What does it truly mean to surrender to God?
In this meaningful episode of Medicine, Motherhood & Missions, we welcome author Paul E. Cranley to discuss his book,
Marian Confirmation Companion: In-Home Program for Confirmation Candidates and Sponsors,
and the timeless relevance of Mary’s life for believers today.
Together, we explore Marian devotion,
Confirmation preparation, spiritual mentorship, and the courage it took for a young Mary to say yes to God’s plan —
despite uncertainty and fear.
As Mother’s Day approaches,
this conversation also reflects on motherhood, grief, spiritual longing,
and the hope available through faith.
Whether you are a mother, missing your mother, longing to become one, mentoring the next generation, or simply searching for deeper trust in God,
this episode offers encouragement and perspective.
My prayer is that wherever you find yourself today, you would find hope —
and allow God to fill every void with His love and presence.
In This Episode:
- Mary reminds us: Faith is not having every answer.
- Faith is trusting the One who does.
- The inspiration behind Marian Confirmation Companion
- Mary’s courage, surrender, and trust in God
- What Mary teaches both men and women
- Motherhood, grief, and spiritual hope
- How to surrender uncertainty to God
- Learning to say yes to God’s purpose
About Our Guest
Paul E. Cranley is the author of Marian Confirmation Companion,
a 20-week in-home program for Confirmation candidates and sponsors rooted in Scripture, prayer, Marian consecration, and discipleship.
Paul graduated from Xavier University in 1971 with a B.S. in Chemistry and from the University of Kentucky in 1974 with a Master’s in Chemistry and Business.
He has been a volunteer teacher for over 40 years in many aspects of Parish Religious Education, including Boy Scouts,
First Communion, Confirmation, High School CCD, RCIA/OCIA, Young Adult Ministry and Adult Retreat ministries such as
Life in the Spirit, Christ Renews His Parish, ACTS, and Kairos Prison Ministry. Paul served as a Confirmation Sponsor seven times during these years.
Paul has personally consecrated himself to Our Blessed Mother yearly for each of the last 30 years and has led over 300 others through 33 Day Consecration programs.
Paul and Nancy have been married 50 years and have four children and eight grandchildren.
Book:
The Blessed Mother as a Companion for the Sacrament of Confirmation.
A How-To guide for both Candidates and Sponsors.
website: www.unitedheartsdaycalendar.com
Connect & Share
If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend, parent,
Confirmation candidate, sponsor, or someone walking through uncertainty and searching for hope.
Johanna Moses, PA-C, MPH, is a physician assistant, author, and podcast host passionate about helping others live with purpose and courage.
With years of experience practicing medicine and serving patients in clinical settings, Johanna brings a unique perspective that bridges healthcare, faith, leadership, and personal growth.
She is the host of the podcast Medicine, Motherhood & Missions, where she shares meaningful conversations on medicine, calling, and impact, and the author of the children’s book series Little Evie’s Big Dreams.
Through her work in medicine and storytelling, Johanna encourages others to pursue their calling, lead with compassion, and dream beyond limitations.
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