Living LIT

Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas one of Emily's amazing recipes for you to try this week. In this episode we’re pulling up a chair at the Catholic table with author, speaker, cook and hostess Emily Stimpson Chapman. Emily has a brand-new cookbook/Hospitality guide out called Around the Catholic Table, and it’s so much more than recipes—it’s an invitation into the heart of Catholic hospitality.

Hospitality is something we all long for and need. It’s what makes our homes warm, our friendships deeper, and our faith tangible. And as Catholics, it’s a reflection of the Eucharist—the great feast where Christ welcomes us to His table.

In our conversation, Emily shares why hospitality matters so much, what makes it uniquely Catholic, and some beautiful, practical ways we can foster it in our own homes—without stress, without perfectionism, and with great joy. You’ll be inspired to open your doors a little wider, enjoy the company of friends and family, and rediscover the sacred beauty of sharing a meal.

Whether you’re preparing a feast or setting out simple snacks, this episode will inspire you to see your home as a reflection of God’s generous love—and to practice hospitality in the little church you call home.

emilystimpsonchapman.com to find Emily

Stpaulcenter.com where you can find Emily's new cookbook/hospitality guide--as well as many other books Emily has written

Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas one of Emily's amazing recipes for you to try this week.: https://www.emilystimpsonchapman.com/post/cheesy-chicken-enchiladas?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email

It’s time to live November LITurgically!

In this episode of Living LIT—Living in Truth, Robyn walks through the Top 5 Catholic Feast Days of November—and how you can bring them to life right at home.

From the great Feast days of All Saints and All Souls, to the inspiring witness of St. Martin of Tours and St. Cecilia, and the glorious celebration of Christ the King, Robyn shares the meaning behind each feast, why the Church celebrates them, and simple, joy-filled ways to honor them within your Domestic Church-the Little Church You call Home.

Plus—stick around for a special bonus celebration in November: Catholic New Year’s!

Whether you’re new to liturgical living or looking for fresh ideas, this episode will help you and your family live in rhythm with the Church’s calendar, grow closer to Christ, and celebrate the beauty of our faith all month long.

You’ll hear about:

1. Why each feast is significant in the life of the Church
2. 
   
3. Creative and meaningful ways to celebrate them in your home
4. 
   
5. How these days help us live more intentionally and joyfully in Christ
6. 
   

Robyn on Instagram

Celebrating All Saints & All Souls Day in the home | Living Lit

Celebrating St Martin of Tours in the Home Instagram

530: Memento Mori... Remember Your Death! | Ignition

529: The Mercy of Purgatory | Ignition

All Saints Guessing Jars: 12 more for 2024 - Shower of Roses Blog

Prayer for the Poor Souls in Purgatory | EWTN

Celebrating Christ the King - YouTube

In this fun and faith-filled episode of Living LIT—Living in Truth, Robyn sits down with Meg Hunter-Kilmer, creator of the beloved Saints Around the World children’s book series. Meg’s contagious enthusiasm for the saints shines through as she shares how their stories can inspire hearts of all ages—helping us see that there truly is a saint for everyone and every occasion (even the obscure ones!).

Together, Robyn and Meg dive into why the saints matter—not as replacements for Christ, but as radiant reflections of His love and holiness. Through their examples, we discover how the saints can draw us closer to Jesus, deepen our faith, and help us experience the fierce & tender love of the Heavenly Father.

Whether you’re new to the saints or already have a few favorites, this conversation will leave you smiling, inspired, and eager to grow closer to Christ through the lives of our friends in Heaven.

Saints Around the World books: https://stpaulcenter.com/search?q=saints%20around%20the%20world&type=store

Follow Meg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mhunterkilmer/

Meg's blog & website Meg Hunter-Kilmer: A speaker and blogger covering Catholic apologetics and Christian morality and prayer: https://www.piercedhands.com/

In this episode of Living LIT—Living In Truth, Robyn sits down with Shari from Catholic Paper Goods to chat about one of their favorite saints—Saint John Paul II. Together, they dive into who this beloved and joy-filled pope really was, his deep love for Jesus, Mary and the Church, and how his powerful witness continues to shape our faith today.

From his courage in defending truth and human dignity to his ability to connect with people of every age and nation, Saint John Paul II showed the world what it looks like to live fully alive in Christ. His life and leadership transformed the Church and left a legacy that still echoes through every generation of believers.

Robyn and Shari reflect on his lasting impact and the beauty of his legacy within the Church.

Shari also shares the story of how Catholic Paper Goods came to be—a ministry born from her love for the faith and creativity, helping others bring beauty, truth, and joy into their everyday lives through her designs and products.

Find Shari at Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/catholicpapergoods/

Catholic Paper Goods: https://www.catholicpapergoods.com/

St John Paul 2 bundle Pope Saint John Paul II Mini Activity Bundle: 12 Pages Catholic Kids Printable Games for Homeschool & Classroom - Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4390443311/pope-saint-john-paul-ii-mini-activity?etsrc=sdt

In this episode of Living LIT, Robyn celebrates the life and legacy of St. John Paul II — the Pope of the Family. Discover who he was, what he gave the Church, and how his teachings still speak powerfully to the heart of the home. From the call to live as a Domestic Church (the family), St. John Paul II continues to inspire us to live in truth, love fully, and open wide the doors to Christ.

Join Robyn as she reflects on what it really means to live as the domestic church—where Christ’s light is kindled in the heart of the home and shines outward into the world. It’s a reminder that the renewal of the Church and the world begins right where we live: around our own kitchen tables.

Robyn also shares practical ideas on celebrating his feast day at home, sharing his words with your kids (while enjoying cream puffs), and carrying his “Be not afraid” spirit into everyday family life.

Catholic Cuisine: Kremówka Papieska - Papal Cream Cake: https://catholiccuisine.blogspot.com/2011/04/kremowka-papieska-papal-cream-cake.html

In this episode of Living LIT—Living in Truth, Robyn sits down with Tony Menke, from the Catholic Community Foundation for Eastern South Dakota to talk about how the Foundation serves the Church, supports parishes and ministries, and impacts lives across our diocese.

The Foundation exists to help Catholics live and leave a lasting legacy of faith—connecting the blessings God has entrusted to us with the needs of the Church and our communities, both now and for generations to come. Through stewardship, they help ministries flourish and ensure the light of faith continues to shine far into the future.

Robyn also shares a behind-the-scenes story of how the Foundation is supporting the Living LIT Apostolate through a grant she received—an experience she describes as “a Catholic-Christian version of Shark Tank—only with prayer, discernment, and the Holy Spirit leading every decision.” It’s like a Catholic take on Shark Tank–you share your mission and ministry before a board that prayerfully discerns how to invest in ministries making an impact, and instead of sharks, there’s a board guided by prayer and discernment.

Together, Robyn and Tony reflect on how we can all be part of building a legacy of faith

This episode will open your eyes to the incredible work happening right here in our diocese—and remind you that when we give, we truly live lit, letting the light of Christ shine through stewardship, generosity, and faith in action.

Give back to the Catholic community: https://ccfesd.org/

In this Living LIT episode, I’m joined by Catherine Rose, author of A Return to Beauty, to talk about the grace, dignity, and joy of embracing feminine beauty as a reflection of God’s design.

Catherine shares her personal journey of rediscovering what it means to dress with purpose and reverence — not for vanity’s sake, but as a way to honor God and our bodies. From her decision to wear dresses full-time to her reflections on how clothing can shape our hearts and habits, Catherine invites us to see how beauty truly evangelizes.

We chat about:

* The story behind her book A Return to Beauty

* How her conversion of heart led to dressing “up” for Christ

* Why beauty and modesty belong together

* How reclaiming our feminine identity can transform our homes and witness in the world

This conversation will leave you inspired to rediscover the sacred in the simple — even in what you wear — and to live every day as an expression of truth, goodness, and beauty in the little church you call home.

Be inspired to Live LITurgically—from your heart to your home, and yes, even your wardrobe.

A Return to Beauty: Ancient Catholic Wisdom and Modern Fashion: Rose, Catherine: 9798281890021: Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/Return-Beauty-Ancient-Catholic-Fashion/dp/B0FH5VNN7K/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1P2FNPA81CNG4&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.PBfwI1ZeuGTcwQom_7tGFZAaVSpcJGlEnSdV_OKd-1nGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.9JVfB9EjMOTWcQ8h1dpZ20mGepvJc252jaZZwU1Ub-c&dib_tag=se&keywords=a+return+to+beauty+catherine+rose&qid=1759950458&sprefix=a+return+to+bea%2Caps%2C162&sr=8-1

Follow Catherine at: https://www.instagram.com/areturntobeauty/

When you hear “St. Francis of Assisi,” do you picture a statue tucked in a garden? While that’s a common image, St. Francis was so much more—a radical follower of Christ, a lover of creation, and a man whose joy and simplicity still speak powerfully to us today.

In this episode of Living LIT, we’ll explore:

Who St. Francis really was beyond the garden statue.

Why the Church celebrates his feast on October 4th.

His deep love for poverty, peace, and God’s creation.

How your family can celebrate St. Francis at home: pet blessings, animal cookies, bird feeders, and time outdoors.

A special reflection about my dear friend Sr. Judy, a Franciscan sister whose order helped found Mayo Clinic.

References:

Picture Book of Saints Picture Book of Saints: Illustrated Lives of the Saints for Young and Old: Lawrence G. Lovasik: https://www.amazon.com/Picture-Book-Saints-Lawrence-Lovasik/dp/0899422357/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2EAQNLH2ICNAO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VzhfmVjZ4evI4VUe0glvuVthqyiT1v1CMNl2jXKqQcrWkbLhRmBYnsy__DD1kwhoswH08KDqbdH1lmbuNkcRRMs0mtJ3Iy9NqR3yMmZtAxdRxT_63S2M9JbkDvW9DsflFP6ZFynK1R4un2jBiSq8yrP2zw7wUHMeyZEQczz9rd9avC-xOR9mwYxDfI49DQDcGX496aEK9xvx3VFnzXkLuA6po8og0tzC1JJGxOx5SLw.BFQFw5Tshx2F_thuEb60-M_p7UQ0zhq1fzfIHFGLoew&dib_tag=se&keywords=picture+book+of+saints&qid=1759332577&sprefix=picture+book+of+saints%2Caps%2C159&sr=8-1

Robyn Living LIT on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynlivinglit/

On October 2, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Holy Guardian Angels—a beautiful reminder that God loves us so much, He gave every single one of us a personal guardian angel. In this episode of Living LIT we celebrate this feast, the Scripture behind it, and how we can teach even our littlest ones to love and pray to their guardian angel (set to the tune of Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star!). Plus, discover some fun ways to bring the feast into your home, like enjoying angel food cake and praying the Guardian Angel prayer as a family.

Your guardian angel is always by your side—so let’s celebrate this heavenly helper together!

Angel moment story on this episode: The Celebrate Plate: A Family Tradition Born from Grace and Gratitude: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKuZuNIf0Ok&list=PLqSqcaJSjAjbntIdwue-lafCDC3rX9hfH&index=27

Robyn Living LIT on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynlivinglit/

September 29th is the Feast of the Archangels—St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael. These mighty messengers of God remind us that we are never alone in the spiritual battle and that heaven is always close at hand.

In this episode of Living LIT, Robyn explores who the archangels are, why the Church celebrates them, and how St. Michael in particular powerfully defends and protects us. You’ll learn practical ways to celebrate the Feast of the Archangels in your home—from prayers and traditions to family-friendly liturgical living ideas—so that your little church (home) can enter into the beauty of this feast.

**I forgot to mention in the podcast that we also Celebrate St Michael’s feast day with Devil’s food cake & deviled eggs. :)

Follow Robyn on IG: https://www.instagram.com/robynlivinglit/

Dr Burgwald & Robyn chat about St Michael more in depth in this Ignition archive episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1a95smL7Nc&list=PLqSqcaJSjAjac-QUMpppZWPG316qGvlC7&index=23