Inside the Pages Archives

IP#305 Dr. Peter Kreeft – I Burned for Your Peace on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Dr. Peter Kreeft – I Burned for Your Peace on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Dr. Peter Kreeft joins Kris McGregor to discuss his book I Burned for Your Peace: Augustine’s Confessions Unpacked. He describes St. Augustine as both passionate and brilliant, a rare union of heart and intellect. This blend makes the Confessions timeless—deeply personal yet profoundly theological. The book is written as a prayer, which gives it burning honesty, since St. Augustine is speaking directly to God. The famous line, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in you,” is its central theme, showing how St. Augustine’s restless search for truth, meaning, and joy ultimately led him to God through divine grace. His journey of confronting sin, wrestling with doubts, and being guided by his mother St. Monica demonstrates both his humanity and his uniqueness, while also reflecting the universal struggles of every person.

As a guide through St. Augustine’s work, Dr. Kreeft compares the Confessions to a Christmas tree that he helps decorate without obscuring its beauty. St. Augustine’s humility, honesty, and recognition of suffering is essential for spiritual growth. Augustine shows that life is a story with a beginning, middle, and end directed toward God, and his conversion reveals that no one can reach this destiny without grace. His mystical experiences, struggles with evil, and deep relationship with God illustrate both the darkness of sin and the light of divine love. For Dr. Kreeft, reading St. Augustine is not just encountering a saint of the past but a companion for today, someone who reveals what it means to be fully human and fully oriented toward God.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How does Augustine’s description of a restless heart invite you to examine what you are truly seeking in life?
In what ways can you speak to God in prayer with the same honesty Augustine shows in the Confessions?
What role does suffering play in your spiritual journey, and how might you unite it with Christ’s own suffering?
How do you recognize God’s grace working in your life, even when your will resists conversion?
What can Augustine’s relationship with his mother, Monica, teach you about the power of intercession and perseverance in prayer?
How do you respond when you see sin in yourself compared to when you see it in others?
What aspects of Augustine’s story mirror your own search for truth, meaning, and love?
How can humility, understood as standing in God’s light, shape the way you view yourself and others?
In what ways does the narrative of your own life reflect God’s ongoing work of redemption?
How do Augustine’s mystical experiences challenge or inspire your own understanding of encountering God?

About the Book

Popular author and philosopher Peter Kreeft delves into one of the most beloved Christian classics of all time–Augustine’s Confessions. He collects key passages and offers incisive commentary, making Confessions accessible to any reader who is both intellectually curious and spiritually hungry.

The Confessions is a dramatic personal narrative of a soul choosing between eternal life and death, an exploration of the timeless questions great minds have been asking for millennia, and a prayer of praise and thanksgiving to God. I Burned for Your Peace is not a scholarly work but an unpacking of the riches found in Augustine’s text. It is existential, personal, and devotional, as well as warm, witty, and thought-provoking. With Kreeft to guide them, readers of the Confessions can overhear and understand the intimate conversation between a towering intellect and the God whose peace he at last humbly accepts.

About the Author

Peter Kreeft, Ph.D., Professor of Philosophy at Boston College, is one of the most respected and prolific Christian authors of our time. His books cover a vast array of topics in spirituality, theology, and philosophy. They include Doors in the Walls of the World, The Greatest Philosopher Who Ever Lived, How to Be Holy, Because God Is Real, You Can Understand the Bible, and Summa of the Summa.

IP#492 Sarah Park McLaughlin – Praying with St. Augustine on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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Sarah Park McLaughlin on “Praying with St. Augustine”

Sarah Park-McLaughlin and Kris McGregor centers on McLaughlin’s book Praying with St. Augustine, a collection of the saint’s prayers drawn from his sermons and writings. McLaughlin shares how she began gathering these prayers decades ago after being moved by hearing them at a retreat. Despite initial rejections from publishers, she felt guided to persevere, and Sophia Institute Press eventually published the collection. St. Augustine’s prayers are timeless, personal, and deeply moving, often combining Scripture with heartfelt cries for mercy, praise, and understanding. McLaughlin highlights how Augustine’s humility and honesty about his struggles make him relatable, not a distant “plaster saint.”

The book explores St. Augustine’s life and impact: his conversion through the prayers of his mother, St. Monica; his role as bishop in North Africa; his defense of the faith against heresies; and his enduring influence on the Church through writings like The City of God and Confessions. McLaughlin notes that his prayers are varied—ranging from praise to petition to meditations on divine mysteries—and can serve as guides for anyone seeking a deeper prayer life. She stresses that the book is both devotional and instructional, accessible to those new to Augustine as well as lifelong students of his work, offering prayers that draw us into a more intimate relationship with God.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How do St. Augustine’s struggles and conversion story invite me to see God’s mercy at work in my own life?
In what ways can I make Augustine’s heartfelt prayers part of my personal prayer routine?
How do Augustine’s prayers of praise challenge me to go beyond petitions and simply glorify God?
What role does humility play in my conversations with God, as it did for Augustine?
How can St. Monica’s perseverance in prayer encourage me to keep interceding for loved ones who are far from the faith?
Which of Augustine’s images of God—such as “banquet of love” or “ancient yet new beauty”—most stirs my heart to prayer?
How does Augustine’s openness about weakness inspire me to be honest with God about my own struggles?
What does Augustine’s integration of Scripture into his prayers teach me about praying with the Word of God?
How might Augustine’s prayers of petition help me to recognize my dependence on God each day?
In what ways can Augustine’s example guide me to deepen both my knowledge of God and my love for Him?

From the book description

“For years, there have been no books of St. Augustine’s prayers available. Finally, in this treasure trove, you will find select prayers from his works — some of the most potent prayers ever composed. As you read the innermost thoughts of the greatest Church Father, you will be transported in time and learn how to pray with the heart of a saint. St. Augustine’s timeless words will help you encounter the “Beauty of ancient days, yet ever new” face-to-face and experience the relationship between praying and believing.

As Dr. Kreeft explains, “No Christian writer, perhaps no writer at all, has ever been as eloquent as St. Augustine. Few have been as philosophically and theologically profound, or as passionately in love with God…. No passages in Augustine’s writings are more eloquent than his prayers, or more profound than his prayers, or more saintly than his prayers, for prayer is the very lifeblood of sanctity.”

These precious gems are uplifting and accessible to all. Covering a range of topics and styles, they include praise and petition for health, docility, forgiveness, restoration, and salvation. You will also find prayers glorifying the Trinity’s attributes, such as wisdom, light, goodness, mercy, and truth, as well as intimate prayers of adoration to the Incarnate Word.

Offering these magnificent prayers will ready you to behold glimpses into the mystery of God. St. Augustine will teach you:

The three valuable lessons Jesus taught us about prayer
The two things always to pray for and how to pray always
Ways to kindle virtues on the road to sanctity
How to deepen your love for and devotion to God
Line by line wisdom on praying the Our Father
“What better way could we have to know the heart of a man like St. Augustine than to listen to him pray?” Sara Park McLaughlin reflects. “By reading his vast writings, we discover something of the saint’s enormous genius and theological insight…. Through his prayers we experience his relationship to God.”

When you pray these prayers fervently you will join forces with the entire company of Heaven in a litany of endless worship and praise. St. Augustine taught that prayer makes you ready to receive God’s blessings. As you pray with St. Augustine, be prepared to be blessed!”

About the Author

Sarah Park McLaughlin, Former humor columnist, author of My Humor Writing Journal [Amazon] and retired university English teacher, love Catholicism, apologetics, C. S. Lewis. Her blog can be found here.

IP#251 – Anne Costa – Embracing Edith Stein on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

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Anne Costa – Embracing Edith Stein on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of “Inside the Pages”, Kris McGregor and Anne Costa discuss Anne’s book, Embracing Edith Stein: Wisdom for Women from St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, which aims to introduce Edith Stein’s rich spirituality to a broader audience and her significance for women today.

Describing Edith Stein’s life, from her birth in Germany as the youngest of 11 children, through her rise as a prominent philosopher, to her eventual conversion to Catholicism inspired by the writings of St. Teresa of Avila and the example of devout Catholics; Edith’s intellectual journey was marked by a deep pursuit of truth, which eventually led her to Catholicism and a vocation as a Carmelite nun.

Edith’s writings, particularly on the nature and mission of women, are highlighted as deeply relevant today. Her thoughts on the complementarity of men and women, the importance of self-possession for women, and the need to balance intellectual and spiritual life resonate strongly in contemporary times. The podcast underscores how her wisdom, grounded in both personal experience and profound faith, offers practical guidance for modern women.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Encountering Truth in Our Lives: How do I seek truth in my daily life, and am I open to the possibility that true wisdom may come from an encounter with Christ rather than just intellectual pursuit?
Embracing Our Feminine Gifts: In what ways can I better understand and utilize my unique gifts as a woman, according to God’s design, to serve my family and community?
The Cross and Suffering: How do I perceive and carry my own crosses, and can I learn from St. Edith Stein’s example to embrace suffering with hope and trust in God’s ultimate triumph?
Role of Prayer in Daily Life: Do I prioritize time for prayer in the midst of my daily responsibilities, allowing God to order my day and give me the strength to fulfill my duties?
Influence of Saints on Our Spiritual Journey: How can I foster a deeper relationship with the saints, particularly St. Edith Stein, to guide and support me in my spiritual growth during challenging times?

From the book description:

“Embracing Edith Stein shows how the different aspects of the life and teachings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross can serve as a guide for women and their unique vocation today. Written in a friendly, conversational style, this is one woman sharing the story of her friendship with this saint with her readers.”

About the Author

Anne Costa is a Catholic author and speaker with five books published including Embracing Edith Stein: Wisdom for Women from St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Servant) and Refresh Me Lord! Meditations to Renew a Women’sSpirit (The Word Among Us Press). She works with two apostolates: Sacred Heart Apostolate, Inc. as communications officer and the John Paul II Center for Women, Inc. Anne is a wife and mother, and enjoys traveling, painting and Eucharistic adoration.

ITP#513 – Leila Lawler – St. Hildegard’s Garden on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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In this episode of Inside the Pages, Kris McGregor speaks with Leila Lawler about the beautifully illustrated book Hildegard’s Garden by French author Paul Frees. The conversation centers on the multifaceted life and legacy of St. Hildegard of Bingen, a twelfth-century Benedictine abbess, mystic, and Doctor of the Church. Lawler shares how her appreciation for Hildegard deepened over time—first sparked by Pope Benedict XVI’s declaration of Hildegard as a Doctor of the Church and later nourished by her daughters’ interest in Hildegard’s sacred music and by reading Victoria Sweet’s God’s Hotel.

The book itself is far more than a botanical or herbal manual. While it features stunning illustrations and practical remedies based on Hildegard’s understanding of healing herbs, it also offers a compelling biography and highlights Hildegard’s philosophy of creation, healing, and divine vitality—what Hildegard called viriditas, the greening life force. McGregor and Lawler explore how Hildegard’s holistic view of the world was deeply rooted in Benedictine spirituality, which integrated prayer, work, hospitality, and care for the whole person. They also discuss how Pope Benedict XVI saw Hildegard—and other mystics such as Catherine of Siena, Teresa of Ávila, and Julian of Norwich—as key voices in reviving a richer, more integrated theology, especially one attentive to the mystery and beauty of God’s presence in creation. The podcast affirms Hildegard’s relevance not only for her time but especially for ours, where a recovery of reverence for creation and the wisdom of the saints is urgently needed.

Discerning Hearts spiritual reflection questions:

How does Hildegard of Bingen’s concept of viriditas invite us to see God’s life-giving presence in creation and in our own healing?
In what ways can Hildegard’s integration of faith, science, and art inspire a more unified approach to our spiritual and physical well-being?
How might Benedictine hospitality, as practiced by Hildegard, reshape the way we care for those who are suffering in our communities?
What can we learn from Pope Benedict XVI’s decision to highlight women mystics like Hildegard as vital contributors to theology and Church renewal?
How does reading Hildegard’s letters give us a deeper understanding of her humility, obedience, and spiritual authority?
In what ways does Hildegard’s view of the cosmos challenge the modern tendency to separate God from His creation?
How can Hildegard’s practical wisdom about herbs, rest, and natural rhythms inform how we care for ourselves and our families today?
What role does beauty—in nature, music, and daily life—play in leading us toward a deeper knowledge and love of God?

You can find the book here

From the book description:

Hildegard of Bingen (1098–1179) was a mystic and scholar who chronicled more than six hundred pages of visions, wrote cantatas, and even devised her own language. She authored The Book of Divine Works, Causes and Cures, and Scivias and corresponded with the greatest intellectuals, theologians, and royals of her time.

As a pioneer of European phytotherapy, Hildegard described and cataloged hundreds of ingredients from plant, mineral, and animal origins. Her recipes, remedies, nutritional advice, and holistic view of the human being are as valued and appreciated today as when she developed them nearly a thousand years ago.

This book faithfully applies Hildegard’s pioneering thought to everyday living in our time. In these potent pages, you will find the medicinal properties of essential herbs as well as how to identify, utilize, and cultivate them. You will also learn:

“Hildegard’s elixir” for curing common ailments
Ways to include delicious herbs in your dinner and dessert recipes to fortify your health
The herbs that will help you relieve forgetfulness and ease muscle tension
Effective treatments for nervous, digestive, circulatory, respiratory, and hormonal illnesses
Recipes for preparing everything from breakfast dishes and soups to medicinal wines, teas, poultices, ointments, oils, plasters, and eye drops
Which “herb of the angels” is used to treat anxiety, fatigue, and much more

Additionally, you will discover the most favorable environment for growing the plants most heartily recommended by Hildegard, and step-by-step instructions on how to develop your own spiritually organized and fruitful garden plan.

IP#313 Fr. Sean Davidson – Saint Mary Magdalene on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Fr. Sean Davidson – Saint Mary Magdalene on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Fr. Sean Davidson joins Kris McGregor to discuss his book St. Mary Magdalene: Prophetess of Eucharistic Love. Drawing from his experience serving at the Basilica of St. Mary Magdalene in Provence, France, Fr. Davidson presents Mary Magdalene not only as a historical figure but as a deeply contemplative soul. He argues in favor of the traditional view that identifies Mary Magdalene with both the repentant sinner in Luke’s Gospel and Mary of Bethany, citing scriptural patterns, patristic writings (notably from St. Augustine and St. Gregory the Great), and longstanding devotion in both East and West. He reflects on her recurring posture at Jesus’ feet as a sign of profound love and devotion, and explores how this reverent presence culminates in her being the first to proclaim the Resurrection.

Fr. Davidson portrays Mary Magdalene as a model of Eucharistic love and transformation, someone who teaches us how to approach Christ with awe and total surrender. Saints like St. Teresa of Avila and St. Catherine of Siena were inspired by her example, and her legacy offers deep hope for conversion and holiness. He expresses concern over modern reductions of her identity—both scholarly and cultural—but insists that a prayerful reading of the Gospels reveals a prophetic and saintly figure uniquely devoted to Jesus. Mary Magdalene, he says, continues to be a powerful spiritual mother and teacher, especially for those who long to grow in love for Christ in the Eucharist.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How does Mary Magdalene’s unwavering presence at the feet of Jesus challenge my own posture of prayer and devotion?
What can I learn from her transformation from sinner to saint about the power of Christ’s mercy in my own life?
In what ways do I encounter Christ in the Eucharist with the same amazement and love that Mary Magdalene demonstrated?
How do I respond when others misunderstand or criticize my expressions of faith, as Mary Magdalene was often criticized?
Am I willing to be led by tradition and the Church Fathers in deepening my understanding of the saints, even amid modern scholarly debates?
How can Mary Magdalene’s bold witness to the Resurrection inspire me to share the Gospel more openly and courageously?
What gestures of love for Christ—like Mary’s anointing—can I offer in my daily life?
In what ways do I allow the opinions of others to distract me from what Christ thinks of me?
Do I see my past sins, once confessed, as potential testimonies to God’s mercy, as Mary Magdalene’s life illustrates?
How can I bring Mary Magdalene’s example into my family life and spiritual formation, especially for the next generation?

About the Book

Adoration is love, and eucharistic adoration is love of Christ present in the Blessed Sacrament. In the Gospels there are few people who understand love for Jesus as well as Mary Magdalene, which is the reason she is a prophetess of eucharistic love.

This work is an extended meditation on the life of Saint Mary Magdalene, known as the “Apostle to the Apostles” because the Risen Christ appeared to her first and then sent her to announce the Resurrection to the apostles. Based on the biblical texts traditionally associated with Mary Magdalene, this book helps readers to learn from her inspiring example and to enter more deeply into adoration of Jesus Christ truly present in the Blessed Sacrament.

In telling the story of Mary Magdalene’s profound conversion after the Lord had to expel seven demons from her soul, this book shows how she is a shining witness to the transforming power of an encounter with Jesus Christ. Mary Magdalene is the perfect model for those who have experienced the redeeming love of Christ and who seek to deepen their devotion to him and to the Eucharist.

About the Author

Father Sean Davidson is a member of the Missionaries of the Most Holy Eucharist. He spent two years serving at the magnificent Basilica of Saint Mar y Magdalene in Provence, France, where he received the inspiration for this work. He is currently serving at the Eucharistic Retreat Center in the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception, Long Island.

IP#504 Dan LeRoy – Why We Think What We Think on Inside the Pages w/ Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Why We Think What We Think by Dan LeRoy on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor, guest Dan LeRoy discusses his book, which explores the decline of philosophical thinking in the Western world. They discuss the importance of philosophy for fostering critical thinking and understanding cultural shifts. LeRoy critiques modern philosophy for becoming disconnected from practical realities, arguing that it has contributed to societal confusion and dissatisfaction.

They explore historical and philosophical influences, highlighting how figures like Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and later, St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas, have shaped Western thought. The discussion emphasizes the enduring relevance of classical philosophers and the consequences of abandoning their teachings in modern times. LeRoy argues that reconnecting with these foundational ideas is essential for addressing contemporary issues and achieving true happiness, which aligns with the pursuit of virtue and truth.

LeRoy also critiques modern philosophical trends that prioritize individual happiness over communal responsibility, linking these trends to broader societal unhappiness. The conversation underscores the need for a philosophical renaissance that embraces ancient and medieval thinkers’ rigorous, virtue-oriented approach to remedying modern existential and ethical dilemmas.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

Personal Reflection on Philosophy: How does your understanding of philosophy align with the perspectives shared by Dan Leroy? In what ways can you incorporate philosophical thinking into your daily life to make more informed, virtuous decisions?
Role of Virtue: How do you define virtue in your own life? Reflect on how the pursuit of virtue can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment, as discussed by LeRoy. Are there areas in your life where you could strive more actively for virtue?
Influence of Historical Philosophers: Consider the impact of philosophers like Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, St. Augustine, and St. Thomas Aquinas on your own understanding of the world. How do their teachings on truth and virtue resonate with your personal beliefs and practices?
Modern Philosophy’s Disconnect: LeRoy discusses the disconnect of modern philosophy from practical and ethical concerns. Reflect on any modern philosophical ideas or movements you are aware of. Do you agree that they are disconnected from “real-world” applications? Why or why not?
Critical Thinking in Culture: In what ways do you think critical thinking is lacking in today’s culture? How can the revival of classical philosophical principles contribute to solving contemporary problems?
Philosophy and the Catholic Faith: Reflect on how philosophy can complement your Catholic faith. How can embracing philosophical inquiry enhance your spiritual life and your understanding of Catholic teachings?
Community and Individualism: Reflect on the tension between individualism and community responsibilities as discussed in the episode. How do you balance personal freedom with communal obligations in your own life?
Pursuit of Truth and Happiness: How does your pursuit of truth impact your happiness? Do you agree with the assertion that true happiness comes from fulfilling our purpose and seeking virtue? Why or why not?
Engagement with Philosophical Texts: Are there philosophical texts or thinkers you have been meaning to explore? What might be holding you back, and how could engaging with these materials enrich your intellectual and spiritual life?
Action Steps: Based on the discussion in the podcast, what are some practical steps you can take to deepen your philosophical understanding and apply it to your life challenges?

From the book’s description:

We’re all starting to hear people ask how the world has gotten to be the way it is. Grafted onto the usual complaints about why people are so greedy, self-absorbed, and callous toward one another are new expressions of frustration about even more fundamental concerns. Why can’t we agree on concepts that used to be basic common sense? Why does our very language now seem to be a minefield that only the most wily and tactical (or cynical) among us can navigate?

The only way to understand fully how we have arrived at this state — and what, if anything, we might be able to do about it — is to embark on a journey back in time to see where we went off the rails. With candor and occasional humor, Dan LeRoy tells the sweeping story of Western thought from its beginnings to the present, revealing the souls and idiosyncrasies of its greatest thinkers. Through stirring vignettes, he tells the real story of how our customs and thought patterns developed and then relates it to our current moment of rupture.

In pages that sometimes read like an Indiana Jones adventure, LeRoy explains the detour that philosophy took nearly a thousand years ago that has led Western society to its current, dire situation. With sharp pen and clear eye, he reveals:

The roots of classical philosophy, including empiricism (Ready to wade into the water?)

How views on ethics and morality began to take shape even before Christ

The three ways to attain happiness, according to the Big Three philosophers

Four splinter groups and how their philosophies impact us today

The enduring teachings of Sts. Augustine and Aquinas, among many others

About the Author

Dan LeRoy is an author, journalist and teacher who has been the director of the Writing and Publishing Department at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School in Midland, Pennsylvania, since 2006. His writing about music and politics has appeared in the New York Times, Rolling Stone, Newsweek, the Village Voice, Alternative Press, Esquire, and National Review Online.

IP#512 Anthony DeStefano – The Miracle Book on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Anthony DeStefano – The Miracle Book on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of Inside the Pages, Anthony DeStefano discusses his latest work The Miracle Book: A Simple Guide to Asking for the Impossible with host Kris McGregor. His book approaches the subject of miracles through a lens of theological clarity and practical spirituality.

The difference between extraordinary, supernatural events and more common, grace-filled answers to prayer is that they may appear natural but are divinely orchestrated. The tension between trusting God’s providence and making specific petitions, shows that such paradoxes deepen rather than diminish true faith. Drawing from Scripture, Church tradition, and personal stories, including the illness and death of his father, Anthony offers us a framework for understanding how God’s responses—though often unexpected—are always rooted in love and order.

A central theme is the call to interior conversion when seeking miracles: aligning spoken prayers with the deeper needs of the soul, practicing trust in divine timing, and accepting that God often answers in ways beyond human comprehension. We must persist in hopeful prayer and utilize concrete spiritual practices that foster receptivity to God’s intervention—not magical thinking, but humble cooperation with divine grace.

You can buy the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

What is the difference between asking God for what you want and asking for what your soul truly needs?
How do you understand the distinction between miraculous interventions and natural but providential outcomes in your life?
In what ways might you be unintentionally limiting God by expecting Him to act according to your specific solutions?
How can you practice both persistent prayer and decisive trust in God’s will without falling into discouragement?
Are there any “unanswered prayers” in your past that, in hindsight, reveal a deeper grace or purpose?
What role does personal conversion play in preparing your heart to receive a miracle?
How do you see God’s providence working through the ordinary events of your life?
Do you find it difficult to surrender your desires to God’s will, and why might that be?
How can embracing the paradoxes of faith help you grow in spiritual maturity?
Who in your life can you invite to pray with you in times of need, and how might communal intercession strengthen your faith?

From the book’s description:

At some point everyone needs a miracle.

It might involve your health, your finances, your family, or feelings of anxiety or hopelessness. But there comes a time when all of us experience the need for supernatural help, whether we have faith or not.

Numerous books have been written on miracles, but few explain in clear, practical, theologically sound language how to ask for one.

So many people in the world are suffering but don’t know how to receive help. Some beg and plead with God. Some negotiate, promising that they will change their ways if only He will grant them this one request. But then, if their request is not answered in the way they desire, they lose faith or get angry or sink into despair.

There is a better way.

There is a method of praying for a miracle that guarantees the best possible chance of getting a yes from God — or at least alleviation of our stress and satisfaction for our souls.

Bestselling author Anthony DeStefano explains this powerful new approach and, in the process, relates exactly how to overcome your fears and to experience “the peace that transcends all understanding.”

Through his conversational style, compelling real-life stories, and wisdom, DeStefano explains:

How your prayers can help obtain miracles for yourself and others
Ways in which friends and loved ones can help you obtain your miracle
How to open your heart to receive “courage infusions” to persevere in trials and overcome fear
Ways in which the providential power of paradox can help you obtain the miracle you need
How to put all God’s “conditions” for granting a miracle in one powerful prayer

If you need a miracle right now, this is the book for you. Included inside these covers is the Miracle Prayer, inspirational verses on miracles and hope, and a list of key intercessors for various needs.

About the Author

Anthony DeStefano is the best-selling author of thirty Christian books for adults and children, including: “A Travel Guide to Heaven”, “Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To”, “Little Star”, and “The Donkey No One Could Ride.” Anthony has been the host of two television series, “A Travel Guide to Life,” and “A Travel Guide to Heaven,” both broadcast on the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), as well as several children’s programs.

He has received many awards and honors from religious communities throughout the world. In 2002, he was given an honorary Doctorate from the Joint Academic Commission of the National Clergy Council and the Methodist Episcopal Church for “the advancement of Christian beliefs in modern culture.” The commission is made up of outstanding Evangelical, Orthodox and Protestant theologians and educators. Anthony is a Knight of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, the oldest Order in the Catholic Church. He is an avid pilot, and lives with his wife, Jordan, in New Jersey.

Fr. James Kubicki S.J. – A Heart on Fire on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Fr. James Kubicki S.J. – A Heart on Fire on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of Inside the Pages, Fr. James Kubicki discusses his book A Heart on Fire: Rediscovering Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. He explores the meaning and history of this devotion, tracing it back to the early Church rather than starting with St. Margaret Mary. Fr. Kubicki explains that the heart of Jesus represents his whole being, particularly his self-giving love and compassion. Through stories like that of Admiral Jeremiah Denton, he illustrates how trust and surrender to Christ can be transformative even in the darkest trials. This devotion is not sentimental nostalgia, but a profound spiritual path rooted in Scripture, Eucharistic spirituality, and the Church’s tradition.

The Sacred Heart calls Christians to deeper prayer and action. Fr. Kubicki highlights that devotion must be lived out—through practices like the Morning Offering, family consecration, and awareness of Christ’s presence throughout daily life. Far from being a private piety, he presents it as a way of participating in Jesus’ compassionate response to the suffering of the world. The Sacred Heart, he explains, helps move the faithful from intellectual assent to a loving, personal relationship with Christ, guiding them to integrate head and heart in their spiritual lives and sacramental worship.

You can find the book here

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How does understanding the Sacred Heart of Jesus as a symbol of His whole person and love affect your personal relationship with Him?
In what ways can you offer your daily joys and sufferings to Jesus as part of a spiritual “morning offering”?
How does the story of Admiral Denton challenge you to deepen your trust and surrender to Christ in times of hardship?
What does it mean for your home and family life to enthrone the Sacred Heart of Jesus as king and center?
How can devotion to the Sacred Heart lead you to greater awareness of and response to the suffering of others?
Are there aspects of your faith life that remain only intellectual, and how might you allow them to move into your heart?
How can participation in the Eucharist become more personal and prayerful for you through devotion to the Sacred Heart?
What might Jesus be asking you to let go of in your life in order to love more fully with His heart?
How do the lives of saints like St. Gertrude, St. Margaret Mary, or Mother Teresa inspire your own devotion to the Sacred Heart?
What practical steps can you take this week to live out the love of Christ’s heart in your interactions with others?

About the Book

In A Heart on Fire: Rediscovering Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Rev. James Kubicki, SJ, presents a persuasive and engaging guide to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, an age-old and often misunderstood Catholic devotion. He delves into the rich theological and spiritual roots of the devotion and demonstrates how the faithful may encounter the Sacred Heart of Jesus in one another, scripture, the sacraments, and especially in the Eucharist.

Fr. Kubicki, former national director of the Apostleship of Prayer (now the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network), brings to life the rich imagery associated with the devotion’s history and provides a contemporary look at traditional devotions like the Twelve Promises, family consecration and enthronement, the Sacred Heart Badge, the Litany of the Sacred Heart, holy hours, and devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

About the Author

Fr. James Kubicki, SJ, serves as a spiritual director at St. Francis de Sales Seminary in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. He is a popular conference and parish mission speaker, retreat director, and the author of A Heart on Fire and A Year of Daily Offerings.

Kubicki previously served as the national director of the Apostleship of Prayer (now the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network) and as the president of St. Francis Mission on South Dakota’s Rosebud Reservation. Kubicki entered the Society of Jesus in 1971 and was ordained in 1983. He has served the Jesuits in numerous capacities including, vocations, priestly formation, and deacon and lay ministry formation.

The Lasting Influence of St. Augustine, Pt. 3 – In Conversation with Dcn. Omar Gutierrez – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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The Lasting Influence of St. Augustine, Pt. 3 – In Conversation with Deacon Omar Gutierrez

Deacon Omar Gutiérrez and Kris McGregor discuss the enduring significance of St. Augustine in Catholic thought, the Church’s spiritual life, and how he may influence Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate. St. Augustine made an immense impact on Western theology, especially his influence on St. Thomas Aquinas, and how this shaped Catholic social teaching through Rerum Novarum. St. Augustine’s deep interior exploration in Confessions resonated with saints like St. Teresa of Avila and St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (aka Edith Stein). St. Augustine’s vision in City of God contrasts the self-centered “city of man” with the divine love found in the “city of God,” presenting to us a framework relevant to contemporary challenges of community, power, and personal meaning.

St. Augustine’s personal journey—his moral struggles, intellectual conversion, and his mother Monica’s faithful intercession—is a mirror for today’s searchers, especially in an era marked by isolation and distraction. Deacon Omar reflects on his own experience with the Augustinian spirit of charity and dialogue, pointing out how their emphasis on unity in essentials, freedom in non-essentials, and charity in all things could guide the Church forward, particularly in Catholic social teaching.

For Part 1 of this conversation, click here.
For Part 2 of this conversation, click here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How does St. Augustine’s personal conversion story speak to the struggles in your own spiritual journey?
In what ways do you see the tension between the “city of man” and the “city of God” in today’s culture?
How can St. Augustine’s honest self-examination in Confessions inspire deeper prayer and reflection in your life?
What role does community play in your faith, and how might you nurture it more intentionally?
How does the witness of St. Monica challenge you to persevere in love and prayer for others?
Are you seeking comfort and power, or truth and love, in your daily decisions?
How can you cultivate unity in essentials, freedom in non-essentials, and charity in all things?
Where do you see the influence of St. Augustine’s thought in the Church’s social teachings today?
In what ways might you better listen to others as a way of honoring their dignity?
How is God inviting you to help build the city of God in your family, parish, or society?

Deacon Omar Gutiérrez is the President and co-Founder of the Evangelium Institute as well as the Director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith in the Archdiocese of Omaha.

About his book, “A Summary of Rerum Novarum or On Capital and Labor”

This short introduction provides the historical background for Pope Leo XIII’s Rerum Novarum as well as some detail about the pope himself. It also provides a paragraph-by-paragraph summary of the document to better understand the teaching. This is ideal for students of the document and those studying Catholic Social Teaching.

You can buy a copy of the book here.

IP#511 Marlene Watkins – Everyday Miracles of Lourdes on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Marlene Watkins – Everyday Miracles of Lourdes on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of ‘Inside the Pages’, Marlene Watkins shares her deep connection to Lourdes through her work with Our Lady of Lourdes Hospitality North American Volunteers and her new book Everyday Miracles of Lourdes.

Marlene Watkins recounts how the Blessed Mother revealed herself as the Immaculate Conception to a simple, poor, and uneducated girl—a truth St. Bernadette communicated with unwavering sincerity and the enduring grace of Lourdes as a place where physical and spiritual transformations continue today.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

How does the story of St. Bernadette inspire you to trust in God’s work through the lowly and humble?
What does the title “Immaculate Conception” reveal to you about the unique role of the Blessed Mother?
How might the experience of pilgrimage to Lourdes deepen your own spiritual life?
In what ways are you being invited to seek healing—physical, emotional, or spiritual—in your life right now?
How does the unwavering simplicity and honesty of St. Bernadette challenge your approach to living and sharing the faith?
What role does humility play in allowing God’s grace to act through you, as it did through Bernadette?
How does contemplating the incorrupt body of St. Bernadette affect your understanding of holiness and eternal life?
Where in your life are you called to greater trust in divine providence, as shown in Bernadette’s acceptance of her sufferings?
How can you foster deeper devotion to the Blessed Mother in your daily prayer life?
What spiritual or physical “pilgrimage” is the Holy Spirit inviting you to undertake at this moment in your journey?

From the book’s description:

Though they escape the notice of many, stunning miracles of healing take place each and every day at Our Lady’s Grotto in Lourdes, France. Inexplicable, biblical-like healings of body, mind, and spirit leave visitors with the gifts of peace and renewed faith. Here is the book that will move you, deepen your faith in Our Lady’s active involvement in our world, and help you personally encounter Our Lord.

Marlene Watkins recounts twenty astounding true stories of miracles at Lourdes, including her own watershed healing, which inspired her to establish Our Lady of Lourdes Hospitality North American Volunteers and become the first volunteer.

In these absorbing pages, you will marvel at how these volunteer helpers bring the sick to the Grotto — and then also experience healings themselves.

You will read the stories of people who were cured and reconciled with God — from babies to preteens to near centenarians. You will be inspired, for instance, by the testimony of a woman with a progressive neurodegenerative disease who not only went to Lourdes to selflessly care for the sick but later returned to receive a gift from Our Eucharistic Lord and Our Lady.

In chapter after chapter, you will encounter men and women who were healed from debilitating traumas, panic attacks, or mood swings.

You will be consoled by stories of women who experienced the loss of babies, including by abortion, and found solace in the arms of our Heavenly Mother.

And you will encounter a man who was struggling with faith and was drawn to Lourdes, where he met the Blessed Mother. Moreover, you will discover:

The three Ps of the Gospel message at Lourdes and how they relate to your life

How we will enter Heaven (it’s not the way you may think!)

A remarkable miracle of the “time-suspending, life-saving Rosary”

One simple prayer that St. Bernadette taught that can get you into Heaven

How a young woman’s wish was fulfilled and helped numerous souls

The unexpected way the oldest pilgrim and her marriage were renewed at Lourdes

Above all, you will see how Our Lady leads souls into deeper communion with her Eucharistic Son and with one another, whether through caring for sick loved ones or experiencing loving relationships. Prepare yourself to become a believer and an ardent lover of Lourdes.

About the Author

Marlene Watkins is the founder of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospitality North American Volunteers, the first Lourdes Hospitality outside Europe and the first of the Americas.In twenty years, as a volunteer, Marlene has led over two hundred pilgrimages to Lourdes for more than six thousand pilgrims, including the seriously ill and profoundly disabled with medical, adult, university and youth volunteers. Marlene has guided Lourdes Virtual Pilgrimage Experiences TM across North America, and in Europe, Asia, South America and Africa.In 2015, Marlene was named an Our Sunday Visitor “Catholic of the Year.” She has appeared on CBS, EWTN, PBS, BBC; and hosts the EWTN “My Lourdes Faith Journey” miniseries.Marlene is a wife, mother, grandmother, Secular Franciscan and member of the Hospitalité Notre-Dame de Lourdes. Marlene and her husband, Bill, live in Syracuse, New York, or in the LourdesMobile RV traveling America and sharing the Gospel Message of Lourdes.