Podcasts about story god

Neil McClendon, Lead PastorGRAND PARKWAY BAPTIST CHURCHMatthew 1:1-17Finding Hope In The Genealogy of Jesus1. Because God is telling a big Story, v. 1Genesis 3:15Psalm 89:49-51Genesis 2:42. Because God uses imperfect people as a part of His story, v. 2-15a) Tamarb) Rahabc) Ruthd) Bathshebae) King Solomonf) Manassehg) Jacob3. Because of the virgin birth the perfection of Jesus is sufficient for yourimperfection, v. 16Matthew 1:16Isaiah 7:10-14Romans 5:12-144. Because God was at work then and is now, v. 17Romans 5:1-5Mental worship...1. How often do you feel connected to the bigness of the Story God is telling?2. Do you most often use your imperfection as an excuse or your perfection inChrist as an explanation?3. How does the doctrine of original sin help you explain the state of the world, aperson's need for the redemption that is found only in Christ and the doctrine ofthe virgin birth?4. Do you ever confuse the “then” and the “now” of the Christian life?5. Have you developed enough character to be a hopeful person?

November 30, 2025 | The Bigger Story God Was Writing | Dr. John Harris

Kevin Cawley concludes our Genesis series by showing how Jacob's winding, failure-filled journey reveals a God who faithfully keeps His promises and invites us to reinterpret our own stories in light of His steadfast love and sovereign purposes.

November 9, 2025

In the midst of intense brokenness, it can be extremely difficult to feel the presence of the Lord. Today's "First Monday Story"is a sweet reminder to recognize that even in the most heartbreaking of circumstances, the Lord is with you.   Joni Cheney, from our community group in Fairhope, Alabama, joyfully expresses her faith and walk with the Lord during the most difficult time of her life. In this hope-filled story, Joni will point you to the unwavering truth found in Deuteronomy 31:8:  "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8   Links: For more information on the Anna Todd Cheney Memorial Foundation, contact Joni at Cheneyfamily3@gmail.com   Listen to a similar story:  Brooke Preus- Ep. 291: "Finding Purpose in Suffering- Walking Through a Child's Cancer Diagnosis and Remission" Give to StoryTellers Live in honor of Joni and any of our past storytellers!!    Become a Patreon Insider to access bonus content.   Join us live on Thursday, November 6th, at 7:00 PM at Samford University Wright Center for a night of worship and fellowship with Ellie Holcomb, presented by Portraits of Hope!  Register here and use promo code ELLIE10 for 10% off at checkout!   Shop for our When God Shows Up Bible Study series~ Stories of Hope, Stories of Freedom, Stories of Faith. Are you interested in one-on-one coaching with our very own Robyn Kown!?  Click HERE!   Check out all of our live speaking engagement opportunities on our website.   Sign up to receive StoryTellers Live's weekly newsletter for updates and details on our live gatherings.

Your story matters

Former NFL star and best-selling author Tim Green discusses his battle with progressive neurodegenerative disease (ALS) and how it transformed him not only physically but spiritually.  Despite no longer being able to speak, Tim continues to write, work, and communicate using an AI-generated voice and eye-tracking. He shares how his diagnosis reframed his values and purpose, while strengthening his relationship with his family.  Tim describes his message to the world as encouraging strength through adversity and cultivating faith to overcome obstacles.  Stay connected with Tim on his podcast: Nothing Left Unsaid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A deep study of the Book of Ruth.

In our October 12 Sunday gathering, we kick off a new series about what Christians believe and what the Bible is all about, and we start with belief #1, God is a transcendent being who has made himself known. This week's discussion. questions are below: When people today hear the word “Christian,” what kinds of assumptions do you think they make? Which of those assumptions are true, and which are misunderstandings? If someone asked you, “What is Christianity all about?” how would you answer right now, in one or two sentences? Why do you think so many people (even lifelong churchgoers) struggle to summarize what the Bible is really about? The sermon proposes seven core beliefs that summarize the story of Scripture. Which one stands out to you most, and why? How does seeing the Bible as one unified story leading to Jesus change the way you read or understand individual stories—especially the strange or difficult ones? Have you ever been taught a version of Christianity that focused only on “going to heaven when you die”? How does the idea that heaven is coming to earth shift your understanding of what God is doing? Tim Keller said, “There is a thirst in the human heart that will not be denied... that thirst is for transcendence.” Where do you see that thirst showing up in our culture today? How have you seen people try to fill it apart from God? Do you agree that every person has a “God-shaped hole,” as Blaise Pascal put it? What evidence do you see of that in your own life or in the world around you?

Friend, this episode is unlike any other. I sat down with Ted Greenfield, the founder of Invisible Angels, who shares how God called him at age 50 to a mission he never expected—rescuing survivors of human trafficking through aviation. From musician to multimedia producer to instructional designer, Ted's journey proves that when God calls, He equips.✨ 3 Things You'll Learn in this Episode:How a single prayer can change the direction of your life forever.The miraculous story of how God provided a plane for Invisible Angels.Why trusting God's plan—even when it doesn't make sense—opens doors to miracles.

Teacher: Mandi Paszek Text: Genesis 12:1-3, 15:1-6 In Genesis 12 and 15, God makes a covenant with Abraham—the beginning of His redemptive plan for the world. Here we see that God's grace has been present from the very start, and because He is faithful, His promises will never fail.

What does it mean to be faithful when your plans fall apart? Eleven years ago, Madison Church launched with meticulously researched strategies, countless prayers, and 200 empty chairs. Only 20 people showed up that first Sunday—half of them family members visiting from out of town. The humiliation was crushing, but looking back now reveals how God was writing a better story than anyone could have imagined.This anniversary reflection draws powerful parallels to Paul's experience in Athens, where he confronted a city so filled with idols that historians noted it was "easier to find a god than a person." While we don't have marble statues to Zeus or Athena in Madison, our modern idols are perhaps more dangerous because they're less visible. We worship comfort through convenience, achievement through success, busyness through hustle culture, and find our identity in politics and consumerism.The most concerning pattern emerges when we don't reject God for these idols but recruit God to serve them alongside us. We pray, but only so our lives become more comfortable. We worship, but only so God blesses our hustle. We've reduced the living God to a lowercase assistant for our agenda rather than the center of everything.Through examining the idols of security, worth, and control, we discover how these false gods promise peace but deliver anxiety, promise love but produce exhaustion, and promise order but result in frustration. The invitation stands today as it did for the early Christians who were radically called to forsake all other gods: Will we turn from our idols to serve the living God?The next chapter of Madison Church won't be built on comfort, busyness, politics, or spiritual highs, but on becoming a community where faith is not shallow but deeply rooted. What felt like failure then has become a testimony of God's faithfulness now—a story of changed lives, deep friendships, answered prayers, and hope rising in unexpected places. Join us as we surrender to the story God wants to tell.Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com. For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly! If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content. This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Jesus used a healed demoniac's story to bring transformation to an entire region. What can your personal testimony do when you share how God has worked in your life? 

In this inspiring message, we explore how Jesus crosses boundaries to show love and serve others, exemplified through His humility in washing His disciples' feet and His encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well. Discover the power of sharing your personal Jesus story—no matter how simple or recent it is—and how it can point others to God's glory. Learn practical ways to connect with others' deep needs, invite responses with love, and let your testimony reflect ongoing transformation. Whether you're new to faith or have been walking with Jesus for years, this sermon encourages you to share your story boldly, pointing others to the love and grace of Christ. Join us as we learn to live out our faith through love, humility, and authentic sharing.

Join us for The Story, Act 1 as we dig into both Genesis 1 and Genesis 2 to discuss creation: main characters, setting, plot, supporting cast, and major themes.

Tim introduces our new series - The Big Story

Bright City Church gathers Sundays at 9am, 10:45am and 5pm. Join us for pre-service prayer every Sunday at 8:30am. We are located in Charleston, SC.-Learn more about Bright City Church: ⁠https://www.brightcity.church/⁠-Follow Bright City Church on Instagram for weekly updates: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/brightcitychurch⁠-Fill out this connection card to receive our newsletter and general updates: ⁠https://brightcity.churchcenter.com/people/forms/617531⁠-Give to our church: ⁠https://www.brightcity.church/giving⁠-Check out upcoming events: ⁠https://www.brightcity.church/events⁠-At Bright City Church, we believe God sent his Son, Jesus to die for our salvation. We are a community of people who seek to love and sacrificially serve all people according to the heart of the Father.-Follow us on Spotify to receive alerts for new sermon uploads.

Layne spent 40 years fully committed to Mormonism, but realizing that the temple veil was torn revealed that true access to God is through Jesus alone—not a religious system. --The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --

Layne spent 40 years fully committed to Mormonism, but realizing that the temple veil was torn revealed that true access to God is through Jesus alone—not a religious system. --The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --

Phil Manginelli, Lead Pastor of The Square Church, unpacks how our struggles with sexuality often reveal a deeper issue of trust. He contrasts culture's view of freedom, religion's fear-based restrictions, and God's invitation to something sacred, showing how Jesus calls us to live with both grace and truth.

In their desperation they prayed for light from God and a stranger knocked asked for a room in their home. This is the beginning of Hulda's story of God at work in a stonecutter couple's life in Sweden and God's faithfulness in the years that followed. They were the parents of Joy's grandmother Ruth and we visited the key sites of their journey on our trip to Sweden this summer! The Tru316 Foundation (www.Tru316.com) is the home of The Eden Podcast with Bruce C. E. Fleming where we “true” the verse of Genesis 3:16. The Tru316 Message is that “God didn't curse Eve (or Adam) or limit woman in any way.” Once Genesis 3:16 is made clear the other passages on women and men become clear too. You are encouraged to access the episodes of Seasons 1-11 of The Eden Podcast for teaching on the seven key passages on women and men. Are you a reader? We invite you to get from Amazon the four books by Bruce C. E. Fleming in The Eden Book Series (Tru316.com/trubooks). Would you like to support the work of the Tru316 Foundation? You can become a Tru Partner here: www.Tru316.com/partner

Pastor Levi shared how we should share our Testimony to others, and how we should focus on what God is going to do rather than what we've once done.Follow The Wild Youth:⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/thewildyth

We never outgrow the need for story. Yet we think we do, don't we? Especially when it comes to this book, we call the Bible. We have made it into a book of rules, rights and wrongs, and dos and don'ts. And yes, there are some rules that teach us how life works best, but if that is what the Bible is to us, we have missed the point altogether. We have made it into a book of character studies and history lessons or facts to be clung to and mastered. A book to be analyzed, dissected, and studied, and these have their place, but again, the Bible is not a textbook to be mastered.

Welcome to the first episode in our new summer series: Classics of the Bible! Today, we go back to the very beginning—Genesis 1 and 2. Before there was time, God spoke, and creation came to life. From darkness and chaos, He brought light and order. We'll explore the beauty and rhythm of the creation story, see humanity formed in God's image, and discover what it means to be His masterpiece—created for relationship and purpose. Whether you're familiar with the story or hearing it with fresh ears, this episode invites you to see the beginning not just as history, but as the foundation of hope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Week 4 of the Talking Jesus series, Pastor Torry encourages believers to recognize the power of their personal story as a tool for evangelism. Titled “Your Story, God's Glory,” the message aims to demystify evangelism by reminding us that you don't need a seminary degree or dramatic backstory to share Jesus—just a willingness to be honest about what He's done in your life. The message opens with a humorous story about a push mower that Pastor Torry inherited when living in Florida. Unbeknownst to him, it had a self-propel feature that he never used—making the task far harder than it needed to be. That illustration becomes a spiritual metaphor: evangelism feels difficult when we're trying to do it in our own strength. But God has already built in the power—we just need to engage it. The Blueprint for Evangelism Revelation 12:11 offers a simple but profound formula for kingdom advancement: “They overcame by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.” Jesus does the saving—that's the “blood of the Lamb.” But we have a role too—the “word of our testimony.” God's strategy has always involved partnership with people. We don't save, but we point. We reflect. We witness. And every believer has a story that can do just that. Why Your Testimony Matters Pastor Torry outlines five reasons why our personal stories carry spiritual weight: Testimonies Are Evidence (Ps 19:1, Rom 1:20) Creation bears the fingerprints of God, and so do changed lives. When grace rewrites your story, it leaves a mark—proof that God is real and good. Testimonies Are Hard to Argue With (John 9) Debates can spark defensiveness. But a changed life? That's hard to refute. Like the blind man in John 9, you don't have to explain everything. “I was blind, but now I see” is enough. Testimonies Build Bridges (1 Thes 2:8) Stories connect in a way arguments can't. They invite vulnerability and relationship. As Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 2:8, we're called to share the gospel—and our lives. Testimonies Point to Jesus (Gal 2:20) Your story isn't about you—it's about Christ in you. The messier your past, the more glory God gets for what He's redeemed. Testimonies Offer Hope (Titus 3:3-5) People are always looking for meaning. Your story might be what helps them imagine a future touched by grace. How to Share Your Story Naturally Pastor Torry then shares four practical principles for weaving your testimony into everyday life: Look for Open Doors Conversations about stress, pain, or purpose are often invitations. Pay attention. Ask questions. Then gently walk through that door. Share Moments, Not Memoirs People don't need your full life story—they need a relatable moment. A short story about how God helped you through something similar goes a long way. Speak Like a Real Person Avoid the churchy voice. Talk about God the way you naturally would. People notice sincerity—and it stirs curiosity. Embrace the Awkward Faith conversations can feel clunky. That's okay. Call it out, laugh about it, and be real. People aren't looking for polish—they're looking for authenticity. Closing Encouragement Pastor Torry closes with a powerful story about his mother. Years ago, a Sunday school teacher shared a testimony about praying bold prayers for healing. Weeks later, Torry suffered a traumatic head injury. Inspired by that testimony, his mother prayed—boldly and faithfully. And God answered. The takeaway? That Sunday school teacher had no idea her story would become the catalyst for someone else's miracle. You never know how far your story will go or when it might echo into someone else's future. You don't have to save anyone—Jesus does that. But you are a witness. You are a hope-bearer. And your story may be the spark that lights faith in someone else. Tell it. Because your story gives God glory.

In Chapter three of Ruth, Ruth takes a bold risk in hopes of redemption. Grief and loss turn to joy as she is brought under the covenant love of Boaz. Ultimate redemption is found in Jesus Christ. In Chapter three of Ruth, Ruth takes a bold risk in hopes of redemption. Grief and loss turn to joy as she is brought under the covenant love of Boaz. Ultimate redemption is found in Jesus Christ.

In this episode of Empowering Single Mom, Felicia dives into the story of Hagar, a biblical figure who represents the struggles of single mothers. Through Hagar's journey, Felicia emphasizes that God sees and knows each individual, offering hope and encouragement to those feeling unseen or forgotten. The discussion covers Hagar's complicated situation, God's pursuit of her, the promises made to her, and personal reflections on motherhood and faith. The episode concludes with a prayer and affirmation of God's presence in the lives of single mothers.TakeawayHagar's story is a reminder that God sees us.Single moms often feel invisible in their struggles.Your circumstances do not disqualify you from God's love.God pursues us even when we feel lost.Being called by name signifies God's personal attention.God has a plan for every child, regardless of circumstances.You are more than just a single mom; you have identity beyond that.God is with you in your wilderness season.Every effort you make for your children is seen by God.You are not alone; God is always present.

I long ago took off my Junior Holy Spirit badge pretending that I had exclusive rights, insight, or editorial control of the Story God is authoring in me or anyone else. A chapter-a-day podcast from Matthew 9. The text version may always be found and shared at tomvanderwell.com.

Join us at, welcometothehouse.com

A message from Our Lead Pastor Randy Dane 

When you think about sharing faith, do you feel intimidated? This week, we read the story of Philip and discover God is already preparing opportunities for us as Pastor Chad concludes our series, “Story: God's Character Revealed.” The post God Is Working in Our World appeared first on Smythe Street Church.

Grace Community Church at Deerfoot

My longtime friend Durenda Wilson is here today to share what she is learning as she walks through cancer and all that brings. Choosing to live the day God chooses for you, honor Him in all things, not being overcome by fear, and so much more. You won't want to miss this candid conversation. I know you'll be encouraged.Support the show! https://donorbox.org/donation-827Watch the Heidi St. John Podcast on Rumblehttps://rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnWatch the Heidi St. John Podcast on Youtubeyoutube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastFind Heidi on Instagraminstagram.com/heidistjohn/Find Heidi on Facebookfacebook.com/realheidistjohnFind Heidi on Xx.com/heidistjohnJoin Heidi at Faith That Speaksfaiththatspeaks.com/Submit your questions for Mailbox Mondayheidistjohn.net/mailboxmondayPrime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele and start feeling better today. Go to sherwood.tv to get connected with the Sherwoods and to see some of my favorites items. Be sure to use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!

Mike Kim

Tuesday's episode of Biblically Centered Kids—the mini podcast from Biblically Centered. Join Mr. Jonny and Miss Danika for an Old Testament Bible lesson that co-insides with our Biblical Family Virtue of the week! If you like this episode, subscribe to Biblically Centered Kids so you can listen to the rest of the week's episodes.If you want to share your stories from practicing this week's virtue, or contribute a joke for special episodes, email danika@biblicallycentered.com.Did you know you can listen to the Biblically Centered Kids podcast for Biblical Family Virtue, Old Testament and New Testament stories, games, activities, facts, jokes, and more each day? Access all of our episodes by subscribing to Biblically Centered Kids. You'll find a whole world of Biblical Family Virtue all at a level your youngest listener can understand!Follow us at @biblicallycentered on Instagram and Facebook!

Anuja Lal embodies the powerful message that women are pioneers in God's Kingdom, spreading the good news of peace and salvation through relationships, one conversation at a time.

“I've had enough, Lord.” If you've ever felt this way, you're not alone. But God isn't done with you yet. Watch how Elijah found strength and meaning even in his darkest moment. #GodIsFaithful #Overcome 

Mike Kim

Full Text of ReadingsThe Baptism of the Lord Lectionary: 21The Saint of the day is Saint Marguerite BourgeoysSaint Marguerite Bourgeoys' Story “God closes a door and then opens a window,” people sometimes say when dealing with their own disappointment or someone else's. That was certainly true in Marguerite's case. Children from European as well as Native American backgrounds in 17th-century Canada benefited from her great zeal and unshakable trust in God's providence. Born the sixth of 12 children in Troyes, France, Marguerite at the age of 20 believed that she was called to religious life. Her applications to the Carmelites and Poor Clares were unsuccessful. A priest friend suggested that perhaps God had other plans for her. In 1654, the governor of the French settlement in Canada visited his sister, an Augustinian canoness in Troyes. Marguerite belonged to a sodality connected to that convent. The governor invited her to come to Canada and start a school in Ville-Marie (eventually the city of Montreal). When she arrived, the colony numbered 200 people with a hospital and a Jesuit mission chapel. Soon after starting a school, she realized her need for coworkers. Returning to Troyes, she recruited a friend, Catherine Crolo, and two other young women. In 1667, they added classes at their school for Indian children. A second trip to France three years later resulted in six more young women and a letter from King Louis XIV, authorizing the school. The Congregation of Notre Dame was established in 1676 but its members did not make formal religious profession until 1698 when their Rule and constitutions were approved. Marguerite established a school for Indian girls in Montreal. At the age of 69, she walked from Montreal to Quebec in response to the bishop's request to establish a community of her sisters in that city. By the time she died, she was referred to as the “Mother of the Colony.” Marguerite was canonized in 1982. Reflection It's easy to become discouraged when plans that we think that God must endorse are frustrated. Marguerite was called not to be a cloistered nun but to be a foundress and an educator. God had not ignored her after all. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

In today's Restore7 TV highlight, we are so excited to bring you The Israel Story: The Israel Story tells God's story of hope and redemption for all mankind (the gospel) and the role that the Jewish people and the nation of Israel play in it. God is a communicator, and the Israel Story is the story that He is telling. Many people throughout history, who were able to experience and hear God's story, told it and wrote it down. Others guarded over it, literally letter by letter so that it could be preserved for generations to come, for you and me. This story is found in the Bible. Central characters in the Bible story are the nation of Israel and the Jewish people, not just in the Old Testament, but in the New Testament too, not just in the past, but in the present and the future, as well. To understand The Story — God's story as well as our story — we must understand the Israel story. That's the objective. That's what this study, our journey together, is all about. Watch The Israel Story on Restore7.TV at: https://watch.restore7.tv/content/sc_50200_17097

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In this special Christmas episode, Pastor Derek takes us through the familiar yet profound story of Jesus' birth in Luke 2:1-20, exploring how God’s arrival on earth defied expectations in every way. From the timing—during a chaotic Roman census—to the humble birth in a Bethlehem stable, Pastor Derek highlights the unexpected circumstances, characters, and settings that point to God's surprising plan for salvation. Through the lens of lowly shepherds, an underserved humanity, and a simple, powerful message, we see how God chose the most unlikely places to bring about the most incredible gift the world has ever known. This sermon challenges us to reflect on how God continues to show up in unexpected ways in our own lives, offering grace and salvation where we least expect it. Tune in to hear how the Christmas story is all about a gift sent from God in the form of a baby, but also a radical, all-encompassing love that reaches us in our messiest moments. Don't miss this encouraging and thought-provoking message of hope this Christmas season!

"Explore God's promise fulfilled in the birth of Christ. This episode unpacks the prophecy, His faithfulness, and the hope Jesus brings to our lives."

"This one time, when I was twelve..." The next time you're losing your audience, say this and everyone's head will bob up. There's something about story that captures our attention, isn't there? And God—the author of the Bible and the creator of human beings—knows this. Join me for a fascinating conversation on the Live Like It's True podcast with Gabe Hartfield about God's captivating way of revealing truth through story. Guest: Gabe HartfieldBible Passage: VariousGet your Freebie: False Narrative WatchlistRecommended ResourcesGabe Hartfield has been the Young Adults Pastor at Crossroads Bible Church for the last 3 years.  Before that he served as Campus Staff for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship at Davenport University.  He received his M. Div at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary in 2017.Connect with Gabe: Linktree Visit ComparisonGirl.com and get the answers both she and you need in my new book, Comparison Girl for Teens: Thriving Beyond Measure in a World That Compares. Conversation starters, quizzes and more. Get your free False Narrative Watchlist. Learn more at ShannonPopkin.com.

Full Text of ReadingsFriday of the Twenty-ninth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 477The Saint of the day is Saint Antnio de SantAnna GalvoSaint Antônio de Sant'Anna Galvão's Story God's plan in a person's life often takes unexpected turns which become life-giving through cooperation with God's grace. Born in Guarantingueta near São Paulo, Antônio attended the Jesuit seminary in Belem, but later decided to become a Franciscan friar. Invested in 1760, he made final profession the following year and was ordained in 1762. In São Paulo, he served as preacher, confessor, and porter. Within a few years, Antônio was appointed confessor to the Recollects of Saint Teresa, a group of nuns in that city. He and Sister Helena Maria of the Holy Spirit founded a new community of sisters under the patronage of Our Lady of the Conception of Divine Providence. Sister Helena Maria's premature death the next year left Father Antônio responsible for the new congregation, especially for building a convent and church adequate for their growing numbers. He served as novice master for the friars in Macacu and as guardian of St. Francis Friary in São Paulo. He founded St. Clare Friary in Sorocaba. With the permission of his provincial and the bishop, Antônio spent his last days at the Recolhimento de Nossa Senhora da Luz, the convent of the sisters' congregation he had helped establish. Antônio de Sant'Anna Galvão was beatified in Rome on October 25, 1998, and canonized in 2007. Reflection Holy women and men cannot help calling our attention to God, to God's creation, and to all the people whom God loves. The lives of holy people are so oriented toward God that this has become their definition of “normal.” Do people see my life or yours as a living sign of God's steadfast love? What might have to change for that to happen? Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

When Diana Phelps and Debbie Mais sent their sons to war, they were proud of them. They were also nervous for their boys. Aaron and Doc both came home alive, but not without injuries. Aaron was blown up in an IED attack while Doc suffered TBIs. Both also returned with the mental load that goes with serving our country. Listen to these two moms discuss what it's like to send a son to war and the challenges to remaining "mom" to the men who returned.