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In Episode Five, Fr. Timothy Gallagher explores Rule Three of the Discernment of Spirits and St. Ignatius's teaching on spiritual consolation. Learn how to recognize the interior movements that increase faith, hope, and charity, draw the heart toward God, and fill the soul with peace in its Creator and Lord. The post The Third Rule – Discernment of Spirits w/ Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
What happens when a person sincerely seeks to grow closer to God, yet suddenly encounters discouragement, confusion, or unexpected obstacles? In Episode Four, Fr. Timothy Gallagher explores Rule Two of the Discernment of Spirits, revealing how the enemy seeks to hinder spiritual growth while God offers courage, peace, and strength to continue moving forward. A valuable teaching for personal prayer, parish formation, retreat groups, and anyone seeking to rise from good to better in the service of God. The post The Second Rule – Discernment of Spirits w/ Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
The 14 Rules for the Discernment of Spirits – The First Week Rules as formulated by St. Ignatius of Loyola Fr. Timothy Gallagher with Kris McGregor Episode Three: Rule One – When the Heart Is Moving Away from God Episode 3 -The First Rule: In the persons who go from mortal sin to mortal sin, the ... Read more The post The First Rule – Discernment of Spirits w/ Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
The 14 Rules for the Discernment of Spirits – The First Week Rules as formulated by St. Ignatius of Loyola Fr. Timothy Gallagher with Kris McGregor Episode Two: The life of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the foundational elements of the Spiritual Exercises In Episode Two of The Discernment of Spirits: Setting the Captives Free, Fr. ... Read more The post The Life of St. Ignatius – Discernment of Spirits w/ Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher introduces the First Week Rules for the Discernment of Spirits as formulated by St. Ignatius of Loyola. This foundational episode explores how the fourteen rules help us notice, understand and respond to the interior movements of the heart, especially in times of spiritual consolation and desolation. A practical guide for daily prayer, spiritual growth, small groups, parish studies and retreats. The post Introduction – The Discernment of Spirits w/ Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Dave's been throwing parties. Three in four days. Confirmation sponsor for a friend's son, family and friends over the next night, and then — because the universe has a sense of humor — some local gentleman decided to remodel Dave's brick mailbox. With his truck. At speed. Bricks were found over a hundred feet away. The guy left his license plate behind, which Dave is now holding like a man who accidentally picked up evidence and doesn't know what to do with it. The driver's fine. Well — he's in jail. But he's alive. Dave wants him to know that God's mercy is always ready and present, even for the man who turned a brand-new brick mailbox into gravel.Meanwhile, Adam got a new plum tree. Planted a maple. He's getting oaks for the pig pen so they'll drop acorns someday. One of his chickens died in a water barrel trap that nobody designed on purpose — the lid flipped, the chicken couldn't get out. Farm life. And then the real news: baby Mary is doing better. Haylee got to hold her. Adam held her for over three hours — only his second time since she was born in February. Three months of NICU, and the man finally got to just sit with his daughter. Praise God. Keep those prayers coming.Also — Adam's turning 40 on June 2nd. And Lady Pamela is due with their next baby on June 4th. They floated the idea of recording an episode in the delivery room. Pamela has not been consulted.This week we're sipping 13th Colony Distilleries Southern Rye Whiskey, French Oak Finish, Small Batch — 47.5% ABV. Platinum award-winning. Silky texture with hints of rye, apricot, and brown sugar. The rye's there but it doesn't overpower — still has a lot of bourbon elements to it. About forty bucks. That's a great buy.Then the conversation turns to something Adam's son Jude sparked. Jude — Adam's second oldest — just finished reading the entire Bible, Genesis through Revelation, straight through. Now he's reading the Council of Trent Catechism. He's a kid. Nobody told him to do this. He just had good books lying around the house and picked them up. That's the whole point.The virtue of study — studiositas — isn't what school taught us it was. It's not cramming. It's not memorizing facts to dump after the test. Aquinas calls it a habit of the mind ordered towards truth. Classical education at its best doesn't fill your head — it forms the way you think. The more you read rightly, the more you can arrive at correct conclusions through a sound process, not just recall. Study leads to contemplation. Contemplation is rest in truth. And it's not about finishing the book. If you're reading to check the box, you've already lost the plot. Sit with it. Let yourself be carried. The intellectual life doesn't compete with the family — it serves the family.From there, Adam and Dave go back and forth on the books that actually formed them. Adam leads with Joseph Pieper's In Tune with the World — a short, devastating argument for why festivity dies when we strip the divine out of celebration. Dave counters with The Soul of the Apostolate — the book that reordered his understanding of what has to come first before any ministry means anything. Adam brings John Senior's The Restoration of Christian Culture — hard opinions, harder truths, and a quote worth sitting with: the virtue of study requires a canon, a body of great works proven across time. Without tradition to guide what's worth studying, you're just chasing novelty.Dave goes deep on Fr. Timothy Gallagher's The Discernment of Spirits — a practical walkthrough of St. Ignatius's rules that shed light on the stages of the spiritual life and how the enemy shifts tactics as you grow. Adam responds with Raymond Arroyo's biography of Mother Angelica — a story of suffering, faithfulness, and a woman who said yes without knowing where it would lead. Dave makes a case for the Psalms — Psalm 51, the De Profundis in Latin, and the realization that there's a psalm for every moment of a man's life, and he'd been skimming past them for years.Adam goes deep cut: Fr. Paul Murray's Aquinas at Prayer — a book that reoriented his understanding of St. Thomas from pure intellect to contemplative soul. Dave brings Divine Mercy in My Soul by St. Faustina — hundreds of pages of our Lord's words on mercy that are sometimes scandalously generous. Adam throws in Simon Sinek's Start with Why as the non-Catholic book that changed how he thought about business, marriage, and fatherhood. Both men land on fiction that haunts them — Adam with Sigrid Undset's Kristin Lavransdatter, Dave with Candice Millard's Hero of the Empire on young Churchill. They touch on Lencioni's Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Gone with the Wind, the bishop chapters of Les Misérables, Neil Postman's Amusing Ourselves to Death, and close with John Senior's Thousand Good Books — the canon itself, the list that connects it all.They end where they always end: with Plato. They're halfway through the Republic in their great books group. David sits on the dumb couch. He knows he sits on the dumb couch. He's fine with it.Raise your glass.TOPICS COVEREDDave's brick mailbox obliterated by a truck — bricks found 100 feet away, driver in jail, license plate left behindThree parties in four days at Porter Prairie: confirmation, family gathering, and involuntary demolitionDave building a grain cradle for his scythe for the upcoming grain harvestAdam's new plum tree, maple tree, and oak trees planned for the pig penThe chicken that died in a water barrel trap nobody designed on purposeBaby Mary update — doing better, Adam held her for three hours, Haylee held her tooAdam turning 40 on June 2nd and Lady Pamela due June 4thBourbon of the week: 13th Colony Distilleries Southern Rye Whiskey, French Oak Finish, 47.5% ABVJude Minihan reading the entire Bible and now the Council of Trent Catechism — and nobody told him toWhy having good books lying around the house matters more than assigned readingThe virtue of studiositas — Aquinas on study as a habit of the mind ordered towards truthStudy isn't cramming — it's forming the way we think, not filling our headsWhy finishing the book isn't the point — sit with it, let yourself be carriedThe intellectual life doesn't compete with family — it serves the familyJoseph Pieper's In Tune with the World — why festivity dies without the divineThe Soul of the Apostolate — what has to come first before any ministry mattersJohn Senior's The Restoration of Christian Culture — hard opinions and the necessity of a canonFr. Timothy Gallagher's The Discernment of Spirits — St. Ignatius's rules made practicalRaymond Arroyo's biography of Mother Angelica — suffering, faithfulness, and saying yesThe Psalms as treasure — Psalm 51, the De Profundis in Latin, and why Dave had been skimming past themFr. Paul Murray's Aquinas at Prayer — reorienting Aquinas from intellect to contemplativeSt. Faustina's Divine Mercy in My Soul — mercy so generous it's almost scandalousSimon Sinek's Start with Why — a non-Catholic book that changed everythingSigrid Undset's Kristin Lavransdatter — fiction that haunts you because it doesn't read like fictionCandice Millard's Hero of the Empire — young Churchill before the cigar and the brandyPatrick Lencioni's Five Dysfunctions of a Team — why hard conversations are acts of charityGone with the Wind — Rhett Butler as a man whose virtues take a lifetime to findThe bishop chapters of Les Misérables — Hugo's best character, written by a man who wasn't even a fan of the ChurchNeil Postman's Amusing Ourselves to Death — prophetic in 1985, terrifying nowJohn Senior's Thousand Good Books — the canon that connects all the great worksThe Count of Monte Cristo as a commentary on Dante's InfernoPlato's dialogues — the Republic, Euthyphro, the Symposium, and why you need a great books groupAdam sits on the dumb couch at great books night and he's fine with itREFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEBooks & Writings:In Tune with the World: A Theory on Festivity by Joseph PieperLeisure, the Basis of Culture by Joseph Pieper (mentioned)The Intellectual Life by A.G. SertillangesThe Soul of the Apostolate (Dave's pick)The Restoration of Christian Culture by John SeniorThe Death of Christian Culture by John Senior (mentioned)The Discernment of Spirits by Fr. Timothy Gallagher (based on St. Ignatius's rules)Mother Angelica: The Remarkable Story of a Nun, Her Nerve, and a Network by Raymond ArroyoAquinas at Prayer by Fr. Paul Murray, O.P.Divine Mercy in My Soul by St. Maria FaustinaStart with Why by Simon SinekKristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid UndsetAnna Karenina by Leo TolstoyThe Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick LencioniGone with the Wind by Margaret MitchellHero of the Empire: The Boer War, a...
Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor reflect on the lifelong formation involved in recognizing spiritual consolation and desolation through the wisdom of St. Ignatius of Loyola. The post SISL19 – Conclusion – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher continues the story of Bob to illustrate how the Ignatian spiritual exercises can reveal deeper wounds and foster healing. The post SISL18 – Image of God – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher explores the experience of spiritual dryness in prayer, highlighting it as a potential sign of growth rather than failure. The post SISL17 – A Need to Share – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor explore the spiritual challenges faced during prayer, using Cathy's journey as a case study to illustrate how prayer evolves over time. The post SISL16 – Growth – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor examine the struggles and remedies in the spiritual life, focusing on dryness in prayer. The post SISL14 – Forms of Dryness – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher illustrates the struggles in the process of discernment with Kathy's story, a woman who, after experiencing spiritual closeness with God, is confronted by a deeply buried pain triggered during prayer. The post SISL13 – I Feel Alone- Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher discusses St. Ignatius of Loyola's insights on handling spiritual desolation with St. Ignatius' rule to remain steadfast in spiritual practices during desolation and not make changes, using Beth's experience to illustrate this. The post SISL12 – I Have No Fervor & I Feel Sad – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss spiritual desolation and St. Ignatius of Loyola's guidance on overcoming it. The post SISL11 – I Don't Have the Energy – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
I Don’t Feel God’s Love – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V. Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss how ongoing struggles are a normal part of the spiritual life, where both consolation and desolation play important roles in growth. Through Kathy's experience, they show how prayer can begin with deep ... Read more The post SISL10 – I Don’t Feel God’s Love – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
I'll Try, but Nothing Will Come of It – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V. Fr. Timothy Gallagher reflects on a story about Bob, a husband and father who becomes discouraged after unintentionally hurting his wife during a disagreement about their son. Although Bob has been growing in faith through a ... Read more The post SISL9 – I'll Try, but Nothing Will Come of It – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher describes how temptation often appears during times of anxiety or discouragement in the spiritual life. The post SISL8 – I’m Troubled and I’m Tempted; I’m Going to Fail – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
How Can I Be Drawn to Such Things? – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V. Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor reflect on spiritual desolation through Beth's story. After a draining day, she feels too discouraged to pray and instead turns to gossip, television, and social media, ending the night ashamed. ... Read more The post SISL7 – How Can I Be Drawn to Such Things? – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor continue their discussion on struggles in the spiritual life by revisiting the story of Paul, a character who experiences both spiritual and non-spiritual desolation. The post SISL6 – I’ve Lost My Peace – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher discusses spiritual desolation in the Ignatian tradition, explaining its signs, causes, and practical remedies, including the importance of perseverance and never changing spiritual practices during times of darkness. The post SISL5 – I Can’t See – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts Copy appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher's teaching on non-spiritual desolation, burnout, journaling, sustainable prayer, and practical remedies for restoring balance in the spiritual life. The post SISL4 – I Can’t Go On – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
SISL3 - I Try to Pray, but I'm So Discouraged - Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher - Discerning Hearts Podcasts The post SISL3 – I Try to Pray, but I’m So Discouraged – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Andre Villeneuve looks at the meaning of the Presentation in the Temple and Fr. Timothy Gallagher discusses Ignatian discernment.
The new unlimited Catholic audiobook app and key takeaways from Bobby Angel, Fr. Boniface Hicks, Fr. Timothy Gallagher, and more.In this episode, Florencia Moynihan sits down with Charlie McKinney (President of Sophia Institute Press) for a powerful year-end recap of the biggest 2025 takeaways—and a practical game plan to grow in 2026. If you've been telling yourself you're “too busy to read,” this conversation gives you a fresh strategy to make spiritual reading non-negotiable, using the new Saintify app from Sophia Press to help you listen more, learn more, and actually follow through.In this episode:Bobby Angel on postmodernism — why Medieval philosophers had an "enchanted" view of life that we've lostFr. Boniface Hicks on Marian consecration — the hidden fear behind “I'm not worthy,” and how to stop letting shame block you from giving yourself fully to Mary.Fr. Wayne Sattler with the reminder you might need most — God isn't mad at you, and living like He is can quietly sabotage your spiritual life.Emily Stimson Chapman on hosting — why hospitality doesn't require perfection, and how “messy-but-present” can be a real path to joy and freedom.Fr. Timothy Gallagher on the real obstacle to God — it's not sin the way you think… it's discouragement, and how it slowly makes you quit.Dr. Ray Guarendi on boundaries — the hard truth about expectations and healthy relationships.Saintifi on AppleSaintifi on GoogleThe Saintifi app aims to make Catholic content more accessible and affordable. The app offers a wide range of audiobooks and eBooks for a flat monthly fee, emphasizing the importance of spiritual reading in personal growth and faith formation. EPISODES MENTIONED:Father Boniface HicksDr. Ray GuarendiFr. Wayne SattlerEmily Stimpson ChapmanFr. Timothy GallagherCONNECT WITH FLORENCIA:Ready to Go All-In On Your Glow Up? Apply to The Made Good Method and Work With Our TeamFollow on InstagramWebsite
Fr. Timothy Gallagher's teaching on Saint Ignatius of Loyola's third mode of discernment, exploring practical ways to find clarity and peace when making significant life decisions through prayerful reflection and spiritual wisdom. The post DWG12 – The Peace of Discernment – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Gallagher's teaching on Ignatian discernment, focusing on the third mode of decision-making through prayerful reasoning, interior freedom, and spiritual guidance in everyday choices. The post DWG11 – Three Modes of Discernment – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher explains St. Ignatius of Loyola's second and third modes of discernment, showing how prayer, interior freedom, spiritual consolation, and wise guidance help clarify God's will in everyday decisions. The post DWG10 – Steps in Spiritual Guidance – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In this episode, Fr. Gallagher discusses St. Ignatius of Loyola's second mode of discernment, exploring how clarity unfolds over time through prayer, interior attraction, and spiritual guidance. The post DWG9 – Second Mode of Discernment – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher's teaching on St. Ignatius of Loyola's first and second modes of discernment, exploring clarity beyond doubt, spiritual consolation and desolation, and how God guides everyday decisions. The post DWG8 – Two Modes of Discernment – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Discover Fr. Timothy Gallagher's guidance on discerning God's will in vocation, especially in choosing marriage or religious life. This Discerning Hearts discussion explores emotional healing, dating as a Catholic, deepening prayer, and St. Ignatius' teaching on recognizing God's voice in major life decisions. The post DWG7 – Trusting God in Vocation Discernment – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Explore Fr. Timothy Gallagher's teaching on discerning vocations, highlighting how marriage flows from human nature and how priesthood and religious life arise from a supernatural call to offer oneself in love and spiritual fruitfulness. The post DWG6 – Understanding Marriage and Priesthood – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher's teaching about praying with Scripture, cultivating silence, and preparing the heart to discern God's will through personal encounter with Christ and deeper spiritual practices. The post DWG5 – Listening for God’s Voice – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
This episode offers a look at the importance of the disposition of heart, which like the Blessed Virgin Mary, seeks the will of God in whatever He wants. How do we gain that disposition and what are the means of obtaining that grace is what discussed in the next several episodes. In this conversation the importance of the retreat and even more importantly the role of sacraments is discussed. The post DWG4 – Deepening Spiritual Foundations – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss the importance of understanding the foundation of discerning God's will according to St. Ignatius. Before delving into the specific techniques of discernment, it's crucial to grasp why discerning God's will is significant. The post DWG3 – Foundation of Discernment – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher discusses how Christians can seek God's direction not only in major life choices but also in the ordinary moments of each day. The post DWG2 – God’s Guidance in Everyday Decisions – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Overcoming Pre-Event Desolation - Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss "pre-event desolation," a form of spiritual discouragement before significant spiritual activities. They highlight its tactics by the enemy to deter individuals from growth opportunities. Drawing from C.S. Lewis's "Perelandra," he tells us of the importance of recognizing and countering this desolation with prayer and trust. The post SD9 – Overcoming Pre-Event Desolation – Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Episode 8 - Fr. Gallagher answers other questions that come up about Spiritual Desolation. He then addresses the various qualities of Spiritual Desolation. The post SD8 – Confronting Desolation with Faith – Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In this episode, we conclude our series by reflecting on the sorrowful and glorious mysteries of our lives. In the midst of our own sorrows, we talk about the mortification of authentic love, what it means to carry our cross, and how to be patient when a particular suffering seems endless. We also share the glorious ways God is working in our lives. From the beauty of color to raising our expectations in faith, we ponder how Jesus' presence in the sufferings of our lives often restores us more deeply than if He simply just healed our pain. Heather's One Thing - First Reconciliation and Beyond by Katie Prejean McGrady Heather's Other One Thing - Show Me Your Glory by Brandon Lake Sister Miriam's One Thing - Discerning Hearts Podcast with Fr. Timothy Gallagher, Discernment of Spirits Series Michelle's One Thing - Soulcore Sorrowful Mysteries (Tuesdays & Fridays): The Agony in the Garden – Contrition / Sorrow for Sin The Scourging at the Pillar – Purity / Mortification The Crowning with Thorns – Moral Courage / Humility The Carrying of the Cross – Patience in Suffering The Crucifixion – Perseverance / Salvation / Forgiveness Glorious Mysteries (Wednesdays & Sundays): The Resurrection – Faith The Ascension – Hope / Desire for Heaven The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Wisdom / Love of God / Zeal The Assumption – Grace of a Happy Death / Devotion to Mary The Coronation of Mary – Eternal Happiness / Trust in Mary's Intercession Journal Questions: How did you experience delight this summer? When have I felt hypervigilant in this season? Who in my life am I called to entrust to the Divine Caretaker? How has my faith been expanded this summer? Discussion Questions: Where in your life do you sense Christ walking closely with you? How have you experienced the mortification of authentic love? What breakthroughs have you experienced in this season? How have you experienced the Sorrowful Mysteries in this season? How have you experienced the Glorious Mysteries in this season? Quote to Ponder: “To contemplate the face of Christ, and to contemplate it with Mary, is the ‘program' which I have set before the Church at the dawn of the third millennium… To recite the Rosary is nothing other than to contemplate with Mary the face of Christ. In this school of Mary, we learn to ‘read' Christ, to discover his secrets, to understand his message.” (Rosarium Virginis Mariae, St. Pope John Paul II) Scripture for Lectio: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9) Sponsor - Triumph of the Heart: Triumph of the Heart is an award-winning film that tells one of the most astounding stories of world war II - when a Polish priest, imprisoned in Auschwitz, volunteered to take the place of a condemned man. When faced with a truly apocalyptic war, St. Maximilian Kolbe showed us that Christian love can conquer the deepest horrors of the human condition. In the face of unimaginable suffering, Kolbe didn't retreat—he stepped forward, offering his life to save another. This film, about the passion of St. Maximilian Kolbe, is the most compelling look ever into both the horror and heroism that was to be found in a Nazi death camp. Audiences have already been deeply moved by the light of hope shining forth from the darkest place on earth. Triumph of the Heart is now showing in select theaters throughout the United States. Go to KolbeMovie.com to find out how you can get tickets to a masterpiece destined to become an enduring film classic. Made with a shoe string budget, many miracles from the Lord, and film quality that rivals any studio backed project, Triumph of the Heart will not disappoint. Distributed in partnership with the Augustine Institute, EWTN Studios, Relevant Radio, and more, you too can join the New Renaissance of Catholic Art at KolbeMovie.com. Timestamps: 00:00 Triumph of the Heart 01:26 Intro 02:15 Contemplating the Face of Christ 05:24 The Carrying of the Cross - Patience in Suffering 09:22 The Scourging at the Pillar - Purity/ Mortification 13:44 The Suffering We Experience as Parents Age 19:32 The Descent of the Holy Spirit - Wisdom/ Love of God/ Zeal 26:36 The Resurrection - Faith 31:33 One Things
Episode 6 - Fr. Gallagher helps us to understand the different aspects of dryness in prayer. Is it a sign of Spiritual Desolation? Sometimes yes, sometimes no, and sometimes maybe. We begin part 1 of this discussion in this episode. The post SD6 – Dealing with Dryness in Prayer – Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Episode 5 - Fr. Gallagher helps us to understand the Dark Night as described by St. John of the Cross and how it differs from the experience of Spiritual Desolation. He also addresses the Dark Night metaphor and how it is used to describe some spiritual experiences that are not necessarily the same in meaning as that set forth by St. John of the Cross and how that can be confusing for some. The post SD5 – The Journey Through the Dark Night – Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Embracing Consolation, Understanding Desolation - Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher - Discerning Hearts Podcast Fr. Gallagher offers an in-depth overall review of Rule 4 on Spiritual Desolation. From Setting the Captives Free: Personal Reflections on Ignatian Discernment of Spirits Rule 4 is the companion to rule 3 and describes its exact opposite: spiritual desolation. As in rule 3, Ignatius does not give a definition but rather a list of experiences of spiritual desolation. I have italicized each: Fourth Rule. The fourth is of spiritual desolation. I call desolation all the contrary of the third rule, such as darkness of soul, disturbance in it, movement to low and earthly things, disquiet from various agitations and temptations, moving to lack of confidence, without hope,without love, finding oneself totally slothful, tepid, sad, and as if separated from one's Creator and Lord. For just as consolation is contrary to desolation, in the same way, the thoughts that come from consolation are contrary to the thoughts that come from desolation. The post SD4 – Embracing Consolation, Understanding Desolation – Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Insights into Rules 10 through 14 - Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher - Discerning Hearts Podcast The post SD3 – Insights into Rules 10 through 14 – Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Navigating Spiritual Desolation - Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss St. Ignatius' rules on spiritual desolation and distinguishing between the actions of the good spirit and the enemy during the discernment process. In particular, Rules 5 through 9 provide practical guidance, advising against changes during desolation, promoting active spiritual tools, and addressing the causes and purposes of desolation. Fr. Gallagher makes note of the trial aspect, encouraging patience, and stresses the humility of recognizing spiritual consolation as a gift from God. The post SD2 – The Practical Guidance of Rules 5-9 – Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss spiritual desolation in the context of Ignatian spirituality, focusing on three important actions: Being aware, understanding, and taking action. The post SD1 – Journey Through Desolation – Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In Conference 8, Fr. Gallagher concludes the retreat with letters from St. Therese to a fellow Sister in the Carmelites, showing the depths of Therese's sanctity in loving others, even the "difficult" ones. The post HIDT8 – Conference 8 – Hope in Difficult Times with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In Conference 7, In Conference 7, through various letters of the Martin sisters, Fr. Gallagher gives us insight into the interpersonal relationships of the Martin Sisters, especially St. Therese's feelings towards her aunt, Celine Guerin. The post HIDT7- Conference 7 – Hope in Difficult Times with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In this introductory episode, Kris McGregor welcomes listeners to Discerning Hearts and offers a guided overview of the rich spiritual resources available through the platform. From deep spiritual formation with renowned teachers like Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Dr. Anthony Lilles, to practical tools like the Daily Lectio Divina and Examen Prayer, Kris highlights how Discerning Hearts supports daily growth in prayer, scripture, and Catholic teaching. We are introduced to major categories including prayer and devotionals, scripture study, Church history, apologetics, Catholic social teaching, and more—all accessible for free through the website, mobile app, podcast platforms, and 24/7 streaming. The post An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part One: Formation, Prayer, and More – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In Conference 6, Zelie's sister, St. Marie-Dosithee, dies and shortly afterwards, Zelie's relationship with Leonie takes a turn for the better. As Zelie's breast cancer grows worse, she and her daughters take a disastrous trip to Lourdes, and not long afterwards, the matriarch of the Martin family succumbs to her illness, forever changing the lives of the Martin family as they start a new life in Lisieux. The post HIDT6- Conference 6 – Hope in Difficult Times with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In Conference 5, Zelie's letters go into detail about two particular incidents: one involving con artists posing as nuns and her attempts to rescue a young girl from their horrific abuse, and another story where Zelie and her daughters help a woman at the train station; both stories showcasing the virtues that would come to define the Martin family in the modern day. The post HIDT5- Conference 5 – Hope in Difficult Times with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In Conference 4, Fr. Gallagher continues the letters of St. Zelie Martin, which document the struggles of Therese's attachment issues, Louis' pilgrimage to Lourdes, and Leonie's difficulties in attending school. The post HIDT4- Conference 4 – Hope in Difficult Times with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.