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The Discerning Hearts Blog Archives - Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts episodes

August 13, 2025HSE3 – The Charism and Gift of St. Ignatius – The Heart of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola with Fr. Anthony Wieck S.J. – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

The Gift of Charism – The Heart of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola with Fr. Anthony Wieck S.J.
Fr. Anthony Wieck begins by situating St. Ignatius’ spiritual exercises in the context of Ignatius’ life and mystical experiences, noting that knowing his background helps one understand the gifts God entrusted to him for the whole Church. He recounts Pope Benedict’s view that certain charisms, such as Ignatius’, are so close to the heart of the Church they will endure. While the classic 30-day retreat is ideal, Fr. Wieck explains that Ignatian principles can still deeply shape one’s prayer life without a formal retreat. He likens Ignatius’ insights to removing “spiritual cataracts,” granting clarity in perceiving God’s work. Drawing on Fr. Hugo Rahner’s image of a triptych, he describes the first panel as “God above”—the ever-greater Trinity—highlighting Ignatius’ profound devotion to each divine person and his transformative Cardoner River experience, which gave him a symphonic vision of truth and instilled reverential awe and loving humility toward God.
The second panel centers on Christ, the God-man—Ignatius’ “Creator and Lord”—who perfectly manifests the fullness of God and mediates our relationship with the Father. Fr. Wieck emphasizes the importance of encountering Jesus in Scripture through Ignatius’ meditations and contemplations, entering into biblical scenes to understand what Jesus and those around Him experienced, rather than starting with self-reflection. This method personalizes prayer through “colloquies,” intimate dialogues with Christ or the saints. He notes that everything Jesus does reveals the Trinity, inviting us into the divine exchange of self-giving love. Such prayer fosters trust in God’s will, freeing us from our “puny grasp” on life and leading to deeper joy and flourishing beyond what our own plans could achieve.
Discerning Hearts Catholic Reflection Questions:
How can learning about St. Ignatius’ life and mystical experiences help you better receive the gifts God has given through his spirituality?
In what ways might you bring elements of the Spiritual Exercises into your daily prayer, even without a formal retreat?
How do you personally experience “reverential awe” before the ever-greater God in your prayer life?
When was the last time you prayed distinctly to each Person of the Trinity, and what happened in your relationship with God as a result?
How does reflecting on the Cardoner River experience inspire you to seek deeper clarity in discerning God’s truth?
What steps can you take to grow in loving humility, recognizing that you are not God yet are deeply loved by Him?
How might entering into a Gospel scene as if you were there change the way you relate to Jesus?
What is one area of your life where you need to release your “puny grasp” and trust the Father’s will more fully?
How can you practice receiving yourself and others as a gift, in imitation of the Trinitarian self-giving love?
What might God be inviting you to see or do differently when you view all of Jesus’ actions as revelations of the Trinity?
Fr. Anthony Wieck is a Jesuit priest of the Central & Southern province. Sixth of nine children, raised on a farm in Oregon, Fr. Anthony began religious life in 1994, spending his first five years of formation in Rome, Italy, studying at the Casa Balthasar and the Gregorian. The former was under the watchful patronage of Pope Benedict XVI (then-Card. Joseph Ratzinger). Fr. Anthony currently acts as retreat master at White House Jesuit Retreat in St. Louis, Missouri. He also offers spiritual direction at the St. Louis diocesan seminary for 25 future priests there.
The post HSE3 – The Charism and Gift of St. Ignatius – The Heart of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola with Fr. Anthony Wieck S.J. – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
28 min
August 11, 2025HIDT8 – Conference 8 – Hope in Difficult Times with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

Conference 8 – Hope in Difficult Times: with Sts. Therese, Louis, and Zelie and Their Family with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher recounts St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s compassionate outreach to Sister Maria of St. Joseph, a troubled nun often avoided by her community due to severe mood swings and emotional instability. Instead of joining in the avoidance, Thérèse intentionally sought her out, offering to assist in the linen room and patiently enduring her anger, all as a way of living her “casting flowers” spirituality—small acts of love and sacrifice offered to Jesus, who transforms them into blessings for the whole Church. While her words to the sister may sound poetic, Fr. Gallagher explains that beneath the tender imagery lies a steely, deliberate charity rooted in perseverance, humility, and the conviction that every small offering—especially in difficult relationships—has immense spiritual value when united to Christ.
Fr. Gallagher also reflects on Thérèse’s own explanation of “casting flowers” from Story of a Soul: never letting a single opportunity for love pass by, whether in smiles, patient endurance, or unnoticed sacrifices, and trusting Jesus to use them for the good of souls in purgatory and the Church on earth. The episode concludes with letters from Thérèse’s sister Léonie, showing how the Little Way shaped her own life. By the time of her final profession and even five weeks before her death, Léonie radiated the same trust, gratitude, and spiritual confidence, fully convinced that her littleness would lead her straight into the arms of Jesus.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
How can I respond with intentional love to those in my life who are difficult to be around?
When have I missed opportunities to offer small acts of kindness, and how can I be more attentive to them?
Do I truly believe that my smallest sacrifices, united to Jesus, have value for the whole Church?
In what ways am I tempted to avoid people who are isolated or struggling, and how might God be calling me to draw closer?
How do I practice perseverance in love when my efforts are met with ingratitude or rejection?
Can I see my own “littleness” as a path to greater trust in God, as Thérèse and Léonie did?
What “flowers” — daily acts of love — can I consciously offer to Jesus this week?
Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 15 different podcasts series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!
Fr. Gallagher obtained his doctorate in 1983 from Gregorian University. He has taught (St. John’s Seminary, Brighton, MA; Our Lady of Grace Seminary Residence, Boston, MA), assisted in formation work for twelve years, and served two terms as provincial in his own community. He has dedicated many years to an extensive ministry of retreats, spiritual direction, and teaching about the spiritual life. Fr. Gallagher is the author of six books (Crossroad) on the spiritual teaching of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
The post HIDT8 – Conference 8 – Hope in Difficult Times with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
30 min
August 11, 2025 Monday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

Monday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast
As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord.
Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over”
Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart…
From the Holy Gospel According to St. Matthew 17:22-27
One day when they were together in Galilee, Jesus said to his disciples, ‘The Son of Man is going to be handed over into the power of men; they will put him to death, and on the third day he will be raised to life again.’ And a great sadness came over them.
When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the half-shekel came to Peter and said, ‘Does your master not pay the half-shekel?’ ‘Oh yes’ he replied, and went into the house. But before he could speak, Jesus said, ‘Simon, what is your opinion? From whom do the kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their sons or from foreigners?’ And when he replied, ‘From foreigners’, Jesus said, ‘Well then, the sons are exempt. However, so as not to offend these people, go to the lake and cast a hook; take the first fish that bites, open its mouth and there you will find a shekel; take it and give it to them for me and for you.’
What word made this passage come alive for you?
What did you sense the Lord saying to you?
Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you:
One day when they were together in Galilee, Jesus said to his disciples, ‘The Son of Man is going to be handed over into the power of men; they will put him to death, and on the third day he will be raised to life again.’ And a great sadness came over them.
When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the half-shekel came to Peter and said, ‘Does your master not pay the half-shekel?’ ‘Oh yes’ he replied, and went into the house. But before he could speak, Jesus said, ‘Simon, what is your opinion? From whom do the kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their sons or from foreigners?’ And when he replied, ‘From foreigners’, Jesus said, ‘Well then, the sons are exempt. However, so as not to offend these people, go to the lake and cast a hook; take the first fish that bites, open its mouth and there you will find a shekel; take it and give it to them for me and for you.’
What did your heart feel as you listened?
What did you sense the Lord saying to you?
Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word:
One day when they were together in Galilee, Jesus said to his disciples, ‘The Son of Man is going to be handed over into the power of men; they will put him to death, and on the third day he will be raised to life again.’ And a great sadness came over them.
When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the half-shekel came to Peter and said, ‘Does your master not pay the half-shekel?’ ‘Oh yes’ he replied, and went into the house. But before he could speak, Jesus said, ‘Simon, what is your opinion? From whom do the kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their sons or from foreigners?’ And when he replied, ‘From foreigners’, Jesus said, ‘Well then, the sons are exempt. However, so as not to offend these people, go to the lake and cast a hook; take the first fish that bites, open its mouth and there you will find a shekel; take it and give it to them for me and for you.’
What touched your heart in this time of prayer?
What did your heart feel as you prayed?
What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord?
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
Amen
Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.
The post Monday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
11 min
August 10, 2025Are You a Faithful Servant? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast
Are You a Faithful Servant? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff
Msgr. John Esseff reflects on God’s promise of an eternal home, drawing from the story of Abraham as an example of trusting and following God’s word. The “promised land” given to Abraham foreshadows the true kingdom that Christ came to reveal — not an earthly territory, but eternal life in heaven. Earthly nations, possessions, and positions of authority are temporary, and those entrusted with leadership — whether in the Church, family, or public office — will be held accountable for guiding those under their care toward their heavenly inheritance. The Gospel passage urges readiness for the Lord’s return at any moment, living each day with the awareness that our true home is not in this world but in God’s kingdom of love and truth.
We need to examine our responsibilities and influence, no matter how hidden, and to lead others toward eternal life through example, prayer, and faithfulness. He challenges us to resist the pull of a secular mindset focused on this life alone, instead preparing hearts and communities for the life to come. God’s message is not one of fear, but of mercy, compassion, and hope — and to turn away from distractions and attachments, live with readiness, and guide His “little flock” toward everlasting joy, peace, and union with Him.
From the Gospel of St. Luke 12:32-48
“Jesus said to his disciples:
“Do not be afraid any longer, little flock,
for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom.
Sell your belongings and give alms.
Provide money bags for yourselves that do not wear out,
an inexhaustible treasure in heaven
that no thief can reach nor moth destroy.
For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.
“Gird your loins and light your lamps
and be like servants who await their master’s return from a wedding,
ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks.
Blessed are those servants
whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival.
Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself,
have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them.
And should he come in the second or third watch
and find them prepared in this way,
blessed are those servants.
Be sure of this:
if the master of the house had known the hour
when the thief was coming,
he would not have let his house be broken into.
You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect,
the Son of Man will come.”
Then Peter said,
“Lord, is this parable meant for us or for everyone?”
And the Lord replied,
“Who, then, is the faithful and prudent steward
whom the master will put in charge of his servants
to distribute the food allowance at the proper time?
Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so.
Truly, I say to you, the master will put the servant
in charge of all his property.
But if that servant says to himself,
‘My master is delayed in coming,’
and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants,
to eat and drink and get drunk,
then that servant’s master will come
on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour
and will punish the servant severely
and assign him a place with the unfaithful.
That servant who knew his master’s will
but did not make preparations nor act in accord with his will
shall be beaten severely;
and the servant who was ignorant of his master’s will
but acted in a way deserving of a severe beating
shall be beaten only lightly.
Much will be required of the person entrusted with much,
and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.””
Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:
How does Abraham’s trust in God’s promise inspire you to deepen your own faith in His plan for your life?
In what ways are you preparing daily for the “true home” Christ has promised in heaven?
Who is part of your “little flock,” and how are you leading them closer to God’s kingdom?
What earthly attachments might be distracting you from living for eternal life?
How can you use your position, influence, or relationships to witness to the hope of heaven?
When the Lord returns, what would you want Him to find you doing?
How can you make acts of mercy and compassion more present in your leadership and daily example?
What practical steps can you take this week to remind yourself and others that “this world is passing away”?
Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton. He was ordained on May 30, 1953, by the late Bishop William J. Hafey, D.D. at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Scranton, PA. Msgr. Esseff served a retreat director and confessor to St. Teresa of Calcutta. He continues to offer direction and retreats for the sisters of the Missionaries of Charity around the world. Msgr. Esseff encountered St. Padre Pio, who would become a spiritual father to him. He has lived in areas around the world, serving in the Pontifical Missions, a Catholic organization established by St. Pope John Paul II to bring the Good News to the world especially to the poor. Msgr. Esseff assisted the founders of the Institute for Priestly Formation and continues to serve as a spiritual director for the Institute. He continues to serve as a retreat leader and director to bishops, priests and sisters and seminarians, and other religious leaders around the world.
The post Are You a Faithful Servant? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
30 min
August 10, 2025 Sunday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast
Sunday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast
As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord.
Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over”
Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart…
From the Holy Gospel According to Luke 12:32-48
Jesus said to his disciples: ‘There is no need to be afraid, little flock, for it has pleased your Father to give you the kingdom.
‘Sell your possessions and give alms. Get yourselves purses that do not wear out, treasure that will not fail you, in heaven where no thief can reach it and no moth destroy it. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
‘See that you are dressed for action and have your lamps lit. Be like men waiting for their master to return from the wedding feast, ready to open the door as soon as he comes and knocks. Happy those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes. I tell you solemnly, he will put on an apron, sit them down at table and wait on them. It may be in the second watch he comes, or in the third, but happy those servants if he finds them ready. You may be quite sure of this, that if the householder had known at what hour the burglar would come, he would not have let anyone break through the wall of his house. You too must stand ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.’
Peter said, ‘Lord, do you mean this parable for us, or for everyone?’ The Lord replied, ‘What sort of steward, then, is faithful and wise enough for the master to place him over his household to give them their allowance of food at the proper time? Happy that servant if his master’s arrival finds him at this employment. I tell you truly, he will place him over everything he owns. But as for the servant who says to himself, “My master is taking his time coming,” and sets about beating the menservants and the maids, and eating and drinking and getting drunk, his master will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not know. The master will cut him off and send him to the same fate as the unfaithful.
The servant who knows what his master wants, but has not even started to carry out those wishes, will receive very many strokes of the lash. The one who did not know, but deserves to be beaten for what he has done, will receive fewer strokes. When a man has had a great deal given him, a great deal will be demanded of him; when a man has had a great deal given him on trust, even more will be expected of him.’
What word made this passage come alive for you?
What did you sense the Lord saying to you?
Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you:
Jesus said to his disciples: ‘There is no need to be afraid, little flock, for it has pleased your Father to give you the kingdom.
‘Sell your possessions and give alms. Get yourselves purses that do not wear out, treasure that will not fail you, in heaven where no thief can reach it and no moth destroy it. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
‘See that you are dressed for action and have your lamps lit. Be like men waiting for their master to return from the wedding feast, ready to open the door as soon as he comes and knocks. Happy those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes. I tell you solemnly, he will put on an apron, sit them down at table and wait on them. It may be in the second watch he comes, or in the third, but happy those servants if he finds them ready. You may be quite sure of this, that if the householder had known at what hour the burglar would come, he would not have let anyone break through the wall of his house. You too must stand ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.’
Peter said, ‘Lord, do you mean this parable for us, or for everyone?’ The Lord replied, ‘What sort of steward, then, is faithful and wise enough for the master to place him over his household to give them their allowance of food at the proper time? Happy that servant if his master’s arrival finds him at this employment. I tell you truly, he will place him over everything he owns. But as for the servant who says to himself, “My master is taking his time coming,” and sets about beating the menservants and the maids, and eating and drinking and getting drunk, his master will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not know. The master will cut him off and send him to the same fate as the unfaithful.
The servant who knows what his master wants, but has not even started to carry out those wishes, will receive very many strokes of the lash. The one who did not know, but deserves to be beaten for what he has done, will receive fewer strokes. When a man has had a great deal given him, a great deal will be demanded of him; when a man has had a great deal given him on trust, even more will be expected of him.’
What did your heart feel as you listened?
What did you sense the Lord saying to you?
Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word:
Jesus said to his disciples: ‘There is no need to be afraid, little flock, for it has pleased your Father to give you the kingdom.
‘Sell your possessions and give alms. Get yourselves purses that do not wear out, treasure that will not fail you, in heaven where no thief can reach it and no moth destroy it. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
‘See that you are dressed for action and have your lamps lit. Be like men waiting for their master to return from the wedding feast, ready to open the door as soon as he comes and knocks. Happy those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes. I tell you solemnly, he will put on an apron, sit them down at table and wait on them. It may be in the second watch he comes, or in the third, but happy those servants if he finds them ready. You may be quite sure of this, that if the householder had known at what hour the burglar would come, he would not have let anyone break through the wall of his house. You too must stand ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.’
Peter said, ‘Lord, do you mean this parable for us, or for everyone?’ The Lord replied, ‘What sort of steward, then, is faithful and wise enough for the master to place him over his household to give them their allowance of food at the proper time? Happy that servant if his master’s arrival finds him at this employment. I tell you truly, he will place him over everything he owns. But as for the servant who says to himself, “My master is taking his time coming,” and sets about beating the menservants and the maids, and eating and drinking and getting drunk, his master will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not know. The master will cut him off and send him to the same fate as the unfaithful.
The servant who knows what his master wants, but has not even started to carry out those wishes, will receive very many strokes of the lash. The one who did not know, but deserves to be beaten for what he has done, will receive fewer strokes. When a man has had a great deal given him, a great deal will be demanded of him; when a man has had a great deal given him on trust, even more will be expected of him.’
What touched your heart in this time of prayer?
What did your heart feel as you prayed?
What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord?
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
Amen
Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.
The post Sunday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
15 min
August 09, 2025IP#14 – Fr. Paul Hamans – Edith Stein and Companions on the Way to Auschwitz on Inside the Pages
Fr. Paul Hamans – Edith Stein and Companions on the Way to Auschwitz on Inside the Pages
In this episode of “Inside the Pages”, Fr. Paul Hamans discusses with Kris McGregor his book Edith Stein and Companions on the Way to Auschwitz, which chronicles the lives of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) and 113 other Catholic Jews who were martyred by the Nazis in retaliation for a pastoral letter written by Dutch bishops protesting the Nazi regime.
Fr. Hamans, a Church history professor in the Netherlands, reminds listeners of the importance of remembering these martyrs, whose sacrifices were both an act of faith and a stand against Nazi atrocities. He highlights the deep spiritual significance of these lives, their willingness to suffer for their faith, and the ongoing legacy of their witness. In addition, he addresses the impact of the Dutch bishops’ resistance, the persecution faced by Jewish converts to Catholicism, and the profound example set by Edith Stein and others who embraced their crosses in service to God and the Church.
You can buy a copy of the book here.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Sacrifice and Faith: How do the sacrifices of Edith Stein and her companions inspire you to deepen your own faith and commitment to Christ?
Witness of Martyrdom: What lessons can you draw from the courage of the Catholic martyrs in standing against injustice, even at the cost of their lives?
Legacy of Resistance: How does the Dutch bishops’ resistance to Nazi atrocities challenge you to speak out against modern-day injustices?
Spiritual Resilience: In what ways can you embrace and carry your own crosses in your daily life, following the example of these martyrs?
Hope in Eternal Life: How does the focus on eternal life, as emphasized by Fr. Hamans, influence your perspective on the challenges and sufferings you face?
From the Book’s Description:
“On the same summer day in 1942, Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) and hundreds of other Catholic Jews were arrested in Holland by the occupying Nazis. One hundred thirteen of those taken into custody, several of them priests and nuns, perished at Auschwitz and other concentration camps. They were murdered in retaliation for the anti-Nazi pastoral letter written by the Dutch Catholic bishops.
While Saint Teresa Benedicta is the most famous member of this group, having been canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1998, all of them deserve the title of martyr, for they were killed not only because they were Jews but also because of the faith of the Church, which had compelled the Dutch bishops to protest the Nazi regime.
Through extensive research in both original and secondary sources, P.W.F.M. Hamans has compiled these martyrs’ biographies, several of them detailed and accompanied by photographs. Included in this volume are some remarkable conversion stories, including that of Edith Stein, the German philosopher who had entered the Church in 1922 and later became a Carmelite nun, taking the name Sister Teresa Benedicta of the Cross.
Several of the witnesses chronicled here had already suffered for their faith in Christ before falling victim to Hitler’s “Final Solution”, enduring both rejection by their own people, including family members, and persecution by the so-called Christian society in which they lived. Among these were those who, also like Sister Teresa Benedicta, perceived the cross they were being asked to bear and accepted it willingly for the salvation of the world.”
About the Author
Fr. Paul Hamans is a diocesan priest in Roermond, Netherlands, where he teaches Church history at the seminary there. He has a doctorate in history from the University of Augsburg, Germany, and is an expert on the Dutch martyrs of the twentieth century. His other publications include History of the Catholic Church in the Netherlands.
The post IP#14 – Fr. Paul Hamans – Edith Stein and Companions on the Way to Auschwitz on Inside the Pages appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
30 min
August 07, 2025HSE2 – The Gift of Charism – The Heart of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola with Fr. Anthony Wieck S.J. – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

The Gift of Charism – The Heart of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola with Fr. Anthony Wieck S.J.
Fr. Anthony Wieck reflects on how St. Ignatius’ deepening relationship with God transformed him from a self-focused seeker of sanctity into a man whose identity became rooted in serving others. Ignatius’ spiritual growth involved a shift from personal ambition to openness—allowing the graces he received in prayer to bear fruit in the lives of those around him. His life mirrors the pattern of saints like Catherine of Siena, whose contemplative encounters with God led naturally into acts of service. Fr. Wieck highlights that true transformation involves a movement from interior conversion to active love, not through personal projects, but through discerned response to God’s promptings.
Fr. Wieck also emphasizes Ignatius’ fidelity to the Church, particularly through the story of his forced departure from the Holy Land, which shaped his path toward religious life. He speaks of Ignatius’ commitment to reform from within—helping Catholics rediscover Christ through the Spiritual Exercises. The exercises are not merely techniques but encounters with the living Christ who calls each soul to deeper surrender. Fr. Wieck warns against reactionary spiritual motives and instead invites listeners to focus on the heart of Jesus. By pruning distractions and growing in holy detachment, we become more available for God’s mission, living out our vocations with clarity and authentic zeal.
Discerning Hearts Catholic Reflection Questions:
How is God inviting me to move from self-focus to a life poured out in love for others?
In what ways do I experience the graces of prayer as something to be quietly received rather than immediately shared?
Am I willing to let God direct how and when I share spiritual gifts, or do I take initiative without discernment?
Do I approach my daily responsibilities with anxious striving, or with a Marian spirit of receptivity and cooperation with Jesus?
How do I respond when God’s will comes through imperfect human authority, as Ignatius experienced in the Holy Land?
Is my spiritual energy rooted in reaction against something, or drawn from love for Christ and His Church?
What areas of my life need “holy pruning” so that my actions bear lasting fruit for God’s Kingdom?
How might I be called to share in Christ’s thirst for the salvation of souls through my vocation?
Do I view the Church as the place where God forms and purifies me, even when that’s uncomfortable?
How is Jesus inviting me to deeper intimacy so that my zeal flows from union with His heart?
Fr. Anthony Wieck is a Jesuit priest of the Central & Southern province. Sixth of nine children, raised on a farm in Oregon, Fr. Anthony began religious life in 1994, spending his first five years of formation in Rome, Italy, studying at the Casa Balthasar and the Gregorian. The former was under the watchful patronage of Pope Benedict XVI (then-Card. Joseph Ratzinger). Fr. Anthony currently acts as retreat master at White House Jesuit Retreat in St. Louis, Missouri. He also offers spiritual direction at the St. Louis diocesan seminary for 25 future priests there.
The post HSE2 – The Gift of Charism – The Heart of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola with Fr. Anthony Wieck S.J. – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
27 min
August 07, 2025 Thursday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast
Thursday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast
As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord.
Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over”
Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart…
From the Holy Gospel According to Matthew 16:13-23
When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi he put this question to his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ And they said, ‘Some say he is John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ ‘But you,’ he said ‘who do you say I am?’ Then Simon Peter spoke up, ‘You are the Christ,’ he said, ‘the Son of the living God.’ Jesus replied, ‘Simon son of Jonah, you are a happy man! Because it was not flesh and blood that revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. So I now say to you: You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church. And the gates of the underworld can never hold out against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be considered bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall be considered loosed in heaven.’ Then he gave the disciples strict orders not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.
From that time Jesus began to make it clear to his disciples that he was destined to go to Jerusalem and suffer grievously at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, to be put to death and to be raised up on the third day. Then, taking him aside, Peter started to remonstrate with him. ‘Heaven preserve you, Lord;’ he said ‘this must not happen to you.’ But he turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle in my path, because the way you think is not God’s way but man’s.’
What word made this passage come alive for you?
What did you sense the Lord saying to you?
Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you:
When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi he put this question to his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ And they said, ‘Some say he is John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ ‘But you,’ he said ‘who do you say I am?’ Then Simon Peter spoke up, ‘You are the Christ,’ he said, ‘the Son of the living God.’ Jesus replied, ‘Simon son of Jonah, you are a happy man! Because it was not flesh and blood that revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. So I now say to you: You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church. And the gates of the underworld can never hold out against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be considered bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall be considered loosed in heaven.’ Then he gave the disciples strict orders not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.
From that time Jesus began to make it clear to his disciples that he was destined to go to Jerusalem and suffer grievously at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, to be put to death and to be raised up on the third day. Then, taking him aside, Peter started to remonstrate with him. ‘Heaven preserve you, Lord;’ he said ‘this must not happen to you.’ But he turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle in my path, because the way you think is not God’s way but man’s.’
What did your heart feel as you listened?
What did you sense the Lord saying to you?
Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word:
When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi he put this question to his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ And they said, ‘Some say he is John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ ‘But you,’ he said ‘who do you say I am?’ Then Simon Peter spoke up, ‘You are the Christ,’ he said, ‘the Son of the living God.’ Jesus replied, ‘Simon son of Jonah, you are a happy man! Because it was not flesh and blood that revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. So I now say to you: You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church. And the gates of the underworld can never hold out against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be considered bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall be considered loosed in heaven.’ Then he gave the disciples strict orders not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.
From that time Jesus began to make it clear to his disciples that he was destined to go to Jerusalem and suffer grievously at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, to be put to death and to be raised up on the third day. Then, taking him aside, Peter started to remonstrate with him. ‘Heaven preserve you, Lord;’ he said ‘this must not happen to you.’ But he turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle in my path, because the way you think is not God’s way but man’s.’
What touched your heart in this time of prayer?
What did your heart feel as you prayed?
What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord?
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
Amen
Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.
The post Thursday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
13 min
August 06, 2025When Was Your Transfiguration? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast
When Was Your Transfiguration? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff
Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the mystery of the Transfiguration and its deep personal meaning for every Christian. Just as Jesus was transfigured on Mount Tabor in preparation for the suffering of Calvary, each Christian also experiences moments of radiant grace that prepare them to endure life’s inevitable trials. These moments are signs of the glory to come and serve as encouragement for the journey through suffering, death, and eventual resurrection with Christ.
Msgr. Esseff shares stories of individuals—including a father holding his newborn son, a radiant bride, his own ordination day, and a Peruvian street child named Walter—to illustrate how such moments reveal the divine presence and joy amid the hardships of life. We should reflect on our own lives to recognize these transformative experiences, which often go unnoticed amid modern distractions and lack of interior reflection.
From the Gospel of St. Mark 9:2-10
“Jesus took Peter, James, and John
and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves.
And he was transfigured before them,
and his clothes became dazzling white,
such as no fuller on earth could bleach them.
Then Elijah appeared to them along with Moses,
and they were conversing with Jesus.
Then Peter said to Jesus in reply,
“Rabbi, it is good that we are here!
Let us make three tents:
one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
He hardly knew what to say, they were so terrified.
Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them;
from the cloud came a voice,
“This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.”
Suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone
but Jesus alone with them.As they were coming down from the mountain,
he charged them not to relate what they had seen to anyone,
except when the Son of Man had risen from the dead.
So they kept the matter to themselves,
questioning what rising from the dead meant.”
Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:
When have you experienced a moment in your life that felt like a “Mount Tabor” — a glimpse of God’s glory?
What “cross” are you being asked to carry right now, and how might God be preparing you through it?
Have you taken time recently to reflect on the sacred events in your life where God’s presence was unmistakable?
In what ways has suffering deepened your relationship with Christ?
Who or what has helped you see God’s love during your darkest moments?
Can you identify a moment when you were transformed by love, beauty, or grace?
How do distractions in your daily life keep you from reflecting on God’s work in your story?
Have you ever resisted suffering, thinking only of pain, and missed the invitation to glory within it?
What role does silence and prayer play in helping you remember God’s faithfulness?
How might your story—both the joys and the trials—be a witness to Christ for others?
Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton. He was ordained on May 30, 1953, by the late Bishop William J. Hafey, D.D. at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Scranton, PA. Msgr. Esseff served a retreat director and confessor to St. Teresa of Calcutta. He continues to offer direction and retreats for the sisters of the Missionaries of Charity around the world. Msgr. Esseff encountered St. Padre Pio, who would become a spiritual father to him. He has lived in areas around the world, serving in the Pontifical Missions, a Catholic organization established by St. Pope John Paul II to bring the Good News to the world especially to the poor. Msgr. Esseff assisted the founders of the Institute for Priestly Formation and continues to serve as a spiritual director for the Institute. He continues to serve as a retreat leader and director to bishops, priests and sisters and seminarians, and other religious leaders around the world.
The post When Was Your Transfiguration? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
31 min
August 06, 2025 St. Clare of Assisi Novena – Day 5 – Discerning Hearts podcasts

Day 5
From a letter to Ermentrude of Bruges
O dearest, look on heaven that invites us, and bear the cross and follow Christ who preceded us; indeed, after various and many tribulations we shall enter through him into his glory. Love with your whole heart God and Jesus, his son, crucified for our sins, and never let his memory escape your mind; make yourself mediate continually on the mysteries of the cross and the anguish of the mother standing beneath the cross.
Dear St. Clare,
As a young girl, you imitated your mother’s love for the poor of your native Assisi.
Inspired by the preaching of St. Francis, who sang enthusiastically of His Lord Jesus and Lady Poverty, you gave your life to Jesus at nineteen years of age, allowing St. Francis to cut off your beautiful hair and invest you with the Franciscan habit.
All through your life you offered your great suffering for your Sisters, the Poor Clares, and the conversion of souls. You greatly aided St. Francis with his new order, carrying on his spirit in the Franciscans after his death.
Most of all you had a deep love of Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament, which fueled your vocation to love and care for the poor.
Please pray for me (mention your request) that I will seek to keep Jesus as my first love, as you did. Help me to grow in love of the Blessed Sacrament, to care for the poor, and to offer my whole life to God.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of St. Clare. Through her intercession, please hear and answer my prayer, in the name of Jesus Your Son.
Amen.
For the complete novena visit the St. Clare Novena Discerning Hearts Page
The post St. Clare of Assisi Novena – Day 5 – Discerning Hearts podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
3 min

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