Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception – An Advent Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 12:20 — 8.6MB) | Embed

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception – An Advent Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart

As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord.

Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over”

Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart…

From the Holy Gospel of St. Luke 1:26-38

The angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the House of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. He went in and said to her, ‘Rejoice, so highly favoured! The Lord is with you.’ She was deeply disturbed by these words and asked herself what this greeting could mean, but the angel said to her, ‘Mary, do not be afraid; you have won God’s favour. Listen! You are to conceive and bear a son, and you must name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David; he will rule over the House of Jacob for ever and his reign will have no end.’ Mary said to the angel, ‘But how can this come about, since I am a virgin?’ ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you’ the angel answered ‘and the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow. And so the child will be holy and will be called Son of God. Know this too: your kinswoman Elizabeth has, in her old age, herself conceived a son, and she whom people called barren is now in her sixth month, for nothing is impossible to God.’ ‘I am the handmaid of the Lord,’ said Mary ‘let what you have said be done to me.’ And the angel left her.

What word made this passage come alive for you?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you:

The angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the House of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. He went in and said to her, ‘Rejoice, so highly favoured! The Lord is with you.’ She was deeply disturbed by these words and asked herself what this greeting could mean, but the angel said to her, ‘Mary, do not be afraid; you have won God’s favour. Listen! You are to conceive and bear a son, and you must name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David; he will rule over the House of Jacob for ever and his reign will have no end.’ Mary said to the angel, ‘But how can this come about, since I am a virgin?’ ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you’ the angel answered ‘and the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow. And so the child will be holy and will be called Son of God. Know this too: your kinswoman Elizabeth has, in her old age, herself conceived a son, and she whom people called barren is now in her sixth month, for nothing is impossible to God.’ ‘I am the handmaid of the Lord,’ said Mary ‘let what you have said be done to me.’ And the angel left her.

What did your heart feel as you listened?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word:

The angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the House of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. He went in and said to her, ‘Rejoice, so highly favoured! The Lord is with you.’ She was deeply disturbed by these words and asked herself what this greeting could mean, but the angel said to her, ‘Mary, do not be afraid; you have won God’s favour. Listen! You are to conceive and bear a son, and you must name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David; he will rule over the House of Jacob for ever and his reign will have no end.’ Mary said to the angel, ‘But how can this come about, since I am a virgin?’ ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you’ the angel answered ‘and the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow. And so the child will be holy and will be called Son of God. Know this too: your kinswoman Elizabeth has, in her old age, herself conceived a son, and she whom people called barren is now in her sixth month, for nothing is impossible to God.’ ‘I am the handmaid of the Lord,’ said Mary ‘let what you have said be done to me.’ And the angel left her.

What touched your heart in this time of prayer?

What did your heart feel as you prayed?

What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord?

We thank you, Lord Jesus for this time with you.

Keep us alert, we pray, O Lord our God,

as we await the advent of Christ your Son,

Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever

Amen

Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.

Day 9: The Silent Growth of Divine Love – From the writings of Caryll Houselander – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 2:25 — 1.8MB) | Embed

Caryll Houselander image used with permission from TRINITY ICONS

Day 9: The Silent Growth of Divine Love

“Advent is the season of the secret, the secret of the growth of Christ, of divine love growing in silence…For nine months, Christ grew in his mother’s body. By his own will, she formed him from herself, from the simplicity of her daily life.”

Commentary: Caryll Houselander reflects on Advent as a time of hidden development, where Christ’s presence grows quietly within us, much like His growth in Mary’s womb. This period emphasizes the importance of nurturing divine love in the simplicity of daily life, allowing it to flourish unseen until it manifests fully. Houselander encourages us to embrace this season of subtle transformation, trusting that, even in silence and simplicity, profound spiritual growth is taking place.

Personal Reflection: Reflect on the unseen ways Christ may be working in your life. How can you cultivate faith in His hidden presence, letting this trust transform each part of your day into a quiet prayer of expectation?

Houselander quote from: Caryll Houselander, The Reed of God, Sheed & Ward, 1944

For more reflections visit:
Caryll Houselander – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts

Image © Trinity Icons / Joseph M. Malham
Image used with permission
To purchase your own copy, visit Trinity Icons

The Blessed Virgin Mary, Advent, and Caryll Houselander – a reflection by Deacon Omar Gutierrez – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:11 — 36.1MB) | Embed

The Blessed Virgin Mary, Advent, and Caryll Houselander – a reflection by Deacon Omar Gutierrez – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Join Omar Gutierrez as he explores the profound themes of Advent in Caryll Houselander’s “The Reed of God.” Focusing on the anticipation and spiritual preparation that characterize this liturgical season, Gutierrez brings to life Houselander’s unique insights into the Blessed Virgin Mary’s role during Advent. Through his thoughtful presentation, listeners are invited to deepen their understanding of Mary’s journey, mirroring the waiting and hopeful expectation central to Advent. This episode is a journey through the themes of waiting, contemplation, and spiritual awakening, as presented in Houselander’s visionary work. It offers an enriching perspective for anyone seeking a deeper spiritual experience during Advent and a renewed appreciation for Mary’s role in the mystery of the Incarnation.

You can find the book her

First published in 1944 and now a spiritual classic for Catholics across the globe, The Reed of God contains meditations on the humanity of Mary, Mother of God. British Catholic writer and artist Caryll Houselander lovingly explores Mary’s intimately human side, depicting Our Lady as a musical instrument who makes divine love known to the world.

While the Second Vatican Council led to a renewed interest in the theology and person of Mary, Caryll Houselander offered a simple yet profound reflection on the Mother of God almost fifteen years before the council began

00:00 – 05:00: Introduction to the podcast and the significance of Advent in Catholic tradition.
05:01 – 15:00: Omar Gutierrez’s insights on Advent themes in “Reed of God” and their connection to Mary.
15:01 – 25:00: Exploring the concept of waiting and spiritual preparation as portrayed by Houselander.
25:01 – 35:00: Reflections on Mary’s journey and its parallels to the Advent season.
35:01 – 45:00: Discussion on the relevance of “Reed of God” for contemporary Advent practices and spiritual growth.
45:01 – End: Concluding thoughts on integrating Houselander’s insights into personal Advent devotion.

The Evangelism Institute seeks to bring a deeper understanding of the faith to Catholic school teachers, teens, college students, and other interested adults. For more information visit eicatholic.org

Day 9 – Courage – An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 4:56 — 3.5MB) | Embed

An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart:
Prepare your heart for Christ through Scripture, the saints, and the gentle practice of daily listening.

Week Two: Following the Voice of Christ

DAY 9 – Courage

“Wait for the Lord. Be strong, and let your heart take courage. Yes, wait for the Lord.”
Psalm 27.14 RSV

Courage is the grace that strengthens the heart to follow Christ even when the path feels uncertain or overwhelming. Advent forms this courage by teaching the soul to trust God’s presence more than its own fear. Courage is not boldness. It is not confidence in ourselves. It is confidence in God.

True courage does not mean the absence of fear. It means the heart chooses faith in the midst of fear. It is the inner movement that says, “I do not see the whole way, but I will take the next step because God is with me.” Courage rises when the soul remembers that Christ has already gone ahead.

Courage is also a virtue. It is fed by grace. It grows when the heart draws strength from God rather than from its own resources. The discerning heart learns that courage is not something we manufacture. It is something we receive when we lean on the One who steadies us.

Advent reveals that Christ comes into our fear, not after it disappears. He gives courage by His nearness.

Journey with the Saints –

Pope St. John Paul II

“Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors to Christ.”
St. John Paul II, Homily at the Mass for the Inauguration of His Pontificate, 22 October 1978

St. John Paul II understood that courage is born from trust in Christ. His life bore the marks of suffering, loss, and oppression, yet his heart remained steady because it was anchored in the presence of God. His courage was not human strength. It was divine confidence.

For St. John Paul, courage begins with opening the heart to Christ. Fear narrows the heart. Courage expands it. Fear closes the doors. Courage opens them. He believed that when Christ enters the heart, grace strengthens it to face any darkness, not by removing the struggle, but by filling it with light.

He knew that the heart grows courageous when it accepts God’s love and surrenders any attempt to control outcomes. He teaches us that courage is the fruit of letting Christ stand within us.

Reflection for the Listening Heart

Today invites you to notice places of hesitation within your soul. What feels uncertain. Where do you sense resistance. Courage does not demand that you overcome fear before you move. It asks you to take one small step with Christ, trusting that He steps with you.

Courage grows when the heart remembers past moments of grace. Think of times God has been faithful to you. Think of times when you feared the path ahead but discovered His presence waiting for you. That memory strengthens courage now.

Ask yourself: Where is God asking me to take a small courageous step. How can I rely on His strength rather than my own.

A Simple Practice for Today

Take one moment today to pray slowly, “Lord, strengthen my heart.” Identify one small step of trust and take it with intention. Later in the day, repeat the prayer as a reminder that courage is a grace you receive, not a task you achieve.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, give courage to my heart. Help me trust that You are with me in every uncertainty. Strengthen me with Your grace so I may follow where You lead. Steady my fears and fill me with the confidence that comes from Your presence. Teach me to take each step with You. Amen.

For more of the episodes of
An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart with Kris McGregor visit here

Citations for Day 9

Psalm 27.14 RSV
St. John Paul II, Homily for the Inauguration of His Pontificate, 22 October 1978

“Virgin Mary, all nature is blessed by you” – St. Anselm from the Office of Readings

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 4:08 — 3.8MB) | Embed

From a sermon by Saint Anselm, bishop

Virgin Mary, all nature is blessed by you

Blessed Lady, sky and stars, earth and rivers, day and night – everything that is subject to the power or use of man – rejoice that through you they are in some sense restored to their lost beauty and are endowed with inexpressible new grace. All creatures were dead, as it were, useless for men or for the praise of God, who made them. The world, contrary to its true destiny, was corrupted and tainted by the acts of men who served idols. Now all creation has been restored to life and rejoices that it is controlled and given splendour by men who believe in God. The universe rejoices with new and indefinable loveliness. Not only does it feel the unseen presence of God himself, its Creator, it sees him openly, working and making it holy. These great blessings spring from the blessed fruit of Mary’s womb.

Through the fullness of the grace that was given you, dead things rejoice in their freedom, and those in heaven are glad to be made new. Through the Son who was the glorious fruit of your virgin womb, just souls who died before his life-giving death rejoice as they are freed from captivity, and the angels are glad at the restoration of their shattered domain.

Lady, full and overflowing with grace, all creation receives new life from your abundance. Virgin, blessed above all creatures, through your blessing all creation is blessed, not only creation from its Creator, but the Creator himself has been blessed by creation.

To Mary God gave his only-begotten Son, whom he loved as himself. Through Mary God made himself a Son, not different but the same, by nature Son of God and Son of Mary. The whole universe was created by God, and God was born of Mary. God created all things, and Mary gave birth to God. The God who made all things gave himself form through Mary, and thus he made his own creation. He who could create all things from nothing would not remake his ruined creation without Mary.

God, then, is the Father of the created world and Mary the mother of the re-created world. God is the Father by whom all things were given life, and Mary the mother through whom all things were given new life. For God begot the Son, through whom all things were made, and Mary gave birth to him as the Saviour of the world. Without God’s Son, nothing could exist; without Mary’s Son, nothing could be redeemed.

Truly the Lord is with you, to whom the Lord granted that all nature should owe as much to you as to himself.

Novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe – Day 6 – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 4:00 — 3.7MB) | Embed

Novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe – Day 6

Holy Mary, comfort of the troubled, you sought out Juan Diego when in fear and confusion he took a different route to avoid encountering you. Then you restored his hope and confidence so he could carry out the task you had entrusted to him. Many people today face decisions of life and death filled with fear and confusion.

Mother, we ask you to restore their trust and hope in God so that their actions will always affirm the sanctity of human life.

Our Father …

Hail Mary …

Glory be …

Please visit the Discerning Hearts Our Lady of Guadalupe page for the text and audio for the remaining days.

Día 6 – Novena a la Virgen de Guadalupe – Podcasts De Corazones Discernidores

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 3:20 — 2.4MB) | Embed

Novena a la Virgen de Guadalupe

En el nombre del Padre, del Hijo y del Espíritu Santo. Amén.

“Señor mío, Jesucristo, Dios y Hombre verdadero, creador y redentor mío, por ser vos quien sois, y porque os amo sobre todas las cosas, me pesa de todo corazón haberos ofendido.

Propongo enmendarme y confesarme a su tiempo y ofrezco cuanto hiciere en satisfacción de mis pecados, y confío por vuestra bondad y misericordia infinita, que me perdonaréis y me daréis gracia para nunca más pecar. Así lo espero por intercesión de mi Madre, nuestra Señora la Virgen de Guadalupe. Amén”.

Sexto Dia

“¡Oh Santísima Virgen María de Guadalupe! ¡Qué bien dice a tu soberanía ese tapete que la luna forma a tus sagradas plantas! Hollaste con invicta planta las vanidades del mundo, y quedando superior a todo lo creado jamás padeciste el menguante de la más ligera imperfección: antes de tu primer instante estuviste llena de gracia.

Miserable de mí, Señora, que no sabiéndome mantener en los propósitos que hago, no tengo estabilidad en la virtud y sólo soy constante en mis viciosas costumbres.

Duélete de mí, Madre amorosa y tierna; ya que soy como la luna en mi inconstancia, sea como la luna que está a tus pies, esto es, firme siempre en tu devoción y amor, para no padecer los menguantes de la culpa. Haz que esté yo siempre a tus plantas por el amor y la devoción, y ya no temeré los menguantes del pecado sino que procuraré darme de lleno a mis obligaciones, detestando de corazón todo lo que es ofensa de mi Dios. Amén.

Padre Nuestro
Padre nuestro, que estás en el cielo, santificado sea tu nombre, venga a nosotros tu reino, hágase tu voluntad, en la tierra como en el cielo. Danos hoy nuestro pan de cada día, perdona nuestras ofensas, como también nosotros perdonamos a los que nos ofenden. No nos dejes caer en la tentación, y líbranos del mal. Amén

Ave Maria
Dios te Salve, María, llena eres de gracia, el Señor está contigo. Bendita tú eres entre todas las mujeres y bendito es el fruto de tu vientre, Jesús. Santa María, Madre de Dios, ruega por nosotros pecadores, ahora y en la hora de nuestra muerte. Amén

Gloria
Gloria al Padre y al Hijo y al Espíritu Santo. Como era en el principio ahora y siempre, por los siglos de los siglos. Amén

Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, ruega por nosotros. Amén

En el nombre del Padre, del Hijo y del Espíritu Santo. Amén

Para consultar la novena completa, visite:
Novena A La Virgen De Guadalupe – Podcasts De Corazones Discernidores

The 2nd Sunday of Advent – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 37:27 — 25.8MB) | Embed

The 2nd Sunday of Advent – A Call to Wake Up, Repent, and Enter the Light of JesusBuilding a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

In this Advent reflection, Msgr. John Esseff turns to the figure of John the Baptist and the call to repentance that prepares the way for the Lord. He explains that John stands at the culmination of Old Testament prophecy, announcing the arrival of the Messiah and calling all people to conversion. Yet Jesus teaches that the least in the kingdom is greater than John, because Christians carry Christ within them. This means the true tragedy is not simply breaking commandments but failing to live as Christ in the world.

Msgr. Esseff then guides listeners through examples of interior patterns that separate the soul from union with Jesus. He speaks about judgmental attitudes, envy, lust, unforgiveness, gluttony, and other deep tendencies that distort the heart. Each one acts like a hidden disease that wounds the life of Christ within the person. Advent becomes a time to uncover these wounds through honest examination and to bring them to the Lord for healing.

He urges listeners to call upon the Holy Spirit, who reveals the core wound with gentleness, not accusation. The Spirit convicts with light and love, while the enemy accuses and discourages. Confession is offered as a powerful path to healing, where the cross penetrates the soul and restores union with Christ.

Msgr. Esseff encourages priests to open the confessional during Advent and calls all Christians to stop judging one another and instead direct loved ones to the Holy Spirit, who alone can reveal the truth of the heart. Advent is presented as a privileged time to awaken, repent, and prepare for the coming of the Lord, who desires to bring healing, renewal, and unity to every soul.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

What interior pattern or tendency separates me most from Christ right now?
When I examine my heart, do I hear the accusing voice or the gentle clarity of the Holy Spirit?
Where have I allowed judgment, envy, or resentment to shape my thoughts or relationships?
What wound or habit is the Holy Spirit inviting me to bring to confession this Advent?
How can I prepare my heart to welcome Christ more deeply during this season?

Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton. Msgr. Esseff served as a retreat director and confessor to St. Teresa of Calcutta. He continues to offer direction and retreats for the sisters of the Missionaries of Charity around the world. Msgr. Esseff encountered St. Padre Pio, who would become a spiritual father to him. He has lived in areas around the world, serving in the Pontifical missions, a Catholic organization established by Pope St. John Paul II to bring the Good News to the world, especially to the poor. Msgr. Esseff assisted the founders of the Institute for Priestly Formation and continues to serve as a spiritual director for the Institute. He continues to serve as a retreat leader and director to bishops, priests and sisters and seminarians, and other religious leaders around the world.

St. Ambrose of Milan, Part 2 – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:48 — 21.3MB) | Embed

St. Ambrose of Milan, Part 2 – The Doctors of the Church with Dr. Matthew Bunson

Born: 340 AD
Died: January 1, 397 AD

Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor continue their discussion on the life and profound impact of St. Ambrose of Milan, a pivotal figure in Church history and a Doctor of the Church. Dr. Bunson emphasizes how Ambrose’s unexpected rise to the episcopate during a time of crisis in the Western Roman Empire exemplified his integrity and strength of character. Chosen by opposing factions who hoped to sway him to their cause, Ambrose steadfastly upheld orthodox Christian teaching, most notably opposing the Arian heresy. His tenure as Bishop of Milan was marked by his dedication to unity, deep prayer life, and commitment to scriptural study, which not only inspired his contemporaries but also profoundly influenced St. Augustine, whom he guided gently toward conversion. Ambrose’s unique method of silent scriptural reading and contemplative prayer impressed Augustine and modeled a new depth of spiritual engagement, contributing to the theological foundation of Christian mysticism.

St. Ambrose’s fearless moral authority extended to his interactions with the Roman emperors, particularly his courageous confrontation with Emperor Theodosius after the massacre of 7,000 innocents. By demanding genuine repentance from the emperor, Ambrose demonstrated his unwavering commitment to justice and the spiritual well-being of his flock, including rulers. His legacy also includes his promotion of Marian theology, the introduction of Eastern hymns to Western liturgy, and his composition of the Te Deum, reportedly written for Augustine’s baptism. Although Ambrose died relatively young at around 60, his life exemplified total self-gift to God, leaving an enduring legacy of wisdom, courage, and pastoral care. His life and teachings continue to inspire modern bishops and faithful, calling all to live with integrity, grace, and a relentless pursuit of truth.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Integrity in Leadership: How can I emulate St. Ambrose’s steadfastness in upholding truth and unity in my own roles of influence?
Prayerful Scripture Engagement: In what ways can I deepen my prayer life by absorbing scripture into my heart, as St. Ambrose exemplified?
Guiding Others Gently: How can I, like St. Ambrose with St. Augustine, accompany others on their spiritual journey with patience and wisdom?
Moral Courage: Am I willing to stand up for truth and justice, even when it requires confronting authority or making personal sacrifices?
Living the Faith Fully: How can I integrate my beliefs into daily actions to reflect Christ’s presence in the world?
Witnessing through Worship: In what ways can my participation in and promotion of sacred traditions, like hymns and liturgy, enhance my community’s faith experience?
Total Self-Gift to God: What areas of my life am I still holding back from offering completely to God’s service?
Concern for Eternal Souls: How can I show genuine love and concern for the spiritual well-being of others, even those in positions of power or authority?
Influence of the Blessed Mother: How does my devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary inspire me to grow in holiness and faithfulness to Christ?
Legacy of Faith: What steps can I take to leave a lasting impact on others by living a life of grace and virtue, as St. Ambrose did?

For more on St. Ambrose of Milan and his teachings

For more from Dr. Matthew Bunson, check out his Discerning Hearts page.

Dr. Matthew E. Bunson is a Register senior editor and a senior contributor to EWTN News. For the past 20 years, he has been active in the area of Catholic social communications and education, including writing, editing, and teaching on a variety of topics related to Church history, the papacy, the saints and Catholic culture. He is faculty chair at Catholic Distance University, a senior fellow of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology, and the author or co-author of over 50 books including The Encyclopedia of Catholic History, The Pope Encyclopedia, We Have a Pope! Benedict XVI, The Saints Encyclopedia and best-selling biographies of St. Damien of Molokai and St. Kateri Tekakwitha.

St. Ambrose of Milan, Part 1 – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:53 — 21.4MB) | Embed

St. Ambrose of Milan, Part 1 – The Doctors of the Church with Dr. Matthew Bunson

Born: 340 AD
Died: January 1, 397 AD

Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor delve into the life and legacy of St. Ambrose of Milan, one of the first four Doctors of the Church. St. Ambrose, born in 340 AD to a prominent Christian Roman family, was shaped by a devout household and a comprehensive education in literature, rhetoric, and law. Despite initially serving as a governor in the Roman Empire, his unexpected appointment as Bishop of Milan arose during a contentious period marked by the Arian heresy. Despite his reluctance, Ambrose accepted the role, undergoing baptism and theological study, and embracing his mission to defend and shepherd the Christian community. His dedication to scripture, particularly the Old Testament, influenced his homiletic style and laid the foundation for practices like Lectio Divina.

St. Ambrose’s ability to bridge secular leadership and ecclesial authority brought stability to Milan and served as an inspiration for future saints like Augustine of Hippo. His profound faith and intellectual contributions include his role in opposing Arianism and shaping the Christian theological tradition. St. Ambrose’s life exemplifies the hallmark of a Doctor of the Church: profound teaching intertwined with sanctity, humility, and obedience to God’s will.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

The Role of Divine Providence: How can we recognize and embrace God’s unexpected plans for our lives, as St. Ambrose did when called to be a bishop?
Faith and Family Influence: In what ways does your family or community shape your faith journey, similar to how St. Ambrose’s upbringing prepared him for his vocation?
The Witness of Integrity: How does living a life of integrity and faithfulness to Christ impact those around you, as it did for St. Ambrose with his community?
Preparation for Mission: What steps can you take to deepen your knowledge of Scripture and Church teachings, following St. Ambrose’s example of relentless study?
Defending the Faith: How can you actively defend the truths of the Catholic faith in the face of modern challenges, inspired by St. Ambrose’s opposition to heresies?
Surrendering to God’s Will: What areas of your life require greater surrender to God’s will, mirroring St. Ambrose’s total dedication to his calling?
The Influence of Prayer: How can practices like Lectio Divina and prayerful reflection on Scripture strengthen your spiritual life and guide your actions?

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception – An Advent Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart

Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.

For more reflections visit: Caryll Houselander – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts

The Blessed Virgin Mary, Advent, and Caryll Houselander – a reflection by Deacon Omar Gutierrez – Discerning Hearts Podcast

An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart: Prepare your heart for Christ through Scripture, the saints, and the gentle practice of daily listening.

Week Two: Following the Voice of Christ

DAY 9 – Courage

Journey with the Saints –

Pope St. John Paul II

Reflection for the Listening Heart

A Simple Practice for Today

Prayer

For more of the episodes of An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart with Kris McGregor visit here

From a sermon by Saint Anselm, bishop

Virgin Mary, all nature is blessed by you

Novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe – Day 6

Please visit the Discerning Hearts Our Lady of Guadalupe page for the text and audio for the remaining days.

Novena a la Virgen de Guadalupe

Sexto Dia

Para consultar la novena completa, visite: Novena A La Virgen De Guadalupe – Podcasts De Corazones Discernidores

The 2nd Sunday of Advent – A Call to Wake Up, Repent, and Enter the Light of JesusBuilding a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

St. Ambrose of Milan, Part 2 – The Doctors of the Church with Dr. Matthew Bunson

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

For more on St. Ambrose of Milan and his teachings

St. Ambrose of Milan, Part 1 – The Doctors of the Church with Dr. Matthew Bunson

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

For more on St. Ambrose of Milan and his teachings

For more reflections visit:
Caryll Houselander – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts

An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart:
Prepare your heart for Christ through Scripture, the saints, and the gentle practice of daily listening.

For more of the episodes of
An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart with Kris McGregor visit here

Para consultar la novena completa, visite:
Novena A La Virgen De Guadalupe – Podcasts De Corazones Discernidores