1444; ran the hospital in Siena at the age of 20, during the plague; at 22, he became a Franciscan, and was ordained two years later; lived in solitude and prayer for a dozen years, but his gifts called him to go out and preach; he was known for his devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus, and devised a symbol—IHS, the first three letters of the name of Jesus in Greek—in Gothic letters on a blazing sun; the devotion spread; as general of the Friars of the Strict Observance, he emphasized scholarship and further study of theology and canon law; he died while traveling Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 5/20/25 Gospel: John 14:27-31

Today is the feast of Paschal Baylón, a Franciscan brother who had a great devotion to the Eucharist. He spent hours in the adoration Chapel because of his great love and devotion. How can we grow in devotion of the Eucharist?

Full Text of ReadingsFriday of the Fourth Week of Easter Lectionary: 283The Saint of the day is Saint Margaret of CortonaSaint Margaret of Cortona's Story Margaret was born of farming parents in Laviano, Tuscany. Her mother died when Margaret was seven; life with her stepmother was so difficult that Margaret moved out. For nine years she lived with Arsenio, though they were not married, and she bore him a son. In those years, she had doubts about her situation. Somewhat like Saint Augustine, she prayed for purity—but not just yet. One day she was waiting for Arsenio and was instead met by his dog. The animal led Margaret into the forest where she found Arsenio murdered. This crime shocked Margaret into a life of penance. She and her son returned to Laviano, where she was not well received by her stepmother. They then went to Cortona, where her son eventually became a friar. In 1277, three years after her conversion, Margaret became a Franciscan tertiary. Under the direction of her confessor, who sometimes had to order her to moderate her self-denial, she pursued a life of prayer and penance at Cortona. There she established a hospital and founded a congregation of tertiary sisters. The poor and humble Margaret was, like Francis, devoted to the Eucharist and to the passion of Jesus. These devotions fueled her great charity and drew sinners to her for advice and inspiration. She was canonized in 1728. St. Margaret of Cortona’s liturgical feast is celebrated on February 22. Reflection Seeking forgiveness is sometimes difficult work. It is made easier by meeting people who, without trivializing our sins, assure us that God rejoices over our repentance. Being forgiven lifts a weight and prompts us to acts of charity. Click here for more on Saint Margaret of Cortona! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Join our Patreon family for access to BTS, bonus episodes, a private group chat, first dibs on ticket and merch sales, exclusive live streams, and more! www.Patreon.com/PsychopediaPod She spit, levitated, cursed in languages she'd never learned, and hissed at holy water like it was acid. This is the chilling story of Anna Ecklund—an American woman whose alleged possession wasn't just a brief encounter with evil, but a decades-long war against it. Raised in a devout Catholic household in early 20th-century Wisconsin, Anna was barely into her teens when something unholy took root. Her appetite turned ravenous. Her thoughts grew violent. She couldn't step foot inside a church without convulsing in rage... until 1928.  That's when Anna was taken to a remote Franciscan convent in Earling, Iowa, where a small group of nuns and priests locked themselves inside with her for 23 harrowing days and battled what they believed were not one, but multiple demons, including Lucifer himself. Inside the convent, witnesses claimed Anna screamed with inhuman voices, predicted death, levitated off her bed, and unleashed a stench so foul it was said to be “not of this world.” Was she tormented by true evil—or trapped in the grips of mental illness, untreated and misunderstood? This is the story of a woman whose torment blurred the line between theology and psychology...and left even the most devout shaken to their core. Patreon: www.patreon.com/psychopediapod Instagram: @psychopediapod @investigatorslater @tank.sinatra Email: psychopediapod@gmail.com Website: www.psychopediapodcast.com To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this thought-provoking episode, former neuroscientist-turned-Franciscan sister Ilia Delio offers a radical vision for the future of religion at Theology Beer Camp. Speaking to a community of spiritual seekers, Delio places humanity within our cosmic context—mere seconds in the universe's 13.8 billion-year story—while arguing that we are the universe becoming conscious of itself. She challenges institutional religion's static cosmologies, drawing on Teilhard de Chardin's integration of evolution and faith to advocate for a "religion of the Earth" that recognizes God as "in love with matter." With urgency, Delio warns that if religion doesn't evolve beyond dogma into creative participation with cosmic processes, technology will replace it as humanity's guiding force. The conversation, complemented by responses from biblical scholar Pete Enns, exemplifies the kind of boundary-pushing theological dialogue that makes Theology Beer Camp a unique gathering for those reimagining faith at the intersection of science, ecology, and spirituality. Join us at Theology Beer Camp this October 16-18 in St. Paul, MN. You can WATCH this session on YouTube Theology Beer Camp is a unique three-day conference that brings together of theology nerds and craft beer for a blend of intellectual engagement, community building, and fun. This event features a lineup of well-known podcasters, scholars, and theology enthusiasts who come together to "nerd out" on theological topics while enjoying loads of fun activities. Guests this year include John Dominic Crossan, Kelly Brown Douglas, Philip Clayton, Stacey Floyd-Thomas, Jeffery Pugh, Juan Floyd-Thomas, Andy Root, Grace Ji-Sun Kim, Noreen Herzfeld, Reggie Williams, Casper ter Kuile, and more! Get info and tickets here. Ilia Delio, OSF, PhD is a Franciscan Sister of Washington, DC, and American theologian specializing in science and religion, with interests in evolution, physics, and neuroscience and the import of these for theology. Previous Episodes with Ilia Delio Thinking Theologically about AI with Teilhard de Chardin The Not Yet God Bonaventure & the Cosmos in Process Catching a Cosmic Faith the Entangled God of my Heart Upcoming Online Class:⁠ Rediscovering the Spirit: Hand-Raisers, Han, & the Holy Ghost⁠ "⁠Rediscovering the Spirit: Hand-Raisers, Han, and the Holy Ghost⁠" is an open-online course exploring the dynamic, often overlooked third person of the Trinity. Based on Grace Ji-Sun Kim's groundbreaking work on the Holy Spirit (pneumatology), this class takes participants on a journey through biblical foundations, historical developments, diverse cultural perspectives, and practical applications of Spirit theology. Moving beyond traditional Western theological frameworks, we'll explore feminist interpretations, global perspectives, and innovative approaches to understanding the Spirit in today's world. Whether you've felt the Spirit was missing from your faith journey or are simply curious to deepen your understanding, this class creates space for thoughtful discussion, personal reflection, and spiritual growth. ⁠As always, this class is donation-based, including 0. To get class info and sign up, head over here. ⁠ _____________________ ⁠⁠⁠Hang with 40+ Scholars & Podcasts and 600 people at Theology Beer Camp 2025 (Oct. 16-18) in St. Paul, MN. ⁠⁠⁠ This podcast is a ⁠⁠⁠Homebrewed Christianity⁠⁠⁠ production. Follow ⁠⁠⁠the Homebrewed Christianity⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Theology Nerd Throwdown⁠⁠⁠, & ⁠⁠⁠The Rise of Bonhoeffer⁠⁠⁠ podcasts for more theological goodness for your earbuds. Join over 80,000 other people by joining our⁠⁠⁠ Substack - Process This!⁠⁠⁠ Get instant access to over 45 classes at ⁠⁠⁠www.TheologyClass.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Follow the podcast, drop a review⁠⁠⁠, send ⁠⁠⁠feedback/questions⁠⁠⁠ or become a ⁠⁠⁠member of the HBC Community⁠⁠⁠. ⁠⁠⁠Theology Beer Camp | St. Paul, MN | October 16-18, 2025⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A cornerstone of the evangelization of early New Spain was the conversion of Nahua boys, especially the children of elites. They were to be emissaries between Nahua society and foreign missionaries, hastening the transmission of the gospel. Under the tutelage of Franciscan friars, the boys also learned to act with militant zeal. They sermonized and smashed sacred objects. Some went so far as to kill a Nahua religious leader. For three boys from Tlaxcala, the reprisals were just as deadly. In Child Martyrs and Militant Evangelization in New Spain (University of Texas Press, 2025), Dr. Stephanie Schmidt sheds light on a rare manuscript about Nahua child converts who were killed for acts of zealotry during the late 1520s. This is the Nahuatl version of an account by an early missionary-friar, Toribio de Benavente Motolinía. To this day, Catholics venerate the slain boys as Christian martyrs who suffered for their piety. Yet Franciscan accounts of the boys' sacrifice were influenced by ulterior motives, as the friars sought to deflect attention from their missteps in New Spain. Illuminating Nahua perspectives on this story and period, Schmidt leaves no doubt as to who drove this violence as she dramatically expands the knowledgebase available to students of colonial Latin America. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. You can find Miranda's interviews on New Books with Miranda Melcher, wherever you get your podcasts. 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

A cornerstone of the evangelization of early New Spain was the conversion of Nahua boys, especially the children of elites. They were to be emissaries between Nahua society and foreign missionaries, hastening the transmission of the gospel. Under the tutelage of Franciscan friars, the boys also learned to act with militant zeal. They sermonized and smashed sacred objects. Some went so far as to kill a Nahua religious leader. For three boys from Tlaxcala, the reprisals were just as deadly. In Child Martyrs and Militant Evangelization in New Spain (University of Texas Press, 2025), Dr. Stephanie Schmidt sheds light on a rare manuscript about Nahua child converts who were killed for acts of zealotry during the late 1520s. This is the Nahuatl version of an account by an early missionary-friar, Toribio de Benavente Motolinía. To this day, Catholics venerate the slain boys as Christian martyrs who suffered for their piety. Yet Franciscan accounts of the boys' sacrifice were influenced by ulterior motives, as the friars sought to deflect attention from their missteps in New Spain. Illuminating Nahua perspectives on this story and period, Schmidt leaves no doubt as to who drove this violence as she dramatically expands the knowledgebase available to students of colonial Latin America. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. You can find Miranda's interviews on New Books with Miranda Melcher, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/latin-american-studies

We mark the passing of Pope Francis by asking: is there such a thing as "Catholic Economics"? If so, what is it, and what strain of Catholic economics did the Pope represent? We start with a lad stopped by the Italian cops on a Vespa in Rome, and a most unusual and uplifting conversation with the Pope, Bono, and yours truly. Yeah, for real. We explore liberation theology, the roots of Franciscan banking, and the common and deeply embedded DNA of Catholic social teaching in the economic policy of Catholic countries, despite widespread secularism. By the way, I did pay the fine! Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Description: Today, Jen and Amy sit down with a treasured friend of the show, Franciscan priest and truth-teller, Father Richard Rohr. Father Rohr has been a genuine hero of the faith who has guided us through much uncertainty over the years. Sometimes, we turn to him for mystic insights into lighter things like our Enneagram types and relationships. But today, we turned to him for help processing the anger, grief, and dismay we feel living in America right now. And he met the moment, as he always does. With gentle grace, Father Rohr guides us through our toughest questions, like: How do we live compassionately in a time of violence and despair? And what can we do with our private disappointments and the anger we feel in such an unjust world? What can we do? Non-violent resistance is our chief responsibility right now. Like John Lewis said, these times call for some “good trouble”. Join the marches, call and write our elected leaders, and mobilize strategically for upcoming elections. We have several democratic tools at our disposal. Where can we look for inspiration? Father Rohr talks to us about his latest project, The Tears of Things, which recounts the timeless wisdom of the Hebrew prophets and notes “If we can understand the prophets so poorly, if at all, no wonder we have not understood Jesus.”  What's one thing we can do to live prophetically in these chaotic times? And Father Rohr tells us what is giving him hope today. You'll find it contagious. Thought-provoking Quotes: You know that the book of Lamentations was included in the Bible and it's very telling that it's not lamenting any single war or single death. It's about universal sadness, giving us permission for a universal lament for the tragic sense of life.” -  Fr. Richard Rohr “We have to dig deep for hope. There isn't a logical basis for it today. But I do find it in nature.” – Fr. Richard Rohr “Tears put us in touch with the soul and that's their great gift.” – Fr. Richard Rohr “Trust the excluded ones. Trust the little people. Jesus told us that. They will be much closer to the inside of the gospel than anybody who's easily holding power or position. Look for the fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control. You won't as readily find that in billionaires as you will in the little people.” – Fr. Richard Rohr “You're ping ponging back and forth between rage and lament. And it's hard to find your center. And then the next day it's something different. It is a daily onslaught right now. It's so overwhelming.” – Amy Hardin Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Everything Belongs: The Gift of Contemplative Prayer by Fr. Richard Rohr - https://amzn.to/4iaaBU0 Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life by Fr. Richard Rohr - https://amzn.to/4jrgkpy The Universal Christ: How a Forgotten Reality Can Change Everything We See, Hope For, and Believe by Fr. Richard Rohr - https://amzn.to/44ruxhU The Tears of Things: Prophetic Wisdom for an Age of Outrage by Fr. Richard Rohr - https://amzn.to/3XUyPKP Live Yourself Into a New Way of Thinking: Richard Rohr - https://jenhatmaker.com/podcasts/series-16/live-yourself-into-a-new-way-of-thinking-richard-rohr/ Enneagram Ones – The Reformers with Father Richard Rohr - https://jenhatmaker.com/podcasts/series-27/enneagram-ones-the-reformers-with-father-richard-rohr/ Everything Belongs: The Gift of Contemplative Prayer by Fr. Richard Rohr - https://amzn.to/3Edg7Yi Center for Contemplation and Action - https://cac.org/ Guest's Links: Website - https://cac.org/ Twitter - https://x.com/RichardRohrOFM Connect with Jen! Jen's Website - https://jenhatmaker.com/ Jen's Instagram - https://instagram.com/jenhatmaker Jen's Twitter - https://twitter.com/jenHatmaker/ Jen's Facebook - https://facebook.com/jenhatmaker Jen's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/JenHatmaker The For the Love Podcast is presented by Audacy. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Author and radio personality John Fugelsang joins The God Pod to discuss how the right continues to twist the Bible and Jesus with sickening levels of hypocrisy. Buckle up, this is a PERFECT 36-minute episode. Letters from God is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. 1. This Week on The God Pod: John Fugelsang John Fugelsang is a Drama League nominated actor, comedian & broadcaster who hosts the acclaimed "Tell Me Everything" series on SiriusXM Progress #127. His first book, "Separation of Church and Hate: A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back The Bible from Fundamentalists, Fascists, and Flock-Fleecing Frauds" will be published this August by Simon & Schuster's Avid Reader Press. John, the child of an ex-nun and an ex-Franciscan brother (yes, really), has a lifetime of perspective on faith, religion, and the way it's been hijacked by fascists and frauds. He's thrilled to speak directly with God and Jesus so he can finally say what's been on his mind: stop spinning the Bible to justify cruelty. We also put John on the spot: What would you say to Elon Musk if you spoke to him directly? As you might expect, he nails it.