Abiding Together

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):

1. The Agony in the Garden – Contrition / Sorrow for Sin
2. The Scourging at the Pillar – Purity / Mortification
3. The Crowning with Thorns – Moral Courage / Humility
4. The Carrying of the Cross – Patience in Suffering
5. The Crucifixion – Perseverance / Salvation / Forgiveness

Glorious Mysteries (Wednesdays & Sundays):

1. The Resurrection – Faith
2. The Ascension – Hope / Desire for Heaven
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Wisdom / Love of God / Zeal
4. The Assumption – Grace of a Happy Death / Devotion to Mary
5. 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

Welcome to season 17! In this episode, we continue our tradition of reflecting on the mysteries of our lives based on the mysteries of the Rosary. In every season of our lives, we're given opportunities to grow in charity and to receive God's grace. Periodically, it is important to pause and reflect on how God has been working in and through our lives. In our conversation, we model what this looks like and discuss how the virtues of each mystery of the Rosary align with the mysteries of our lives and the fruits God is cultivating. Join us today as we share the Joyful and Luminous mysteries of our lives.

Heather's One Thing - The beauty of being an empty nester!

Sister Miriam's One Thing - Chastity: Reconciliation of the Senses by Bishop Erik Varden

Michelle's One Thing - Summer camps

Michelle's Other One Thing - College football is back!

🌟 Joyful Mysteries (Mondays & Saturdays):

1. The Annunciation – Humility
2. The Visitation – Love of Neighbor / Charity
3. The Nativity – Poverty of Spirit / Detachment from the World
4. The Presentation – Obedience / Purity
5. The Finding in the Temple – Joy in Finding Jesus / Zeal for God

✨ Luminous Mysteries (Thursdays):

1. The Baptism of Jesus – Openness to the Holy Spirit / Living one's baptism
2. The Wedding at Cana – To Jesus through Mary / Faith in God's Will
3. The Proclamation of the Kingdom – Repentance and Trust in God
4. The Transfiguration – Desire for Holiness / Spiritual Courage
5. The Institution of the Eucharist – Adoration / Love of the Eucharist

Other Resources Mentioned:

• Joy and Pain by Rob Base and DJ EZ Rock

Journal Questions:

• How am I tempted to be so serious that I miss out on having fun?
• How is the Lord inviting me into detachment and poverty of spirit?
• What are the paradoxes in my life?
• What are the prayers and requests of my heart right now?

Discussion Questions:

• When did you tangibly experience the presence of God during this summer?
• Who can I invite into deeper intercession in this season?
• How have you experienced the Joyful Mysteries in this season?
• How have you experienced the Luminous Mysteries in this season?

Quote to Ponder:

"...We must be able to pause in silence, in meditation, in calm, prolonged reflection; we must know how to stop and think. In this way our mind can find healing from the inevitable wounds of daily life, it can penetrate the events that occur in our life and in the world and can attain that wisdom which makes it possible to see things with new eyes." (Pope Benedict)

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 - CORDA:

CORDA translates the stories of the saints into scents, and helps you create a place of prayer and peace in your home with their Catholic candles.

Each candle is handcrafted with great ingredients and a beautiful modern design, and lasts for 45 hours!

Now through November 15, use code ABIDING15 to save 15% when you order! And check out the free Rewards program on CORDA's website, too - it's an awesome way to earn points you can redeem for free products, gift cards, and free shipping.

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Timestamps:

00:00 CORDA

01:43 Intro

02:22 Welcome

07:43 Quote to Ponder and Scripture Verse

11:18 The Nativity - Poverty of Spirit

15:40 Finding Jesus in the Temple - Zeal for God

19:22 The Nativity - Detachment from the World

22:50 The Baptism of Jesus - Openness to the Holy Spirit

27:48 The Wedding at Cana - Faith in God's Will

30:58 The Institution of the Eucharist - Adoration

33:57 One Things

In this special bonus episode, we share a recent conversation we had with our friend Katie Prejean McGrady on the Ave Explores podcast series, "Digital Evangelization". We loved the conversation so much that we wanted to share it with you! You will hear us reflect on the story behind Abiding Together, our commitment to authentic and vulnerable conversations, and the impact of inviting others into our spiritual journey. We also share why we believe online spaces can become "holy ground" when we speak with honesty, balance, and love—and why, if a message isn't real and rooted in truth, it's not worth sharing.

We are also excited to announce Season 17 of Abiding Together will begin on September 15th! Mark your calendars—we are so excited to journey with you this fall.

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Journal Questions:

• How is God revealing His will to me for my current season?
• Who are the women in your life you can share your heart with?
• What activities, media, or projects might I need to take a break from in this season?

Discussion Questions:

• What metrics of success are you tempted to view your life through?
• How would you articulate the difference between fruitfulness and success?
• How do you discern what parts of your life to share with others?

In this episode, we conclude season 16 by remembering with gratitude all the things God has done and is doing in our lives. We reflect on the importance of allowing our hearts to be drawn into beauty in the midst of both joy and sorrow. We also talk about maturity vs self reliance, allowing ourselves to be led by the Holy Spirit, and the relationship between trust and receptivity. Thank you dear friends for journeying with us this season! You will be in our prayers this summer and we are excited about what's in store this Fall!

Heather's One Thing - All to Bless You and Low (Live) by Kory Miller

Sister Miriam's One Thing - Magdala Grove

Michelle's One Thing - I Believe in Love: A Personal Retreat Based on the Teaching of St. Thérèse of Lisieux by Fr. Jean Delaby

Journal Questions:

• Pause and take a moment to notice the surrounding beauty. What do I notice? How might the Lord be speaking to me through this beauty?
• Am I perplexed by the mystery of how God is working in my life? How might He be working all things for good in this season?
• How do I keep my union with the Lord? What is coming against that right now?
• In my suffering and darkness, where do I turn my face? Am I allowing myself to be led or am I trying to control?
• What is the Lord inviting me to do this summer?

Discussion Questions:

• Are you in a season where it is difficult to be grateful? Why or why not?
• In the midst of regular life, what is taking you away from union with God?
• How have you encountered the love of God in your life?
• God is always doing something new. How can you breathe in new hope?
• What are you looking forward to this summer?

Quote to Ponder:

"To limit your desires and your hopes is to misunderstand God's infinite goodness!" (St. Therese of Lisieux)

Scripture for Lectio:

"Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles…" (Psalm 105:5)

Sponsor - House of Joppa:

We're proud to be sponsored by House of Joppa, a family-owned Catholic shop where modern design meets timeless tradition. From stunning Catholic jewelry to sacred art and décor, everything they offer is crafted to reflect the beauty of our faith.

Explore their full collection at houseofjoppa.com

Timestamps:

00:00 - House of Joppa

01:00 - Intro

01:51 - Welcome

04:18 - What's Been on Our Minds

09:35 - Union with God

10:43 - Year of Hope

13:32 - Abiding

17:30 - Maturing of Love

19:20 - Turning to God

22:04 - Favorite Moments from Season 16

26:31 - What We are Looking Forward to this Summer

33:20 - Final Thoughts

34:59 - One Things

In this episode, we conclude our conversation on life transitions with Michelle's husband, Chris Benzinger. We focus on the second and third steps in walking through transitions: releasing with trust and redeeming with hope. We talk about God wanting to redeem our past, the need to let go of the ways we've failed, and how God wants to do something new in the future. We also reflect on the importance of ceremony to conclude a season, the four responses to a loss, and why we should share our hopes for the future with God.

Heather's One Thing - Return to the Heart: The Biblical Spirituality of St. Augustine's Confessions by Dr. Shane Owens

Sister Miriam's One Thing - Mediterranean Chicken Bowls

Michelle's One Thing - Belovedness: Overcoming Your Inner Critic - A Lyrical Devotional by Sarah Kroger

Chris' One Thing - Running a 5k with his daughter Lilly

Journal Questions:

• What was good about the previous season of my life? Am I grieving or still carrying hurts?
• What is God specifically asking me to release from this past season?
• In this next season of my life, what is one thing God is making new?
• What is one hope I have for this next season of my life?

Creative Prompt:

• Take a bookmark and decorate it with your hopes for the next season and place it in your Bible. It will serve as a reminder in the next chapter of your life.

Discussion Questions:

• Reflect back upon the past few years and choose one big or small transition in your life.
  • What is one thing you are grateful for in the past season of your life?
  • What is God calling you to release with trust from that past season?
  • As you look to this current season, what action can you take to ceremonialize the end of an old season and create the foundation for a new season?
• Are you able to name what you desire? Why or why not?
• How are you responding to loss in your current season of life?
• What is something new God is doing in the current season of your life?

Quote to Ponder:

"Remember not the events of the past, the things of long ago consider not. See I am doing something new. Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?" (Isaiah 43:18)

Scripture for Lectio:

"But now thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, and formed you O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; and you are mine." (Isaiah 43:1)

Sponsor - Karol Coffee Co.: This week's sponsor is more than just a coffee company. Karol Coffee Co. was inspired by the life and work of one of the most beloved saints of the modern era: Karol Wojtyła, better known to the world as Pope St. John Paul II. His life was a testimony to courage, joy, and cultivating beauty that draws souls into union with Jesus and one other. From his days as a young priest in Nazi-occupied Poland to his years leading the global Church, St. John Paul II consistently called people to embrace truth, goodness, and beauty in every aspect of their lives. Karol Coffee Co. seeks to carry on that mission in a small but meaningful way — by bringing community, love, and joy into the heart of our everyday routines through coffee.

Founded by Nate and Megan Whipple, a faithful Catholic couple rooted in mission, Karol Coffee Co. began humbly in 2022 as a simple garage-based roasting operation in Minneapolis, Minnesota. What started as a passion project quickly became something greater, thanks to the encouragement and support of fellow Catholics and coffee enthusiasts. In just a short time, their venture has grown into a thriving small business that now serves customers all over the country.

In an age when many of our purchases inadvertently support massive corporations with values often at odds with our own, supporting small, Catholic-owned businesses has never been more important. Karol Coffee Co. offers an alternative: ethically-sourced, traceable coffees roasted with care and intention. Each batch is crafted not only for flavor but with the desire to honor the dignity of those who cultivate the beans and to support communities around the world.

Their rotating coffee offerings include a range of carefully selected beans from notable coffee-growing regions with flavor profiles to suit a variety of preferences. Karol Coffee Co. makes it easier to keep your kitchen stocked with beans through bi-weekly or monthly subscription options. Fresh, delicious coffee delivered right to your door — no last-minute grocery runs or chain coffee stops required.

But beyond the coffee itself, what makes Karol Coffee Co. truly remarkable is the heart behind it. Nate and Megan have built their business around community and mission. It's about more than just selling beans; it's about creating opportunities for people to encounter beauty, truth, and goodness in the midst of their everyday lives, and to share that with the people around them. They have a passion for creating opportunities for people of all backgrounds and walks of life to experience connection and unity through the shared love of coffee and beauty.

We'd love for you to get to know them and become part of their growing community. You can visit their website at www.karolcoffeeco.com to explore their current offerings, sign up for a subscription, or learn more about the mission behind the brand. You can also follow along with them on Instagram @karolcoffeeco.

And if you're ever passing through St. Paul, Minnesota, be sure to visit their brand-new brick-and-mortar coffee shop. Their beautiful shop is a space where faith, community, and great coffee come together in a setting that feels like home. The walls are covered in paintings by local artists, as well as those of Megan herself (@meganwhippleart). You can even find a portrait of Pope Saint John Paul II painted by Megan (prints available on the Karol Coffee Co. website - https://karolcoffeeco.com/products/megan-whipple-art-karol-8x10-print). The shop offers a simple but complete food menu of organic and locally sourced food and a great variety of caffeinated and non-caffeinated drinks.

So whether you're looking to start your mornings with a little more purpose, support a Catholic business, or simply discover some truly great coffee, we wholeheartedly encourage you to check out Karol Coffee Co.

Use code ABIDING for 10% your first order.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Karol Coffee Co.

01:36 - Intro

02:26 - Welcome

03:13 - Releasing with Trust

07:26 - Your Past Seasons

13:24 - Four Responses to Loss

16:55 - Our Responses to Losses in Life

25:56 - Redeem with Hope

27: 30 - Redemption in Our Lives

33:29 - One Things

In this episode, Chris Benzinger joins us to discuss navigating big and small life transitions. We have all probably found ourselves on the other end of a transition feeling unfulfilled or confused. Chris takes us through a reflection of Joshua leading the Israelites across the Jordan and relates it to change in our lives. We talk about why it can be difficult to move on from blessings of the past and how remembering with gratitude is the first step in walking through transitions. We also discuss the practice of taking memorial stones with us to remember the Lord's blessings, giving thanks in all circumstances, and growing a lens of gratitude. Join us for part two next week!

Heather's One Thing - Festival of Praise at Franciscan University

Sister Miriam's One Thing - Sacramental transitions

Michelle's One Thing - Chris!

Chris' One Thing - Michelle :)

Journal Questions:

• What transitions am I currently going through?
• How have I experienced transition in the past?
• What do I need to remember with gratitude?
• What truth is the Lord speaking to me in my current circumstances?

Discussion Questions:

• What are you most grateful for in your recent transitions in life?
• What did the Father show you about His character in the previous season?
• What are the greatest fears you experience when facing transition?
• How will you allow space in your heart as you experience changes in your season of life?
• How can you embrace both the grief of what has ended and the joy of the new adventure in your transition?

Quote to Ponder:

"And the Lord said to Joshua, "Command the priests who bear the ark of the testimony to come up out of the Jordan." Joshua therefore commanded the priests, "Come up out of the Jordan." And when the priests bearing the ark of the covenant of the Lord came up from the midst of the Jordan, and the soles of the priests' feet were lifted up on dry ground, the waters of the Jordan returned to their place and overflowed all its banks, as before." (Josua 4:15-18)

Scripture for Lectio:

"Rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Sponsor - Our Holy Home:

We're so grateful to partner this season with Our Holy Home — a Catholic brand that's on a mission to fill homes with beauty, subtle reminders of faith, and a deep sense of peace in the everyday. Their best-selling dish towels are a simple but powerful way to build up the domestic church — and honestly, we can't get enough of them.

These aren't your average towels. Each design is thoughtfully created to reflect the joy and truth of the Catholic faith — with soft colors, minimalist artwork, and meaningful words that uplift your spirit even during the most mundane moments in the kitchen. Whether you're drying dishes, wiping hands, or hanging them from the oven for a decorative touch, these towels serve as gentle reminders that holiness is found in the home — and often, in the mess.

Here's why we love them:

Subtle, beautiful Catholic designs that blend seamlessly into your home decor

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Faith-filled reminders that inspire prayer, peace, and purpose in your daily tasks

Perfect for gifting — especially for housewarmings, weddings, baby showers, or that mama friend who's in the trenches

Whether you're living liturgically or just trying to bring a little more intention into your everyday routines, these towels are a small way to make a big impact.

👉 Shop their dish towel collection here (ourholyhome.com/AT)

And while you're there, take a look at their other offerings — planners, seasonal decor, and Catholic home goods that all carry the same spirit of joyful reverence and purpose.

Our Holy Home is a proud Catholic Concepts brand, made with love by a passionate team that believes beauty can evangelize — especially within the walls of your own home.

Visit ourholyhome.com/AT to explore their full collection and bring home goods that reflect the heart of our faith.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Our Holy Home

01:18 - Intro

02:09 - Welcome

04:42 - Big and Small Transitions

05:15 - Three Step Process

06:38 - Remember with Gratitude

09:18 - Memorial Stones

13:48 - Planting a Sense of Gratitude

15:05 - Stones of Remembrance in Our Lives

23:00 - God's Promises

25:49 - Reflection Question and Activity

28:06 - One Things

In this episode, we reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis. We talk about how, during his Pontificate, Pope Francis emphasized joy and, through his example, helped us remember to embody this joy in our daily lives to bring others into the Church. We also acknowledge how God has used Pope Francis to speak to us through his writings and discuss which of these writings most profoundly impacted us, how we can pray for our next Pope, and share what we think will be his lasting legacy.

Heather's One Thing - Her Parents

Sister Miriam's One Thing - Firm Foundation by Cody Carnes (and the Maverick City Music Remix ;))

Michelle's One Thing - Wrightsville Beach in Wilmington , NC

Other Resources Mentioned:

• Papal Homily on the Revolution of Tenderness
• Pope Francis' Surprise TED Talk
• Patris Corde - Apostolic Letter
• Dilexit Nos - Encyclical
• Evangelii Gaudium (Joy of the Gospel) - Apostolic Exhortation
• List of Cardinals attending the Conclave

Abiding Together Episodes on Pope Francis' Writings:

• The Joy of the Gospel Study
• Rejoice and Be Glad Study
• The Sacred Heart (three part series)
• C'est la Confiance (two part series)
• Revolution of Tenderness

Journal Questions:

• How have I been blessed by Pope Francis' pontificate?
• In what ways do I experience the Gospel as Lent without Easter?
• How can I embrace the lessons Pope Francis has taught me throughout his papacy in my life?
• How can I pray for the Church during the conclave?

Discussion Questions:

• How did you receive the news of Pope Francis' passing?
• How can we live out Pope Francis' vision of the Church as a field hospital in our own lives?
• Which of Pope Francis' writings left an impactful impression on you?
• What's one word you would use to describe Pope Francis' legacy?

Quote to Ponder:

"Joy adapts and changes, but it always endures, even as a flicker of life born of our personal certainty that, when everything is said and done, we are infinitely loved." (Pope Francis)

Scripture for Lectio:

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." (Romans 15:13)

Sponsor - Glory: Women's Conference:

This week's episode is sponsored by the Glory: Women's Conference hosted by Steubenville Conferences and our very own Heather Khym! We want to invite you to join Heather, Michelle, and our dear friends Debbie Herbeck, Sarah Kaczmarek, Monica Richards, and Sarah Kroger who will be leading us in worship, this June 6-8 in Steubenville, Ohio as we gather with women across generations and seek God's presence.

We are just about one month out from the Glory: Women's Conference and tickets are still available! This is the first one and we want you to be part of it, especially since it's over Pentecost weekend and we know the Holy Spirit will be showing up in big ways.

The conference schedule will include talks, worship, prayer experiences, and the opportunity to interact with fellow Abiding Together listeners and new friends from all over who will be flying in. Heather and Michelle would absolutely love to meet you. Whether you come with your Abiding Together small group, with a close friend, or on your own, we can't wait to gather in fellowship with you.

Visit steubenvilleconferences.com/events/glory for more information or to register!

Timestamps:

00:00 - Glory: Women's Conference

01:10 - Intro

02:01 - Welcome

04:14 - How We Found Out

07:02 - His Funeral and the Upcoming Conclave

08:30 - A Grace-filled Time

09:54 - Evangelii Gaudium (Joy of the Gospel)

13:36 - The Church as a Field Hospital

15:52 - Revolution of Tenderness

18:26 - The Lord Deeply Cares for Us

19:48 - Dilexit Nos (The Sacred Heart)

20:27 - The Holy Spirit and the Holy Family

21:12 - His Lasting Legacy

26:08 - How Can We Pray?

29:52 - One Things

In this episode, we conclude our Lenten book study by focusing on the epilogue and sharing ideas on how to prepare for the Triduum. During Holy Week, our Lord invites us to join Him on His Paschal journey. We reflect on how He takes on our suffering, sin, and brokenness and brings them to the Father so that death may be destroyed forever. We also talk about the importance of remembering how God has transformed our lives, the call to "be not afraid", and how our Lord is restoring our deepest identities. You are in our prayers dear friends, and we will see you again in the Easter season!

Heather's One Thing - Glory: Women's Gathering (June 6th-8th 2025)

Heather's Other One Thing - The Pause App from Wild at Heart

Sister Miriam's One Thing - Peaceful Guitar Playlist from Spotify

Michelle's One Thing - Everything about Easter (the Liturgy, flowers, decorations…everything!)

Announcement:

We will be taking a two week break for Easter and will see you again on May 5th!

Journal Questions:

• Where do I need the Lord to grow my capacity?
• Where do I still need resurrection?
• What sorrowful places in my life need a reminder of the Lord's victory?
• Where in my life do I despise or push away or idolize my humanity?

Discussion Questions:

• How can you embrace a kingdom mindset this Holy Week?
• What has been your Jubilee story?
• How do you see your humanity as an obstacle rather than a gift to the world?
• How does the Lord want to personally and individually restore your humanity?

Quote to Ponder:

"There are ways of being crucified that do not involve rough wood and heavy nails, but a love beyond our capacity to love, which means a love that has been given to us by God." (Catherine Doherty)

Scripture for Lectio:

"The next day the great crowd that had come to the festival heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord, The King of Israel!" Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written: "do not be afraid daughter of Zion; look your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt."" (John 12:12-15)

Sponsor - Mary Powathil:

Mary Powathil, a Houston-based iconographer and fine artist, creates sacred artwork that invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Mary's work has been featured worldwide, at the National Eucharistic Congress, and even the upcoming Sugar Land Arts Festival. Her icons serve as windows into heaven and can be commissioned or printed. Mary also designs custom prayer books to help families grow in holiness through daily prayer. Her art truly can be used as tools for living a faith-filled life.

Visit www.marypowathil.com or follow her on Instagram @mkpcreates.

Use code ABIDE10 for 10% off your first order!

Commissions

Original Artwork for Sale

Prints for Sale

A Look at the Icon Design Process

Timestamps:

00:00 - Mary Powathil

01:25 - Intro

02:18 - Welcome

03:44 - Our Personal Resurrection Stories

05:24 - Do Not Be Afraid

08:10 - Speaking Truth

09:39 - Honor and Honesty

11:09 - Restoration of Our Deepest Identities

13:14 - The Importance of Remembering

15:13 - Humanity

17:11 - An Individual and Unique Love

17:49 - Pray for Priests and Holy Week Services

21:03 - The Tears that Fell

22:49 - One Things

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study and focus on chapter 9 and the conclusion. We reflect on the goodness of God and why we need not be afraid even when we do not understand what He is doing or how He is working in our lives. We also talk about how the Holy Spirit is like a salve to the wounds in our life, the importance of taking the authority we've been given by God, and why hungering and thirsting for God allows us to grow in intimacy with Him.

Heather's One Thing - Healing Prayers and Renunciations by Dr. Bob Schuchts

Sister Miriam's One Thing - Mango Salsa Recipe

Michelle's One Thing - The Way of Love by Marie Miller

Journal Questions:

• How can I make Jubilee a lifestyle?
• How does my heart respond to the unexpected works and movements of the Holy Spirit?
• Where in my life do I need to welcome the Holy Spirit?
• Where does the Lord want to liberate me?

Discussion Questions:

• How can you embrace the spirit of Jubilee and not the letter of Jubilee?
• How will you embrace the sacraments, pilgrimages, and indulgences this year?
• Where in your heart do you feel like you need to be cautious and protective with the Lord?
• What are the things in your life filling you with a false satiation?
• What are the graces you've received this Lent?

Quote to Ponder:

"For that reason, the Jubilee 2025 is a highly appropriate time for individuals and communities to enter more deeply into the life of the Holy Spirit." (Jesus and the Jubilee, John Bergsma, Page 111)

"What are some practical steps to bring jubilee into our hearts? How do we embrace the Spirit of jubilee and not the letter of jubilee? How do we make good use of 2025 and the years following? How do we make jubilee a lifestyle? How do we sustain liberty? There are three simple answers: sacraments, pilgrimages, and indulgences." (Jesus and the Jubilee, John Bergsma, Page 113)

Scripture for Lectio:

"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." (2 Corinthians 3:17)

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Timestamps:

00:00 - West Coast Catholic

01:30 - Intro

02:06 - Welcome

05:20 - Scripture Verse and Guiding Quote

06:20 - The Holy Spirit

08:40 - A Salve to Our Wounds

10:28 - He is Good

12:28 - In the School of the Holy Spirit

14:23 - Sacraments, Pilgrimages, and Indulgences

18:31 - Taking Authority

20:30 - Are We Hungry Enough?

22:44 - Stirring Up Hunger

24:44 - The Price of Liberation

27:40 - Graces Received During Lent

29:09 - One Things

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study and focus on chapters 7 & 8. We reflect on the many ways Jesus wants to make us whole, by exercising the evil out of our lives, forgiving our sins, and leading us to freedom. We also compare that to what the enemy is trying to do, make us feel alone, scatter the pieces of our heart, and bring us out of communion with each other and with God. Jesus wants to love us into healing and is waiting for our invitation. It is up to us to open the door and allow Jesus to enter ever deeper into our hearts.

Heather's One Thing - Authentic Masculinity and Intimacy with Jesus - A Pints with Aquinas Episode w/ John Eldredge (YouTube) (Spotify)

Heather's Other One Thing - Songs in the Desert Spotify Playlist

Sister Miriam's One Thing - March Madness

Michelle's One Thing - She Loved: Resting in the Beauty of Motherhood by Suzanne Bilodeau

Other Resources Mentioned:

• Daily Examen
• The Song "When I Forget" by Amanda Cook

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Journal Questions:

• Have I experienced the revelation of Christ's identity as the Messiah in a personal way?
• What little parts of my heart has the Lord been restoring this Lent?
• How has God been personally restoring my relationship with Him, exorcising me from evil, and bringing me into relationship with my neighbor?
• Spend time in prayer and meditate on the image of a door with locks on it. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you: What is the name of this lock?

Discussion Questions:

• How has my heart been pierced by this intricate story of salvation?
• What are you feasting on in relation to your fasting this Lent?
• "We all need exorcism." How do you see this truth in your own heart and life?
• Where can you invite the Holy Spirit into my heart for restoration?

Quote to Ponder:

"Even though he is God in the flesh and could organize his ministry in any way, notice that Jesus chose: (1) relationship with God, (2) exorcism of evil, and (3) relationship with neighbor. Deliverance flows from God, not man." (Jesus and the Jubilee, John Bergsma, Page 72-73)

Scripture for Lectio:

"Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (Matt 18:18)

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Timestamps:

00:00 - Heritage Retreat Center

01:23 - Intro

02:15 - Welcome

03:26 - Deliverance Comes from the Lord

04:59 - A World at War

07:19 - Back to Nazareth

08:48 - Bringing the Many Parts Together

10:15 - He is Who He Says He is

11:32 - A Continuous Liberation and Invitation

14:09 - The Arrows the Hit Our Soul

16:39 - We All Need Exorcism

19:28 - Feasting on the Holy Spirit

21:29 - The Power of Confession

25:36 - One Things