In this episode of Psalms for the Spirit, I’m joined by Brendan McManus, a Jesuit priest from Lisnaskea, Northern Ireland. After years in the computer industry, Brendan felt a deeper call that led him into the Jesuits and into a lifelong exploration of Ignatian spirituality, pilgrimage, and finding God in everyday life. He now serves as a spiritual director, retreat leader, and author of Finding God in the Mess and other works rooted in hope and discernment.

Brendan reflects on how the Psalms have shaped his own journey—from the joy of Psalm 139’s reminder that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made,” to the cry of Psalm 130’s “Out of the depths,” and the trust of Psalm 23’s walk through the valley of darkness. He shares stories from the Camino de Santiago—times of deep encounter and unexpected struggle—and the wisdom that emerged from injury, loss, and renewal.

“When life feels like a storm, keep walking. Look at your feet and trust that God is on the path with you.”

This episode invites you to embrace the pilgrimage of your own life ~ to find God not in perfection, but in the sacred mess of the journey itself.

Featured Song:

Psalm 23: The Lord’s My Shepherd

This beloved psalm, describing God shepherding us through green pastures and dark valleys, is set to the well-known air, “The Parting Glass.”

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