Send us a text Join us as we walk you through a journey of grief, prayer, and self-reflection, guided by the practice of Examen - a powerful method of prayer crafted by San Ignatius of Loyola. This episode is all about finding ways to be present - truly present - in the midst of grief, from creating a sacred space with candles, music, or religious objects, to the simple, grounding practice of focusing on your own breathing. Discover the healing essence of expressing respect and love, the transfo...
Oct 13, 2023•29 min•Season 2Ep. 43
Send us a text As we journey through life, the loss of a loved one often brings our own mortality into sharp focus. It's a difficult concept to grapple with - the idea of our own passing. Yet, it's a topic that's seldom talked about. Be sure to subscribe to this podcast on Google Podcasts, Apple, Amazon Music, Spotify, or follow us on the Facebook pages of Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Los Altos, California, or Calvary Cemetery in San Jose, California. SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABL...
Oct 06, 2023•14 min•Season 2Ep. 42
Send us a text When we lose a loved one, the world can turn upside down. Wander through the labyrinth of grief and a divine convergence - the fusion of human love and God's love. It's a comforting beacon in the bleak landscape, the embodiment of eternal love that defies human mortality. Be sure to subscribe to this podcast on Google Podcasts, Apple, Amazon Music, Spotify, or follow us on the Facebook pages of Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Los Altos, California, or Calvary Cemetery in San Jose, Cali...
Sep 29, 2023•10 min•Season 2Ep. 41
Send us a text Have you ever held onto the seeds of nature, as a memento of your travels, only to forget about them and find them much later? Today, we compare these forgotten seeds to our personal memories, dreams, hopes, and emotions that we often carry around. In our journey of grief, we might grapple with complex feelings of anger towards our departed loved ones. This week, we invite you to face these hard thoughts and emotions, to sit down with them, and to uncover the hidden meanings behin...
Sep 22, 2023•10 min•Season 2Ep. 40
Send us a text Today, we delve into beautiful Psalm 63, interpreting our longing for God in times of sorrow. Drawing wisdom from Genesis and teachings from the Prophet Hosea, we explore God’s unending love and sense of forever. In "ordinary time", while we grapple with our grief, amidst our daily lives, we realize how grief is an ordinary part of our existence. Be it the loss of a spouse, parent, sibling, or friend, the experience is distinctively profound. Join us in a safe space for you to und...
Sep 15, 2023•12 min•Season 2Ep. 39
Send us a text We take a closer look at the story of the road to Emmaus and how it parallels our own grief journey, reminding us that the love of those we have lost, and the love of Jesus, is always with us, even when they are physically absent. Navigating the road of grief is never a solitary journey. Remember, you are not alone. Your loved ones' love and God's love is ever-present, offering you comfort as you traverse this road. Be sure to subscribe to this podcast on Google Podcasts, Apple, A...
Sep 08, 2023•10 min•Season 2Ep. 38
Send us a text Today we revisit our parish grief group. Our 3 friends, Dolores, Kathy and Trinie share sacred insights, dissecting the process of grief, and identifying the significance of time in healing. Moreover, listen to our friends as they share their beautiful stories of faith and resilience. They share the beauty of this group, a sanctuary for those dealing with fresh wounds and those nursing old ones. They discuss the dynamics of the group, the importance of comfort for all members, and...
Sep 01, 2023•13 min•Season 2Ep. 37
Send us a text Join us as we traverse through sacred scriptures and evocative poetry, unravelling the transformative potential of mindful breathing. Remember, you're not alone; reach out to us, share your thoughts, questions - we are here for you. So, take a deep breath, subscribe to our podcast on your preferred platform, and let's embark on this healing journey together. Be sure to subscribe to this podcast on Google Podcasts, Apple, Amazon Music, Spotify, or follow us on the Facebook pages of...
Aug 25, 2023•17 min•Season 2Ep. 36
Send us a text Lost in a sea of grief, we embark on a journey to explore one of life's most harrowing experiences - self-death (suicide). The shockwave that follows such an event, the sense of loss, the questions, the 'what ifs' - we explore them all. It's a journey that dives deep into the human psyche, attempting to understand the profound choice someone makes and the aftermath that follows. How do we respect this choice? How do we support those left behind? How do we create a safe space for t...
Aug 18, 2023•12 min•Season 2Ep. 35
Send us a text How do you navigate the rough seas of grief, and find comfort and understanding through faith? Join us as we sit down with our special guests, Kathy, Trinie, and Dolores, three close friends who are the heart and soul of a parish grief group. These phenomenal women share their journey of conceiving and nurturing this ministry, the challenges they faced, and the instrumental role the Holy Spirit played in their work. They take us through the unique facets of their faith-based grief...
Aug 11, 2023•17 min•Season 2Ep. 34
Send us a text Reflecting on the grief journey, find a soul-soothing metaphor in the concept of 'fallow'. Picture this - you're stepping out of a dense forest into a vast, untouched field, the fallow land. This is your heart, battered by the loss of someone dear, now ready to be nurtured and grown anew with love. Let's walk this path together, steadily and slowly, with Jesus as our companion. Be sure to subscribe to this podcast on Google Podcasts, Apple, Amazon Music, Spotify, or follow us on t...
Aug 04, 2023•10 min•Season 2Ep. 33
Send us a text Have you ever wondered about the intricate link between grief and love? Together, we discover how acknowledging the love that existed can make grieving slightly more bearable, inspired by the words of Kahlil Gibran’s 'The Prophet'. We journey through the stages of grief and self-knowledge . Be sure to subscribe to this podcast on Google Podcasts, Apple, Amazon Music, Spotify, or follow us on the Facebook pages of Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Los Altos, California, or Calvary Cemeter...
Jul 28, 2023•12 min•Season 2Ep. 32
Send us a text In this episode, we bring our listeners a response to the writings of St. Teresa of Ávila and John of the Cross, as we delve into the rooms of loss and grief. Join us, as we navigate through these rooms, discovering God's enduring love and finding comfort in our shared experiences. This is an invitation to you, to honor those you've lost, process your grief, and discover how God is moving in your life during these challenging times. Be sure to subscribe to this podcast on Google P...
Jul 21, 2023•19 min•Season 2Ep. 31
Send us a text As we journey through our own grieving process, the powerful poetry of Rainer Maria Rilke can provide solace and guidance. Join us as we explore the depths of our emotions and the healing power of God's presence in our lives through Rilke's verses. Delve into his search for God and learn how his words can help us transform our mourning into comfort, opening our hearts to more love, compassion, and a deeper connection with the divine. Listen in to this transformative discussion and...
Jul 14, 2023•13 min•Season 2Ep. 30
Send us a text Losing a loved one is never easy, and the journey through grief can leave us feeling lost and disconnected. I invite you to join me as we explore the healing process through the lens of both Christianity and Buddhism, drawing upon teachings from Thich Nhat Hanh and Psalm 139. As we delve into Thich Nhat Hanh's writings, we'll discover the common ground between Christianity and Buddhism in their shared goal of alleviating suffering and promoting healing. Through reflections on the ...
Jul 07, 2023•13 min•Season 2Ep. 29
Send us a text Have you ever discovered new information about a loved one who has passed away, leaving you with a whirlwind of emotions and unanswered questions? Join me as we share experiences and explore the complex feelings that arise in such situations. Together, we'll discuss the importance of forgiveness and various approaches for addressing unresolved emotions, including writing a letter to your loved one, talking with another family member, or taking your emotions directly to God. Drawin...
Jun 30, 2023•17 min•Season 2Ep. 28
Send us a text Have you ever felt the presence of Jesus in your life, especially during times of grief? Join me as we explore the comforting gaze of Jesus through John O'Donohue's beautiful poem, "The Eyes of Jesus," from his book To Bless the Space Between Us . Allow this tender episode to remind you of Jesus' closeness and support during your grief journey, as we also share personal encounters with the Divine that reflect the overwhelming love and sanctuary found in God's presence. Together, w...
Jun 23, 2023•10 min•Season 2Ep. 27
Send us a text In this episode I return to the ongoing grief of the loss of my mom; how it colors my life now. My journey with grief has led me to a deeper understanding of God's love for all beings in the world, and my desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those who are marginalized, victimized, or struggling. Join me as I share reflections on grief, healing, and the beauty of God's love in our lives. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Cal...
Jun 16, 2023•17 min•Season 2Ep. 26
Send us a text Have you ever found yourself wading through the murky waters of grief, searching for a safe haven of comfort and healing? In our discussion about finding greener grasses in God's presence, we explore how life's landscape can shift suddenly and unexpectedly. We draw inspiration from how God surrounds us with supportive individuals who become our spiritual community. Join us in reflecting on where God is moving in your life, how to find solace in Psalm 23, and what might be easing y...
Jun 09, 2023•11 min•Season 2Ep. 25
Send us a text Today as we walk with God through our grief; we notice the lack of color. It speaks to our journey sometimes. We also rely on the wisdom of Thich Nhat Hanh to remind us the shape of grief. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: [email protected] To arrange personal spiritual direction: 408-359-5542 Our theme music is: Gentle Breez...
Jun 02, 2023•13 min•Season 2Ep. 24
Send us a text Today we contemplate the “unfinished business” we may have with a loved one. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: [email protected] To arrange personal spiritual direction: 408-359-5542 Our theme music is: Gentle Breeze by Yeti Music from the album "Uppbeat". Thank you to Pixabay for MUSIC....
May 26, 2023•13 min•Season 2Ep. 23
Send us a text In this episode; we revisit the Psalms interpreted by Norman Fischer who wanted to reach a wider audience with Zen called: "Opening to You". I recommend it, but I also recommend walking with God with traditional Psalms. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: [email protected] To arrange personal spiritual direction: 408-359-5542 O...
May 19, 2023•11 min•Season 2Ep. 22
Send us a text This week I talk about another one of my favorite "grief" books, " The Year of Magical Thinking ", by Joan Didion. (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7815.The_Year_of_Magical_Thinking) I recommend it, but I also recommend walking with God in our own magical thinking after a death. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: ccoutreach...
May 12, 2023•11 min•Season 2Ep. 21
Send us a text Today we explore how dryness in prayer can affect our grief and how gratitude can be the antidote. See: Ecclesiastes 3. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: [email protected] To arrange personal spiritual direction: 408-359-5542 Our theme music is: Gentle Breeze by Yeti Music from the album "Uppbeat". Thank you to Pixabay for so...
May 05, 2023•11 min•Season 2Ep. 20
Send us a text Today we explore how the veil thins when death is near; how God draws near our dying ones. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: [email protected] To arrange personal spiritual direction: 408-359-5542 Our theme music is: Gentle Breeze by Yeti Music from the album "Uppbeat". Thank you to Pixabay for sound affects....
Apr 28, 2023•12 min•Season 2Ep. 19
Send us a text The recent death of Bishop O'Connell reminds us of the fragility of life and how it is to grieve a death from violence. We also call upon Kahlil Gibran's "Prophet" for wisdom. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: [email protected] To arrange personal spiritual direction: 408-359-5542 Our theme music is: Gentle Breeze by Yeti Mus...
Apr 21, 2023•13 min
Send us a text Today we make one last trip into the desert as Peter fulfills the Lord's final request of him. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: [email protected] To arrange personal spiritual direction: 408-359-5542 Our theme music is: Gentle Breeze by Yeti Music from the album "Uppbeat". Additional music and sound effects from Pixabay...
Apr 14, 2023•11 min•Season 2Ep. 17
Send us a text A VERY SPECIAL EPISODE WITH MARY MAGADALENE. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: [email protected] To arrange personal spiritual direction: 408-359-5542 Our theme music is: Gentle Breeze by Yeti Music from the album "Uppbeat". Additional Music and sound effects by PIXABAY...
Apr 09, 2023•9 min•Season 2Ep. 16
Send us a text A VERY SPECIAL EPISODE FOR HOLY SATURDAY. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: [email protected] To arrange personal spiritual direction: 408-359-5542 Our theme music is: Gentle Breeze by Yeti Music from the album "Uppbeat". Additional Music and sound effects by PIXABAY...
Apr 08, 2023•12 min•Season 2Ep. 15
Send us a text A VERY SPECIAL EPISODE FOR GOOD FRIDAY. Brought to you by Catholic Cemeteries of San Jose/Gate of Heaven, Los Altos and Calvary Cemetery, San Jose SPIRITUAL DIRECTION WHILE GRIEVING IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE You can reach us at: [email protected] To arrange personal spiritual direction: 408-359-5542 Our theme music is: Gentle Breeze by Yeti Music from the album "Uppbeat". Additional Music and sound effects by PIXABAY ....
Apr 07, 2023•13 min•Season 2Ep. 14
