In this final episode of the series, CCAT Executive Director,  Agnes Thomas, sits down with Stephen Hurley to review what we've heard in this series. 

Drawing from the variety of perspectives brought by our series guests—from Ignatian spirituality to simple moments of gratitude and wonder—they discuss the integral role of silence, relationship, and communal prayer in building resilience and hope in challenging times. 

For more information about CCAT, be sure to visit their website: https://ccat.ca

In this episode we catch up with Fr. Joe Schner, Jesuit priest and retired professor of psychology at Regis College, to explore Ignatian spirituality and the practice of finding God in all things.

Fr. Joe Schner shares insights from his personal journey and decades of spiritual direction, discussing how prayer evolves over a lifetime, the significance of imagination in Ignatian prayer, and the transformative power of the Examen.

Discover practical advice for deepening your own prayer life and learn how both structured and contemplative prayer can nurture awareness of God’s presence in everyday life.

For more information about CCAT, be sure to visit their website: https://ccat.ca

In this episode of we welcome Karina Nytko, the 2024 recipient of the CCAT Father Paul Lennon/Doreen Cullen Social Work Scholarship, and a social work student at York University.

Karina shares her powerful journey, reflecting on how finding faith and purpose radically changed her life—from growing up in foster care, to transformative experiences at World Youth Day in Portugal and the Jubilee pilgrimage in Italy.

Karina reveals how her understanding of prayer has shifted from a family tradition to a personal and intentional practice, and how hope, resilience, and forgiveness shape her life and her relationships.

For more information about CCAT, be sure to visit their website: https://ccat.ca

In this episode we are joined by Brother Emile of the Taizé community in France. We explore the essence and experience of prayer, delving into the power of silence, the importance of community, and how faith traditions can shape personal spirituality.

Brother Emile shares wisdom from his life in Taizé and offers practical advice for deepening one's prayer life through all seasons of the year.

Discover how simplicity, trust, and song can transform the way we connect with God and each other.

For more information about the Taizé community, visit: https://www.taize.fr
For more information about CCAT, be sure to visit their website: https://ccat.ca

In this episode, host Stephen Hurley welcomes Julia Kozak, a member of the Nisg'a Nation, artist, storyteller, and the first Indigenous person to design vestments for a pope.

Julia Kozak shares her journey of weaving together her Catholic and Indigenous roots, reflecting on the importance of prayer, gratitude, and relationality in her daily life.

Listen as she discusses the profound connections between spirituality, creation, and community, and offers gentle wisdom for those seeking new ways to approach their prayer life.

For more information about CCAT, be sure to visit their website: https://ccat.ca

In this episode we welcome the Reverend Dr. Glenn McCullough—an ordained Presbyterian minister, registered psychotherapist, and professor at Emmanuel and Knox Colleges in Toronto. We take a  deep dive into the transformative power of prayer, exploring how contemplative practices and vivid dream experiences have shaped Dr. McCullough’s spiritual journey and ministry.

The conversation spans childhood memories of bedtime prayers, the profound impact of meditation and yoga, integrating dreams into faith practices, and advice for those feeling spiritually dry or seeking new inspiration.

For more information about CCAT, be sure to visit our website: https://ccat.ca

In this episode of Voices of Faith, we welcomes Sr. Sarah Rudolph for an enriching conversation about her journey to religious life, the power and practice of prayer, and the deep influence of Ignatian spirituality on her daily routine.

Sr. Sarah Rudolph shares her personal story of discerning her vocation, the challenges and surprises along the way, and how prayer has become the foundation of her sense of belonging to God and compassion for others.

We also discuss practical approaches to prayer for people in all walks of life, the impact of prayer on the world, and even a couple memories of childhood prayers that continue to resonate today.

For more information about CCAT, be sure to visit their website: https://ccat.ca

In the final episode of the "Guided by Faith, Leading with Grace" series, host Stephen Hurley welcomes back Agnes Thomas, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto (CCAT).

Together, they reflect on the lessons and insights gathered throughout the series on faith-based leadership, exploring what truly sets faith-rooted service apart and how leaders are called to serve all with compassion, humility, and radical hospitality.

Agnes shares personal stories, discusses the importance of presence, reflective action, and integrity, and offers meaningful advice for emerging leaders.

.For more information about CCAT, be sure to visit their website: http://ccat.ca

In this episode host Stephen Hurley sits down with Dr. Andrew Simone to explore the transformative journey of faith, humility, and service.

Dr. Simone shares the story of his early struggles with self-esteem, his awakening through the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, and the radical decision he and his wife made to dedicate their lives to helping the poor.

Listeners will hear how these experiences led to the founding of Canadian Food for Children and a lifelong commitment to faith-based leadership, simplicity, and direct action for those in need. The conversation highlights the challenges, inspirations, and impact of leading with purpose, compassion, and conviction in the service of others.

For more information about CCAT, be sure to visit their website: http://ccat.ca

In this episode of Guided by Faith, Leading with Grace we sit down with Fr. Dr. Matthew Durham, Executive Director of Hospice, Palliative Care, and Community Development at St. Elizabeth Health.

Father Durham shares his personal journey to ministry, the formative experiences that shaped his commitment to social justice, and his work leading the Journey Home Hospice for people facing homelessness and vulnerability.

The conversation explores the meaning of faith-based leadership, the challenges and rewards of balancing administrative duties with pastoral care, and the transformative power of compassion, integrity, and humility in serving marginalized communities.

Father Durham also reflects on the influence of mentors and Pope Francis, and offers insights for aspiring leaders dedicated to justice and dignity for all.

For more information about SE Health visit https://sehc.com/