The Springs in the Desert Podcast: Catholic Accompaniment Through Infertility

We welcome back Chris O'Neill, Director of Marriage and Family Life for the Archdiocese of New Orleans, to help deepen our understanding and awareness of the Church's teaching on In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). With the increasing use of IVF, we dive into where the Church gives guidance on this topic, reflect on the good, holy, and healthy desire for children, and begin to discuss some of the concerns with this Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). 

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Whether it's month after month of negative pregnancy tests, getting off a call with a doctor's office about results, or even receiving the good news that a friend is expecting, we've all found ourselves in some pretty intense and often challenging moments. Licensed counselor, Clare Kane, chats with Jillian and Cassandra about how we can live through these moments, digesting the news, yet not letting that news consume us.

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During the month of June, we are focusing on that daily decision of surrendering and entrusting our lives to God. But how do we practically do that? Jillian and Katie provide some insight on how to develop a strong prayer life, because it's during that time with God, we really get to know Him and listen to all that he wants to tell us.

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Katie Zalany is 38 years old, married and lives in Cleveland Ohio. She is a Third Order Secular Franciscan (OFS), certified spiritual director, benefits/wellness leader, certified health and life coach, and an active volunteer with St. Vincent de Paul ministry and The Fruitful Hollow ministry for infertility. She is the creator of the ministry Women in Waiting | Made for Fruitfulness and is the published author of Called to Corporate.

As we close out May, the month of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Jillian and Katie reflect on Mary's example of fruitfulness as it stems from her relationship to God. Just like Mary, we are beloved sons and daughters of the God the Father and Mary, Our Mother of Sorrows, is our blueprint for living a faithful, fruitful life.

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As we recently finished our successful 'Cherished' retreat in Phoenix, we wanted to explore the idea of a retreat on the podcast this week. Jillian and Cassi help us understand what a retreat is, what it does for us, and how to make one whether it be at a retreat center or simply in the comfort of our own home. We would also love to bring a retreat to your town so please share this episode with your Diocesan leaders so we can help build a community for you locally. You are not alone!

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Since last week we heard about how husbands can support their wives in a season of infertility or loss, we thought it fitting this week to hear about what women can do to support their husbands on this journey. Jillian welcomes back psychotherapist and theologian, Clare Kane, on the podcast to chat about some of the best ways wives can walk alongside their husbands as they carry the cross of infertility together.

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With Mother's Day around the corner, we wanted to bring the husband's out there some great advice on how best to walk alongside their wives who may be struggling on this day. Ian Duran joins our host, Jillian, to share what he has found to be helpful for his wife on a day that can be filled with emotions. Let us know of any other ways you've been supported on Mother's Day and feel free to share the below resources with your Pastor!

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We warmly welcome Leigh Snead on the podcast this week to talk about the topic of feminine fruitfulness. Leigh is a well known writer, radio host, and speaker who shares with Jillian her ideas on the topic of feminine fruitfulness. Leigh reminds us that although homemaking and creating things are beautiful, you don't have to "do" anything for your fruitfulness to shine forth. You have so much to offer this world!

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You might be asking yourself why we've decided to talk about trauma during this month of April when we have been focusing on hope and new beginnings, but there is an important connection we want to share. We welcome back psychotherapist and theologian, Clare Kane, to explain what trauma really is, how it can manifest itself, and what you can do about it.

We've arrived at the third and final minisode of our theological virtues series, this time focusing on the virtue of Love. Father Paul joins Ann to begin unpacking what love really is, and spoiler alert, it's not what the world will try and tell you or sell you. The great news for us is that real love is so much deeper because it involves Jesus!

Want to "up your game" with love? Do this fun exercise - and share your experience with us:

Try replacing the word “love” in St. Paul’s list of characteristics with your own name, and your spouse’s.

How do you measure up? Where can you improve?