Abiding Together

Things We Learned From Our Moms In this episode we honour Mother's Day and talk about some essential things we learned from our mothers. We discuss what they have taught us about joy and suffering, and how they revealed the face of God to us. We also chat about how God wants to heal and restore broken relationships with our mothers. Sister Miriam's one thing - Esther Marie Angel! Congratulations to Jackie and Bobby! Michelle's one thing - The Given Forum is doing a 4-day Online Conference! Discover the Gift, June 10-14th Heather's one thing - Salmon Wellington, so you can have one, simple, awesome-looking meal! Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry, softened to room temperature1 salmon fillet no skin, bones removed (I get mine from Costco)salt & pepper to tasteFresh lemon juiceOptional fresh dill1 egg, beaten Instructions: Preheat oven to 425 Rinse salmon and pat dry. Lightly flour a large cutting board bigger than the salmon. Roll out the puff pastry wide enough that it will cover both sides of the salmon. (Or use puff pastry sheets) Place the salmon in the middle of the pastry (the best side facing down) and season both sides with salt and pepper (optional dill) and squeeze fresh lemon juice over one side of the salmon. Fold the edges of the puff pastry over the salmon starting with the longer sides and gently press together to seal. Trim any excess pastry from the ends, then fold the ends on top of the salmon. Flip the puff pastry-wrapped salmon over and transfer for a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if you have it. Brush the beaten egg on the top and sides of the pastry. If you feel fancy, score the top of the pastry with a knife, cutting shallow diagonal lines to create a crosshatch pattern, but do not cut through. You need the pastry to be sealed with no holes if possible. Brush the top again with the egg wash. Place on middle rack of the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until pastry is golden brown. I love to make this with a warm lemon dill sauce on the side, roasted potatoes and a Greek salad. Sponsor: Walking with Purpose Walking with Purpose publishes Catholic Bible studies that help women and girls open their hearts to Christ. One of the most personal and transformative studies from WWP is Fearless and Free, an 11-lesson study on healing and wholeness, based on Ephesians. Fearless and Free helps you identify the lies that mess with your identity, and to replace them with the truth of Scripture. You'll discover how to get a grip on your thoughts and develop emotionally healthy habits. This is an invitation to bring your tangled, complex heart into an encounter with God's healing touch. Learn more at http://wwp.today/fearless. Click here to enter to WIN a copy of the Walking with Purpose Bible study Fearless and Free! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What have you learned from your mother that you are grateful for? How has your mother taught you to suffer or handle sorrowful things? What has your mother revealed to you about the face of God? Who are other people in your life who have shown you Motherhood? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Proverbs 31:30-31 What does it speak to you personally? How well do you honor your mother? In the places where your mother has not revealed the face of God to you, what is the truth of who God is? Are there places in your relationship with your mother that need to be restored? Quote to Ponder - "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you." Exodus 20:12 Scripture for Lectio Divina - Proverbs 31:30-31 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.Honor her for all that her hands have done,and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Seized by Beauty (with Bishop Robert Barron) In this episode, we have the distinct pleasure of having Bishop Robert Barron as our guest. We talk about everything from how he takes his coffee to experiences of beauty that lift us beyond the natural to a transcendent encounter with God. We also discuss how to engage with the culture and extract what is good, true, and beautiful, so that we can not only relate, but be relevant in our mission of evangelization. Sister Miriam's one thing - Friends of the Bridegroom: For a Renewed Vision of Priestly Celibacy by Marc Cardinal Oullet (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK) Michelle's one thing - St. Catherine of Siena: The Mystic by Fr. Paul Murray (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK), and the NFL draft. One of my favorite players went #7 in the draft - Derrick Brown, Auburn Heather's one thing - My dear parents and having them move in next door. Bishop Barron's one thing - The ESPN documentary on the Chicago Bulls: The Last Dance Additional Resources: Civilisation - Kenneth Clark (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK) Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man - James Joyce (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK) Meeting with Artists - Pope Benedict XVI Heather Khym will be a featured speaker at the TOB Virtual Conference, happening free online May 8-10! Register today to get a Premium Pass and have access to the talks after the conference is over. Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What is your first memory of encountering beauty? Share some experiences of beauty you've encountered in the culture! What secular movie scene made you think about the Christian life or God? What are you most passionate about right now? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:11 "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end." What does it speak to you personally? How can you make time each day to pause and look for beauty? What are some things you find beautiful? What do they teach you about Who God is? Quote to Ponder - The truly beautiful doesn't submit to our little whims and our little preferences. The truly beautiful stops you in your tracks and seizes you and takes control of you and doesn't let you go. - Bishop Robert Barron Scripture for Lectio Divina - Ecclesiastes 3:11 "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end."

Living in the Light of Victory (with Fr. Justin Brady) In this episode we have brought back special guest Fr. Justin Brady to talk about how to live in the victory of the resurrection. Fr. Justin is a priest and exorcist and shares some wonderful insights into how to live from a place of friendship with God and find victory in our relationship with Jesus as friend and savior. We also discuss aligning our hearts with the truth of who we are in light of God's merciful love. Sister Miriam's one thing - The garden Michelle's one thing - Beautiful weather! (and walks) Heather's one thing - The best sticky buns ever. These sticky buns are amazing! The recipe is from our local bakery Duft and Co. It's a commitment of time, but so worth it. Would love to see a photo of these in our facebook group if you make them. Here are photos from when my son made them. To watch the tutorial click here. For the dough 3 3/4 cup Flour2 tsp Salt1/2 tsp Baking Powder1/2 tsp Baking Soda1/2 cup Sugar2 Eggs1 cup Milk1/4 cup Vegetable Oil1/2 cup Butter (soft)1 tsp Vanilla Extract1 pkg (8g) Active Dry Yeast2 tbsp Water2 tbsp SugarA greased 9x13 glass baking dish Mix dry yeast, 2 tbsp of sugar and 2 tbsp of lukewarm water in a small bowl. Let sit to bloom for 10 minutes. Using your stand mixer and dough hook, mix all dry ingredients until combined, then add all of the remaining ingredients including the yeast mixture. Mix on medium speed for 7 minutes, and a smooth dough forms. Put your dough in an oiled bowl and cover with cling film or a tea towel, and leave to proof for 1 - 2 hours (until doubled in size) in a warm area. After it has risen, make your caramel. Sticky Bun Caramel (goes in the bottom of the glass baking dish before the rolls go in) 3 tbsp Cream1 cup Brown Sugar1/4 cup Butter1/4 cup Maple SyrupSalt to taste Bring all ingredients to a boil over medium heat. Boil for 2 minutes while stirring continuously. After 2 minutes, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before using. Then pour into the bottom of your glass baking dish(I added a bunch of chopped pecans after pouring in the caramel - yum!) Sticky Bun Filling (goes on top of the dough before you roll it) 1/3 cup Butter (melted and cooled slightly)1/2 cup Sugar3/4 cup Brown SugarCinnamon to taste After the dough has risen, place it on a lightly floured large cutting board or counter. It's pretty soft dough, so add a bit of flour on top. Roll it out with a rolling pin into a rectangle, about 3/4inch thick. approximately 2 hands high x 3 hands wide. Pour melted/cooled butter over the dough completely. Keep the top inch with only butter for sealing the roll later. Sprinkle white sugar over it all, then the brown sugar, then sprinkle very generously with cinnamon and press it down gently all over. Start rolling the dough along the long side, the buttered inch should be at the top and rolled last. Roll it tightly, by pulling the dough slightly toward you as you roll. Get a serrated knife and cut the ends off, not needed. Cut the roll dough in half, then each of those pieces into half, then each of those pieces into thirds. Place rolls on top of the caramel mixture in your glass dish, 4x3. Cover with plastic wrap and let this sit for 1 hour. Then bake at 350F for approx 30 - 40 mins. Take them out of the oven and let them cool for about 20 minutes, then flip them out onto a cookie sheet or large cutting board with parchment for easy clean up. Fr. Justin's one thing - (Besides The Mustache) The Communio I've experienced in isolation Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What does friendship with God look like for you? How can you grow in friendship with Him? What do you focus on more often, what you've been deprived of or what you have? How can you practice remembering what God has done, in your life and in the world? Where is the Fiat God is inviting you to make today? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: 1 Cor 15:55-57. What does it speak to you personally? How can you spend time to deepen your friendship with Jesus? Take a moment to answer God's question: Where are you? Are you with me? Where can you take authority in your life to claim the victory? Quote to Ponder - "No one, however weak, is denied a share in the victory of the cross. No one is beyond the help of the prayer of Christ." —St. Pope Leo the Great Scripture for Lectio Divina - "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. - 1 Cor 15:55-57

Pope Francis' Easter Message In this episode we talk about Pope Francis's Easter homily. We discuss the themes of not being paralyzed in the midst of fear, overcoming self protection, the power in choosing to do the next right thing, and practicing resurrection in our lives. Small acts of love and receiving the gift of hope can be the game changers we need in this season. Sister Miriam's one thing - Heather Khym's playlist, "Hallelujah is our Song" Michelle's one thing - The series The Chosen (Watch the trailer) Heather's one thing - Stephanie Gretzinger's new song, "Center of all History". The song "Peace" by Bethel Resources: The text of Pope Francis' Easter Vigil Homily Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What was a little hidden "Easter egg" that you found this year? In this cloistered time, how will you take silence to hear God speak to you, so you can emerge a resurrected person? What are small gestures of care, affection, and prayer that you can make this week? What are the stones you place in front of hope? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Matthew 28:1-7. What does it speak to you personally? Put yourselves in the position of one of the women throughout the Passion narrative. How do you react? What is the mountain that overwhelms you? How can you focus on the next right step? What are the places that you self protect and possibly miss out on a gift that God wants to give you? Quote to Ponder - "Jesus' hope is different. He plants in our hearts the conviction that God is able to make everything work unto good, because even from the grave he brings life." - Pope Francis Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 28:1-7 When the sabbath was over,Mary Magdalene, Mary, the mother of James, and Salomebought spices so that they might go and anoint him.Very early when the sun had risen,on the first day of the week, they came to the tomb.They were saying to one another,"Who will roll back the stone for usfrom the entrance to the tomb?"When they looked up,they saw that the stone had been rolled back;it was very large.On entering the tomb they saw a young mansitting on the right side, clothed in a white robe,and they were utterly amazed.He said to them, "Do not be amazed!You seek Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified.He has been raised; he is not here.Behold the place where they laid him.But go and tell his disciples and Peter,'He is going before you to Galilee;there you will see him, as he told you.'"

Divine Mercy In this episode we talk about the incredible gift of Divine Mercy! We talk a little bit about St. Faustina and our Lord's revelations to her about his ocean of mercy. We also discuss what a lack of trust looks like and what the stumbling blocks are to trusting in the heart of Jesus. Sister Miriam's one thing - Tacos! Michelle's one thing - The Diary of St. Faustina (links below) Heather's one thing - The Be Not Afraid Conference from Stacey Sumereau Resources: Purchase The Diary of St. Faustina via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What does a lack of trust look like for you? Do you trust the Lord with yourself? Do you trust him with the people you love? Where do you feel difficulty depending or relying on others? How trustworthy are you? How can you grow in being trustworthy? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Jeremiah 17:7-8. What does it speak to you personally? Inviting the Lord to come with you, look at the places where you find it difficult to trust? What lies did you believe that made trust difficult for you? What new way is Jesus trying to show you? How can you cooperate with him? What does it mean to say, "Jesus, I trust in You"? Where do you say "Jesus, I trust in You, except…" Quote to Ponder - "There is nothing more man needs than Divine Mercy – that love which is benevolent, which is compassionate, which raises man above his weakness to the infinite heights to the holiness of God." - St. John Paul II Scripture for Lectio Divina - "But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." - Jeremiah 17:7-8

Holy Week: The Stations of the Cross In this episode we decided to pray through the Stations of the Cross, found in St. Faustina's Diary. During Holy Week, we wanted to take this opportunity to quiet our hearts and reflect on our Lord's suffering and death, so we can enter in more fully. We hope that you will use this as a prayer resource and pray with your families or on your own. Sponsor: The Hallow app Hallow is a Catholic prayer and meditation app that helps us deepen our relationship with Christ through 5-30 minute, audio-guided contemplative prayer sessions. Think Headspace or Calm, but authentically Catholic. The app includes everything from Lectio Divina on the daily Gospel, to the Rosary, to daily Examens, to meditations focused on preparing for bed in the evening (including Night Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours), to minute meditations for moments of temptation or thanks, and much more. In the app, you'll find a session focused on spiritual communion for the many separated from physical Mass during a time of crisis, as well as praylists for a variety of spiritual needs, like being "Stuck at Home", or seeking patience or healing. Hallow currently offers daily Lenten meditations, and is currently producing meditations for Palm Sunday and the Easter Triduum. You'll find lectio divina with Mass readings, Spiritual Communion, Holy Hours, chant, and more. Get an extended free trial of the app for 3 months! using promo code: Abide Resources St Faustina's Way of the Cross Chaplet of Divine Mercy The Divine Mercy Novena Discussion questions: What part of the Stations of the Cross spoke to you? How can you enter into Holy Week in a new way this year? What does it mean to you, that Jesus suffered and died for you, so that you could be with Him in heaven forever? Journal Questions: Reflect and pray on Mt 26:40 "Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, "So, could you not stay awake with me one hour?" How can you keep watch with Jesus during Holy Week? Quote to Ponder - "Do not be afraid of sufferings; I am with you." - The Diary of St. Faustina (151) Scripture for Lectio Divina - "Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, "So, could you not stay awake with me one hour?" Mt 26:40

Epilogue: Living the Painting In this episode we finish up our 6 part series on the book The Return of the Prodigal Son and talk about "Living the Painting". We talk about how much of our healing happens in the context of community and relationship. We also discuss the process of bringing home parts of ourselves that live far away from God. Each of us have places that need to be welcomed home and as we heal, we are able to offer a home coming to the lost places in others. Sister Miriam's one thing - Unbreakable Heart by JJ Heller Michelle's one thing - Mother by JJ Heller, The Greenhouse Collective, and my really big keychain! Heather's one thing - You Alone by Lauren Daigle Sponsor: Monk Manual The Monk Manual 90 Day planner is inspired by monks, backed by science, and made for busy women like you. Progress isn't always gained through new methods and ideas. Sometimes it's in rediscovering the time-tested and proven methods of the past. Today, science proves that habits practiced by monks lead to human flourishing and wellbeing. The Monk Manual is built off the idea that Monks are the most productive people in the world. Monks know that productivity isn't about doing more things, it's about doing the most important things well. As foreign as the way of a monk may seem, it turns out to be a highly practical path to a fulfilled life. The Monk Manual helps you bring the way of the monk into your daily life by focusing you on the most important things so you can live each moment with greater purpose, productivity, and presence. Whereas most planners emphasize doing, the Monk Manual is designed to help you grow in both being and doing every day. The daily, weekly, and monthly pages each serve a specific purpose to help you: - Focus on the truly most important things.- Experience a greater sense of peace and purpose in your daily life.- Gain personal insight and clarity, all while achieving your goals.- Find and achieve your higher purpose. For 20% off your purchase of Monk Manual, use promo code: together Bonus: If you've been impacted by COVID-19 and find yourself needing a little help easing the transition and bringing some order to your students' or children's lives, in addition to getting the Monk Manual for yourself you can also download free planning pages for students and/or weekly lesson planning pages for parents and teachers. Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. With this episode, we're wrapping up, but you can do this book study any time! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a journal and a mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created especially for this Lenten book study. An online conference for all those who are anxious, afraid, bored, spiritually starving, or isolated. An opportunity to turn isolation into a fruitful retreat. Building deeper trust in God instead of a Netflix binge. A chance to grow spiritually this Lent, even for those without Mass. This is the Be Not Afraid Conference! Sister Miriam, Heather, and Michelle are three of the amazing speakers who are giving talks and reflections. Sign up today! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What places do you feel uncertain and need the reassurance of God the Father? Can you relate to the experience of having parts of you that you don't "welcome home"? How can you begin to care for those parts of you? What is a "sophisticated defense" you may need to leave behind? What titles are you called to live further into (sister, mother, wife, daughter etc)? What does growth in those areas look like? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally this last time? How vulnerable are you allowing yourself to be in relationships? Are you opening up to the point that the ugliness can come out, and you can begin to receive healing within the safety of a community? Where are you unwelcoming to yourself? Ask Christ to reveal to you how He sees you. What does he say? What younger part of yourself is lost and needs to be welcomed home? Quote to Ponder - "Everything in me yearned to be received in the way the prodigal son was received. That encounter turned out to be the beginning of my own return." - Henri Nouwen Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

Becoming the Father In this episode, we continue with Part 5 of our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son and discuss "Becoming the Father". Many of us have heard the invitation to live as daughters and sons of God, but most of us haven't heard the invitation to become the father/mother. We will always be children of God, but we are simultaneously invited to mature into becoming a spiritual mother and father, providing, comforting, nurturing others in selfless ways. We also discuss how God wants to heal our idea of who He is and the places we didn't get what we need so that we can be a more pure example of His love for others. Sister Miriam's one thing - The Heart: An Analysis of Human and Divine Affectivity by Dietrich von Hildebrand (Link for Canada. Link for UK.) Michelle's one thing - True Devotion to the Holy Spirit by Archbishop Luis Martinez (Link for Canada. Link for UK.), Shannon from ChewsLife Heather's one thing - My new Return to the Father's Love playlist on Spotify. Floodgates by The Sations Additional Resources Heather loves you, so she made a playlist for you! This is to help accompany you in your prayer with the book study - Return to the Father's Love playlist on Spotify. Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. You can still join us! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a new journal and a new mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created just for this Lenten book study! An online conference for all those who are anxious, afraid, bored, spiritually starving, or isolated. An opportunity to turn isolation into a fruitful retreat. Building deeper trust in God instead of a Netflix binge. A chance to grow spiritually this Lent, even for those without Mass. This is the Be Not Afraid Conference! Sister Miriam, Heather, and Michelle are three of the amazing speakers who will be giving talks and reflections, starting March 20th, 2020. Sign up now! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What are the masks that I have put on God the Father? What is paralyzing you from coming close to the Father, or letting him come close to you? What does it look like when you yourself live out the qualities of "the Father"? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally this time? What do the eyes of the Father look like when He looks at you? What is it that you need to grieve? Quote to Ponder - "Be compassionate as your Father is compassionate." - Henri Nouwen Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

The Father In this episode, we continue with Part 4 of our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son and talk about God the Father. We discuss the failure of earthly and spiritual fathers and how God wants to restore our understanding of His fatherhood. We also talk about the mercy of the Father, the invitation to receive His blessing, and how the Father's heart burns for us to come home to Him. Sister Miriam's one thing - Come Out of Hiding - Stephanie Gretzinger and Celebrate Me Home - Kenny Loggins Michelle's one thing - Marie Miller's New Album - Little Dreams (Watch the video here!) and the Mother Teresa sticker from @redeemed_free Heather's one thing - Family and community (And hey, Louisiana!!) Sponsor: ChewsLife The mission of Chews Life is to equip all Catholics with the Rosary for life! They create beautiful and practical rosaries with unique features to bring the rosary into your daily life. Chews Life silicone and gemstone products are dreamed, designed, and made by a team of amazing Catholic mamas in West Michigan, USA. The rosary will save the world. Check out some Chews Life rosaries! Use code "AbidingTogether10" for a 10% discount! Additional Resources Heather loves you, so she made a playlist for you! Return to the Father's Love playlist on Spotify. Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. You can still join us! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a new journal and a new mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created just for this Lenten book study! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? How can you create space to hear the Father speak blessing to you? What are the words of blessing God wants you to hear in this moment? In light of all the abuses in the Church, how can you yourself "lean in in love" rather than letting discouragement drive you away from God? How does God need to restore your understanding of Him as a loving, faithful Father? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally this time? What are areas of your life where you believe the lie thatGod must be irritated with you? Do you imagine God as speaking blessing or condemnation toward you? When your models of fatherhood have failed you, how has that affected your sense of God as Father? What is God trying to tell you about himself as Father? Quote to Ponder - "As Rembrandt approached death, he chose to portray a very still Father who recognizes his son not with the eyes of the body, but with the inner eye of his heart." - Henri Nouwen Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

The Elder Son In this episode we continue with Part 3 "The Elder Son", from our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. We discuss how the elder son is also lost and in need of a homecoming because in his heart, he too is far away from the father. The struggles of the elder son are within all of us when we compare, feel like we are owed something, consider ourselves worthy because of our religious actions or adherence to the rules, and when we resist the loving embrace of God the Father. Sister Miriam's one thing - Prenatal Development video Michelle's one thing - Auburn's men's basketball Heather's one thing - Our Quit Talking to the Dang Snake mug! Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. You can still join us! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a new journal and a new mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created just for this Lenten book study! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? Which son do you identify with more? What are the signs in your own life that show that you're living fully alive in the Lord? What about when you're not? What practical things help you grow in the discipline of gratitude and trust? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally this time? Do you feel God is holding out on you in some area? How can you trustingly surrender that to him? What are the bitter places you hear in your speech? What deeper issue are they pointing to? Quote to Ponder - "Joy and resentment cannot coexist." - Henri Nouwen Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

The Younger Son In this episode we continue with Part 2 of our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. We talk about the places within ourselves that, like the younger son, are living in a distant land, far from the love of God the Father. We discuss how often we search for unconditional love outside of God and are left heartbroken. We long to hear His voice speak healing to our souls that we are His beloved on whom His favor rests. Sister Miriam's one thing - Joan of Arc Michelle's one thing - Ruah Storytellers podcast Heather's one thing - Patreon patrons and our listeners around the world! Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. You can still join us - we're just getting started! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a new journal and a new mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created just for this Lenten book study! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What are the ways you experience longing for Heaven? Where have you gone looking for "distant countries"? What are the voices you listen to that call you from home? What are the vulnerable places, where your faith in being Beloved is fragile? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally this time? What do you think about the idea that Heaven is your home? Where, right now, do you need God to speak into? Where are you still striving or self-protecting? Recall the confidence and security of Henri Nouwen's "litany" of what it means to be the Beloved. Create your own Litany of the Beloved! "As the Beloved, _____" Quote to Ponder - "Home is the center of my being where I can hear the voice that says: 'You are my Beloved, on you my favor rests.'" - Henri Nouwen Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

The Story of Two Sons and Their Father In this episode, we kick off our 6-part Lenten book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen, beginning with the Prologue and Introduction. We chat about our identity as children of God, the mercy of the Father, and how God uses art and beauty to speak to us. We explore the idea of home and a homecoming, which speaks of our deep desire for heaven. We also talk about how often fear and self protection keeps us from experiencing the healing love of the Father. Sister Miriam's one thing - Dentists! The unsung heroes. Michelle's one thing - The Instagram accounts @OodsofGlutes (from Allie at @Oodlesofdoodles) and @Oodsofflutes Heather's one thing - Ruth Stricklin from New Jerusalem Studios Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. You can still join us - we're just getting started! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a new journal and a new mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created just for this Lenten book study! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What does the idea of "home" mean to you? Have you ever had an experience where beauty led you to the divine? Share about it! How are you taking steps on the journey toward the embrace of the Father? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally? Does the thought of vulnerability and the embrace of God make you feel at peace or uneasy? Do you find yourself to be an observer in your own story? Where and how can you "dare to step into the center, kneel down, and let [yourself] be held by a forgiving God?" Quote to Ponder - "'Coming home' meant, for me, walking step by step toward the One who awaits me with open arms and wants to hold me in an eternal embrace." - Henri Nouwen Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

The Power of Holy Hour In this episode we have our dear friend Fr. Josh Johnson back on the podcast to discuss how to have a fruitful Holy Hour. Through his humor and reflections, Fr. Josh shares practical tools as well spiritual insights about how to pray in silence and grow in intimacy with Jesus. Fr. Josh's one thing - The Liturgy of the Hours Sister Miriam's one thing - Calming Christian playlist on Spotify Michelle's one thing - Priscilla at The Little Catholic shop Heather's one thing - The movie The Peanut Butter Falcon Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by The Little Catholic shop. The main objective of The Little Catholic shop is to evangelize through beauty. The medals are handmade in Southern California. Beauty has a powerful ability to draw people to the Church, whether it be the sound of prayers, the beautiful stained glass windows of a church, or the kindness of another person. The Little Catholic Shop wants to provide the kind of beauty that heals to each person who sees or wears their pieces. Use promo code Abide15 for 15% off the store. Additional Resources The Pocket Guide to Adoration by Fr. Josh Johnson. Listeners in Canada, shop here. Listeners in the UK, shop here. Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study will be The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop is open! Take a peek at some of the fun new things we have for you, including the "Quit talking to the dang snake" mug! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? Do you make adoration a regular practice? Why or why not? What has been your experience of adoration? What are some ways you've learned to avoid distraction in adoration? What are some ways you like to pray in adoration? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Jeremiah 19:12-14. What does it speak to you personally? Take some time in adoration this week: What do you hear the Lord saying to you while you spend time with Him? What's holding you back from spending time in adoration? How do you think the Lord wants to respond to that? Quote to Ponder - "Spend one hour each day in adoration of your Lord. Never do anything you know is wrong. Follow this and you'll be fine." ― St. Teresa of Calcutta to Henri Nouwen Scripture for Lectio Divina - Jeremiah 19:12-14: "Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the Lord.

Gathering People In this episode we discuss how to gather people and lead a fruitful discussion. We are meant to live in community and have depth and joy in our relationships, but sometimes we don't know where to start or how to go deeper. We chat about how to have meaningful conversations and live in an open-hearted way with others. We also discuss lots of practicals and how to grow in the gift of hospitality. Sister Miriam's one thing - The Bridegroom by Rivers and Robots Michelle's one thing - my husband Chris Heather's one thing - The Ungame Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by The Little Catholic shop. The main objective of The Little Catholic shop is to evangelize through beauty.The medals are handmade in Southern California. Beauty has a powerful ability to draw people to the Church, whether it be the sound of prayers, the beautiful stained glass windows of a church, or the kindness of another person. The Little Catholic Shop wants to provide the kind of beauty that heals to each person who sees or wears their pieces.Use promo code Abide15 for 15% off the store. Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study will be The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop is open! Take a peek at some of the fun new things we have for you, including the "quit talking to the dang snake" mug! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What are your hesitations in extending invitations or offering hospitality to others? What are the questions you need people to ask you about your journey? How can you be more intentional in creating space for the people in your life? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Hebrew 10:24-25. What does it speak to you personally? Who have you been neglecting in your life, or what friendship can you invest in more fully? How well do you listen to the people around you? How attentive are you? How can you grow in that? Quote to Ponder - "We have all known the long loneliness and we have learned that the only solution is love and that love comes with community." ― Dorothy Day Scripture for Lectio Divina - Hebrew 10:24-25 - and let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Made For Mission - Recorded Live from FOCUS SLS Conference This week is a special episode of Abiding Together that we recorded in front of a live audience at the FOCUS SLS conference in Phoenix, Arizona. This episode is packed full of wisdom, inspiration, and a challenge to personal holiness. We chat about leadership, mission, making a whole hearted yes, regaining your voice, falling in love with Jesus, and living an unmasked life. Sister Miriam's one thing - all of our listeners live at SLS! Michelle's one thing - SLS and Curtis Martin's "Yes", and all the great apostolates out there. Heather's one thing - Like a Fire by Sean Feucht & Steffany Gretzinger and the movie Little Women Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by The Given Institute. Learn more about the 2020 GIVEN Catholic Young Women's Leadership Forum taking place June 10-14, 2020 in Washington, D.C. at the Catholic University of America! The GIVEN Forum provides leadership training, faith formation, and mentoring to young adult Catholic women, ages 21-30, with a heart for mission and an aptitude for leadership. It is designed to help them identify their particular gifts and find practical pathways to put them in the service of the Gospel through their profession or vocation. Applications for young adults are now open! The early bird deadline is February 3, 2020 at midnight. Extended deadline for Round 2 Review, as well as for Mentor applications for lay leaders and religious sisters, is March 1, 2020. Discover the gift that only you can give, because of the gift that you are! Announcements!The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study will be The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? Do you have trustworthy friends who you can be authentic with? Are you that friend for others? What would it look like for you to live an unmasked life? Where do you feel Satan has tried to steal your voice? Where are you feeling lost or afraid, and how can you "put yourself in a position to be found" by God? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture. Jeremiah 1: 4-9 - What does it speak to you personally? What false layers do you need to take off? Where are you wrestling with something that's too big for you (but not for God)? Where is the Lord asking you to be brave this year? Quote to Ponder - "We do not want a church that will move with the world. We want a church that will move the world."- G.K. Chesterton Scripture for Lectio Divina - Jeremiah 1:4-9 The word of the Lord came to me, saying,"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,before you were born I set you apart;I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." "Alas, Sovereign Lord," I said, "I do not know how to speak; I am too young."But the Lord said to me, "Do not say, 'I am too young.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the Lord.Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant."

The Barrenness of Winter In this episode we talk about the barrenness of winter and how the seasons are often reflected in our spiritual and emotional lives. We explore how to have hope and perspective in times when things are hidden and dormant and how to allow our roots to go deeper into our relationship with Christ. Sister Miriam's one thing - Trader Joe's Michelle's one thing - If You Want Me To by Ginny Owens Endow - Edith Stein (St. Teresa of Benedicta): Seeker of Truth Book Study Heather's one thing - You Make Me Brave (Acoustic Version) by Josie BuchananNothing Else by Cody Carnes Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study will be The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop is open! Take a peek at some of the fun new things we have for you, including the all new "quit talking to the dang snake" mug! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What parallels do you see between the natural seasons and the seasons of the spiritual life? How do you take a "holy pause"? What are the places you're afraid are too barren for God to make fruitful? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Proverbs 31:25. What does it speak to you personally? Has there been a time when you tried to cling to something that had run its course? What are the barren places in your life that you can pour out before the Lord like Hannah? Quote to Ponder - "For just as the body is clothed in its garments, and the flesh in its skin, and the bones in their flesh, and the heart in its body, so too are we, soul and body, clothed from head to foot in the goodness of God." —Julian of Norwich, Revelations of Divine Love Scripture for Lectio Divina - Proverbs 31:25 - She is not afraid of the snow for her household, For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

Good Soil In this episode we break open the parable of the sower and the seeds. We chat about how we can cultivate good soil in our hearts where seeds can grow and bear good fruit. We also talk about the practicals of what makes up rocky ground that chokes out goodness and what makes up the fertile soil, where God can bring forth life and abundance. Sister Miriam's one thing - Undone: Freeing Your Feminine Heart from the Knots of Fear and Shame by Carrie Schuchts Daunt Michelle's one thing - Higher Love - Kygo, Whitney Houston Heather's one thing - The team building my house from Tundra Developments Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study will be The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop is open! Take a peek at some of the fun new things we have for you, including the all new "quit talking to the dang snake" mug! Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Pilgrimage to Beauty. Their mission is to create a transformative experience of true rest and retreat, for couples or individuals wired for adventure. Pilgrimage to Beauty believes that traversing the world, cultures and even our own street can teach us so much. Gaining knowledge of other peoples and lands gives us a genuine curiosity to learn and experience even more of what the world has to offer. Their aim is to give you a unique once in a lifetime experience that transforms and renews your spirit, no matter your vocation or state in life. Their next trip is to Guatemala in March 2020, so check it out quickly! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What is the terrain of your heart? What does the soil in your life look like right now? Where do you need to dig in the dirt and let God bring in His light and cultivate the soil? What do I need to steward well in my life and what do I need to prune back? What are the weeds that need to be pulled out in my heart? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Matthew 13. What does it speak to you personally? What are the thorns that choke the good seed in your life? Where do you need to seek the true face of Jesus? What is the fruit being born in your life? What do you think God is trying to show you about your soil? Quote to Ponder - "Learn the lesson that, if you are to do the work of a prophet, what you need is not a sceptre but a hoe." ― St. Bernard of Clairvaux Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 13: The Parable of the Sower That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. Whoever has ears, let them hear." The disciples came to him and asked, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?" He replied, "Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. This is why I speak to them in parables: "Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it. "Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but

Repost: Striving vs. Abiding We chose to repost this episode from Season 1 because it is a message at the heart of the Abiding Together Podcast. Many of us live a life of striving and struggle, rather than accepting the invitation of abiding and trust. We take time to reflect on the scripture John 15:4-5, where Jesus invites us to abide in His love. We also chat about how we can recognize the pitfalls of striving and how to learn to trust that God is a good Father. Sister Miriam's one thing - Daring Greatly by Brene Brown Michelle's one thing - the movie Hidden Figures Heather's one thing - signs from The House of Belonging Additional Resources: Shepherd by Bethel Undivided by Stu Garrard (feat. Amanda Cook) Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Pilgrimage to Beauty. Their mission is to create a transformative experience of true rest and retreat, for couples or individuals wired for adventure. Pilgrimage to Beauty believes that traversing the world, cultures and even our own street can teach us so much. Gaining knowledge of other peoples and lands gives us a genuine curiosity to learn and experience even more of what the world has to offer. Their aim is to give you a unique once in a lifetime experience that transforms and renews your spirit, no matter your vocation or state in life. Their next trip is to Guatemala in March 2020, so check it out quickly! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What do the terms abiding and striving mean to you? What seed do you hear God calling you to cultivate slowly right now? What motivates you to strive and grasp instead of abiding and trusting in God? What is one thing you can do this week to abide more deeply in God? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: John 15:4-5. What does it speak to you personally? Where are you striving and where are you abiding? Where do you struggle with self-reliance? Quote to Ponder - This self-reliance was what destroyed me. - St. Teresa of Avila Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 15:4-5: Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.

Word of the Year In this episode we reveal and discuss our word of the year. A few years ago, we each began the practice of praying and listening for the Lord to give us one word to focus on for the new year. It's an opportunity to dive in to what God is speaking in our individual lives and respond in intentional ways. Sister Miriam's one thing - Love Come To Life - Melissa Helser & Molly Skaggs Michelle's one thing - Divine Romance - Phil Wickman, Jill Simons at Pink Salt Riot Heather's one thing - Every Sacred Sunday Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Pink Salt Riot. Check out their jewelry, print pieces, gifts, and more! Order your own custom Word of the Year pieces to keep a personal reminder close to you every day. Definitely also check out the quarterly subscription box, The Joy Box, which is designed for sharing. Abiding Together listeners get 10% off the whole shop (including quarterly subscriptions, excluding yearly subscriptions) with code: abidewithme Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? Did you have a Word of the Year this past year? How did it shape you and your relationship with God? What is your Word of the Year for the upcoming year? If you don't have one yet, how can you make time to talk to God about it this week? How do you ask God to reveal your Word of the Year to you? Which saints are choosing you this year? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Isaiah 43:19. What does it speak to you personally? What "new thing" do you hear God calling you into this year? What spiritual journey has been the Lord been taking you on through your past Words of the Year? Quote to Ponder - "Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.― Saint Mother Teresa Scripture for Lectio Divina - Isaiah 43:19: Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

The Good News In this episode, the fourth part of our Advent series, we interview our friend Sarah Kaczmarek. Sarah is the Assistant Director of Alpha Catholic USA, as well as the Pastoral Director of Encounter School of Ministry. We chat about the call we have as Catholics to share the Good News of the Gospel and the stumbling blocks we often run into. We also discuss how essential it is to be an authentic witness and how to grow in having the Father's heart for the lost. Sarah's one thing - Whole Heart - Hillsong United Sister Miriam's one thing - Winter Snow by Audrey AssadThe Shadow Can't Have Me by Arthur Alligood Michelle's one thing - The song Into the Unknown from Frozen 2 Heather's one thing - The song Noel by Lauren Daigle Additional Notes: Abiding Together will be at Focus SLS2020! Abiding Together Podcast will be recording live at SLS on December 31st at 12:30pm. Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What are some of the stumbling blocks that you experience in sharing what God has done in your life? Are there areas of your life where you're afraid to share yourself authentically? What is one way you can bring good news to the lost? Where can you set aside time this week to pray for the grace to love with the Father's heart? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Isaiah 61:1. What does it speak to you personally? We can't selectively numb the bad without numbing the good. Where are you numbing your life and not living fully awake? Where do I need to say "Yes" to the Lord, so he can bring restoration and good news? Quote to Ponder - "This is our mission: to give pure and fresh air to those immersed in the pollution of our world; to bring to earth that peace which fills us with joy whenever we meet Jesus on the mountain in prayer; to show by our lives, and perhaps even by our words, that God loves everyone and never tires of anyone" Pope Francis Scripture for Lectio Divina - Isaiah 61:1 "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners."

He's in the Waiting In this episode, the third part of our Advent series, we interview our friend Beth Davis from Blessed is She. We talk about the theme of having hope in seasons of waiting, trusting God when we can't see what He's up to, and being transformed by the renewal of our minds. Beth's one thing - Consecration to Jesus through St. Joseph: An Integrated Look At the Holy Family by Dr. Gregory Bottaro and Jennifer Settle Sister Miriam's one thing - A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (trailer) Michelle's one thing - The Auburn vs. Alabama game. The Simplicity of Christmas Heather's one thing - The song Shepherd by Bethel.Our dear friends Mary and Simon Kyne Additional Resources: You can find more information about Beth Davis and Blessed is She at https://blessedisshe.net Abiding Together will be at Focus SLS2020! Abiding Together Podcast will be recording live on December 31st at 12:30pm The Abiding Together shop will be closed from Dec 13th-Jan 1. Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Pink Salt Riot. Check out their jewelry, print pieces, gifts, and more! Definitely also check out the quarterly subscription box, The Joy Box, which is designed for sharing. Keep an eye out for custom Word of the Year pieces starting Dec 28th. Abiding Together listeners get 10% off the whole shop (including quarterly subscriptions, excluding ) with code: abidewithme Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What was a time when you felt a verse from Scripture was given to you for that particular moment in your life? What was the Scripture? How do you stay hopeful in moments of your life when you've been waiting for the Savior to arrive? What's one way you can practice reminding yourself who God is - "preach to yourself"? Who are the patron saints - the "cloud of witnesses" - you turn to for intercession? Why? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Psalm 27:14. What does it speak to you personally? What season do you feel the Lord has you in right now? How do you resist the enemy's suggestions in seasons of waiting that are sometimes very long? Quote to Ponder - "People are made for happiness. Rightly, then, you thirst for happiness. Christ has the answer to this desire of yours. But he asks you to trust him." Pope Saint John Paul II Scripture for Lectio Divina - Psalm 27:14 "Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!"

Making Room for Others In the second part of our Advent series, we interview Ennie Hickman, our good friend and founder of Del Rey Collective. We talk in depth about what it means to actually love our neighbor and how to make "room at the inn" for strangers and people in the periphery of our lives. We also talk about hospitality and making our hearts ready for guests before making our homes ready. Ennie's one thing - The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson Sister Miriam's one thing - Silicone Tea Cover Michelle's one thing - Easy White Chicken Chili Heather's one thing - Heather's Mom's Coconut Jam Tarts Ingredients:2 eggs3/4 cup sugar1 tsp cornstarchPinch of salt1/4 cup melted butter1 tbsp lemon juice1 tsp vanilla1 1/2 cups shredded unsweetened coconutRaspberry jam18-20 frozen regular size tart shells Instructions: Preheat oven to 375 degrees.Lay frozen tarts out on a foil lined cookie sheet. In a bowl combine sugar, cornstarch and salt. In a separate bowl beat eggs, then add combined sugar, cornstarch and salt. Add cooled melted butter, lemon juice and vanilla. Stir in coconut. Add approximately 1/2 tsp (or a bit more) of raspberry jam to the middle of the frozen tart shell, then cover till 3/4 full with coconut mixture. Fill all the tarts like this. Bake at 375 for about 23 minutes or until golden brown on top. Eat, enjoy, and try not to be swept away in ecstasy. Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? How have you encountered Jesus through your neighbors or people in your life? Have you ever considered a "love experiment" that you can practice? What's one way you can practice "crazy" generosity? What holds you back from reaching out to your neighbors and strangers? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Matthew 25:35. What does it speak to you personally? Living the Gospel is simple, but it's not easy. Where can you "begin before you're ready"? Ask the Holy Spirit where he wants you to zoom in - what is He saying to you? Quote to Ponder - "I want you to be concerned about your next door neighbor. Do you know your next door neighbor?" - Saint Mother Teresa Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 25:35 "I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me."

The Light Shines in the Darkness In this episode we have a fascinating interview with Fr. Justin Brady, priest and exorcist. We talk about the battle between the light and the dark and how the enemy attempts to keep us far from God. We often forget that God has won the battle and has given us all that we need through the sacrifice of Jesus and the ministry of the Church to overcome darkness in our lives and experience healing and peace. Sister Miriam's one thing - Peaceful Christmas playlist Michelle's one thing - Adorning the Dark by Andrew Peterson On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness (The Wingfeather Saga) by Andrew Peterson Heather's one thing - Advent playlist on Spotify and the music video Refiner by Maverick City Music Fr. Justin's one thing - Heather Khym Additional Resources: Go on pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Fr. Justin Brady and Christopher West! Get your Quit Talking to the Dang Snake mug from our Abiding Together Shop! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? Have you ever experienced a time when God defeated the darkness in your life and brought you into light? What are some of your favorite spiritual weapons for combating darkness in your life? Do you ever ask the saints and angels for help and support in living in the light? What is a daily "prayer prescription" you can start to implement in your everyday life? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: John 1:5. What does it speak to you personally? The voice of God is very different from the voice of the evil one. What are some of the lies you hear, and what truth is God trying to tell you instead? What ways are you giving the devil more power than he has, or underestimating the power God has to heal and to save you? Quote to Ponder - There is light in this world, a healing spirit more powerful than any darkness we may encounter. - Saint Mother Teresa Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 1:5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Gratitude In this episode we talk about the power of gratitude and how it can dramatically change our perspectives and transform our experience of the world. Gratitude helps us to change the focus from ourselves or the things we don't have to a heart that is thankful, humble and open to all the good things God is blessing us with. The truth is that if we can worship and give thanks to God in the midst of trials, it can spiritually break through bitterness and birth a new hope. Sister Miriam's one thing - My SOLT community! Our website Michelle's one thing - For the Greenhouse Girls, my kids, and my husband Heather's one thing - Heather's Carrot Cake Ingredients2 cups flour2 teaspoons baking soda2 teaspoons cinnamon1 1/4 teaspoons salt 4 eggs2 cups sugar1 cup oil or melted butter2 cups grated carrots2 cups pureed canned pineapple in juice Cream Cheese Frosting 8oz cream cheese1/2 cup butter softened2 cups icing sugar sifted1 tsp vanilla InstructionsSift dry ingredients together in bowl In separate bowl mix eggs, oil, and sugar - mix well. Add grated carrots and pureed pineapple. Add sifted dry ingredients and use electric mixer until combined. Do not overmix. Pour into a greased and floured 13 x 9 inch glass pyrex dish. Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes. Done when toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely and then frost with cream cheese frosting. Other Things Even When it Hurts by Hillsong United A Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp Use code ABIDE25 for 25% off on the Abiding Together Shop from Black Friday through Cyber Monday! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? Have you ever been through a time when practicing gratitude changed your experience or your perspective? What do you think of the connection between a spirit of gratitude and overcoming an orphan spirit? How can you practically cultivate gratitude in your everyday life? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Thessalonians 5:16-19. What does it speak to you personally? It takes humility to experience gratitude. Where do you struggle to be humble and to receive what is being offered to you? Bitterness is often an obstacle to gratitude. Where are you holding on to bitterness? Quote to Ponder - Jesus does not demand great action from us, but simply surrender and gratitude." - St. Thérèse of Lisieux Scripture for Lectio Divina - Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the spirit. - Thessalonians 5:16-19

The Gift of Wonder In this episode we discuss the importance of having a sense of wonder in our lives. Too often we get so focused on the tasks and pressures of life that we miss the moments that God is revealing His majesty and beauty to us in personal ways. It is these moments that keep our hearts aware of the greater things, that we are made for heaven and that our lives are held in the capable hands of a God who wants to show His great love for us. Sister Miriam's one thing - Breakfast of champions! Oatmeal recipe:1/2 cup whole fashioned oats lightly cookedHandful of walnuts1/2 an apple1 teaspoon cinnamon1 tablespoon coconut oil (yay yummy fat!)Splash of 1/2 and 1/2 Eat and then stay full for the next 5 hours or so!!! Michelle's one thing - The Given Forum Heather's one thing - All of our patrons on Patreon! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What does the idea of wonder evoke for you? What are some things that have always made you stop and wonder? How can you change your rhythm to allow God space to speak into your life? What is the main thing that causes wonder to get lost in your experience of life? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Psalm 72:18-19. What does it speak to you personally? Are you open daily to allowing the Lord to amaze you in big and small ways? How do you feel God is calling you to cultivate wonder? Quote to Ponder - Wonder is the characteristic feature of children. An old man is no longer astonished by anything, no longer enchanted by anything.... The inability to wonder is the sign of a civilization that is dying. - Cardinal Sarah Scripture for Lectio Divina - Psalm 72:18-19 Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who alone works wonders. And blessed be His glorious name forever; and may the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen and Amen.

The Holy Spirit - We are Family Series Part 3 In this episode we wrap up our 3-part series on the Trinity with the Holy Spirit. We talk about how the Holy Spirit is the love between the Father and the Son and is our Advocate and Comforter. We are invited into a dynamic relationship with the Person of the Holy Spirit, Who desires to empower, strengthen, guide, and comfort us in personal ways. We also chat about the invitation to let go of our misconceptions about who the Holy Spirit is so we can experience who He really is. When we give Him full access, like Mary did, we grow in sensitivity to His movements and can operate in the power of God in new ways. Sister Miriam's one thing - Toy Story 4 Michelle's one thing - Blessed Is She Advent JournalSign up for the Blessed Is She gathering hosted by Michelle Benzinger Heather's one thing - Banana bread recipe Makes 2 loaves. 1 cup butter softened (250 mL)1 1/2 cups granulated sugar3 cups pureed ripe bananas (about 6)4 eggs, well beaten2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour (625 mL)2 tsp baking soda (10 mL)1 tsp salt (5 mL)1 tsp ground cinnamon (5 mL)1 1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add bananas and eggs and beat until well mixed. Mix dry ingredients in separate bowl and gradually blend with banana mixture, but do not overmix. Pour into two lightly greased loaf pans or a 10-inch (25 cm) Bundt pan. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes; test for doneness (toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean) and cool on a rack for 10 minutes before removing from pans. Freezes beautifully. (adjusted from Best of Bridge) Check out the Flannery O'Connor mugs from Meaningful Market!Take 15% off your purchase with the discount code - Abide15 Some suggestions if you want to start reading Flannery O'Connor! Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? Have you experienced the Holy Spirit in a personal way? How? What is your favorite characteristic of the Holy Spirit? What are some misperceptions you have had about the Holy Spirit? What is the truth? The Holy Spirit is the comforter. Where do you need His comfort now? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: John 14:16-17 What does it speak to you personally? How can you grow in sensitivity and openness to the Holy Spirit? Where have you resisted giving him full access? What is the Holy Spirit trying to teach you today? Quote to Ponder - The Spirit comes with the tenderness of a true friend and protector to save, to heal, to teach, to counsel, to strengthen, to console. - St. Cyril of Jerusalem Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 14:16-17 "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to help you and be with you forever – the Spirit of truth".

We Are Family: Jesus the Son In this episode we talk about Jesus Christ as the one who brings us into intimacy with himself. We find in him the one to whom our hearts belong, who brings healing and restores hearts. We talk about who Jesus is to us and how to grow in relationship with him. Sister Miriam's one thing - Bible Study on Romans by Dr. Andrew Swafford and Jeff CavinsHoly Land Pilgrimage with the Swaffords, Cavins' and Fr. Mike Schmitz Michelle's one thing - Amazon Greenhouse Storefront LinkOasis Song by Kalley Heather's one thing - See the Light - Hillsong WorshipNo One But You - Hillsong Worship Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? Have you experienced an encounter with Jesus in a personal way? Share about that. Building a relationship with Jesus takes time and space. Where can I create that time and space this week? What are some of the titles of Jesus that resonate with you? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Hebrews 4:15. What does it speak to you personally? Who is Jesus to me? What are some of the desires in my heart that I'm afraid Jesus can't fulfill? What do I hear Jesus say to me there? Quote to Ponder - "It is Jesus that you seek when you dream of happiness; He is waiting for you when nothing else you find satisfies you." - Saint Pope John Paul II Scripture for Lectio Divina - Hebrews 4:15 "We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are."

We Are Family: God the Father With this episode we start a 3-part series on the persons of the Trinity. This week, we talk about God as Father and what it means that he cares for us as a Father. It is through connecting to how the Father sees us that we will discover the truth of who we are, especially in the profound reality that God sees us through the lens of love. Sister Miriam's one thing - Request for prayers for an upcoming trip to the Philippines where I will be leading a retreat for our sisters there. Michelle's one thing - The women at the Blessed is She Shine Retreat in Baltimore. Also, Awake My Soul from Hillsong Heather's one thing - My Acoustic Worship Spotify Playlist Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? Have you experienced God's fatherhood in a personal way? Share about that. Trust in God the Father often looks like letting go and resting. How can you surrender self-reliance and rest in God in your everyday life? What is your favorite attribute of God the Father and why? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture: Romans 8:14-17. What does it speak to you personally? Am I willing to consider that my view of God might not be true? Where can I seek healing in my relationship with the Father? What is God trying to say to you as a Father? Quote to Ponder - We are not the sum of our weaknesses and failures, we are the sum of the Father's love for us and our real capacity to become the image of His Son Jesus. - St. John Paul II Scripture for Lectio Divina - Romans 8:14-17 "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him, we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory."

The Power of Scripture In this episode we talk about the power of scripture, the Word of God. It is through delving into the Word of God that we encounter the heart of God, we find out who we are, and we proclaim the truth of who He is. We talk about scriptures that have impacted us and new scripture cards you can buy in our new shop. Sister Miriam's one thing - All of our listeners in Ireland! Michelle's one thing - Morning walks with my husband. Also the book "Live Big, Love Bigger" by Kathryn Whitaker Heather's one thing - The song "Heart of God" - by Hillsong Young and Free Purchase our Abiding Together Scripture Cards Extra Resources Walking with Purpose Bible Studies Jeff Cavins Bible Timeline Andrew Swafford bible study on the book of Romans Blessed is She Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? Have you experienced the scriptures speaking to you in a personal way? Share about that. The word of God is the sword of the Spirit. How can you use this weapon in your everyday life? How can you bring scripture into your everyday life? Journal Questions: Reflect and journal about this scripture. Isaiah 43:2-4 What does it speak to you personally? How do you feel when you hear that the scriptures are a love letter from God to you? What is your favorite scripture and why? Quote to Ponder - In Sacred Scripture, the Church constantly finds her nourishment and her strength, for she welcomes it not as a human word, "but as what it really is, the word of God". "In the sacred books, the Father who is in heaven comes lovingly to meet his children, and talks with them." - Catechism of the Catholic Church #104 Scripture for Lectio Divina - Isaiah 55:11 "so is my word that goes out from my mouth:It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

Renewal of Religious Life - Interview with Fr. John Burns In this episode we talk with Fr. John Burns about the importance of the renewal of religious life as a huge part of how the Church will heal and be restored. We discuss how important it is for us to have a visible sign of a religious sister who lives her vocation as the bride of Christ and shows us that our hearts are made for God. We also discuss vocation as a calling to love and how restored femininity and masculinity is essential for fully living our calling. Sister Miriam's one thing - Fall Feels Playlist Michelle's one thing - Awakening Love- An Ignatian Retreat with the Song of Songs - Gregory Cleveland, OMV Heather's one thing - Brandt Jean forgives his brother's killer and invites her into relationship with Christ. Fr. John's one thing - The gift of shared ministry at parish mission with Sr. Miriam Extra Resources Pope Francis' Homily (the end of the doc on brideship) - http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/homilies/2019/documents/papa-francesco_20190202_omelia-vitaconsacrata.html Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? How do religious sisters speak to the realities of the relationship that Christ desires with all of us? Our vocation is to love. How is God calling you to fully live that out in this season of life? Fr. John said that the consecrated heart blesses all of femininity by reminding the world what it looks like to be claimed and spoken for by the King of Kings. How do you feel about the truth that you are claimed and spoken for by God. How should this change your life? Journal Questions: We are all the bride. How does that language of being the bride of Christ make you feel? What can you learn about your relationship with God from the visible sign of religious sisters? Where does your idea or current reality of your vocation/calling need to be healed and restored? Quote to Ponder - "there is nothing a woman cannot do when she knows that she is perfectly understood at all times and that she is loved" - Mother Mary Francis Scripture for Lectio Divina - Revelation 22:17 "The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let the one who hears say, "Come!" Let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life."

Eucharist Amazement: May We Never Lose Our Wonder In this episode we talk about the new pew report that shows only ⅓ of American Catholics believe in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. We share about how we need to renew Eucharistic amazement in tangible ways and share our own experiences of the power of the Eucharist in our lives. Sister Miriam's one thing - The Homesick Candle Heather sent to me for my birthday. Michelle's one thing - A new worship playlist called Crossing Over Heather's one thing - My teenagers, I love them so much! Extra Resources Ecclesia De Eucharistia by Pope John Paul II http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/special_features/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_20030417_ecclesia_eucharistia_en.html Link to Lanciano miracle http://www.therealpresence.org/eucharst/mir/lanciano.html Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? If you've had a powerful moment with Jesus in the Eucharist, briefly share that with your group. How can I/do I enter more fully into the mystery of the Eucharist and liturgy? What are some tangible ways you can make the Eucharist the source and summit in your life and the life of your family? Journal Questions: In what ways have I become "too familiar" with sacred things, sacred spaces, and the Eucharist? How can I further prepare my heart to receive Jesus in the Eucharist? In what places of your heart do you need God to open your eyes to see who He is? What does the "spousal language" we used in the podcast, stir in your heart? Are there any parts that you need to ask Jesus to heal? Quote to Ponder - "I would like to rekindle this Eucharistic "amazement"- Saint John Paul II Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 6:35-36 "Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe."

How to Accompany Someone Through A Hard Season In this episode we talk about how to journey with each other through hardships and offer the powerful gift of presence. Walking through suffering with each other is sacred ground, so we need to learn how to become a compassionate presence and honor the vulnerability in others, while also being vulnerable ourselves. We talk about how to discern what we are able to offer to others and how we need to ask the Holy Spirit how to respond instead of falling into codependency or taking on the problems of others. Sister Miriam's one thing - Surrender Prayer God, my Father, I thank you for all that you are, and all that you do for me through your son Jesus Christ. I praise you for my life, for your mercy and for your Eucharist. In Jesus' name, Father, I place myself entirely in your Heart. I surrender to you my whole self, my heart, my mind, my memory, my imagination, my will, my emotions, my passions, my desires, my body, my sexuality, my desire for human approval, my weaknesses, my sins. I surrender every person in my life to you. I surrender every situation in my life to you. I surrender every relationship I am in to you. I surrender every concern I have to you. I surrender every fear I have to you. I surrender every doubt I have to you. I surrender all confusion I have to you. I surrender all sadness I am experiencing in my heart to you. I surrender all my wounds to you. I surrender all anxiety and worry I have to you. I surrender all that deceives me in my heart to you. I trust you to care for me and others in a perfectly loving way. As I have emptied myself, and surrendered everything to you, I ask you now, Father, to fill me with your Holy Spirit and all the gifts and fruits of your Spirit. Holy Spirit you are the source of love, hope, joy, peace, patience, goodness, gentleness, tenderness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control. Purify my desires. Help me to open my heart to you. Help me to become perfectly receptive as a pure child. Help me to believe in your love for me. Help me to hope in your love. Help me to receive from the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus all grace and virtues necessary for me to become the person you created me to be. I ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ, Your son, God Almighty Father. O Most Holy Immaculate Virgin Mary. I entrust this prayer to your Heart, and ask you to press it to your sorrowful and immaculate heart and intercede for me to your Son Jesus. Please help me to be as you are, a loving disciple, an obedient servant, a true child of God. Amen. Michelle's one thing - A new St. Therese shirt design "I Choose All" and story card from Michelle's Meaningful Market store. It comes out on St. Therese's feast day October 1. Enjoy 15% off with code - ABIDE15 Heather's one thing - Hannah Van Noort, Heidi Bouwman, and Lisa Marquis for their work behind the scenes at our men's retreat. Extra Resources Evangelli Gaudium Section on Accompaniment #169-173 Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? What does it look like to make space for each other? What is the difference between loving someone well and becoming codependent? Why is the gift of presence so healing and powerful? Journal Questions: Is there someone in your life that needs your heart and presence right now? What is a hard place in your own life that you need the presence of someone close to you? How can you ask them for that? Are there relationships where you are trying to be the savior instead of letting Jesus be Savior. Quote to Ponder - "I am struck by how sharing our weakness and difficulties is more nourishing to others than sharing our qualities and successes." - Jean Vanier Scripture for Lectio Divina - 2 Corinthians 9-10 "but he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong."

I Choose You In this episode we talk about the beautiful words of Jesus in John 15:16 where he tells us that He has chosen us and that his desire is that we bear fruit that will last. It's the deepest desires of every heart to be known, to be chosen, and to belong, but often we don't believe the truth of our belovedness in the core of our being. We chat about the difference between fruit that lasts and success and how being rooted deeply in Jesus is essential for good fruit in our life. Sister Miriam's one thing - The Song by NEEDTOBREATHE "A Place Only You Can Go" Michelle's one thing - The most wonderful time of the year...College Football is back! Heather's one thing - The first class relic of St. Therese the Little Flower, sent to me by Fr. Josh Johnson. You can also check out his podcast Ask Fr. Josh Also Jesse and Kathleen of A Guy and a Girl cover NEEDTOBREATHE Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? How do you feel when you imagine God saying to you " I choose you". What is one wound that you need Jesus to speak into. To speak His words of healing that you belong? Discuss the difference between fruit that lasts and success? Where do you hope to see good fruit in your life? Journal Questions: Do you know deep in your gut that you belong to God? Why or why not? Where are you striving to find your identity outside of God? Do you love to be loved or do you love because you've first received it? Quote to Ponder - "Let's remind one another that what brings true and healing joy is not successfulness, but fruitfulness" - Henri Nouwen Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 15:16 "You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last"

Words Have Power In this episode we talk about how words have incredible power to either bless or curse, to build up or tear down. We talk about how social media can be a place of connection, but also a place where we quickly forget to treat people with dignity. The truth that our words have power to restore, heal, be prophetic is something that can challenge us to be more discerning about how we speak and take the lead by being people who bless others. Sister Miriam's one thing - A gift of a handmade journal made by Magdelena. Thank you so much! Michelle's one thing - The Steubenville Encounter Conference in Dallas Heather's one thing - The podcast "Every Knee Shall Bow" on the Ascension website Discussion questions: What struck you from the podcast? When have you witnessed the desire to be right as more important than caring for and respecting another person? Is this something you have struggled with? What would it look like if we all started intentionally offering life giving words to those around us instead of criticism, negative humor, and harshness? How might God be calling you to speak goodness and blessing to someone in your life? Journal Questions: What type of patterns have you gotten into with not using your words to bring life? Is the Holy Spirit asking you to go back and ask forgiveness from someone who you have hurt with your words? Take time to reflect on how you speak to others, your tone and your words. How do you think other people feel when you speak to them? Quote to Ponder: "Do not accept anything as truth that lacks love and do not accept anything as love that lacks truth. One without the other is a destructive lie" - St Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Scripture for Lectio Divina - Proverbs 16:24 "Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body."

Welcome to Season 6! To kick off our new season, we dive in deep and talk about how we are all called to live a life of holiness. We discuss that in the midst of difficulty all around us, we are called to pursue a disciplined spiritual life and live radical holiness. We also talk about the tension between accepting our weakness, but not justifying our sin. The truth is that we have to be willing to go down to the depths, so that God can truly raise us from the dead to new life. Sister Miriam's one thing - Fr. Jacques Phillipe's book/guided retreat "The Way of Trust and Love" Michelle's one thing - Maverick City Music "Real Thing" Heather's one thing - Bishop Robert Barron's book "Letter to a Suffering Church" Discussion questions: What decisions do you need to make in this season to grow in holiness? How does our Catholic theology move from understanding to becoming an everyday reality for you and your family? What is one area that you need to grow in discipline and self control that will lead to a good fruit in your life? What is holding you back from going "all the way down" to the depths of your own heart, where we need to experience the power of the Holy Spirit and His freedom? What would be your theme song right now in this season of life? Journal Questions: Try to journal out a spiritual plan for this year. What are the main areas that you want to focus on? What places of laziness, hardness of heart, discipline, do you want to grow in? What is one relationship you are struggling with that you need to ask yourself, "how can I respond in love to this person"? What is one sin that you try to justify in your life? How can you surrender this to God and the power of His grace today? What are some survival techniques that have helped you to get through previous seasons, but are not going to work for you in this new season? Quote to Ponder: "instead of viewing your poverty as a handicap, and obstacle, accept it and welcome it as a grace" - Jesus to St. Thérèse (from The Way of Trust and Love) Scripture for Lectio Divina - 2 Corinthians 12:9 "but he said to me "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me."

This is our final episode of season 5! We revisit some of our favorite episodes and talk about the beautiful moments we have experienced with our community of listeners and Facebook discussion group. We also talk more about what restored femininity and masculinity looks like and our desire to see women fully live out their calling in the Church. One Thing We Love this Week Sister Miriam's one thing - Our awesome listeners! Michelle's one thing - All of the young adult missionaries! Heather's one thing - The "Shine" retreat with Blessed is She Discussion Questions What stuck out to you from Season 5? How has that impacted your spiritual walk with God? What are you most grateful for this year? What do you think is necessary to have good and hard conversations where differences of opinion are present? Journal Questions How has your word of the year born fruit so far this year? Write out the graces you have received during this first half of the year. How have you seen God move? Where do you still need God to act in your life? Quote to Ponder "I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is the happiness doubled by wonder" - G.K. Chesterton Scripture for Lectio Divina - 2 Corinthians 4:15 "Yes, everything is for your sake, so that grace, as it extends to more and more people, may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God."

In this episode of the Abiding Together Podcast, we discuss the power of living a forgiving life, especially when it comes to parenting children, and how unforgiveness in our life can keep us in bondage, and stems from a wound that needs healing. We talk about how sometimes forgiveness feels like we are letting people off the hook, instead of it being a willingness to release our grasp and open ourselves up to God's grace. One Thing We Love this Week Sister Miriam's one thing - Seeking Healing Through Forgiveness SEEK Talk with Fr. John Burns Michelle's one thing - Endow - Discovering the Doctors Michelle's other one thing - Story of forgiveness Heather's one thing - Blessed is She daily devotional for children ages 8-12 called Rise Up Discussion Questions What is one area where you are finding it hard to offer forgiveness? Sister Miriam quotes this "resentment is like drinking a little bit of poison every day and hoping the other person dies." Discuss this truth in your own life. How can you model a life of forgiveness? If you have children, how can you teach your children about forgiveness? How have you experienced the mercy of God in your life? Journal Questions Who in your life do you need to offer forgiveness to? What is holding you back from this? Journal about how you have felt God's mercy in your own life How have I hurt people in my life and need to ask for forgiveness? In what ways can I restore the relationship? Quote to Ponder "Forgiveness is the restoration of freedom to oneself, it is the key held in our own hand to our prison cell" - Saint Pope John Paul II Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 6:12 "Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us"

In this episode of the Abiding Together Podcast, we had the pleasure of interviewing Fr. Mike Schmitz! Fr. Mike is a wonderful speaker and evangelist, but more than that, he is a beautiful witness of what it looks like to be a spiritual father. We discuss spiritual fatherhood in the priesthood and some of the stumbling blocks in our relationship with God the Father. We also discuss what restored masculinity and the family looks like. One Thing We Love this Week Sister Miriam's one thing - The book The Life Model: Living from the Heart Jesus Gave You Michelle's one thing - Summer hospitality and potlucks! Heather's one thing - The music video for "Fall On Me" by Andrea and Matteo Bocelli Fr. Mike's One things - Boys Adrift by Leonard Sax and The Heart of Perfection by Colleen Campbell Discussion Questions Do you feel like you can trust God? What makes you distrust his heart at times? What is your experience of fatherhood in your life? How has this impacted your relationship with God the Father positively or negatively? What does a rebirth or renaissance of the family look like in our world today? Journal Questions Sit with the words, as if said from God the Father, "I am proud of you". What stirs in your heart? Who in your life has revealed the heart of God the Father to you? In what areas do you need to experience restoration in your relationship with your earthly father and with God the Father? Quote to Ponder "I know I can trust God the Father as my dad" - Fr. Mike Schmitz Scripture for Lectio Divina - 1 John 3:1 "See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are."

As we approach Pentecost this week, we thought it would be awesome to re-release our conversation from last year about the Holy Spirit with our dear friend, Fr. Dave Pivonka TOR. Fr. Dave created the popular series on the Holy Spirit called "The Wild Goose" with 4PM Media and he was just named the new President of Franciscan University. We had the pleasure of hearing Fr. Dave's story and chatted with him about how to have a relationship with the Holy Spirit and practical ways to open up to a new Pentecost in our own hearts. We were moved and inspired by this conversation and hope that you will be too. You can check out the free Wild Goose Series here. One Thing We Love This Week Sr. Miriam's One Thing – Meaningful Market's Father's Day print and postcards! find them here. 15% your entire order at Meaningful Market with discount code - Abide15 Michelle's One Thing - New study from Blessed Is She "Blessed Conversations study on the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy called Misericordia" Heather's One Thing - This new Pentecost playlist I created. Discussion Questions Have you ever pondered the idea that the Holy Spirit never leaves us? Discuss how this truth could change the experience of how you go through daily life? Scripture says, "where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom". What area do you need the Holy Spirit to bring freedom to in your life right now? How are you going to prepare for a deeper encounter with the Holy Spirit as we approach Pentecost this Sunday? Journal Questions How could you open your heart to the Holy Spirit in a deeper way this Pentecost? Fire illuminates what we cannot see. Take some time to pray for the Holy Spirit to come and illuminate those areas in your heart? Fr. Dave said that free people make the world nervous. How would your life look differently if you truly lived in freedom? Quote to Ponder "The Holy Spirit brings people into divine life as children of God where they can live, as true children, in a relationship of intimacy, freedom, and faith in the love and mercy of God." – Pope Francis Scripture for Lectio Divina - 2 Corinthians 3:17 "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom"

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather discuss how to have fruitful and authentic small group discussions that provide safety and opportunities for deep connection with others. We give insights into how to talk in a vulnerable way, how to sit at one another's feet and listen, and what the ingredients are for meaningful conversations. We hope this offers some helpful insights for going deeper in your friendships and small faith groups with other women. One Thing We Love this Week Sister Miriam's one thing - Heather's Greek Salad (diced cucumber, grape tomatoes, bell peppers, sweet onion and feta (you can get it without goat milk if you like) and the amazing Abbotsford Greek Islands restaurant dressing. Michelle's one thing - Reading books aloud with her daughter. She is using this website to read The Secret Garden. Heather's one thing - Making an awesome charcuterie board. Here's a link with a video of how to make one. Also, you can pinterest this and find other cool ideas. I love including a raised bowl with some little chocolates in it as well. Dried apricots, mixed nuts, sliced pepper salami, Boursin, baby dills, cheese, brie, are some of my favorites. Discussion questions What blesses you the most in good conversation? What makes you feel safe in conversation and what makes you feel uncomfortable? What is bringing you joy right now in your life? What is a theme going on in your life this year? What does restored femininity (masculinity) look like? Journal Questions Do you spend more time sharing or listening in conversations? How can you grow in the area that you're not as strong in? Who is someone in your life that you need to make time to sit at their feet more often? What holds you back from sharing your heart? Quote to Ponder "We cultivate love when we allow our most vulnerable and powerful selves to be deeply seen and known, and when we honor the spiritual connection that grows from that offering with trust, respect, kindness and affection." - Brene Brown Scripture for lectio divina - Sirach 14-16 "Faithful friends are a sturdy shelter: whoever finds one has found a treasure. Faithful friends are beyond price; no amount can balance their worth. Faithful friends are life-saving medicine; and those who fear the Lord will find them."

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather discuss their own personal prayer lives and how it has changed through seasons and vocation. They also chat about how to develop a rhythm of prayer, cultivating spiritual disciplines, and how to pray with your spouse. One Thing We Love this Week Sister Miriam's one thing - The beautiful hike at Heather's house Michelle's one thing - Devotion to the Sacred Heart Heather's one thing - Our friend of the podcast Michael Corcoro Discussion Questions What form of prayer do you find easiest? What is the most challenging for you? How can you experience the gift of prayer in this season of your life? What ushers you into the presence of God quickly? Discuss the idea of a daily conversation with God throughout your day. If you're married, how can you pray with your spouse this week? Journal Questions How is God inviting you to make time with Him? What is most on your heart right now to speak with God about? What devotions are you drawn to and why? What are the things that distract you in prayer? What spiritual disciplines do you need in your life right now? Quote to Ponder "Love to pray. Prayer enlarges the heart until it is capable of containing God's gift of Himself" - St Teresa of Calcutta Scripture for Lectio Divina - Jeremiah 29:12 "Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you."

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather recap their conference on restoring the beauty with special guest Fr. Josh Johnson. We talk about the four themes of our weekend and how this applies to all of us at every stage in our spiritual journey. We also discuss what it looks like to have restored hearts, femininity, hope, relationships. One Thing We Love this Week Sister Miriam's one thing - Book by Dr. Conrad Bars I Will Give Them a New Heart Michelle's one thing - Being together Heather's one thing - Her husband Jake (also the incredible Hannah Van Noort) Fr. Josh's one thing - Fr. Lucio Choi & Heather's family Discussion Questions Fr. Josh said that when we allow Jesus into our painful places that he will not hurt us, he will only love us. What does this stir in you? Sometimes we can brood and focus on our pain or lies more than the truth. What does this do to your heart when you do this? How can you change this pattern? The word restore means to stand again. What is a part of your life that you would like the Lord to raise you up, to stand again? Where in the garden of our souls is Christ present, but we don't recognize him? What is one area from your childhood that God wants to restore in you? What does it mean to restore the beauty in the Church? Journal Questions God asks us, "would you let me love you in your deepest shame and vulnerability?" Journal your own prayer response to this question. If we are in relationship with Jesus and know his voice, we can better perceive where he is in challenging moments in our life. Pause and reflect on where Jesus is right now in the difficulties of your life. How is God asking you to restore the beauty in yourself and the Church? Quote to Ponder "How many times in our life is Christ present in our garden, in our soul, but we think he is the gardener?" - Sister Miriam Scripture for Lectio Divina - Lamentations 5:21 "Restore us to yourself, Lord, that we may return; renew our days as of old."

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather talk about the gift and calling of motherhood. Whether it be biological or spiritual motherhood, every woman is called to offer her maternity. Motherhood stretches our hearts to love more deeply and give new life to others. We talk about adoption and spiritual motherhood, which allows others to be born in our hearts as we image the gift of adoption that God has given to us. Visit ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Sister Miriam's one thing - the beauty of Bowling Green, Kentucky Michelle's one thing - weekend getaways with her spouse Heather's one thing - two songs from the new Hillsong United album, "People": Clean and Highlands (Song of Ascent) Discussion Questions Where do you experience the joy of maternity and femininity? What would you like Jesus to heal in your maternity and femininity? How is God inviting you to expand your heart to love others? What does it mean to be a life giver? Journal Questions Is there someone that God is placing on your heart to offer your gift of maternity to? How does God need to expand your view of motherhood? Reflect on your relationship with Our Blessed Mother. How can you grow in this? Quote to Ponder "If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other" - Mother Teresa Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 19:26-27 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, "Woman, here is your son." Then he said to the disciple, "Here is your mother." And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home.

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather talk about Pope Francis' Easter message and how we can truly live in the Resurrection. We discuss the power of God that can roll away even the hardest stones in our heart and what the common blocks are to hope in Jesus. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love this Week Sister Miriam's one thing - Seminarians at Mundelein Seminary Michelle's one thing - Writings of Fr. Padro Arrupe, SJ Heather's one thing - The Song "Healer" by Upperroom worship and in case you missed it, here's Heather's Easter Playlist - Hallelujah Is Our Song Discussion Questions What is the stone that I need to remove, what is the name of this stone? Am I expecting to find the Risen Jesus in the most painful parts of my heart and story? Where am I giving into discouragement and where have I lost hope? What struck you from Pope Francis' message or the podcast and why? Journal Questions What practical things do I need to do to live in the new life God has brought to me instead of the old way? Where am I looking? At graveyards or looking for the Living One? What place in my heart do I need to invite the resurrected Jesus? Spend some time remembering the good things God has done in your life. Quote to Ponder "Human history does not end before a tombstone, because today it encounters the "living stone", the risen Jesus. We, as Church, are built on him, and, even when we grow disheartened and tempted to judge everything in the light of our failures, He comes to make all things new" - Pope Francis Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 11:25-26 "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.' Do you believe this?"

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather talk about the gift of God's mercy. In light of the diary of St. Faustina, they discuss how often we don't turn to God in our weakness and sin because of shame or a belief that we are not worthy. The truth is that God's mercy is a free, inexhaustible gift that our loving Father wants to give to us in abundance. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Sister Miriam's one thing - Springtime and flowers Michelle's one thing - Her trip to Dallas Heather's one things - Free 50 day Easter Devotional "Arise" The new Hillsong Young & Free acoustic album Easter Playlist - Hallelujah Is Our Song Discussion Questions: What struck you from the podcast this week? What has been a stumbling block for you in receiving God's mercy? Often we think of God as a harsh Father, but in fact he shows us His vulnerability as He pours out His heart to us naked on the cross. Share you thoughts on this. What is one main area that you need to trust God? Journal Questions: What is your heart response to God's gift of complete vulnerability, naked on the cross, giving His heart to you? What do you really want to ask God for, confident that He knows best and He is good? Why is it hard for you to trust God? Quote to Ponder: "Jesus I trust in You!" - St. Faustina Scripture for Lectio Divina - Hebrews 4:16 "Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need"

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle and Heather have another heart to heart conversation with our good friend Dr. Bob Schuchts. Dr. Bob is a family and marriage counsellor for 40 years and founder of JPII Healing Center. Dr. Bob shares about the 7 universal wounds in the human person that affect how we relate to others, ourselves, and God. He teaches about how those present themselves in our lives and how we can begin the healing journey that leads to freedom. You can find more about Dr. Bob's ministry at https://jpiihealingcenter.org/ Dr. Bob's book "Be Healed" - https://jpiihealingcenter.org/product/be-healed-dr-bob-schuchts-copy/ All his other books - https://jpiihealingcenter.org/shop/ Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Sister Miriam's one thing - Song "Come out of Hiding" Steffany Gretzinger Michelle's one thing - Song "You Don't Miss a Thing" by Amanda Cook Heather's one thing - Shredded Buffalo Chicken Recipe (see recipe below) For the instant pot: Add to pot - 3 lbs frozen chicken, 1 packet of powdered ranch dressing, ½ - ¾ of a 17.5 fl oz bottle of Franks buffalo wing sauce (must be buffalo flavor) Manual cook for 20 min. When it's done, do a natural steam release for 10 min, then manual steam release the rest. Drain excess liquid if you don't want it. Add 3 tablespoons of butter Shred chicken with 2 forks Serve on buns or tortilla wraps with all the extras you enjoy. If using a slow cooker, add the chicken, buffalo sauce, and ranch package, cook on low for 6-7 hours, shred, then add butter and cook for one more hour. Discussion Questions What struck you from the podcast this week? How can we cooperate with the healing that God wants to bring into our lives? Who is a safe person around you who can speak truth to you, encourage you, and lift your gaze to the Father? Which of the 7 wounds do you resonate the most with in this season of your life? Journal Questions What is something you often overreact about that may be revealing a deeper area of woundedness? What mindsets or negative beliefs do you think you have brought from your childhood into your adulthood? Write down the 7 wounds that Dr. Bob mentioned. What is your first memory of when each of those wounds entered your life? Ask Jesus what He wants to speak to you about that. Quote to Ponder "Life comes through the heart" - Dr. Bob Schuchts Scripture for Lectio Divina - Isaiah 53:5 "By His wounds we are healed."

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle, and Heather finish up their Lenten series on Fr. Jacques Philippe's book Searching for and Maintaining Peace. They talk about how God wants to build a house where he dwells within us and how we are invited to be receptive and open instead of self protective. They dig into what causes us to lose peace and ask how are we letting the Prince of Peace take care of our difficult situations in life. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Sister Miriam's one thing - Bishop Barron Presents with Leah Libresco (Facebook link) Michelle's one thing - Think Like a Tree - Live Oaks Heather's one thing - Story behind the song "As You Find Me" by Hillsong United Discussion Questions: What makes me lose my peace? What are the things that are keeping God from creating the house that he wants to build in us? Is my interior house (in my heart) a place where other people can flourish in my presence? Where am I not receptive? Where is there a block in my heart and why? Journal Questions: Am I really allowing Christ to be the Prince of Peace over the difficult situations or busyness in my life or am I trying to manage it all? What are other people's experience of being around me? Do they feel safe? Do they feel loved and at peace? (Ask a close friend who loves you and then journal and pray about it.) What are the ways that you self protect and why? Quote to Ponder: "Keep your soul at peace" - St. François-Marie-Jacob Libermann Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle, and Heather continue the conversation in week five of Lent on Fr. Jacques Philippe's book Searching for and Maintaining Peace. We talk about how we often cover up our weakness and sin in attempts to make ourselves more presentable to God, but that God wants to draw near to us in our weakness and receive every part of us. We also talk about some rules of discernment and how to abandon our will to God in total trust. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Sister Miriam's one thing: The song "Build My Life" by Housefires Michelle's one thing: Beautiful Easter plates designed by Erica Tighe at beaheart.com Michelle's other one thing: This new Alleluia cake topper Heather's one thing: The Abiding Together small groups that are meeting together! Discussion Questions: Do you ever feel like you need to "cover up" before approaching God? Do you feel an unhealthy sense of guilt that keeps you from coming to Jesus vulnerably? Why do you think it's hard for you to look at your own weakness and sin? What struck you about Fr. Jacques rules of discernment? How can you apply this to your life? Journal Questions: How can I grow in self awareness? How can I remain faithful and trusting when I'm in the desert? Do I really want to live the full life that Jesus is offering with raw vulnerability instead of fear and hiding? Quote to Ponder: "Love is able to profit from everything, the good as well as the bad that It finds in me, and to transform it into Itself." —St. John of the Cross Scripture for Lectio Divina - Romans 8:28 "We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose."

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle and Heather continue the conversation in week 4 of Lent with Fr. Jacques Philippe's book Searching for and Maintaining Peace. We talk about the frequent human experience of wishing that we had a different life or circumstance than the one we really have. We discuss how the enemy can block us from understanding where God is in our suffering and that the key is to allow the Holy Spirit to change our hearts and open our eyes to a new perspective. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Sister Miriam's one thing: The documentary "Free Solo" Michelle's one thing: Prayer of Abandonment Michelle's other one thing: Be Brave in the Sacred, Mary Lenaburg Heather's one thing: The song "Confident" by Steffany Gretzinger and Bobby Strand Discussion Questions Where is the enemy trying to make you believe that real life is elsewhere? We are not called to do life on our own. Where do you need to invite the Holy Spirit into your life to be your comforter and guide? What is one situation where you need a new perspective, given by God, on your life circumstances? Journal Questions Do I pay attention to see how God is providing for me? How can I pay attention to my life in a deeper way and not just go through the motions? Take some time to delight in God and his movement in your life. Journal about what comes to mind. In the main circumstances in your life right now, what is your heart really longing for? Take time this week to invite God into that longing. Quote to Ponder "We often live with this illusion, but it's often an error. It's not the exterior circumstances that must change, it's above all our hearts." —Fr Jacques Philippe Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 10:10 "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly"

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle, and Heather continue the conversation in week three of Lent on Fr. Jacques Philippe's book Searching for and Maintaining Peace. We talk about how fear often causes us to self protect or hustle to escape suffering instead of trusting God. We discuss the power of making space for God and his providence in our lives and how we can trust him when we experience suffering. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Sister Miriam's one thing: The song "Open Space" by Housefires Michelle's one thing: The song "Awakening" by Amanda Cook Heather's one thing: Peace playlist Discussion Questions What is the biggest thing you fear will be lacking or absent in your life? Where do you think you need to make space for God to show his abundance and his providence? St John of the Cross says that God gives in the measure that we expect. Discuss that quote and how you can grow in expectation of God's goodness. Journal Questions What area have you been acting as though you and your own power are the answer to the problem? How can you begin to open your heart to God there? Where in your life do you need to experience how capable and powerful God is? Why don't you have confidence in God? Quote to Ponder "The Lord can leave us wanting relative to certain things (sometimes judged indispensable in the eyes of the world), but he never leaves us deprived of what is essential: his presence, his peace and all that is necessary for the complete fulfillment of our lives, according to his plans for us." —Fr. Jacques Philippe Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 6:31-33 "Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear?' For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."