Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

How do parents decide what is best for their children when it comes to education? There are a number of different choices and it isn’t always easy to know which is the right one. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Deacon Michael Parker to discuss some of the key factors to consider when making decisions about education. Snippet From the Show Pursuing the best education for children very often requires sacrifices of their parents. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

How can I defend the Catholic Church? There are people within the Church who have done horrible things and treated people badly. These people can make others question whether or not they should support and defend the Church. Fr. Josh Johnson responds to this question and shares why Christians should defend the Church. Snippet From the Show “The Church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints.” Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What should I focus on during engagement? As you prepare for your wedding day, you are also preparing for your marriage. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Deacon Michael Parker to discuss some of the key priorities for engagement that will help you truly prepare for marriage. Snippet From the Show Cultivating relationships with married couples who are in different seasons of life can be incredibly beneficial to your own marriage. Learn from other couples and allow them to support you. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

The conversations regarding women deacons has caused a lot of confusion amongst Catholics. Can women be deacons or not? Fr. Josh Johnson addresses this question by looking at the history of the Church and her teachings on the topic. Snippet From the Show We need to listen and be formed by the teachings of the Church. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Are you lonely? Although the world has never been more connected because of social media, texting, and other technology, it seems like many people are lonely. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to discuss why social media is not fulfilling and can negatively impact us. They also share who it is that will satisfy the longing of our hearts to be known and loved. Snippet From the Show If we don’t seek to encounter the love of God daily, we look for it elsewhere. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What are you willing to do for someone you love? Very often, love requires us to make sacrifices and experience difficulties. Such is the case with prayer so often. In order to have time with God in prayer, we may need to make sacrifices. Fr. Josh shares what these sacrifices may look like and why it is so worth it. Snippet From the Show Prayer is not always a comfortable thing. But it is always worth it because in prayer we encounter God and his love. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Life gets tough. There is suffering, discomfort, and heartbreak. It seems like there is always something to complain about. So, is it ok to complain? Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to discuss whether or not Christians can complain. Is there a holy way to complain? Snippet From the Show Jesus Christ has suffered it all. He knows our suffering intimately and wants to be in our suffering with us. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Violence and war are just some of the evils that are present in our world today. If you watch the news or scroll on social media, it can seem like there is nothing but bad in the world. So, how can you be happy in such a place? Is it possible or even right to be happy? Fr. Josh addresses this question and offers advice on how to find happiness even in the storms of life. Snippet From the Show When we focus more on the storm than on Jesus, we will be overcome with anxiety. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Friendship is incredibly important, but how do you make good friends and maintain those friendships? Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to discuss the importance of deep friendships and how we can find them. They share their thoughts and what to avoid in friendships and what to value. Snippet From the Show In a virtuous friendship, you desire to accompany one another towards the ultimate good which is Heaven. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

This may be the #1 question that Fr. Josh gets asked: “How do I bring my children back to the Church?” This is a question that lies in the hearts of so many parents in the Church today. This desire is good and a sign of true love for their children. Fr. Josh explains how to help bring children back to Church and love them well in the process. Snippet From the Show We don’t bring our loved ones back to the Church. It is God who draws them back. Then they, with their free will, respond to God’s grace. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What do two celibates have to say about intimacy in marriage? Quite a bit! Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to discuss the importance of intimacy in marriage. Together, they share the abundant knowledge they have gained by counseling couples and individuals over many years. Snippet From the Show Your spouse is a mystery that is continuously being revealed to you. Therefore, it is essential that you look at your spouse again and again so that you may continue to know them and love them more deeply. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Does the Eucharist feel approachable? Do you believe that the Eucharist is personal? Sometimes, it can seem unclear how we are meant to interact and approach the Eucharist. How “put together” do I need to be in order to participate in Communion? Fr. Josh Johnson takes on these questions and offers encouragement for how we can make the Eucharist more central in our lives. Snippet From the Show The point of Mass is not to receive the Eucharist. The purpose of Mass is to worship God. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Death is part of life, but so many of us live with a fear of death. Why? What is it about death that instills fear in so many people? Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to respond to this question and offer stories from their own lives to show how death can be a good. Snippet From the Show For some, a fear of death can arise from a fear of missing out. We desire to leave a legacy and witness the lives of our children and grandchildren. These desires can contribute to a fear of death. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Friendships can be difficult and tumultuous but can also bring so much goodness to our lives. So, how do you strive for good friendship? How do you handle conflict or talking through difficult topics with friends? Fr. Josh offers his insight and advice for navigating the challenges in friendship. Snippet From the Show “You must be willing to lose a friendship for the sake of their salvation.” Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

How do you give “the talk” to your kids? Parents have a massive responsibility to inform and educate their children on matters of sexuality, dignity, and so much more. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to discuss the importance of talking to your child about these matters and how to do it right. Snippet From the Show "If we know the world is pursuing our children to form them in lies about the gift of the body and sexuality, we need to step in front of the lie." Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Welcome back to a brand new season of Ask Fr. Josh! In this episode, Fr. Josh addresses the difficulties of dating. So many people have questions about how to date and how to date well. Fr. Josh offers advice on how to have a healthy approach to dating. Snippet From the Show As good as people are, they are not God. They are finite beings. Our hearts have an infinite longing and that longing can only be satiated by God. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Have you ever heard someone say that “social justice” is not Christian? Today, Fr. Josh addresses the topic of “social justice” and whether or not it is Christian. He also responds to the use of social media and the discernment one should use when sharing thoughts and ideas on those platforms. Snippet From the Show Prior to speaking publicly on important matters, it is essential that we form our hearts and minds. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Does the Song of Solomon say that being black is a sign of sinfulness? Song of Solomon 1:5 can be confusing to read, but Fr. Josh is here to explain this passage from Scripture. Fr. Josh also shares about a beatified priest from Brazil who is a great example of someone who prayed for his persecutors. Snippet From the Show “Christ never gives up on us. So, we too can never give up on people.” Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Is it ok to participate in new age practices like tarot cards, reiki sessions, or the use of crystals? Fr. Josh shares what the Church teaches when it comes to new age practices. He also describes the harm that can come from participating in these practices. Fr. Josh shares what the Church recommends to combat the evil in our world. Snippet From the Show These practices have the capacity and potential to open us up to things that are not good for us or our community. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Can a priest share my sins? Confession, telling our sins to a priest, can be really intimidating. However, Fr. Josh shares about the seal of confession and how seriously it is held by the Church. Fr. Josh also shares about two priests who died in order to keep the seal of confession. Snippet From the Show If there was a chance that a person’s sins could be revealed, they would not go to confession. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

How are we supposed to evangelize? What does it even mean to evangelize? Fr. Josh addresses this question and encourages all of us to dive more deeply into a life of evangelization. Fr. Josh also shares about a saint who used her profession to evangelize in an extraordinary way. Snippet From the Show Whether you are a doctor, teacher, or a stay at home parent, God will use what you do in life to bring others to himself. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What was the birth of Jesus like for Mary? Some people argue that Mary experienced labor and delivery like any other woman. Others argue that she felt no pain. But what does the Church say? Fr. Josh answers that question in today’s episode. Snippet From the Show “Our Mother Mary is full of beauty because she is full of grace.” -Pope Francis Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What is Divine Mercy? You may have heard mention of Divine Mercy Sunday or perhaps you have prayed the chaplet. But where does the devotion to Divine Mercy come from? Fr. Josh answers this question and shares about the saint who established it. Snippet From the Show There is no excuse for anyone not to become a saint. God is offering his love and mercy to everyone until the very end. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

How do priests pray? Fr. Josh responds to a listener question regarding the spiritual life of a priest and what requirements are placed on a diocesan priest for prayer. Additionally, Fr. Josh shares the story of an unnamed saint to emphasize the importance of a daily Holy Hour. Snippet From the Show We have to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. Adoration of Christ is imitation of Christ. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Why do we hear the Passion narrative twice during Holy Week? And who gets to participate in proclaiming those Gospels? Fr. Josh answers these questions in today’s episode. He also shares about an incredible woman who is on her way to canonization. Snippet From the Show To help prepare yourself and enter into it more fully, take the time to meditate on the readings prior to Mass. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

The rosary is not just a prayer that grandmas and nuns pray. The rosary is a powerful and essential prayer for everyone’s spiritual life. Today, Fr. Josh is joined by Dr. Mike Scherschligt to discuss the power of the rosary. Dr. Mike also shares about his own faith journey and his mission to get as many people to pray the rosary as possible. Snippet From the Show When we accept the reality that Jesus Christ is real, we have to make changes in our lives. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Are there particular ways we should pray during the Lenten season? Lent is a great season to make new efforts in growing our relationship with God. Today, Fr. Josh shares ideas for some of the ways we could pray during the Lenten season. Snippet From the Show During the Lenten season, it is really beautiful to accompany Jesus in his suffering, in his Passion. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What does it mean to be envious of someone? Envy is one of the seven deadly sins and Fr. Josh explains why in today’s episode. He also walks through an examination to help you understand areas in your life where you may struggle with envy. Snippet From the Show It can be a lifelong battle to break free from vice, but we must remember that God is faithful to us and desires our freedom. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What are some of the primary sins that people struggle with? As we strive for virtue, it is important that we regularly examine our lives and realize where we struggle so that we can strive to break free from sin. Today, Fr. Josh addresses the topic of the seven deadly sins and identifies why people struggle with some in particular. Snippet From the Show Focus on what Christ has done in your life. Focus on his love for you. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What does it mean to be virtuous? Virtue is a word that is mentioned often when talking about faith and the lives of the saints. However, do we understand what it means? Today, Fr. Josh is joined by author Andrew Whitmore to talk about the virtuous life and also discuss Andrew’s new book Saintly Habits: Aquinas' 7 Simple Strategies You Can Use to Grow in Virtue. Snippet From the Show When you aren’t able to overcome a challenge, it takes great courage to endure it instead. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

How do you find authentic happiness? Every person has a desire to be happy, but it isn’t always clear how to attain it. Today, Fr. Josh shares what Scripture tells us in regards to finding happiness. Snippet From the Show We can find happiness by turning to the Word of God instead of seeking it in the world. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What does it mean to forgive like Christ does? Jesus tells us to forgive others, but what exactly does that look like? What is required of us in order to truly forgive someone? Fr. Josh answers these questions and offers an example of a woman who forgave in an incredible way. Snippet From the Show The more we look at Jesus, the better we can imitate him. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What are our responsibilities when it comes to caring for our parents? As we get older, so do our parents. In this episode, Fr. Josh explains the duty we have to our parents but also how our relationships with our parents change as we get older. He also shares two stories of people that can be examples to us when it comes to caring for parents and the elderly. Snippet From the Show To be Christian means to imitate Christ in all that we do. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Are you ever confused or hurt when you hear that a priest has left the priesthood? Fr. Josh takes on this issue in today’s podcast. He explains some of the more common reasons why a priest might leave the priesthood. Fr. Josh shares the impact this can have on others and offers advice on how to respond in these situations. Snippet From the Show Prayer helps to suppress our vices and helps us persevere in our relationship with God. Prayer is essential in sustaining us. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Is there such a thing as “red flags” when it comes to discerning religious life? Fr. Josh responds to a listener’s question regarding best practices when discerning religious life. He shares advice on what to look for and how to get to know different religious communities. Snippet From the Show As individuals, we are in constant need of reformation. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

If you are baptized, do you automatically go to Heaven? Do you have to be baptized in order to get to Heaven? In this episode, Fr. Josh answers a question about baptism and how it is linked to salvation. He addresses some of the different situations that can arise when it comes to baptism or the lack of baptism. Snippet From the Show We are created to be in relationship with Christ. It is essential that we participate in that relationship. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Why do we sing the psalms in Mass? In this episode, Fr. Josh explains why the psalms are most commonly sung and how singing can actually benefit our prayer. He also dives into the life of the author of the psalms: King David. Snippet From the Show “Have mercy on me God in your kindness and blot out my offense.” Psalm 51 Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

It is good for spouses to pray together, but how do you do it? What if one spouse is not as interested in praying together as the other? Fr. Josh shares the importance of praying together and also gives some advice and ideas on how to do it. Snippet From the Show Creating a habit of prayer will foster and facilitate a rule of life that will help you mature in holiness. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Fr. Josh explains what an Ordinary Eucharistic Minister and Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister is, and when it's appropriate to use Extraordinary Ministers. He also shares the proper way to receive Jesus in the Eucharist and young St. Tarcisius' story. Snippet From the Show When we are invited to bring Jesus in Holy Communion to those who are not able to come to Mass, it is a time of profound seriousness because who we are bringing. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Want to be a part of giving Father Josh’s students the chance to encounter Jesus in Adoration in their own Chapel? Click here! Fr. Josh answers a question about building bridges through Christlike relationships with our Protestant brothers and sisters. He also encourages us to dive into Scripture this Advent by following the example of St. Joseph, a man also rooted in the Word of God. Snippet From the Show Jesus said in the Gospel to go out and make disciples of all nations, of all people. Jesus didn't say to go and make disciples of fellow Catholics, but all people. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

"It wasn't what I thought it would be." In this special Thanksgiving episode, Father Josh assures those who may be "poor in spirit" during this holiday season, inviting us to be so rooted in the love of God, that God's love is enough for us. God is all we need. Snippet From the Show No matter what happens at Thanksgiving or what doesn't happen at Thanksgiving, we are not disturbed and we are not moved, because God is sufficient. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

To support Ascension’s free media, please click here! To find out more about how your gift will be used, please click here! Why is it that only priests are able to consecrate the Eucharist in the Mass? In this episode, Fr. Josh explains the Scriptural teachings as well as the teachings handed down by the Church behind this, and we also the story of St. Charles de Foucald, who teaches us to listen to the voice of God, to follow where he leads us, and to trust he will sustain us in our ministry and in our daily life. Snippet From the Show Even though the fruits of our labors may be invisible, God is still present and still working. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Do you have a Rosary that is broken or a Bible that is worn out? Fr. Josh walks us through how to dispose of sacramentals that we no longer have need of or are no longer functional. He also introduces us to St. Vitalis of Gaza, a hermetic monk who teaches us always to assume the best in the intentions of others. Snippet From the Show The way we treat a sacramental is effectively the same way we treat people. Every member of the Body of Christ is important, and sacramentals are important as well. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

How do we choose the devotion that's best for us to become a saint in our walk toward eternity? In this episode Fr. Josh encourages us not to compare ourselves to others or even our past self, but to choose devotions appropriate for whatever season of life we’re in. We also hear the courageous story of St. Jacinta and how her love for the devotion of the Rosary set many hearts ablaze for Christ. Snippet From the Show All devotions are a path to intimacy with Christ. But how has the Lord invited you to listen to him, to speak with him, to sit with him, to look at him and to be seen by him right now? Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What good can come from suffering? In this episode, Fr. Josh answers a question about praying in the midst of suffering, encouraging us to receive it as an invitation rather than just pain. He also introduces us to Blessed Benedetta Bianchi Porro, who strived to do just that. Snippet From the Show How is God the Father inviting you to abide with Jesus right now in this present moment? Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

When we pray, can we pray to the saints? Or should we focus our attention solely on Jesus? Fr. Josh explains what it means to pray to the saints and when to ask for their prayers. Snippet From the Show The saints are the Body of Jesus Christ, just as we are the Body of Christ. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

What is the difference between individualism and individuality? We are not called to live for ourselves alone, but aren’t we also told to cultivate and use our individual talents? Fr. Josh takes on these questions in today’s episode. Snippet From the Show How each of us is called to be a saint will look different because each of us is different. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Do you ever find yourself compartmentalizing your faith? In our culture today, it can be very easy to leave our faith at church or in Bible Study. However, Fr. Josh encourages you to bring your faith everywhere…even Bachelor/Bachelorette parties and to the workplace. Snippet From the Show Do not be mediocre. Instead, live radically for Jesus Christ. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Fr. Josh answers a question regarding the reception of communion with other Christian denominations. He discusses both attending their services and receiving communion and whether it is permissible or not. Snippet From the Show The Sacrifice of the Mass is irreplaceable. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Can I work at a company that supports movements or organizations that are not in line with my beliefs? Fr. Josh answers this question and offers advice on how to discern if your place of work is the right place for you to be. Fr. Josh also shares about a married couple who are on the path to canonization. Snippet From the Show When God the Father looks at us, he sees us as a gift. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh