In this episode, we begin our four part Advent series on Mary, our heavenly Mother. We discuss the powerful model Mary is for us in how she trusted the character of God when she surrendered control of her own life to say yes to the Holy Spirit. We also chat about seeking healing for areas where motherhood has wounded us or we have been dominated and manipulated by others. Sister Miriam leads a beautiful time of prayer inviting Mary to mother us and Jesus to heal us. We pray you continue to open ...
Nov 30, 2020•39 min•Season 8Ep. 12
In this episode, we talk about living a healthy and integrated physical and spiritual life with special guest Jackie Mulligan of Reform Wellness. We discuss the importance of acknowledging our weaknesses and holes, so Christ can make us whole and place us on the path to holiness. We chat about the idea of Christ-centered wellness where health is more than a number on a scale but a step-by-step renewal that leads to an abundant life. You can find out more about Jackie and Reform Wellness online a...
Nov 23, 2020•40 min•Season 8Ep. 11
In this episode, we complete part 3 of our series on the Person of Jesus revealed in Scripture and what it means to personally know Jesus as the Way, the Truth and the Life. We chat about how relevant this is for us right now as we struggle to see a way forward in the craziness of the world and struggle to know what the truth really is amidst the enemy’s lies. We discuss how living the Paschal Mystery over and over is the Way to experience new life. Jesus invites us to an abundant life: the life...
Nov 16, 2020•39 min•Season 8Ep. 10
In this episode, we continue with part 2 in our series on the Person of Jesus as revealed in Scripture. We break open one of our favorite topics: abiding in the vine. We talk about the freedom that comes from dependence on Jesus and the patience required to allow fruit to mature. When we can let down our defenses of self-protection and allow ourselves to be crushed as grapes, God can transform us into a new wine that is good and sweet, even if it hurts. Jesus is inviting us into a maturation pro...
Nov 09, 2020•36 min•Season 8Ep. 9
Follow the Leader - Jesus, The Good Shepherd In this episode, we begin a 3 part series on the Person of Jesus as revealed in Scripture. We break open Psalm 23 and discuss how we are personally invited to experience the comfort, provision, protection, restoration, correction, and leadership of the Good Shepherd. We also talk about the failure of some of our shepherds on earth and how God wants to restore us. Jesus the Good Shepherd wants us to experience Him personally. Michelle’s one thing - Her...
Nov 02, 2020•40 min•Season 8Ep. 8
In this episode we chat with Dr. Andrew Swafford, associate professor of theology at Benedictine College. We talk about encountering the Person of Jesus in scripture and the power of connecting the head and the heart. We also discuss the beauty of Scripture, how to connect the dots between the old and the new, and how Scripture is always relevant to every time and culture. Dr. Andrew Swafford’s one thing - his wife, Sarah Dr. Andrew Swafford’s other one thing - The Glories of Divine Gracie - Fr....
Oct 26, 2020•40 min•Season 8Ep. 7
The Power of Poverty & The Beauty of Mercy - Part 2 In this episode we continue with Part 2 of our interview with Fr Mark-Mary CFR. We discuss the invitation to encounter the presence of Jesus in the poor, our fears that can get in the way, and living the corporal works of mercy with those who are among us. Fr. Mark Mary’s one thing - All the lovely women in his life and their amazing feminine genius, most especially Michelle Benzinger Sister Miriam’s one thing - Cause of our Joy - Mother Mary F...
Oct 19, 2020•25 min•Season 8Ep. 6
In this episode we begin a two part podcast with our friend Fr. Mark-Mary of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal (CFR)! In part 1, Fr. Mark-Mary shares his journey from growing up in a wealthy family to joining the CFR’s and taking a vow of radical poverty. He talks about his love for the sacrament of confession and shares how spiritual poverty makes room for God to be a Father to us and show us His love and providence. We often spend so much energy hiding our weakness, but freedom is to be fou...
Oct 12, 2020•36 min•Season 8Ep. 5
In this episode we talk about the importance of growing in self awareness and understanding our temperament and personality traits. We chat about how understanding the temperament God has given to us can help us see our tendencies, areas we need to grow, and how to embrace those who are different from us. We also talk about the pitfalls in personality tests that turn into excuses for bad behavior or labels that don't allow for grace and the power of God to change us and restore our brokenness. S...
Oct 05, 2020•36 min•Season 8Ep. 4
In this episode we move beyond the idea of personal holiness and discuss the practicals of how to grow in holiness. Holiness is a unique path of surrender to God and He has provided all that we need to be holy right where we are. We chat about the importance of the will, surrender, fasting, prayer, and being sober and alert. Starting today, we are invited to make the pursuit of holiness - growing towards intimate union with God - a priority. Sister Miriam’s one thing - The sculpture A Quiet Mome...
Sep 28, 2020•37 min•Season 8Ep. 3
In this episode we talk about how we are finding the Lord and clinging to Him in a time that is uncertain and wrought with suffering and isolation. We discuss how these times of difficulty expose how strong our root systems are and the difference between isolation vs solitude . We also chat about the importance of learning to lament and offer our sorrow to God instead of shutting it down or wallowing in self pity. The invitation is for us to build our foundation on our unshakeable God. Sister Mi...
Sep 21, 2020•36 min•Season 8Ep. 2
Welcome to season 8! In this episode we talk about what the Lord has been teaching us over the summer and how we are invited to find our peace by fixing our eyes on Jesus and resting in the gaze of God. If we can look higher to find a kingdom perspective, we can find security in His Sovereignty. We talk about the deep realization that in all that has happened and has been taken away in 2020, there is no other answer, no other way forward, than Jesus Christ himself. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Tu...
Sep 14, 2020•34 min•Season 8Ep. 1
Unity and Charity In this last episode of Season 7, we look back at our favorite moments and highlight important conversations from the season. We also talk about unity, using social media wisely, taking a holy pause before we speak, and the invitation to be peacemakers. We must begin with ourselves if we want to be a person of peace and unity. We also check in about how we are doing with our word of the year. Our new season will begin September 14. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Our benefactors an...
Jun 29, 2020•41 min•Season 7Ep. 24
Spiritual Fatherhood (with Fr. Dave Pivonka) In this episode we interview our dear friend Fr. Dave Pivonka, creator of the Wild Goose Series and President of Franciscan University of Steubenville . We discuss the importance of spiritual fathers, our need for restoration of the image and experience of fatherhood, and a deepening in our understanding of God as Father. We also discuss the characteristics of a good spiritual father. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Black bean and roasted vegetable salad ...
Jun 22, 2020•38 min•Season 7Ep. 23
In the School of the Holy Spirit Part 3: Chapter Three and Conclusion In this episode we wrap up Part 3 of our book study on Fr. Jacques Philippe’s book In the School of the Holy Spirit . We discuss how to discern between the voice of the Lord and our own voice or the enemy’s voice. We also talk about practical tools for wielding the sword of truth as well as discernment in vocation, ministry, and life. Sister Miriam’s one thing - The new Bible study from Ascension on the book of Hebrews (Availa...
Jun 15, 2020•44 min•Season 7Ep. 22
In the School of the Holy Spirit Part 2: Chapter Two In this episode we continue the 2nd part of our book study on Fr. Jacques Philippe’s In the School of the Holy Spirit . We discuss the practical elements of fostering an environment where the Holy Spirit can inspire and direct us. We also talk about inviting the Holy Spirit to speak the truth into false narratives we believe and to baptize our thought processes. Sister Miriam’s one thing - The podcast Poco a Poco from the CFRs. Thai Green Curr...
Jun 08, 2020•39 min•Season 7Ep. 21
In the School of the Holy Spirit Part 1: Introduction and Chapter One In this episode we begin our 3 week book study on In the School of the Holy Spirit by Fr. Jacques Philippe. We talk about how holiness is not something to be gained by human effort, rather it is a complete surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit in us. We also discuss how we should seek to love God with our whole heart because He is good, not because of what we want Him to give us in return. Sister Miriam’s one thing - good o...
Jun 01, 2020•41 min•Season 7Ep. 20
The Fruit of the Holy Spirit In this episode we prepare for Pentecost by discussing the importance of the fruits of the Holy Spirit being manifest in our life. A life in the Spirit must go beyond an experience of spiritual consolation and move to an openness to the refiner’s fire that will burn away all that is not holy. God promised that He would always be with us and sent the Holy Spirit to be our counselor, advocate, and life giver. We are invited to open wide the doors to the Holy Spirit in ...
May 25, 2020•42 min•Season 7Ep. 19
The Power of Christian Unity In this episode we have the pleasure of chatting with our dear friend Matt Maher! As a devout Catholic in the world of Christian music industry, Matt shares his heart for unity and God’s desire that we would all be one. Matt also talks about his marriage and how he and his wife do life together as a Catholic and Methodist. We also discuss practical steps of how to be a bridge builder with people of other faiths and the gift of the sacraments. Sister Miriam’s one thin...
May 18, 2020•1 hr•Season 7Ep. 18
Things We Learned From Our Moms In this episode we honour Mother’s Day and talk about some essential things we learned from our mothers. We discuss what they have taught us about joy and suffering, and how they revealed the face of God to us. We also chat about how God wants to heal and restore broken relationships with our mothers. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Esther Marie Angel! Congratulations to Jackie and Bobby! Michelle’s one thing - The Given Forum is doing a 4-day Online Conference! Disco...
May 11, 2020•42 min•Season 7Ep. 17
Seized by Beauty (with Bishop Robert Barron) In this episode, we have the distinct pleasure of having Bishop Robert Barron as our guest. We talk about everything from how he takes his coffee to experiences of beauty that lift us beyond the natural to a transcendent encounter with God. We also discuss how to engage with the culture and extract what is good, true, and beautiful, so that we can not only relate, but be relevant in our mission of evangelization. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Friends of...
May 04, 2020•40 min•Season 7Ep. 16
Living in the Light of Victory (with Fr. Justin Brady) In this episode we have brought back special guest Fr. Justin Brady to talk about how to live in the victory of the resurrection. Fr. Justin is a priest and exorcist and shares some wonderful insights into how to live from a place of friendship with God and find victory in our relationship with Jesus as friend and savior. We also discuss aligning our hearts with the truth of who we are in light of God’s merciful love. Sister Miriam’s one thi...
Apr 27, 2020•47 min•Season 7Ep. 15
Pope Francis’ Easter Message In this episode we talk about Pope Francis’s Easter homily . We discuss the themes of not being paralyzed in the midst of fear, overcoming self protection, the power in choosing to do the next right thing, and practicing resurrection in our lives. Small acts of love and receiving the gift of hope can be the game changers we need in this season. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Heather Khym’s playlist, “ Hallelujah is our Song ” Michelle’s one thing - The series The Chosen...
Apr 20, 2020•36 min•Season 7Ep. 14
Divine Mercy In this episode we talk about the incredible gift of Divine Mercy! We talk a little bit about St. Faustina and our Lord’s revelations to her about his ocean of mercy. We also discuss what a lack of trust looks like and what the stumbling blocks are to trusting in the heart of Jesus. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Tacos! Michelle’s one thing - The Diary of St. Faustina (links below) Heather’s one thing - The Be Not Afraid Conference from Stacey Sumereau Resources: Purchase The Diary of ...
Apr 13, 2020•39 min•Season 7Ep. 13
Holy Week: The Stations of the Cross In this episode we decided to pray through the Stations of the Cross, found in St. Faustina’s Diary. During Holy Week, we wanted to take this opportunity to quiet our hearts and reflect on our Lord’s suffering and death, so we can enter in more fully. We hope that you will use this as a prayer resource and pray with your families or on your own. Sponsor: The Hallow app Hallow is a Catholic prayer and meditation app that helps us deepen our relationship with C...
Apr 06, 2020•34 min•Season 7Ep. 12
Epilogue: Living the Painting In this episode we finish up our 6 part series on the book The Return of the Prodigal Son and talk about “Living the Painting”. We talk about how much of our healing happens in the context of community and relationship. We also discuss the process of bringing home parts of ourselves that live far away from God. Each of us have places that need to be welcomed home and as we heal, we are able to offer a home coming to the lost places in others. Sister Miriam’s one thi...
Mar 30, 2020•44 min•Season 7Ep. 11
Becoming the Father In this episode, we continue with Part 5 of our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son and discuss “Becoming the Father”. Many of us have heard the invitation to live as daughters and sons of God, but most of us haven’t heard the invitation to become the father/mother. We will always be children of God, but we are simultaneously invited to mature into becoming a spiritual mother and father, providing, comforting, nurturing others in selfless ways. We also discuss how Go...
Mar 23, 2020•39 min•Season 7Ep. 10
The Father In this episode, we continue with Part 4 of our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son and talk about God the Father. We discuss the failure of earthly and spiritual fathers and how God wants to restore our understanding of His fatherhood. We also talk about the mercy of the Father, the invitation to receive His blessing, and how the Father's heart burns for us to come home to Him. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Come Out of Hiding - Stephanie Gretzinger and Celebrate Me Home - Kenn...
Mar 16, 2020•38 min•Season 7Ep. 9
The Elder Son In this episode we continue with Part 3 "The Elder Son", from our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. We discuss how the elder son is also lost and in need of a homecoming because in his heart, he too is far away from the father. The struggles of the elder son are within all of us when we compare, feel like we are owed something, consider ourselves worthy because of our religious actions or adherence to the rules, and when we resist the loving embrace of G...
Mar 09, 2020•36 min•Season 7Ep. 8
The Younger Son In this episode we continue with Part 2 of our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. We talk about the places within ourselves that, like the younger son, are living in a distant land, far from the love of God the Father. We discuss how often we search for unconditional love outside of God and are left heartbroken. We long to hear His voice speak healing to our souls that we are His beloved on whom His favor rests. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Joan of Arc M...
Mar 02, 2020•42 min•Season 7Ep. 7
