Podcasts about theology of the body

Meet Sam Halligan Sam Halligan is the city director of Forge in Des Moines, Iowa. A Des Moines native (Saint Pius X and Dowling Catholic) who spent a decade serving with the young-adult mission Damascus, Sam and his wife, Whitney, recently moved back home with their kids. He shares the John 2:5 verse — "Do whatever he tells you" — that has anchored his marriage and their mission-driven family. What Is Forge? Forge is an on-the-ground movement of small groups dedicated to strengthening families by focusing on men. Sam breaks down Forge's guiding acronym, TAU (Thriving, Apostolic, Orthodox), and explains why reaching the heart of fathers changes the spiritual trajectory of an entire household. Since launching in late 2023, Forge has grown to 55 small groups across the Des Moines area — open to men of any faith background. Redefining Authentic Masculinity Julie and Chris dig into words like authority, dominance, and patriarch — terms the culture often paints as toxic. Sam makes the case for redeeming them, tracing masculinity back to Genesis, where Adam is called to till, keep, and protect the garden. He argues true masculine strength looks like Christ's: powerful, but exercised in humility and service. How Wives Can Support Their Husbands' Leadership Drawing on Edward Sri's book Men, Women, and the Mystery of Love, Sam and the hosts talk about the mutual responsibility spouses have to help each other flourish. Sam encourages women to offer affirmation rather than critique as husbands grow in their faith leadership, and Julie and Chris share personal stories of learning to trust their husbands' God-given roles. Upcoming Forge Events Forge Hog Roast — Friday, July 31, 2026, at Wills Family Orchard in Adel, Iowa. A couples' night with a spit-roasted hog, cigars, drinks, a bonfire, and live music. Heart of the Mission Retreat — October 15, 2026, a three-night retreat at Creighton University Retreat Center in Griswold, Iowa, limited to 65 men, featuring extended confession, adoration, and daily Mass. Forge Men's Conference — February 27, 2027, drawing roughly 1,500 men to Des Moines. Learn more and register at Forge Events Catholic Women Now airs on IowaCatholicRadio.com and wherever you listen to podcasts. #CatholicWomenNow #Forge #AuthenticMasculinity #CatholicMen #CatholicFatherhood #DesMoinesCatholic #IowaCatholicRadio #CatholicPodcast #TheologyOfTheBody #ChristianMasculinity #MensMinistry #CatholicFaith #CatholicMarriage     Listen Live · Program Schedule · Our StationsLINKSYou can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Tiktok! More on our website.If you would like to support Iowa Catholic Radio you can donate Here! More from Iowa Catholic Radio:Sunday Dive with Katie PatrizioMan Up! with Joe StopulosCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrBe Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid en Español con el P. Fabián MoncadaMaking it Personal with Bishop William JoensenFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleThe Great Men of the Bible with Joe Stopulos Liturgy & DevotionsThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Daily Mass from St. Francis of AssisiThe Daily Mass from St. Pius XThe Daily Mass from St. TheresaSunday Mass from the Basilica of Saint JohnWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Iowa Catholic Radio - Connecting People to Christ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nick Koeppel is joined by Michael Villanueva, Executive Director of the John Paul II Center for Theology of the Body in Phoenix, Arizona, who traces his encounter with the theology of the body to a semester studying abroad in Austria — and, more precisely, to being invited into his professor's home, where the theology was […] L'articolo Body Talk – Theology of the Body in Practice – Nick Koeppel and Katrina Zeno proviene da Radio Maria.

This week's re-run episode is one of my favorites! I'm joined by Jackie Francois Angel for a conversation about relationships, dating, love, and living out the virtue of chastity in today's world.Jackie shares wisdom from her own journey, practical advice for navigating relationships with purpose, and encouragement for anyone seeking to love authentically and pursue holiness. Can't wait for you to listen (or listen again!)Follow Jackie on Instagram------Episode SponsorsCrunchi - crunchi.com/mariwagnerWest Coast Catholic - westcoastcatholic.co------Follow Along:Ever Be Podcast InstagramMari Wagner Instagram West Coast Catholic Instagram

Are you ready to learn more about the theology of the body? Where to even begin? Who is the theology of the body actually for? What terms do we need to know in order to understand it?Today's episode is part IV of a series on the theology of the body with guests Chris O'Neill, Director of the Office of Marriage and Family Life for the Archdiocese of New Orleans, and Trey Weaver, Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Baton Rouge. With Jillian, they'll suggest some resources, texts, and videos to start with or use on your journey of diving deeper into the theology of the body!And don't forget to email your questions to info@springsinthedesert.org!Links:Part I: Getting Started With Theology of the BodyPart II: What does "Theology of the Body" even mean?Part III: What Jesus' Body Teaches Us About Our SufferingJohn Paul II, Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body Theology of the Body ExplainedPaul VI, Humanae VitaeKarol Wojtyła, Love and Responsibility John Paul II, Familiaris ConsortioJohn Paul II, Mulieris DignitatemJohn Paul II, Dives in MisericordiaPaul VI, Gaudium et SpesPaul VI, Lumen GentiumEdward Sri, Men, Women, & The Mystery of LovePatricia Polacco, Luba and The WrenMichael O'Brien, Island of the WorldSigrid Undset, Kristin LavransdatterSheldon Vanauken, A Severe MercyOther resources: The Passion of Christ in the GospelsMoana (2016)Lion KingLife is Beautiful (1997)Babette's Feast (1987)

send us a text via Fan Mail!How does theology of the body relate to our relationships with our children?  ContactOn Instagram at @make.joy.normal By email at makejoynormal@gmail.comSearch podcast episodes by topic www.bonnielandry.caShop my recommended resourcesThanks for listening to Make Joy Normal Podcast! 

What does the theology of the body have to teach us about bodily suffering? What do Jesus' wounds have to do with our wounds? What can we learn from the theology of the body about abandoning ourselves to the will of God?Today's episode is part III of a series on the theology of the body with guests Chris O'Neill, Director of the Office of Marriage and Family Life for the Archdiocese of New Orleans, and Trey Weaver, Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Baton Rouge. With Jillian, they'll explore what theology of the body has to teach us as we walk the path of infertility.Links:Part I: Getting Started With The Theology of The BodyPart II: What Does Theology of the Body Even Mean?John Paul II, Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body Karol Wojtyła, Love and Responsibility

What does it mean to be a human person? What does love actually look like? What does the body reveal to us about God and the meaning of life?Theology of the Body isn't just about sex. It's about what it means to be human.In this episode, we explore some of the foundational ideas that St. John Paul II returns to again and again in his catechesis. We introduce key themes including the dignity of the body, the meaning of love, JPII's famous claim that the opposite of love isn't hate: it's use.This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate via PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact the podcast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.caitlinwest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠References and further reading/listening/viewing:St. John Paul II:Theology of the BodyLove and ResponsibilityRedemptor HominisTheology of the Body in Simple Language⁠Gaudium et SpesPope Paul VI, Humanae Vitae⁠Theology of the Body InstituteChristopher West: "⁠What Is the Theology of the Body? | Introduction to Theology of the Body⁠"Our Bodies Tell God's StoryGood News About Sex and MarriageThe Ask Christopher West Podcast"This is the Opposite of Love"Fr Mike Schmitz, Theology of the Body Crash Course (pdf)Theology of the Body Crash Course (video)The Thomistic Institute, "Theology of the Body: An Overview"St Paul Centre, "⁠What's the Point of Theology of the Body? Dr. Scott Hahn Explains⁠"

Thank you for lending us your ears and your heart! We are opening June with a conversation centered on Fatherhood and the family. For most of this month we will be exploring what it means to be created for relationship, responsibility and love that reflects God's own heart. To help us begin that journey the team will be joined by Lafayette, LA business owner Todd Citron. Todd is a husband and father who recently began his journey through Theology of the Body and in this episode he brings a fresh, honest curiosity to our discussion on fatherhood and the family. Topics that will be covered during the show, the meaning of fatherhood, the challenges facing families today and how TOB can offer clarity, encouragement and even a few surprises.

What does the theology of the body even mean? From it, what can we learn about Christ's body, and about God Himself? What does Christ's body tell us about who we are, and about our own capacity to love? What do our bodies tell us about what we were created for?Today's episode is part II of a series on the theology of the body with guests Chris O'Neill, Director of the Office of Marriage and Family Life for the Archdiocese of New Orleans, and Trey Weaver, Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Baton Rouge. With Jillian, they'll explore what theology of the body has to teach us as we walk the path of infertility.Links:Part I: Getting Started With The Theology of The BodyJohn Paul II, Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body Karol Wojtyła, Love and Responsibility

Nick Koeppel welcomes Adeline Corey from Lebanon, a newly certified Theology of the Body educator who has just launched her own ministry: the Song of the Bridegroom. Adeline describes the wounds that brought her to this work — questions of identity, femininity, self-worth — and how St. John Paul II's catechesis transformed her understanding of […] L'articolo Body Talk – Teaching Theology of the Body in Lebanon – Nick Koeppel and Adeline Corey proviene da Radio Maria.

What is the Theology of the Body? Why was it developed, and why is it still relevant today?In this episode, we begin our next deep dive (!) by telling the story of the development of ToB. From the fallout of the sexual revolution to Humanae Vitae and Pope St. John Paul II's revolutionary vision of the human person, we ask why TOB remains one of the Church's most important teachings today.This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate via PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact the podcast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.caitlinwest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠References and further reading/listening/viewing:Humanae VitaeChristopher West: "What Is the Theology of the Body? | Introduction to Theology of the Body"Godsplaining, "Does Christian Marriage Really Have Two Ends?"

What is the theology of the body? Where did it come from? Why was it written? How can it help us on the path of infertility? Today we're welcoming Chris O'Neill, Director of the Office of Marriage and Family Life for the Archdiocese of New Orleans, and Trey Weaver, Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Baton Rouge, to the first episode in a podcast series on the theology of the body. With Jillian, they'll dig into what the theology of the body is, what it isn't, and where it came from. Listen to Part 1 and stay tuned for the next episode in this series coming to you soon!It is our honor to walk with you!Links:Paul VI, Humanae VitaeJohn Paul II, Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body Karol Wojtyła, Love and Responsibility Edward Sri, Men, Women, and the Mystery of Love: Practical Insights from John Paul II's Love and Responsibility

This weekend, Tyler kicked off a new series called “A Series on the Body,” exploring what the Bible teaches about our physical bodies in a culture full of confusion and tension around them. At the foundation is this truth: your body matters to God. Scripture teaches that we are made of both body and soul, created with purpose, and designed for eternal union. Our bodies are not disposable or secondary, they are a temple of the Holy Spirit and central to how we live, worship, and follow Jesus.  Because of this, our bodies are not separate from who we are, they are part of our identity, calling, and obedience to God. While culture often elevates inner feelings over physical reality, the Bible shows that both body and soul work together and should be honored. At the same time, we recognize our bodies are broken. Through sin and life in a fallen world, we all experience struggle–physically, emotionally, and spiritually. But this series isn't about shame, it's about redemption. Through Jesus, we are reminded that we've been bought with a price, deeply loved, and not left on our own. God doesn't just care about your soul; He cares about your whole person. What in your life needs healing, freedom, or redemption? Because your body is not an accident, it's part of God's design and His plan to restore you.

Nick Koeppel opens this episode with a vivid biographical portrait of Karol Wojtyła: his childhood in Wadowice, the loss of his mother and brother, his father's witness of prayer in their Kraków apartment as the first seminary, his encounter with the layman Jan Tyranowski and the Spanish mystics, working in a quarry during World War […] L'articolo Body Talk with Nick Koeppel – Introducing Theology of the Body proviene da Radio Maria.

Do you believe the Church's teachings about sexuality… but struggle to actually live them? Have you ever felt trapped between wanting to follow God and feeling pulled back into the same habits, shame, or confusion? In part 1 of our conversation with Brendan McCauley, he shares how the message of Theology of the Body transformed his own life—and why understanding our identity, our bodies, and our deepest desires is the key to freedom, healing, and authentic love. This conversation offers a deeply hopeful message: you are not broken, your body is not bad, and your desire for love points toward something sacred. Learn More about the Humanum Project at humanumproject.org and check out their YouTube channel and Instagram ✨✨✨Stay connected to TIS

We appreciate you spending some of your valuable time with us as we conclude our 5 part Lenten series, Hope in the midst of suffering. In this show Adele and Tom are joined by a former DesOrmeaux Foundation employee, Krystal Romero, who shares her story as a real life witness of hope in the midst of suffering. As a former housing director at the DesOrmeaux Foundation's maternity home Krystal walked with many women during their suffering to find safety and purpose during their times of need. At the same time she was supporting moms in crisis pregnancies she was also struggling to overcome the loss of 1 of her own children. So listen in as we blend St. John Paul II's ideas of how suffering brings us closer to God with discussions of how God sends us hope through his people even in the midst of unimaginable suffering.

Ahead of the launch of his new Radio Maria series Body Talk, Harry sits down with Nick Koeppel, director of Theology of the Body Educators. Nick is based in Kraków — the city where St John Paul II lived and ministered for forty years. He introduces the Theology of the Body, the catechesis John Paul […] L'articolo Body Talk: An Introduction to the Theology of the Body – Nick Koeppel, director of Theology of the Body Educators proviene da Radio Maria.

Thanks for joining us for part 4 of our 5 part series Hope in the midst of suffering. Today's show will look at one of the most hidden and destructive forces of suffering, shame. Shame can fuel patterns that cause suffering like addiction. Adele will share some excerpts from Theology of the Body that speak directly to dealing with shame by calling on a special power, the Holy Spirit. Also on the show, Deacon Mike Crain, a counselor who will share his experience with people dealing with suffering from addiction. Enjoy part 4 of Hope in the midst of suffering: A Theology of the Body Lenten series.

Thanks for spending some of your valuable time with us and welcome to part 3 of our Lenten series on Hope in the midst of suffering. In parts 1 and 2 we laid the foundation of our series, suffering as mystery and the hope of bodily and spiritual healing. In this episode we will bring back Dr. Veronica Lenzi to share practical coping techniques to help us heal through remaining present. Dr. Lenzi also breaks down why remaining present is essential for working through suffering toward a path of healing. So lean in and keep walking with us on this Lenten journey toward Hope in the Midst of Suffering.

Thank you for joining us for Handbook for Humanity and our March Lenten Series, Hope in the midst of suffering: A Lenten Theology of the Body series. The five part exploration mixes standout achieved episodes with new content to show how St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body brings hope even into our deepest pains. In part 1 we introduced suffering as a common experience and a mystery. In this show we move deeper - exploring the hope of healing trauma in the body, with wise insights from our guest Dr. Veronica Lenzi. Let's continue this Lenten Journey together in Hope in the Midst of Suffering.

Episode Overview Why is the Samaritan woman at the well in the middle of the day? Fr. Will reflects on the deep wounds and spiritual thirst revealed in the Gospel of the Woman at the Well. Through the lens of the Lenten series on the deadly sins, this homily explores the destructive power of lust—not simply as a moral failure, but as a distortion of our deepest desire for love, intimacy, and communion. Yet the story does not end with shame. Jesus meets the woman exactly where she is: wounded, isolated, and searching. There at the well, He reveals Himself as the true Bridegroom who alone can satisfy the thirst of the human heart. Key Takeaways The Samaritan woman represents the cycle of sin, shame, and woundedness that lust can create. Lust twists a good desire—the desire for intimacy and self-gift. True love seeks the good of the other, not the use of the other. Many today carry deep wounds from pornography and sexual exploitation. Christ enters directly into our wounds and offers healing, dignity, and freedom. Jesus is the true Bridegroom who alone satisfies the thirst of the human heart.

Thank you for joining us for this special series, Hope in the Midst of Suffering: A Lenten Theology of the Body series. This 5 part journey blends some of our most cherished archived episodes with fresh content to explore how St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body meets the mystery of human suffering with hope, healing and redemption. We begin with part 1: an introduction to suffering as a universal experience - one that cannot be neatly explained, but one that always holds the possibility of grace. So settle in, open your heart, and let's start this Lenten reflection together in Hope in the Midst of Suffering.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Therese Northrop, we move from the why of holistic health into the deeply practical.If Part 1 helped you rethink the body-soul split, this episode helps you begin living differently inside your own body.We talk specifically about the nervous system — what it's actually doing, why so many women feel constantly dysregulated, and how simple, faithful practices like breath and prayer can begin restoring peace from the inside out.Together, we explore:Why we're designed to live primarily in rest + digest (not fight or flight)How chronic stress reshapes the body over timeWhat nervous system dysregulation actually looks like in daily lifeThe connection between breath, spirit (ruach), and regulationHow Scripture isn't just spiritual encouragement — it has biological impactWhat it means to approach healing with discernment instead of fearPractical ways to begin caring for your body todayDr. Therese also shares wisdom on how to find a chiropractor or holistic practitioner you feel safe with — and why safety and discernment matter more than perfection.If you've been feeling tense, reactive, disconnected from your body, or unsure how to approach holistic care faithfully… this episode is an invitation back into integration.Connect with Dr. Therese: therese.northrop@gmail.com ✨✨✨ Stay connected to TIS

Can Theology of the Body actually deepen shame rather than heal it? And what does JP2's vision for the human person have to say about pornography addiction, scrupulosity, and the cycle of counterfeit love? In this episode, Catholic therapist Adam Cross, LMFT (#116623) sits down again with Dr. Anthony Isacco, Program Director of the MS in Clinical Psychology program at St. Mary's University of Minnesota, to explore what happens when Theology of the Body meets the clinical realities of sexual shame and addiction. Topics covered: How scrupulosity can turn sexuality into a source of shame rather than a gift Pornography addiction, age of first exposure, and understanding the shame cycle it creates JP2's insight that arousal is a physiological response to something good, and how that reframes guilt The concept of "use" from Love and Responsibility, objectification, and human dignity Viewing addiction as a cry for what is missing rather than simply a behaviour to stop Internal Family Systems, parts work, and how Catholic moral theology fits alongside it Dopamine research and why persevering toward virtue matters more than achieving perfection How St. Mary's University of Minnesota trains the next generation of Catholic clinicians with a full anthropological foundation Theology of the Body applied to exercise, fasting, medication, and trauma healing There is real freedom in knowing your body is not the enemy. This episode brings that truth home through both the wisdom of JP2 and decades of clinical experience. Have questions? Visit my website: adamcrossmft.com Adam Cross, LMFT #116623

If you've ever wanted to care for your body more intentionally but felt wary of crossing into “woo woo” territory—this episode is for you.Maria and Meghan sit down with Dr. Therese Northrop, a Catholic chiropractor and long-time Theology of the Body student, for a grounded conversation on what it looks like to pursue healing without drifting into woo-woo—and without cutting your body off from your faith.Together, we talk about:Why Catholics are meant to think holistically (body + soul… always)How Western medicine's “body over here / soul over there” split affects the way we approach healthWhy nervous system regulation matters (and why we're designed to live in rest + digest)The two most accessible daily tools for regulation: breath + prayerHow to discern holistic modalities with wisdom (without fear)What it can mean when your symptoms are trying to tell you something—gently, not shamefullyIf you've felt stressed, dysregulated, or disconnected from your body… let this be an invitation back into integration—with Jesus in the center.Connect with Dr. Therese: therese.northrop@gmail.com ✨✨✨ Stay connected to TIS

Thanks for spending some of your valuable time with us. This episode closes out our 4 part series on The Sanctity of Life. This theme comes from the very heart of the Catholic Faith and it also plays a vital role in the mission statements of many Crisis Pregnancy centers across America. Our discussion will be coming from a place where the Sanctity of Life and the dignity of every human person is lived out in a profoundly tangible way. Adele and Tom have invited 2 guests from The Women's Center of Lafayette. This crisis pregnancy center is part of the DesOrmeaux Foundation that sees about 200 women per month. In this time we spend together we hope to share how the Gospel of Life presented through Theology of the Body helps a Pro Life consultant at the Women's Center of Lafayette show love and compassion to her clients and a Mother who receives this message delivers love to her family.Links mentioned in today's show:Pontifical Council on the Familyhttps://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_pro_20051996_en.html

Fr. Ryan gave this talk at Theology on the Rocks in Lorain.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Matthew LaPine to have a conversation about mental health, and how his work in this area has informed his view of how the church engages with the idea of mental health.ResourcesThe Logic of the Body by Dr. Matthew LaPineThe Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog by Dr. Bruce D. Perry and Maia SzalavitzWayfaring: A Christian Approach to Mental Health Care by Warren KinghornStatus Anxiety by Alain De BottonA Quiet Mind to Suffer With: Mental Illness, Trauma, and the Death of Christ by John Andrew BryantDopamine Nation by Dr. Anna LembkeThe Soul of Shame by Curt ThompsonConnect With Us providenceomaha.org | Instagram | Facebook Email Us formation@providenceomaha.org

In a culture torn between obsessing over the body and despising it, Scripture offers a healing and hopeful vision of embodied humanity. The Song of Songs affirms that our bodies are not problems to be solved but gifts to be received — created good by God, wounded by sin, yet never stripped of dignity. In Jesus, we are given a future hope in which our bodies are redeemed, restored, and made whole. Listen to this sermon as Jason Harris invites us to rediscover a theology of the body that leads from confusion to clarity and from brokenness to glory. ________ Sign up for Central’s newsletters here. Visit us on our website to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

Do our bodies really matter? Doesn't God mostly just care about our souls getting to heaven? In this episode we seek to explore a Biblical theology of our physical bodies. Why did God create us with a body? What does it mean to have fallen bodies? How does Jesus redeem our bodies? And what should we expect for our glorified bodies?ResourcesThe Logic of the Body by Dr. Matthew LaPineEmbodied Souls, Ensouled Bodies by Dr. Marc CortezThe Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog by Dr. Bruce D. Perry and Maia SzalavitzConnect With Us providenceomaha.org | Instagram | Facebook Email Us formation@providenceomaha.org

What if your body isn't a problem to fix, but a gift to receive? This message invites us to step back from shame and disappointment and rediscover God's view of the body—as something good, intentional, and deeply connected to our spiritual lives.

Have you heard of Theology of the Body, but aren't quite sure what it means? What it is? Fr. Ryan shares an introduction to Pope St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body with adults in Lorain county.    Books recommended:  Good News About Sex and Marriage: https://shop.corproject.com/collections/books/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage  Fill These Hearts: https://shop.corproject.com/collections/books/products/copy-of-fill-these-hearts-paperback  These Beautiful Bones: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/these-beautiful-bones-an-everyday-theology-of-the-body    Come, follow us: Parish Website  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  YouTube  |  Spotify Music

This week, Jake and Bob are joined by Jason Evert, a Catholic speaker, author, and expert on the Theology of the Body. Together they explore the history of gender theory, how contraception shifted culture, and why it's important to root our identity in God. They also discuss how wounds and unmet needs are often tied to the experience of gender dysphoria and how our culture avoids addressing the source of suffering.    Key Points: The term gender has only recently entered into our vocabulary Wounds, past traumas, and unmet needs for belonging, love, and safety are often the root cause for someone experiencing gender dysphoria Many European countries and leading medical institutions are now rethinking their gender-affirmative protocols after evidence showed these interventions often failed to resolve underlying distress and caused harm Rather than addressing the source of suffering, our culture has told us our bodies are the problem The different gender labels within society today offer an identity and community to those feeling rejected or isolated Our identity is as beloved children of God and shouldn't be reduced to how we feel or our social affiliations The truth can become a weapon if we don't first listen in love and acknowledge the experience of suffering   Resources: Jason's Website Male, Female, Other? A Catholic Guide to Understanding Gender by Jason Evert Male, Female, Other? booklet by Jason Evert with an introduction by Chole Cole Theology of the Body in One Hour by Jason Evert Navigating Gender with Charity and Clarity Course Gender Resources   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:36 How Jason Discovered the Theology of the Body 05:35 The History of Gender Theory 15:45 When the Body is Made the Problem 23:54 Addressing the Experienced Suffering 29:51 Same Sex Attraction and Finding Your True Identity 38:33 How to Share the Truth without Using Truth as a Weapon 46:44 They Need to Trust You Before They Will Trust Your Ideas 54:33 Resources   Connect with Restore the Glory:  Instagram: @restoretheglorypodcast  Twitter: @RestoreGloryPod Facebook: Restore the Glory Podcast   Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow in holiness by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!

11-14-25: Theology of the Body – Katrina Zeno Part 2 by

11-13-25: Theology of the Body – Katrina Zeno Part 1 by

Join Covenant Eyes podcast hosts Karen Potter and Theo McManigal for an inspiring conversation with Bobby and Jackie Angel — Catholic authors, speakers, and parents known for their work with Ascension Presents and Word on Fire.In this heartfelt episode, Bobby and Jackie share their powerful stories of faith, marriage, and ministry — from meeting through the Theology of the Body Institute to navigating life as Catholic parents of five in today's tech-driven world.

with Tara Wolfe & Lacey Prentice

We greatly appreciate your time and attention and we hope you find value in what you are about to hear. This show continues a look at the beginning of a different tone by Pope St. John Paul II's in his writings on Theology of the Body. This discussion focuses on how JP II wanted to remind us that Jesus himself taught about the importance of the human body and what we should do with our bodies and how we should view other bodies. You may also hear a certain urgency in the great Pope Saint's words because in a short period after he delivered the audience in today's discussion an assassin attempted to murder him.

We are honored that you are spending some of your valuable time with us. This show is a great resource for anyone wanting to share a quick summary of the first half of St. John Paul II's work called, Theology of the Body. Listen in as Adele and Tom share and discuss JP II's 58th audience as Pope where he explains the incredible importance of two key phrases spoken by Jesus. The 2 phrases are, "In the beginning it was not so", and, "if anyone looks at a women with lust he has already committed adultery in his heart."

Seth Horton came from a strong Christian background, which included a significant emphasis on personal purity. Embedded in all that was the assumptions that Catholics weren't real Christians; that they'd either been deceived, or were willfully distorting Scripture. When he met his future wife, a Catholic, his conversations with her helped him begin to see that much of what he thought he knew about Catholicism was based on rumor and misunderstanding. But it was through his discovery of Theology of the Body that he found a robust and life-giving anthropology that went far deeper than the prohibitions of Purity Culture, and gave him a Christian language and lens for understanding man, woman, and the world. More stories and resources: https://www.chnetwork.org Our Online Community: https://www.chnetwork.org/community Support our work: https://www.chnetwork.org/compass

How did Marco Casanova go from addiction to gay porn while studying to be a Catholic priest to a life of chastity, healing, marriage, and fatherhood? This is a great story. Along the way, you'll get a beautiful introduction to Pope John Paul II's Theology of the Body—particularly what Marco has learned about the dignity of women and what it means to be a man.Marco Casanova, M.Div., serves as Associate Director of Desert Stream Ministries. His journey with the Living Waters program began during his seminary years, when he sought healing from his own experience of sexual brokenness. After eight years in priestly formation, Marco discerned a new call to join the Desert Stream team. Today, he oversees Living Waters USA, equipping lay leaders to establish and lead effective healing groups within their church communities. Marco lives in Kansas City, MO, with his wife, Ania, and their daughter, Marianna.More from Desert Stream Ministries:Website: desertstream.orgYouTube: youtube.com/@DesertStreamMinistriesMore on Theology of the Body:theologyofthebody.nettobinstitute.orgSupport the showTake the Husband Material Journey... Step 1: Listen to this podcast or watch on YouTube Step 2: Join the private Husband Material Community Step 3: Take the free mini-course: How To Outgrow Porn Step 4: Try the all-in-one program: Husband Material Academy Thanks for listening!

As Father Dave begins his 30-Day Challenge to instill healthier habits, we welcome Chase Crouse to discuss how faith and fitness are connected. Chase is the founder and CEO of Hypuro Fit, a Catholic-based personal training and nutrition coaching company, and the co-author of “The God of Endurance: A Practical Guide for Incorporating Exercise and Nutrition into your Spiritual Journey.”

In this final episode of the "Your Body" mini-series, Lisa Whittle shares her journey toward discovering real success—defined by biblical truth rather than cultural standards.  This isn't about perfection or meeting worldly standards. It's about understanding who we are in Christ and living from that truth. When our minds are renewed and our hearts aligned with Scripture, lasting freedom becomes a reality. (Curious to learn more about whole body theology? Grab a copy of Lisa Whittle's Bible Study - Body & Soul.)Listen in to learn more:(0:39) Defining triumph(3:53) What a water spill can teach us(8:50)  Rebuilding vs. rebooting(13:03) Adjusting our mindset to a whole body theology (14:19) Three keys to true and lasting freedom(16:19) A journey of continued healing  Mentioned in the Episode:Fit For His Glory: https://www.fitforhisglory.coAnchored Virtual: https://anchoredvirtual.comThis vs. That - Podcast: https://anchoredvirtual.com/tvt-allBody & Soul - Bible Study: https://www.lisawhittle.com/body Resources:Thank you to our season sponsors – Fit For His Glory and Anchored Virtual!Fit For His Glory helps women in every stage of life create lasting change in their health. Start your journey today and enjoy 20% off memberships or five-week intensives with code JOE.  Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/fitforhisglory. Anchored Virtual offers accessible mental-health support with trained, faith-based counselors. Visit anchoredvirtual.com and use code JOE10 at checkout for 10% off your first session.   Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/anchoredvirtual.  Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.lisawhittle.comSubstack: https://letsbeclear.substack.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lisawhittleofficialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisawhittleFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisawhittleofficial

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”What happens when a young Catholic man wonders if he might be gay after developing a deep friendship with another guy? This question opens the door to a profound exploration of identity, desire, and our ultimate purpose as human beings.The cultural narrative tells us we are defined by our attractions and feelings—that they represent our immutable identity. But what if there's something deeper? What if our attractions, even when they feel confusing or overwhelming, are actually pointing us toward something greater?Download the Claymore Battle Plan at jp2renewed.org and go to the resources link. Join a movement of young men reclaiming territory for Christ by fostering a culture of authentic love. Your journey begins not with a label, but with the profound truth that you are made for more than this world can offer.Read the Article: Am I Gay? Discovering Your True Identity in Christ Take Action: This week, spend 15 minutes in Adoration or pray with Matthew 6:33, asking, “Jesus, who am I to You?” Journal your thoughts. Then, connect with a Claymore Disciple, friend, or priest, to share your journey—you're stronger together.Reflection Questions:· How does being a beloved child of God shape your view of yourself?· How can the Eucharist help you align your desires with God's plan?· Who can you lean on to live the Church's teaching with courage and joy?Scripture Referenced: Matt 22:23-33, Rev 19:7, Rev 21:5, Eph 5:25-32, Gal 3:28 and the Catechism of the Catholic Church 2357 and 2358Follow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2RenewalSubscribe to our Newly Resurrected YouTube Channel!Support the show

Silas Farley, former New York City Ballet dancer and current Dean of the Colburn School's Trudl Zipper Dance Institute, explores the profound connections between classical ballet, Christian worship, and embodied spirituality. From his early exposure to liturgical dance in a charismatic Lutheran church to his career as a professional dancer and choreographer, Farley illuminates how the physicality of ballet can express deep spiritual truths and serve as an act of worship.Episode Highlights from Silas Farley“The physicality of ballet is cruciform. The dancer stands in a turned-out position... the body becomes the intersection of the vertical and the horizontal plane.”“Sin makes the soul curve in on itself, whereas holiness or wholeness in God opens us up.”“We are Christian humanists. We don't need to be intimidated by beauty.”“There's knowledge and insight in all the different parts of our bodies, not just in our brain.”“The mystery of the incarnation is that when the creator of all things wanted to make himself known to his creation, he didn't come as a vapor or as a mountain or as a bird. But he came as a man.”Resources for Ballet EngagementLocal community ballet companies/schools“B is for Ballet” (ABT children's book)“My Daddy Can Fly” (ABT)Celestial Bodies, by Laura JacobsApollo's Angels, by Jennifer HomansSilas Farley's Podcast: Hear the Dance (NYC Ballet)The Nutcracker (NYC Ballet/Balanchine)Jewels (1967, Balanchine)Agon (Balanchine/Stravinsky)About Silas FarleySilas Farley is a professional ballet dancer and choreographer. Dean of the Trudl Zipper Dance Institute at the Colburn School in Los Angeles, Silas is a former New York City Ballet dancer, choreographer, and educator. He also currently serves as Armstrong Artist in Residence in Ballet in the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University.His work includes choreography for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Houston Ballet, and the New York City Ballet. He hosts the Hear the Dance podcast and creates works that integrate classical ballet with spiritual themes.Silas also serves on the board of The George Balanchine Foundation.Show NotesSilas Farley's Early Dance Background & FormationSilas Farley: Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina; youngest of 7 children (4 brothers, 2 sisters); multiracial family (white father, Black mother)First exposure through charismatic Lutheran church's liturgical dance ministrySaw formal ballet at age 6 when Christian ballet company Ballet Magnifica performedDance initially experienced as form of worship before performanceLiturgical vs Classical BalletLiturgical dance:Amplifies worshipFunctions as embodied prayerNot primarily performativeHistorical examples: David with Ark of Covenant, Miriam after Red Sea crossingClassical ballet:Performed on proscenium stageRequires specific trainingFocuses on virtuosic movementsExplicitly performativeBoth forms serve as offerings/vessels for transmitting energy to audienceTechnical Elements of Ballet: Turnout, Spiritual Turnout, and Opening UpFoundational concept of “turnout”—rotation of feet/hips outward“That idea of turnout makes the body more expressive in a way. Because if our toes are straightforward, like the way we're designed, you only see a certain amount of the leg. Whereas if the body stands turned out, you see the whole inside of the musculature of the leg. It's a more complete revelation of the body.”Creates more complete revelation of body's musculaturePhysicality conveys “spiritual turnout” - openness/receptiveness“Spiritual turnout: that you are open   and receptive and generous. And that's embodied in the physicality of ballet.”“So much of what developed as ballet as we know, it happened at the court of Louis the XIV in the  1660-1670s.”“It's not artificial, it's actually supernatural.”Physical & Spiritual Connections in Ballet“Our walk  with God is that he's  defining us so that we are becoming open. We're open to him. We're open to receive his love. We're open to be vessels of his love. We're open to receiving and exchanging love with  other people.”Freedom within the constraints movements and positionsSwan Lake: “They're so free. They're almost like birds. But that's come through a lifestyle of discipline.”“You get a hyper awareness of your own body.”Develops hyper-awareness of bodyLinks to incarnational theology—Christ as God-manFreedom through discipline and submissionMovement vocabulary builds from simple elements (plié, tendu)Plie: Mama and Dada“As a dancer grows up in ballet, the dancer then develops  this enormous vocabulary of movement  that are all reducible back to the microcosm of the plié and the tendu.”Creates infinite lines suggesting eternityCombines circular power with eternal linesTheological Dimensions of BalletSilas's choreographed interpretation of C.S. Lewis's The Four Loves, as a balletBallet and the Art of Choreography“The music and choreography were like brothers.”“Songs from the Spirit”“The music becomes my map.”Choreographing in silenceThe Role of the Audience and Their ExperienceIdeas to dialogue withA set of ideas to gather together and embodyArvo Part, The Genealogy of Jesus in Luke 3Uniting my heart with JesusI'm never didactic about it.An embodied musical experience“If I  say ‘family, friendship, romance, divine love,' you all instantly have associations, beauty, pain, trauma, consolation that are associated with those four loves.”“ I'm not writing a sermon about any of these ideas. I'm choreographing a ballet. I'm assembling these classical steps with this music to create a visceral, embodied musical experience.”The audience: “They come to it with their experiences, their own eyes and ears and their own bodies. And that's enough.”Arvo Part: “Music is white light, and the prism is the soul of the listener.”“The musical ideas are refracted through the hearer.”“The audience is always in my heart and mind.”“I always think of the artwork as an act of hospitality.  … I'm just setting the table.”What's Unique about Ballet as a Physical ArtformBeautiful interconnectednessAsking the body to reach to its limits“The Infinite Line” in BalletRadiating out into multiple eternal lines at the same timeConstant reaching in many directions at onceCruciform positioning: intersection of vertical and horizontal planes“The body becomes radiant”Use of “épaulement”—spiraling of body around spine's axisReveals pulse points (neck, wrists) creating vulnerable energy exchange with audienceOpening up the life force of the dancerNo separation between dancer and instrument (“I am the work of art”)Cruciform physicalityContemporary Cultural ContextModern culture increasingly disembodied due to screens/digital media“We live in an increasingly disembodied culture, we are absorbed with screens two dimensional, uh, highly edited and curated,  mediated self presentation   as opposed to like visceral nitty gritty blood, sweat, tears, good, bad, and ugly of life itself. So we get insulated from the step that makes life what it is.”Education often treats people as “brains on sticks”“The Christian life is a lifestyle of in embodied discipleship to the God man, Jesus  Christ. And he's not a brain on a stick. He's the God man. He has a jawbone and he went through puberty and he has wounds like the beautiful hymn. It says, rich wounds, yet visible and beauty glorified. The mystery of the incarnation is that when the creator of all things wanted to make  himself known to his creation, he didn't come as a  vapor or as a mountain or as a bird, but he came as a man. And so he sublimates and affirms the glory of his creation, the materiality of his creation and the body as the crown of his creation by coming as a man.”Church needs more embodied practicesBallet offers counterpoint to disembodied tendenciesImportance of physical discipline in spiritual formationRomans 12:1 and making our bodies as living sacrificesHow to Experience Ballet“There's nothing you need to know before going to experience ballet.  You have a body, you have eyes, you have ears. That's all you need. Just let it wash over you.Let it work on you in its own kind of visceral way, and let that be an entry point  to not be intimidated by the, the music,  or the wordlessness or the tutu's or the point shoes or whatever.There's so many different stylistic manifestations of ballet. But just go experience it.And if you can, I would really encourage people almost as much or more than  watching it go see if like your local YMCA or  something has an adult ballet class, or if you're a kid, maybe ask your parents to sign you up to go try a class and just feel what that turned-out physicality feels like in your own body.It's so beautiful. It's very empowering.”Production NotesThis podcast featured Silas Farley and Macie BridgeEdited and Produced by Evan RosaHosted by Evan RosaProduction Assistance by Macie Bridge, Alexa Rollow, Zoë Halaban, Kacie Barrett & Emily BrookfieldA Production of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture at Yale Divinity School https://faith.yale.edu/aboutSupport For the Life of the World podcast by giving to the Yale Center for Faith & Culture: https://faith.yale.edu/give

Questions answered this episode: Questions answered this episode: 1. My eldest son is nearly 20, and he told us 2 years ago that he doesn't believe in God, which was incredibly heartbreaking for my husband and me. He is, however, respectful of our faith. He has a girlfriend, and they have been dating for about 4 months. She's just moved to another state to study at a university, which is about 4 hours from where we live. He's looking forward to visiting her in the next few weeks. He's planning on staying with her when he visits, which seems to him like a completely practical thing to do. How do I broach the topic of chastity and avoidance of sin with someone who doesn't claim to believe in God? I want to find a way to speak truth to him, even if it only plants a seed for the future. Any ideas or wisdom from your experience as parents and years of ministry would be greatly appreciated. 2. My wife and I are in our mid-40s. We have 4 kids ages 17 to 11. We also have 2 in heaven from a miscarriage and a premature birth. The 11-year-old was our last pregnancy. We've used NFP ever since to avoid pregnancy, but it has been challenging for our relationship with just a few days per month that we feel safe to have sex. All these years, I've been honoring my wife's reluctance and fear of another pregnancy, but I never realized my own until today. We're left to believe it is our responsibility to avoid getting pregnant because God will give us more kids whether he should or not if we give him the opportunity to. I think he's reckless about giving out children and doesn't consider the toll it could take on us. I'm not proud of this confession, and I doubt it is a good way to think of NFP. I guess I'm asking for help to see things more clearly. I should add that my wife has had hard pregnancies and deliveries, and having this 11-year gap only heightens our fears about another pregnancy. But it is not like doctors ever told us we should avoid getting pregnant or risk serious health consequences. We've just been afraid to keep going through the hardships that come with new life. We can keep up the cautious NFP approach, but it feels a lot like we're not trusting God and we're holding back from each other. I don't know the right way to think about this, and it has been a long time of uncertainty. 3. I am a 29-year-old single woman, and I come from a family with a history of sexual abuse. Some of my siblings were sexually abused by my dad. I was also sexually abused, though it was by one of my brothers when we were younger. My brother is sorry for having done this and has sought reconciliation with both me and the church, and I have forgiven him. Growing up, my mom always said that a man and a woman should never be alone together if they're not married because, quote, something could happen. I realize this might be a prudent way to live, and with everything that has happened in my family, I can understand why my mom says this. However, because of all these things, I find myself having a hard time trusting men or knowing how to relate with them without being, I think, overly cautious. Most of the friendships I have with men tend to stay at the surface level because I don't know how to open myself to them. I really want to be able to have deep relationships with men, but I also don't know how deep is too deep. Do you have any advice on how I can learn to trust men and to open myself up to having deep, intimate friendships with them? How do I know if I'm crossing over into a place of going too deep, and would it be best to wait to date a man until I've learned to not have these thoughts of what he might do constantly at the back of my mind? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.

Questions answered this episode: Dear Christopher and Wendy, thank you for all you do. For context, my husband and I are expecting a baby again for the third time in less than three years, despite our best efforts to practice NFP. I am exhausted and facing potentially serious health concerns. My parents have never understood our stance against contraception, despite being Catholic themselves, and have always tried to persuade us to use it. Things came to a nasty head recently when we announced our latest pregnancy, and we had a major fight. My father says Catholics are not bound by the teachings of Humanae Vitae and are thus free to practice contraception because it is not, quote, ex cathedra doctrine. How do I respond to this? My dad said some very hurtful things about my husband and me. I don't know what to do. I held my ground during the argument, but now I'm starting to doubt myself. Please help. I'm a 20-year-old college student who truly started choosing Christ in my first year of college. In high school, I was in sinful relationships, but when attending a Catholic college, I wanted to stop that. Everything changed when I met a girl who inspired me to pursue sainthood, and I knew I needed to grow in virtue to date her. After seven months of waiting and growing, we began a Christ-centered relationship. But it ended after a month and a half when she chose to discern religious life. Two years later, I still struggle to move on. I've mistakenly entered other relationships hoping to forget her but constantly find myself thinking of her and comparing potential partners and even friends to her. Deep down, I don't want to let her go and feel drawn to reach out, remembering the Christ-filled joy our relationship brought to both of us. My question is, should I let go or should I pursue this relationship? I've been married for 21 years. On our honeymoon, my husband suffered an injury that made sexual intercourse extremely difficult and eventually impossible for him. We have seen doctors for treatments that were unsuccessful and very embarrassing for my husband. In time, we realized it was not going to get better, and it hasn't. By God's grace, we were able to have one child, but marital relations between us have not been possible for over 17 years. My heart aches and longs for this affection from my husband, but I long ago accepted the fact that our marriage is celibate and always will be. In the early days, we fought about this all the time, mostly because he avoided physical contact with me so as not to arouse himself, and I felt very rejected. He's never really liked to talk about this as he finds it very difficult to share his emotions. I used to pressure him to talk, but I've learned that that just isn't his way. I've also learned to see the many other ways that my husband loves me through his acts of service and dedication to our family. He is a wonderful husband, and we love each other deeply. Our strongest connection is our Catholic faith. I experienced a very deep conversion back to my Catholic faith a few years after our marriage, and this has helped me to mature and grow a deep intimacy with God. Even though I have that intimacy with God, I still at times feel so very alone with this cross and have spent most of my marriage feeling as though my husband doesn't desire me, as if he doesn't miss the intimacy because he won't share his pain with me. I have recently begun reading a book, The Cantata of Love, a commentary on the Song of Songs. The imagery in the poem is so beautiful, and it has reawakened in me again the feelings of how much I miss my husband. This part of me I mostly shut down because it's too painful to keep revisiting those unmet desires. It feels a bit like, why torture yourself by reading this? At the same time, I realized that the poem is also an allegory of the love between the bridegroom and the bride, Jesus and my soul. I wonder if you have any experience with people in similar situations and what has helped them. Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.

Questions answered this episode: 1. Hi, Christopher and Wendy, thank you for this podcast and your ministry. It has changed my life. I have a rather delicate question, but I guess I don't know whom else to turn to. I can help you. I've been married for a few years now to my wonderful bride. I have struggled with self-esteem and self-confidence issues since childhood, and that is still the case today. My delicate question concerns the marriage bed and sexual intimacy. In the few years we've been married, my wife has only reached climax 3 or 4 times. This hurts my heart deeply. When I ask what I can do or should do to aid in this, she simply says, I don't know, or it's fine. I don't need the climax. My wife loves me deeply, and the same is true of my love for her, but it bothers me greatly that she won't talk to me about it or that she seems to not care. I feel like less of a man. Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated. 2. My journey to motherhood has been challenging—seven years of infertility due to PCOS leading to surgery, an unexpected C-section, and last October, an ectopic pregnancy. As I tried to cope with the loss of my baby and feelings of helplessness due to emergency surgery and the loss of a damaged fallopian tube, I felt so embraced by our Mother as this loss coincided with the arrival of Advent, a promise of hope. I almost heard my child say, "Why were you looking for me? Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?" I'm truly grateful for the sacraments, as I have personally felt resurrected from this difficult cross through reconciliation and spiritual guidance. Today during Eucharist on the Feast of the Presentation, I felt compelled to actually give my child to God—to present him. Until now, I felt like God had taken him. Though I see the graces the Lord is giving me, even in my suffering, I do continue to struggle with feelings of isolation as I grieve the loss of my baby and my fallopian tube. How can I overcome the tendency to resent other women, and how do I regain the courage to embrace being open to life when, as the Gospel says, a sword has pierced my heart? 3. I'm a 24-year-old man, and I've been discerning a conversion to the Catholic faith for the past two years. I'm currently in the process of getting confirmed, thanks in no small part to your podcast. Thank you for everything you do and the passion with which you do it. Through my journey into Catholicism, one of the most appealing aspects of the Church has been the communion of saints. The friendship of these extraordinary spiritual leaders has been so impactful to me and has been an incredible source of encouragement. As my confirmation approaches and I consider who I'll choose to be my patron, I've realized that almost every saint I've developed a devotion to is a woman. Women like Saint Elizabeth, Mary Magdalene, and Joan of Arc are so insanely powerful, with such varying and glorious expressions of femininity. I find I can't help but be drawn to them. I'm wondering if I have an inordinate attraction to female saints over male saints. Should I get more guy time in my devotions? Is it natural to be drawn to attractive women regardless of centuries-long gaps in time? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.

Fr. Mike talks about how God can bring great triumph from great brokenness as we read the messy story of Judah and Tamar. Today's readings are Genesis 38, Job 29-30, and Proverbs 3:28-32. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.