He Leadeth Me
This podcast focuses on spiritual growth and formation. It is intended for staff, students, and friends of FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students). The show likely explores themes of faith, personal development, and community. It provides guidance and inspiration for listeners seeking to deepen their spiritual lives.
Episodes
The Beatitudes Series Part 3: Meekness
Is meekness just weakness or is it a secret weapon?In Part 3 of our Beatitudes series, Fr. James Dominic Brent, OP unpacks Jesus’ bold third Beatitude: "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land."In this episode, we cover:The Misconception of Meekness: What meekness actually means and why society gets it completely wrong.The Prayer Block: The surprising reason unaddressed ange
The Beatitudes Series Part 2: Those Who Mourn
How can sorrow actually be the path to true divine joy? In Part 2 of our Beatitudes series, Fr. James Dominic Brent, OP unpacks Jesus’ bold claim: "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."In this episode, we discuss:What kind of mourning Jesus is actually calling us toWhy willpower alone isn't enough to break repetitive cycles of sin How to break free from scrupulosity, spiritual
The Beatitudes Series Part 1: The Poor in Spirit
What is a Beatitude, and what does it actually mean to be "poor in spirit"? In part one of our Beatitudes series, guest Fr. James Dominic Brent, OP, breaks down Jesus’ radical invitation to true happiness. Together, we explore why self-reliance leads to spiritual burnout, how to embrace our vulnerability before God, and why acknowledging our poverty is the gateway to receiving His daily help. In t
Everyday Habits of Excellence
Father Dan Tracy, FOCUS alumni and priest in the Diocese of Superior, shares great wisdom on his experience of Personal Excellence. What does it mean to be busy? How can we rest well while also living the Great Commission zealously? Father Dan and Kathleen discuss small ways to practice peace and rest amidst busy schedules. Fr. Dan Tracy serves as the associate pastor at St. Patrick's Catholi
Personal Excellence vs. Perfectionism
Kathleen and Cooper Dow discuss some of the hardships of living out personal excellence as a missionary. Topics include the culture of perfectionism, having healthy boundaries, and supporting teammates in their growth in personal excellence. Cooper Dow joined FOCUS in 2021 serving as a missionary at Idaho State University. He now serves on the Staff Care team. Cooper is originally from Littleton,
Little Things, Great Love: The Secret of Personal Excellence
Travis and Jess introduce the final cultural virtue of Personal Excellence in this deep dive episode. Travis beautifully explains how the Church invites us to do little things greatly and to be willing to do great things. They remind listeners that Personal Excellence is all about Jesus and less about our own ambitions and desires.Personal Excellence: Giving our best efforts to the responsibilitie
Joyful Sacrifice: The Art of Self-Giving in Marriage
Ben and Eliza Kelly are here to share their experience of living our joyful sacrifice in marriage. This fun and honest episode gives listeners a glimpse of the challenges of parenthood as the Kellys share how missionary life has prepared them to embrace these sufferings. Ben and Eliza encourage listeners to know that joyful sacrifice is more than just grin and bearing hardships. Ben and Eliza Kell
Joyful Sacrifice: Lessons from the Mission Field
Kathleen and Sabrina Sanchez unpack the virtue of Joyful Sacrifice in light of the missionary experience. They discuss the role of freedom in joyful sacrifice and Sabrina shares some practical ways FOCUS missionaries can grow in this virtue: recognizing circles of influence and turning joyful sacrifice into an offering to the Father. Sabrina Sanchez is in her 7th year with FOCUS. Originally from T
Joyful Sacrifice: The Secret to Happiness
Jess and Travis are back to take a deep dive into our next cultural virtue: Joyful Sacrifice. Travis explains the root of the word “sacrifice”, the role of mercy in sacrificial love, and where joy actually comes from. You don’t want to miss this!Joyful Sacrifice: Joyfully offering our sacrifice as a gift to the Father, confident that he transforms them for His glory. Travis Todd is a convert to Ca
Set Apart for Christ: The Ordination Mass Explained
In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens and Fr. Daniel Eusterman walk step-by-step through one of the most beautiful and powerful liturgies in the life of the Church: the ordination of a priest. Whether you’ve attended an ordination before or have never experienced one, this conversation will help you understand the meaning behind the symbols, prayers, and sacred moments of the Mass.Toge
How to Fight for Vital Unity in Family Life
In this testimonial episode, Kathleen is joined by Josh Fatzinger who has served the last twelve years as a campus missionary. Josh shares the little ways he has tried to practice Vital Unity in mission and in family life, how to have personal boundaries and yet be generous, and why sins of the tongue are so divisive. Josh Fatzinger has served as a FOCUS missionary for 12 years with his wife, Kati
How to Live Vital Unity When Life Gets Messy
Kathleen is joined by Rachel Bieker to discuss the practicals of living out Vital Unity as a FOCUS missionary. Rachel describes the common obstacles she sees in FOCUS to living this out and provides some incredible tips on how to navigate conflict.Rachel Bieker currently serves FOCUS as Senior Manager of Talent and Leadership Development. Originally from Nebraska, she attended Benedictine College
Vital Unity: What Makes- Or Breaks- a Mission
Welcome to the first episode of a 9 part series on FOCUS’s cultural virtues! Jessica and Travis Todd share what the cultural virtues are as a whole, provide a deep dive into the virtue of Vital Unity, and discuss the Church’s four bonds of unity. Vital Unity: Laying aside our own ambitions to elevate the gifts of those around us and serve the greater Body of Christ. Travis Todd is a convert to Cat
Don't Give Up: Overcoming Discouragement
Ever feel like giving up just when you've been praying the hardest?In this episode, Eve sits down with Fr. John Ezratty for a deeply practical and hope-filled conversation on discouragement- something every Christian faces, especially in seasons of waiting. Together, they unpack how discouragement works, how it differs from spiritual desolation, and how the Lord invites us to persevere with t
Holy Zeal: Loving God and Others with Wisdom
In this episode, Jess sits down with Dr. Edward Sri for an honest conversation about zeal vs. indiscreet zeal, and how even good, holy desires can quietly slip into pride, rigidity, or judgment. Together, they explore what it means to live with passion for God that is shaped by humility, charity, and peace.In this episode, they discuss:What true Christian zeal looks like — and why prudence is esse
What Am I Meant to Do? A Discussion on Vocational Discernment
Recorded live from SEEK26, Kathleen and Sr. Jacinta discuss the following points about vocational discernment: Why this topic brings up mixed emotions for young adultsPrinciples of general discernmentThe purpose and call of each vocation Practicals to help you discern your vocationKathleen Calvin and Sr. Jacinta Man, OP, both serve on the FOCUS Spiritual Development Team.
Home for the Holidays: Navigating a Prayer Life During Break
In this episode, Kathleen and FOCUS Director of Collegiate Outreach Ben Kelly dive into the spiritual challenges and opportunities that come with heading home for a holiday or break. Kathleen and Ben discuss: The importance of having a plan going into a break.How breaks can be a time of true growth and maturity in your prayer life. The unique challenges of being at home and out of routine.Opportun
Did God Really Ask Me to Do This? Discernment When Life Gets Hard
When you say “yes” to something you genuinely believed God was asking of you—a mission trip, graduate school, even becoming a FOCUS missionary—what do you do when later everything feels too heavy, too complicated, or simply not what you expected? In this episode, Jessica sits down with Fr. John Ezratty to explore the tension between commitment, freedom, and discernment through the lens of St. Igna
A Father's Legacy: The Life and Faith of Tom Vander Woude
In this episode, Kathleen and Chris Vander Woude reflect on the extraordinary life of Tom Vander Woude — a devoted husband, father, and disciple of Christ. As Chris shares personal stories of his father, the conversation honors Tom’s quiet heroism, deep Catholic faith, and unwavering love for his family. Tom gave his life to save his son Joseph, who has Down Syndrome. With discussions on fatherhoo
Why Missionaries Need the Rosary
It's no secret our world is suffering and under deep spiritual attack. In this episode, Kathleen sits down with Brock Martin to dive into a deeply personal and spiritual conversation about the power and beauty of the Rosary. Brock shares his journey from seeing the Rosary as a routine task to embracing it as a vital devotion and spiritual weapon of the Church.We discuss: Deeper Devotion: Hear
Why Did Jesus Say That?
Why did Jesus sometimes say things that seem puzzling—or even contradictory—at first glance? In this episode, Dr. Edward Sri joins Jessica to unpack some of the most misunderstood sayings of Jesus in Scripture. Together, we explore the deeper meaning behind His words and actions, revealing the wisdom, mercy, and divine intention that underlie them.In this episode, Dr. Sri explains:John 8:6–8 – The
Finding Freedom From Scrupulosity
Scrupulosity can feel like a prison—distorting one’s image of God, sowing constant doubt, and making the spiritual life heavy instead of freeing. In this episode, Jess sits down with Fr. Denis Nakkeeran, Dean of Men at St. John’s Seminary to explore the roots of scrupulosity and the path toward healing.We discuss:What scrupulosity is and how it differs from OCDHow scrupulosity distorts our image o
The Church Needs More Sisters: Inspiring a Vocational Revival
In 1965, there were 178,000 religious Sisters. In 2024, there were less than 35,000. In less than 60 years, the landscape of women’s religious life has dramatically changed. Can there be a revival in women’s religious vocations?In this episode, Jessica talks with Kathleen Calvin and Sr. Jacinta Man about FOCUS’ new project to promote women’s religious vocations. Jess, Kathleen, and Sr. Jacinta dis
Spiritual Direction 101: Your Questions Answered
Have you ever wondered if spiritual direction is only for people discerning big decisions — or if lay people can really be spiritual directors?In this episode of He Leadeth Me, Jess is joined by Fr. Anthony Weick, a spiritual director at Grand Coteau retreat center, and Eve Doran, Program Director for the FOCUS Spiritual Development Team, to answer your top questions about spiritual direction. Tog
Your Theme For the Year: Begin Again
Have you ever wished you could hit the “reset button” in your spiritual life? In this episode, we explore the wisdom of Venerable Bruno Lanteri and his timeless maxim: Begin Again. Fr. Mark Yavarone, OMV, joins Jessica to unpack how this simple but profound counsel can transform the way we approach prayer, failure, and discouragement.You’ll hear about:Who was Venerable Bruno Lanteri? The founder o
Behold Your Mother: Growing Closer to Mary
What if the key to growing closer to Jesus is letting His mother into your heart?In this episode, Sr. Gabriella, Vocations Director for the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church, helps us unpack what it means to know Mary not just as a figure of devotion, but as a real, living mother who wants to walk with us. Sr. Gabriella and Jess discuss:How Scripture invites us to personally rec
Tepid No More: The Sacred Heart and the Missionary Soul
Why does Jesus make such bold promises to those devoted to His Sacred Heart—like turning “tepid souls” into “fervent” ones? In this episode, Jess sits down with Fr. Joe Laramie, SJ, director of the Sacred Heart Retreat Center in Sedalia and former director of the Apostleship of Prayer, to explore how this centuries-old devotion speaks directly to the heart of the missionary.Whether you’re feeling
From Battlefield to Battlefield: A Naval Chaplain's Take on Spiritual Warfare
What if spiritual warfare is more strategic than we think—and the battlefield is closer than we realize?In this episode, Jess sits down with Jesuit priest and Naval Chaplain Fr. Christopher Krall for a powerful conversation on spiritual warfare. Drawing from his experience as a naval chaplain and spiritual director, Fr. Krall offers insight into how we can recognize and resist the subtle tactics o
Confirmation: Your Personal Pentecost
What really happens when you're confirmed? In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens takes us into the heart of the Sacrament of Confirmation—far beyond the idea of a “graduation ceremony.”We explore how this sacrament completes what began at Baptism, and how it becomes a personal Pentecost—a moment when the Holy Spirit is poured out for strength, mission, and spiritual battle. Chris
What if Your Faults are the Key to Your Holiness?
In this deeply encouraging episode, Fr. John Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about one of the most misunderstood aspects of the spiritual life: how to view our faults through the lens of faith. Drawing on decades of experience as a spiritual director and confessor, Fr. John shares wisdom that combats perfectionism and opens a new way of seeing failure — not as defeat, but as an invitation to deeper
Movie Review: Triumph of the Heart
This September, "Triumph of the Heart", a movie about St. Maximilian Kolbe, will hit theaters. In this episode, Fr. Gabriel Gillen joins Jess to review the film.Fr. Gabriel and Jess discuss:Their overall impressions, including acting, pacing, and cinematographyThe director's approach to storytelling as a spiritual meditationThe amount of violence in the film and whether it serves or
He Chose Her: The Marriage Liturgy for a Consecrated Virgin
What happens at the Rite of Consecration of a Virgin?In this episode, host Jessica is joined by liturgical expert Chris Carstens and Elizabeth Black, a Consecrated Virgin, to explore the ancient rite of Consecrated Virginity.Together, they unpack:What makes the vocation of a Consecrated Virgin distinct from religious lifeThe beauty and symbolism of the Rite of Consecration, including the veil, rin
Being There: How to Support a Friend Seeking an Annulment
In this episode, Jess sits down with Cheryl Hansen, a Tribunal Advocate, to talk about what it looks like to walk closely with someone going through the painful and often confusing journey of divorce and annulment. Jess and Cheryl discuss:How to support someone considering divorce while still encouraging hope for healing in their marriage.Why people often seek validation from faithful friends—and
How the Jubilee Year Can Rekindle Your Hope
The Church has declared this the Jubilee Year of Hope- but what does that mean for you? In this episode, Fr. John Ezratty joins Jessica to explore how this special year invites you to delve deeper in the virtue of hope and increase your trust in God.Fr. John and Jess discuss:What makes hope different from mere optimismHow to navigate desires, dreams, and unanswered prayers with trust in God's
The Legacy of Pope Francis w/ Dr. Edward Sri
What will Pope Francis be remembered for?In this episode, Dr. Edward Sri joins Jessica to reflect on the defining themes of Pope Francis' papacy- and what may come next. From his pastoral heart to his global vision, Dr. Sri and Jess explore the impact of a pope who led with compassion.Dr. Sri and Jess discuss:Compassion at the Core- Dr. Sri shares how Pope Francis' papacy emphasized merc
He Descended Into Hell: The Hidden Work of Holy Saturday
What was Jesus doing on Holy Saturday? While the world lay silent, Christ was at work- accomplishing in His Spirit what He had completed in the flesh. In this episode, the hosts of the FAD & Dad podcast, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Joshua Burks, join Jessica to explore the hidden glory of Christ's descent into the realm of the dead and what it means for us today.Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess di
What's Tenebrae?
What if one of the most hauntingly beautiful liturgies of Holy Week is also one of the least known?In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens unpacks the rich tradition of Tenebrae, a service that blends candlelight, psalms, and silence to draw us deeply into the mystery of Christ’s Passion. Jess and Chris discuss: What Tenebrae is, where it comes from, and how it fits into the rhythm of H
Struggling with Faith? You're Not Alone
Doubt can feel like a lonely place, but the truth is- you're not alone. Even the most devout Catholic experience struggles with faith.In this episode, Fr. John Ezratty joins Jess to talk about what it means to wrestle with doubt and how to navigate these difficult seasons with trust and perseverance.In this episode, Fr. John and Jess discuss: How Lent is a time not just to “repent” but also t
Pilgrims of Hope: Living the Jubilee Year with Dr. Edward Sri
The Jubilee Year is a rare and powerful opportunity for spiritual renewal- but what does it really mean and how can we fully enter into it?In this episode, theologian, author, speaker, and FOCUS Vice President Dr. Edward Sri joins Jessica to talk about the Jubilee year. Dr. Sri and Jess discuss:What a Jubilee Year is and how Catholics can receive special indulgences and graces during the yearThe m
From Wrestling to Surrender: The Spiritual Battle of Gethsemane
What if the key to deepening our faith isn't just surrender, but wrestling with God?In this episode, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Josh Burks return to talk about Jesus' Agony in the Garden. Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess discuss:Parallels between Jesus' Agony in the Garden and the patriarch Jacob wrestling with God through the nightHow Jesus' prayer in the Agony in the Garden can infor
The Last Supper: Hidden Details You Might Have Missed
In this episode, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Josh Burks, the hosts of the FAD and Dad podcast, return to unveil theological elements in the Biblical accounts of the Last Supper.Jess, Fr. Andrew, and Josh discuss:The 4 cups of a Passover meal and how we see them in the Last SupperJesus washing the disciples feet and the tradition of the washing of the feet in the Holy Thursday MassJesus' deep des
From Ashes to Easter: Preparing for Resurrection Through the Liturgy
Ash Wednesday is upon us! In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carsten returns to shed light on the Ash Wednesday liturgy. Jess and Chris discuss:Why Ash Wednesday is one of the most highly attended Masses of the yearHow the Church teaches us about the end goal of Lent through the prayers of the Ash Wednesday MassWhy ashes?Chris' advice for listeners to enter more deeply into Lent this ye
Your Best Lent Ever
How can you have your best Lent ever? In this episode, FOCUS national chaplain Fr. Doug Grandon joins Jessica to share his advice on how to make the most out of this Lent. Fr. Doug and Jess discuss:Making the most out of Lenten fastingThe power of art and silence in enhancing your LentHow to avoid a spirit of self-reliance in your Lenten sacrificesFr. Doug Grandon is a priest of the Archdiocese of
Walking Together: How You Can Support a Friend Entering the Church this Easter
Accompanying someone into the Church is a great privilege, but what does it actually look like to walk with them well? In this episode, FOCUS staff and converts Travis Todd and Amber Cybulski join Jessica to talk about their experiences of conversion and how we can accompany someone entering the Church well. Travis, Amber, and Jess discuss:The most helpful things in OCIA and outside of it that pre
Jesus, You Take Over: The Power of the Surrender Novena
"Jesus, I surrender myself to You, take care of everything!" This phrase is the daily prayer of the famous Surrender Novena. In this episode, Fr. John Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about the power of this novena. Fr. John and Jess discuss:How Jesus revealed the Surrender Novena to Servant of God Don Dolindo RuotoloThe difference between surrender and resignation or despair in the spiritu
"You're Doing What?" -- Talking to Parents About Becoming a Missionary
"You're doing what?" is a common response when students tell their parents that they want to become FOCUS missionaries. Parents can feel hesitant about this decision, as they wonder, "Will you make enough money fundraising to support yourself? Is this a good step for your career?"In this episode, FOCUS Regional Director Kallin Hill and her father John Zehren join Jessica t
Finding Light in the Darkness: Surviving a Loved One's Suicide
One of the greatest griefs a person can experience is losing a loved one to suicide. Studies indicate that 85% of people in the United States will personally know someone who has committed suicide during their lifetimes. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students. How can we pray through the pain of a loved one committing suicide?In this episode, FOCUS staff Travis Todd an
How the Spirit of Truth Can Change Your Life and Our Country
Dominican friar Fr. James Brent is back to talk about his devotion to praying to the Holy Spirit under the title, "Spirit of Truth". Fr. James and Jess discuss:How praying to the Spirit of Truth led to the downfall of communism in EuropeWhat invoking the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth could do for our countryHow you can grow in your devotion to the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of TruthB
Did God Command Genocide in the Old Testament?
In reading the Scriptures, there can be some passages that trouble modern readers, like the accounts of the wars the Israelites undertook against people living in the Promised Land. In this episode, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Josh Burks from the FAD & Dad podcast sit down with Jess to shed some light on these Scripture passes. Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess discuss:Did God command genocide when he c
The Romances: The Poem Written in Prison by St. John of the Cross
In the culminating episode of our Advent retreat with the Carmelite mystics, Sr. Shawn Pauline returns to teach us about "The Romances," a poem by St. John of the Cross on the union of the soul with God. Jess and Sr. Shawn Pauline discuss:How John wrote "The Romances", a series of 9 poems that describe the love between the Father and the Son, during Advent while he was imprison
Love's Surrender: The Prayer of Union According to St. Theresa of Avila
In this episode, Jessica sits down with Sr. Shawn Pauline to discuss the 3rd and 4th waters of prayer according to St. Theresa of Avila. Sr. Shawn Pauline and Jess discuss:The images of the river and the rain that St. Theresa uses to describe these deeper stages of prayerHow the soul must wait for God's action within it, and how this waiting ties into the season of AdventSr. Shawn Pauline is
Love's Awakening: How to Receive the Prayer of Recollection
In this episode of our Advent series, Sr. Shawn Pauline explains the second "Water of Prayer" according to St. Theresa of Avila. Sr. Shawn Pauline and Jess discuss:At this stage, God leads the soul into the prayer of recollection, which is the still awareness of God's presence within the soulHow St. Theresa uses the images of an aqueduct to describe the prayer of recollectionHow a s
Love's Purification: When God Takes You into Deeper Prayer
In this episode of our Advent series, Sr. Shawn Pauline describes how God takes a beginner into deeper stages of prayer. Sr. Shawn Pauline and Jess discuss:How a soul transitioning into deeper prayer often experiences dryness, distraction, and an increased awareness of their own sin and weaknessHow to tell the difference between dryness, desolation, and depressionThe importance of perseverance, hu
Love's Quest: Your Advent Retreat with the Carmelite Mystics
Are you looking for ways you can enter more deeply into Advent? Look no further! This Advent, Sr. Shawn Pauline from the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles will offer He Leadeth Me listeners a series of podcast episodes on the writings of St. Theresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross. In this episode, Sr. Shawn Pauline begins the retreat by talking about the beginning stages of th
Finding Hope in Infertility through Michelle Duppong's Intercession
In this episode, Jessica's friend Theresa shares about the struggles of infertility and her own story of asking the intercession of Servant of God Michelle Duppong. Jess and Theresa discuss:The common question when struggling with infertility: Should I ask for what I want in prayer or should I pray, "Not my will but yours be done"?Theresa's experience of having a baby after pra
Answering the Call: How Michelle Duppong Followed Jesus Wholeheartedly
The SEEK conference is just around the corner, and this year's theme is, "Follow Me". In this episode, Mark Bartek joins Jessica to talk about how Servant of God Michelle Duppong answered Jesus' call to follow Him. Mark and Jess discuss:The theme of the conference, which comes from the Scripture verse John 8: 12, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never
Prayers for the Brokenhearted: How to Pray through Grief
Sometimes we feel overwhelmed by our grief and can have difficulty expressing it in prayer. In this episode, counselor Kate Johnson joins Jessica to talk about praying in the midst of grief. Jess and Kate discuss:The modern tendency in the Christian community to focus on the resurrection and skip the necessary grieving processWhy our culture has forgotten how to grieveAncient Jewish practices to m
A Journey Home: Understanding Catholic Funerals
In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens returns to talk with Jessica about Catholic funerals. Chris and Jess discuss:The 3 ceremonies associated with a Catholic funeral: vigil, Mass of Christian Burial, and prayers at the gravesideThe connection between a funeral Mass and the Easter VigilKey symbols and prayers in the Mass of Christian BurialChris Carstens is the Director of Worship in t
A Gulag Survivor's Prayer of Surrender
Servant of God Fr. Walter Ciszek spent 23 years in Siberian prison camps for his faith in Jesus. After being released from prison, he returned to the United States and became a renowned spiritual director. In this episode, Fr. Michael Wegenka joins Jessica to dive into a prayer of surrender that Fr. Ciszek wrote for one of his directees. Fr. Michael and Jess discuss:Fr. Ciszek's spirituality
Do Not Judge
In Matthew 7:1, Jesus tell us, "Do not judge, lest you shall be judged". But what does this actually mean? Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress is back in this episode to talk about judgment. Fr. Joseph-Anthony and Jess discuss:Is it a judgment to notice a fault in another person?How can you know if you are making rash judgments?What advice do you have for someone who is trying to overcome the sin o
Is this Gossip?
How do you know if you are gossiping or simply sharing your struggles with friends? Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress joins Jessica today to shed light on St. Thomas Aquinas' teaching on gossip. Jessica and Fr. Joseph-Anthony discuss:Gossip's role in spiritual warfareHow Aquinas breaks verbal sins or injuries into 5 categories: reviling, backbiting, tale-bearing, derision, and cursingWays that yo
Waters of Faith: Understanding the Rite of Baptism
In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens returns to talk about the rite of baptism. Jess and Chris discuss:How baptism restores God's image in the soulWhy the rite of baptism begins at the front of the churchWhat is the role of Godparents?And much more!Chris Carstens is the Director of Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, a visiting faculty member of the Liturgical Institute at the U
How Can I Teach Someone How to Pray?
When leading another person to Jesus, one of the most important tasks you have is teaching that person how to pray. But how can you do this? FOCUS Alumna and former Senior Director of TD and RD Formation Shannon Hicks joins Jessica in this episode to talk about how to teach another person how to pray. Jess and Shannon discuss:How God Himself teaches each person to pray and we only accompany others
Conversion and the Drama of Family Relationships
After a conversion or reversion to the Catholic faith, many people can struggle in their interactions with family members who don't share their beliefs. In this episode, Director of Formation Travis Todd and Director of Retreats Niru de Silva join Jessica to talk about how their conversions impacted their family relationships and their prayer lives. Travis, Niru, and Jess discuss:Niru's
Radiating Joy: The Michelle Duppong Story
Radiating Joy, a documentary about Servant of God Michelle Duppong, will be coming out in theaters on November 12th! In this episode, Jessica sits down with Danny Anderson, the director of the film, to talk about creating the documentary. Jess and Danny discuss:Before making the film, Danny knew nothing about Michelle Duppong. He shares his experience getting to know her through the testimony of h
Journeying Beyond the Retreat: Integrating Your Retreat into Daily Life
Over the summer, many FOCUS missionaries participate in the Spiritual Exercises. After 8 days of silence and meditation, what's it like to enter back into the chaos of daily life? How can you let the graces you received on retreat bear fruit? Fr. Kevin Dyer, SJ, joins Jessica in this episode to give his advice for your spiritual life after you attend a retreat. Fr. Kevin and Jess discuss:Advi
How You Can Break Free of the Comparison Trap
You want to stop comparing yourself to others...but how? In this episode, Sr. Maria Goretti, Vocations Directress for the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles, join Jessica to talk about comparison. Sr. Maria Goretti and Jess discuss:The effects comparing yourself to others has on your relationship with JesusHow to stop comparing yourself to othersThe importance of having a sense of
The Gospel in Color: Unlocking the Symbolism in Icons
Have you ever seen a beautiful icon and wondered what the images in it symbolize?In this episode, Sr. Jeana Visel, OSB, joins Jessica to dive into icons. Sr. Jeana and Jessica discuss:How an icon is different than a normal religious paintingThe process of creating an iconThe meaning of different colors and symbolsSr. Jeana Visel OSB is a Benedictine sister at Monastery Immaculate Conception in Fer
The Power of One Hail Mary
In this episode, John Petrovich joins Jessica to share his testimony of the power of intercessory prayer.John was jogging one day and saw an ambulance outside of a house. He prayed one Hail Mary for the person in the ambulance. Listen to this episode and hear John recount the miracle that happened next!John Petrovich is a husband, father, and faithful Catholic layman who lives on the East Coast.
The Mystery of the Eucharist: Celebrating Corpus Christi
Liturgical expert Chris Carstens is back to talk about the Solemnity of Corpus Christi! Jess and Chris discuss:The history of Corpus ChristiSpecial elements of Corpus Christi, including Eucharistic Processions and the SequenceChris' advice for how we can enter more deeply into the Solemnity this yearChris Carstens is the Director of Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, a visiting faculty memb
The Breath of Love: The Holy Spirit in the Heart of the Trinity
St. Augustine says that the Holy Spirit is the Love between the Father and the Son. But what does this actually mean? Fr. Boniface Hicks joins Jessica today to talk about the Holy Spirit as love. Fr. Boniface and Jess discuss:St. Augustine's Trinitarian theologyHow the Holy Spirit is the love which unites each member of the ChurchHow the Holy Spirit is the love in each individual believerFr.
The Sanctifying Power of the Holy Spirit in Everyday Life
In this episode, Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress joins Jessica to talk about the Holy Spirit's role as the Sanctifier. Fr. Joseph-Anthony and Jess discuss:How the Holy Spirit reproduces the image of Jesus within usHow the Holy Spirit sanctifies our sufferingPractical steps we can take to allow the Holy Spirit to possess us more fullyFr. Joseph-Anthony references the book, "The Sanctifier"
Let's Talk About Charismatic Gifts
Fr. James Brent is back! In this episode he and Jess dive into charismatic gifts. Fr. James and Jess discuss:The difference between a natural talent and a charismDoesn't Lumen Gentium say we shouldn't seek extraordinary gifts?How can people grow in use of their gifts without focusing on them too much?Be sure to check out Fr. James' new book, "The Father's House: Discoverin
Unlocking the Gifts Within: Aquinas on the Sanctifying Gifts
When we pray the Pentecost novena, we often ask the Holy Spirit to give us the sanctifying gifts. How do these gifts change our lives? Fr. James Brent joins Jessica today to talk about the gifts of the Holy Spirit according to St. Thomas Aquinas. Fr. James and Jess discuss:The difference between sanctifying gifts and charismatic giftsHow sanctifying gifts transform your lifeHow you can experience
The Descent of the Holy Spirit: A Deep Dive into Acts Chapter 2
A mighty wind. Tongues of fire. Shouting the praises of God. When the Holy Spirit descends upon the disciples in Acts Chapter 2, the disciples are so ecstatic that the people of Jerusalem think they are "filled with new wine." What exactly is going on in this passage?Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Josh Burks, hosts of the FAD&DAD podcast, return to do a deep dive into Acts Chapter 2. Fr. A
The Promise is for You!
In Acts 2:39, St. Peter preaches to the people that the promise of the Holy Spirit, "is for you!" Leading up to the solemnity of Pentecost, He Leadeth Me will be doing a series on the Holy Spirit.The first guest in our series is Fr. James Brent, who shares on the Paraclete Promises:The promise of the indwellingThe promise of memory and understandingThe promise of witnessingThe promise of
4 Signs You Have a Religious Vocation
Have you ever wondered if you are called to religious life? In his book, "And You Are Christ's", Fr. Thomas Dubay gives 4 signs that someone in called to religious life. In this episode, Fr. John Burns from Friends of the Bridegroom joins Jessica to talk about the 4 signs of a religious vocation.Fr. John and Jess discuss:Dubay's 4 signs of a religious vocationDoes a person rece
St. Augustine's Advice on Going Deeper in Prayer
In this episode, Jessica dives into St. Augustine's Letter to Proba on prayer with Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Joshua Burks, the hosts of the FAD & DAD podcast. Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess discuss:Proba asks St. Augustine what she should pray for. He gives her a surprising answer: pray for a happy life!What makes a life happy?St. Augustine's teaching on the role of desire in the spiritua
Praying with St. Ignatius during the Triduum
In the Spiritual Exercises, St. Ignatius of Loyola guides retreatants to have intimate prayer with the accounts of the Last Supper and Passion of Jesus. In this episode, Fr. Paul Kallal joins Jessica to talk about how St. Ignatius' meditations can help us to pray with Christ's Passion during the Triduum. Fr. Paul and Jessica discuss:The grace Ignatius encourages retreatants to ask for wh
An Ignatian Priest and a Charismatic Talk About How God Speaks to Us
How do I know if my prayer is God speaking to me or just my imagination? Does God give words in prayer? These are common questions people ask when they begin to engage in Ignatian prayer or learn about charismatic gifts and "words" from the Lord. Jessica and Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty discuss these questions and more! Jessica has been involved with the Charismatic Renewal Movement for 13
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