“To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.”
“We can’t have full knowledge all at once. We must start by believing; then afterwards we may be led on to master the evidence for ourselves.”
Through the intercession of St. Thomas Aquinas,
Grant me grace, O merciful God,
to desire ardently all that is pleasing to Thee,
to examine it prudently,
to acknowledge it truthfully,
and to accomplish it perfectly,
for the praise and glory of Thy name.
In particular, please obtain the favor I ask during this novena.
[Make your request here…]
Grant me, O Lord my God,
a mind to know you,
a heart to seek you,
wisdom to find you,
conduct pleasing to you,
faithful perseverance in waiting for you,
and a hope of finally embracing you.
Episode 1 Embarking on the Journey – Gertrude von Le Fort’s The Eternal Woman – Climbing Higher, Going Deeper w/Kris McGregor & Vivian Dudro
Kris McGregor and Vivian Dudro shine a light on the influential works of Gertrud von Le Fort, focusing particularly on her masterpiece, The Eternal Woman. They share a deep understanding of von Le Fort’s exploration of the feminine essence and its timeless relevance.
Born in 1876 to a French aristocratic family in Northern Germany, von Le Fort lived through the profound ideological shifts that shaped Europe in the 20th century. Her conversion to Catholicism at age 50 significantly influenced her literary and theological works. The Eternal Woman stands out as a pivotal text that addresses the changing roles of women during these tumultuous times.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of surrender and receptivity to God as key to realizing one’s true strength and potential. Von Le Fort’s writings extend beyond the realm of femininity, offering profound insights into human nature, including aspects of masculinity and femininity. Her perspectives intertwine with ongoing feminist discourse, adding historical and philosophical depth.
Receive 20% off directly from this link at Ignatius.com with discount code LEFORT at checkout
McGregor and Dudro’s discussion promises more episodes delving into von Le Fort’s other works. They invite scholars and readers alike to immerse themselves in von Le Fort’s impactful and thought-provoking contributions to literature and theology.
Key Points to Ponder
The Feminine Genius: Von Le Fort’s exploration of the role of women in “The Eternal Woman” echoes the Catholic Church’s teachings on the unique and invaluable contributions of women to the Church and the world. This concept, often referred to as the “feminine genius,” highlights the distinct way women reflect God’s image, particularly through nurturing, empathy, and receptivity to life and love.
The Power of Surrender: The podcast touches on the paradoxical power found in surrender and receptivity, a theme central to Christian spirituality. This mirrors the Virgin Mary’s fiat—her “yes” to God—which is a model of surrender and obedience to God’s will. Mary’s example teaches that true strength and empowerment come from trusting in God and accepting His plan with an open heart.
The Interplay of Masculinity and Femininity: Von Le Fort’s writings offer deep insights into the dynamics of masculinity and femininity, reflecting the Catholic understanding of complementarity. The Church teaches that men and women, while different, are equal in dignity and are meant to complement and enrich each other’s lives.
The Role of Women in Salvation History: Von Le Fort’s work reaffirms the pivotal role women have played in salvation history, from Eve to Mary, and beyond. The podcast highlights how women, through their unique capacity for spiritual motherhood, contribute significantly to the spiritual life of the Church and society.
The Challenges of Modern Ideologies: The discussion also addresses the impact of modern ideologies on the understanding of sexual differences and human nature. The Catholic Church advocates for a view of the human person that is rooted in Scripture and Tradition, providing a counter-narrative to contemporary ideologies that often contradict the Christian understanding of the human person.
The Call to Holistic Education: Von Le Fort’s own extensive education and intellectual background underscore the Church’s call for holistic education, which includes not just intellectual formation, but also moral and spiritual development. Her works exemplify how a well-rounded education can lead to a deeper understanding of faith and reason.
The Need for Cultural Engagement: Finally, the podcast exemplifies the need for Catholics to engage with culture and literature. By studying and reflecting on works such as von Le Fort’s, Catholics can better understand the challenges of the modern world and offer a reasoned, faith-filled response.
Gertrud von Le Fort
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:
Individual Reflection Questions:
Personal Understanding of Femininity: How does Gertrud von Le Fort’s depiction of the ‘eternal woman’ challenge or enrich your understanding of femininity in the context of your faith?
Surrender and Strength: Reflect on a time when surrendering to God’s will brought unexpected strength or insight into your life. How does this relate to the idea of ‘power in helplessness’ discussed in the podcast?
Mary as a Model: How does Mary’s fiat (Luke 1:38) inspire you in your daily life? In what ways can you emulate Mary’s receptivity to God’s will?
Balancing Faith and Modern Ideologies: In what ways do you find modern ideologies challenging your faith, particularly in understanding sexual differences and human nature?
Spiritual Motherhood/Fatherhood: Regardless of your state in life, how can you live out the call to spiritual parenthood in your current circumstances?
Group Study Discussion Questions:
Feminine Genius in the Church: Discuss how the concept of the ‘feminine genius’ is evident in your parish or community. How can the Church better utilize and honor the unique gifts of women?
Complementarity of the Sexes: How does von Le Fort’s work enrich your understanding of the complementarity between men and women? Share examples from personal experiences.
Impact of Cultural Shifts: As a group, discuss how cultural shifts in the understanding of sexual differences roles have impacted your faith community. What positive responses can be made in light of Catholic teaching?
Role of Women in Salvation History: Share thoughts on the roles of various women in the Bible and Church history. How do their stories inspire your own spiritual journey?
Engagement with Secular Culture: How can Catholics engage with secular literature and culture in a way that is both open-minded and faithful to Church teachings? Discuss the balance between being in the world but not of it.
Practical Application of Surrender: Discuss practical ways to live out the virtue of surrender to God’s will in everyday life. Share experiences where letting go of control led to greater spiritual growth.
Suggested References for Further Study:
Pope St. John Paul II
The Role of Women and the Feminine Genius:
Podcast Mention: Von Le Fort’s exploration of the feminine essence.
John Paul II’s Writing: In “Mulieris Dignitatem” (On the Dignity and Vocation of Women), John Paul II speaks extensively about the unique dignity and vocation of women, echoing von Le Fort’s themes. He particularly emphasizes the ‘feminine genius’ and women’s special capacity for empathy, receptivity, and nurturing (Mulieris Dignitatem, No. 30).
Reference: John Paul II. “Mulieris Dignitatem.” Vatican, 1988. Link to the document.
Surrender and Strength:
Podcast Mention: Discussion on the power found in surrender and trust in God.
John Paul II’s Writing: In “Redemptoris Mater” (Mother of the Redeemer), he describes Mary’s fiat as the ultimate act of trust and surrender to God’s will, a central theme in von Le Fort’s work (Redemptoris Mater, No. 13).
Podcast Mention: Von Le Fort’s examination of the essence of femininity.
Edith Stein’s Writing: In her essay “The Ethos of Women’s Professions,” Stein discusses the unique capacities and spiritual nature of women, paralleling von Le Fort’s exploration of the feminine essence. She speaks about the intrinsic value of women in both professional and personal spheres (Stein, Edith. “The Ethos of Women’s Professions.” 1930).
Podcast Mention: Discussion on the complementarity of sexes.
Edith Stein’s Writing: In her work “On the Problem of Empathy,” Stein delves into the psychological and spiritual differences between men and women, emphasizing their complementary nature, which echoes the podcast’s discussion on von Le Fort’s insights (Stein, Edith. “On the Problem of Empathy.” 1917).
Reference: Stein, Edith. “On the Problem of Empathy.” ICS Publications, 1989. Link to purchase the book
Podcast Mention: Discussion of von Le Fort’s focus on the eternal essence of femininity.
Von Hildebrand’s Writing: In his book “Man and Woman: Love & the Meaning of Intimacy,” von Hildebrand explores the unique qualities of man and woman. He emphasizes the irreplaceable value and dignity of the feminine, much like von Le Fort (Dietrich von Hildebrand, “Man and Woman”).
Reference: Von Hildebrand, Dietrich. “Man and Woman: Love & the Meaning of Intimacy.” Sophia Institute Press, 1992. Link to purchase the book.
Surrender and Spiritual Strength:
Podcast Mention: The theme of surrendering to God’s will and finding strength in this surrender, as presented in von Le Fort’s work.
Von Hildebrand’s Writing: In “Transformation in Christ,” von Hildebrand speaks about the transformative power of Christian surrender to God’s will. This aligns with the discussion of von Le Fort’s portrayal of feminine strength through surrender (Dietrich von Hildebrand, “Transformation in Christ”).
Reference: Von Hildebrand, Dietrich. “Transformation in Christ: On the Christian Attitude.” Ignatius Press, 2001 Link to purchase the book.
The Beauty of the Feminine Soul:
Podcast Mention: Von Le Fort’s depiction of the beauty and depth of the feminine soul.
Von Hildebrand’s Writing: In his works, von Hildebrand discusses the beauty of the feminine soul and its capacity for receptivity, empathy, and sensitivity. He sees these qualities as reflective of a deep spiritual reality that von Le Fort also captures in her literature (Dietrich von Hildebrand, various writings).
Reference: For a collection of von Hildebrand’s writings, see the Dietrich von Hildebrand Legacy Project: Link to the project.
Response to Modern Ideologies:
Podcast Mention: Von Le Fort’s literary response to the ideologies of her time.
Von Hildebrand’s Writing: Dietrich von Hildebrand was a vocal critic of the Nazi regime and other totalitarian ideologies. He emphasized the importance of standing firm in truth and Christian values in the face of destructive ideologies, a stance that resonates with von Le Fort’s thematic concerns (Dietrich von Hildebrand, “My Battle Against Hitler”).
Reference: Von Hildebrand, Dietrich. “My Battle Against Hitler: Faith, Truth, and Defiance in the Shadow of the Third Reich.” Image, 2014. Link to purchase the book.
Thursday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast
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. Mark 16:15-18
Jesus showed himself to the Eleven and said to them:
‘Go out to the whole world; proclaim the Good News to all creation. He who believes and is baptised will be saved; he who does not believe will be condemned. These are the signs that will be associated with believers: in my name they will cast out devils; they will have the gift of tongues; they will pick up snakes in their hands, and be unharmed should they drink deadly poison; they will lay their hands on the sick, who will recover.’
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:
Jesus showed himself to the Eleven and said to them:
‘Go out to the whole world; proclaim the Good News to all creation. He who believes and is baptised will be saved; he who does not believe will be condemned. These are the signs that will be associated with believers: in my name they will cast out devils; they will have the gift of tongues; they will pick up snakes in their hands, and be unharmed should they drink deadly poison; they will lay their hands on the sick, who will recover.’
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:
Jesus showed himself to the Eleven and said to them:
‘Go out to the whole world; proclaim the Good News to all creation. He who believes and is baptised will be saved; he who does not believe will be condemned. These are the signs that will be associated with believers: in my name they will cast out devils; they will have the gift of tongues; they will pick up snakes in their hands, and be unharmed should they drink deadly poison; they will lay their hands on the sick, who will recover.’
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?
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
May the Lord bless us, and keep us from all evil, and bring us to everlasting life.
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.
“Fear is such a powerful emotion for humans that when we allow it to take us over, it drives compassion right out of our hearts.”
“We must love them both, those whose opinions we share and those whose opinions we reject, for both have labored in the search for truth, and both have helped us in finding it.”
Through the intercession of St. Thomas Aquinas,
Grant me grace, O merciful God,
to desire ardently all that is pleasing to Thee,
to examine it prudently,
to acknowledge it truthfully,
and to accomplish it perfectly,
for the praise and glory of Thy name.
In particular, please obtain the favor I ask during this novena.
[Make your request here…]
Grant me, O Lord my God,
a mind to know you,
a heart to seek you,
wisdom to find you,
conduct pleasing to you,
faithful perseverance in waiting for you,
and a hope of finally embracing you.
Episode 8 – Euthanasia Unveiled – The Final Journey with Dr. Stephen Doran, M.D.
In this episode, Dr. Stephen Doran and Kris McGregor discuss euthanasia, exploring its origins, societal perspectives, and the impact on individuals. They emphasize the importance of understanding suffering in a redemptive context, challenging the prevailing idea of a “good death” as solely painless. They explore the roots of euthanasia in eugenics, highlighting its dark history.
Dr. Doran addresses the cultural shift toward valuing autonomy over the sanctity of life, cautioning against the slippery slope of expanding eligibility criteria. The need for building supportive communities to counteract the appeal of euthanasia is emphasized, stressing the importance of recognizing the integrated nature of body and soul.
Stephen Doran, M.D., a board-certified neurosurgeon with over twenty-five years of experience, is an ordained permanent deacon and serves as the bioethicist for the Archdiocese of Omaha. His writings in bioethics, neurosurgery, and gene therapy for brain disorders have been widely published in national media outlets, academic journals, and neurosurgery textbooks. He is married with five sons. He co-founded Seeking Truth Catholic Bible Study with his wife, Sharon.
Discerning Hearts reflection questions for this episode:
Origins of Euthanasia: Reflect on the historical roots of euthanasia discussed in the podcast. How does understanding its origins shape your perspective on contemporary debates?
Redemptive Context of Suffering: Consider the idea of viewing suffering in a redemptive context. How might this perspective challenge prevalent notions of a “good death” focused on painlessness?
Euthanasia and Eugenics: Explore the connection between euthanasia and eugenics highlighted in the conversation. How does recognizing this dark history impact your understanding of the current discourse?
Autonomy vs. Sanctity of Life: Reflect on the cultural shift towards prioritizing autonomy over the sanctity of life. In what ways does this shift pose challenges, and how might it affect ethical considerations surrounding euthanasia?
Expanding Eligibility Criteria: Dr. Doran warns against the slippery slope of expanding eligibility criteria for euthanasia. What are your thoughts on this caution, and how might it influence policy decisions?
Building Supportive Communities: Consider the importance of building supportive communities to counteract the appeal of euthanasia. How can communities contribute to a culture that values life and offers alternatives to assisted dying?
Integrated Nature of Body and Soul: Dr. Doran emphasizes the integrated nature of body and soul. Reflect on the implications of this perspective for discussions on euthanasia and the human experience.
Impact on Individuals: Explore the podcast’s discussion on the impact of euthanasia on individuals. How does this consideration shape your views on the broader societal implications of assisted dying?
Dr. Stephen Doran draws from his vast experience as a neurosurgeon, a bioethicist, and a permanent deacon to present the Catholic perspective on the art of dying well. The spiritual and moral issues related to death and the process of dying can be challenging and complicated. To Die Well provides a detailed yet readily understandable guide to these topics.
Each chapter begins with a story from Dr. Doran’s personal or professional life that not only provides context for the topic at hand but also gently draws the reader toward the personal realities of dying. The first part focuses on the moral issues that surround death and dying, including end-of-life medical decisions. The second part is devoted to the Catholic spiritual understanding of dying and the rites that accompany the death of a Catholic.
To Die Well will help readers contemplate, pray about, and prepare for the end of their earthly lives.
Virgin full of goodness,
Mother of mercy,
I entrust to you my body and my soul,
my thoughts and my actions,
my life and my death.
My Queen,
come to my aid
and deliver me from the snares of the devil.
Obtain for me the grace of loving
my Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
with a true and perfect love,
and after him,
Mary,
of loving you with all my heart
and above all things.
Amen.
Through the intercession of St. Thomas Aquinas,
Grant me grace, O merciful God,
to desire ardently all that is pleasing to Thee,
to examine it prudently,
to acknowledge it truthfully,
and to accomplish it perfectly,
for the praise and glory of Thy name.
In particular, please obtain the favor I ask during this novena.
[Make your request here…]
Grant me, O Lord my God,
a mind to know you,
a heart to seek you,
wisdom to find you,
conduct pleasing to you,
faithful perseverance in waiting for you,
and a hope of finally embracing you.
“The world tempts us either by attaching us to it in prosperity, or by filling us with fear of adversity. But faith overcomes this in that we believe in a life to come better than this one, and hence we despise the riches of this world and we are not terrified in the face of adversity.”
― Thomas Aquinas, The Catechetical Instructions
Through the intercession of St. Thomas Aquinas,
Grant me grace, O merciful God,
to desire ardently all that is pleasing to Thee,
to examine it prudently,
to acknowledge it truthfully,
and to accomplish it perfectly,
for the praise and glory of Thy name.
In particular, please obtain the favor I ask during this novena.
[Make your request here…]
Grant me, O Lord my God,
a mind to know you,
a heart to seek you,
wisdom to find you,
conduct pleasing to you,
faithful perseverance in waiting for you,
and a hope of finally embracing you.
Think for a moment of the piety of the Madonna when the angel told her that the Spirit would overshadow her. What sentiments of humility, confidence and courage! At the very moment when she understood that God had given her His heart, that is, His Son, she gave herself to God. Her soul was flooded with charity, so she could say with the sacred spouse, “…My heart trembled within me, and I grew faint when he spoke.” [Sg:5:4] As far as we are concerned, we receive a similar grace in Communion, because not an angel but Jesus Christ Himself assures us that in it the Holy Spirit descends on us. Heavenly power covers us with its shadow and the Son of God really comes to us. He can say that He is conceived and born in us. Truly then, the soul can respond with the Madonna, “I am the servant of the Lord; let is be done to me as you say.” [Lk 1:38] (Spiritual Directory, Art. 12)
O blessed Francis de Sales, who on earth did excel in a life of virtue,
especially in the love of God and neighbor,
I earnestly ask you to take me under your compassionate care and protection.
Obtain for me conversion of mind and heart.
Grant that all people,
especially (names of those whom you wish to include) may experience
the depth of God’s redeeming and healing love.
Teach me to fix my eyes on the things of heaven
even as I walk each day with my feet planted firmly on the earth.
Help me, through the practice of virtue and the pursuit of devotion,
to avoid anything that would otherwise cause me to stumble
in my attempt to follow Christ
and to be an instrument of the Holy Spirit.
Encouraged by your prayers and example,
help me to live fully my sacred dignity
with the hope of experiencing my sacred destiny:
eternal life with God.
Receive also this particular need or concern
that I now lift up in prayer. (mention your particular need).
O God, for the salvation of all,
you desired that St. Francis de Sales—
preacher, missionary, confessor, bishop and founder—
should befriend many long the road to salvation.
Mercifully grant that we,
infused with the humility and gentleness of his charity,
guided by his wisdom and sharing in his spirit
may experience eternal life.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
St. Francis de Sales, pray for us.
<a href=”https://www.discerninghearts.com/catholic-podcasts/prayersdevotionals/st-francis-de-sales-novena-mp3-audio-download-and-text/”>For the complete 9 day St. Francis de Sales Novena visit here</a>
Insights into Rules 10 through 14 – Spiritual Desolation: Be Aware, Understand, Take Action with Fr. Timothy Gallagher
Fr. Timothy Gallagher, along with Kris McGregor, delves further into St. Ignatius’ spiritual rules, specifically rules 10 to 14, which focus on handling spiritual desolation and temptation.
Rule 10 advocates preparing for future desolation during times of spiritual consolation. Rule 11 underscores maintaining humility in consolation and trust in desolation. Rule 12 emphasizes resisting temptation from the outset, while Rule 13 recommends confiding spiritual struggles to a wise guide. Lastly, Rule 14 highlights the importance of self-knowledge and recognizing spiritual vulnerabilities.
Throughout these particular rules, Fr. Gallagher stresses the importance of companionship in the spiritual journey, whether through formal guidance, confession, retreats, or sharing experiences with others.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:
Anticipating Desolation: How does Rule 10 advise individuals experiencing spiritual consolation to prepare for future desolation?
Attitude in Consolation and Desolation: According to Rule 11, what is the recommended attitude for individuals in times of consolation and desolation?
Early Resistance to Temptation: In Rule 12, what does Ignatius counsel regarding the onset of temptation, and why is it significant in spiritual discernment?
Revealing Spiritual Struggles: According to Rule 13, why does Ignatius suggest sharing one’s spiritual struggles with a wise and competent spiritual guide?
Understanding and Acknowledging Vulnerabilities: What is the essence of Rule 14, and how does it encourage self-knowledge and recognition of spiritual vulnerabilities?
Importance of Spiritual Companionship: How does Fr. Timothy Gallagher emphasize the role of companionship in the spiritual journey, and what forms can this companionship take?
“Tenth Rule. The tenth: Let the one who is in consolation think how he will conduct himself in the desolation which will come after, taking new strength for that time.
Eleventh Rule. The eleventh: Let one who is consoled seek to humble himself and lower himself as much as he can, think- ing of how little he is capable in the time of desolation with- out such grace or consolation. On the contrary, let one who is in desolation think that he can do much with God’s sufficient grace to resist all his enemies, taking strength in his Creator and Lord.
Twelfth Rule. The twelfth: The enemy acts like a woman in being weak when faced with strength and strong when faced with weakness. For, as it is proper to a woman, when she is fighting with some man, to lose heart and to flee when the man confronts her firmly, and, on the contrary, if the man begins to flee, losing heart, the anger, vengeance and ferocity of the woman grow greatly and know no bounds, in the same way, it is proper to the enemy to weaken and lose heart, flee- ing and ceasing his temptations when the person who is exer- cising himself in spiritual things confronts the temptations of the enemy firmly, doing what is diametrically opposed to them; and, on the contrary, if the person who is exercising himself begins to be afraid and lose heart in suffering the temptations, there is no beast so fierce on the face of the earth as the enemy of human nature in following out his damnable intention with such growing malice.
Thirteenth Rule. The thirteenth: Likewise he conducts him- self as a false lover in wishing to remain secret and not berevealed. For a dissolute man who, speaking with evil inten- tion, makes dishonorable advances to a daughter of a good father or a wife of a good husband, wishes his words and persuasions to be secret, and the contrary displeases him very much, when the daughter reveals to her father or the wife to her husband his false words and depraved intention, because he easily perceives that he will not be able to succeed with the undertaking begun. In the same way, when the enemy of human nature brings his wiles and persuasions to the just soul, he wishes and desires that they be received and kept in secret; but when one reveals them to one’s good confessor or to another spiritual person, who knows his deceits and malicious designs, it weighs on him very much, because he perceives that he will not be able to succeed with the mali- cious undertaking he has begun, since his manifest deceits have been revealed.
Fourteenth Rule. The fourteenth: Likewise he conducts him- self as a leader, intent upon conquering and robbing what he desires. For, just as a captain and leader of an army in the field, pitching his camp and exploring the fortifications and defenses of a stronghold, attacks it at the weakest point, in the same way the enemy of human nature, roving about, looks in turn at all our theological, cardinal and moral vir- tues; and where he finds us weakest and most in need for our eternal salvation, there he attacks us and attempts to take us.”
Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life: The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola”. For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio which are available for purchase, please visit his website: frtimothygallagher.org
“Many cry to the Lord that they may win riches, that they may avoid losses; they cry that their family may be established, they ask for temporal happiness, for worldly dignities; and, lastly, they cry for bodily health, which is the patrimony of the poor. For these and such like things many cry to the Lord; hardly one cries for the Lord Himself! How easy it is for a man to desire all manner of things from the Lord and yet not desire the Lord Himself! As though the gift could be sweeter than the Giver!”
― Thomas Aquinas, On Prayer and The Contemplative Life
Through the intercession of St. Thomas Aquinas,
Grant me grace, O merciful God,
to desire ardently all that is pleasing to Thee,
to examine it prudently,
to acknowledge it truthfully,
and to accomplish it perfectly,
for the praise and glory of Thy name.
In particular, please obtain the favor I ask during this novena.
[Make your request here…]
Grant me, O Lord my God,
a mind to know you,
a heart to seek you,
wisdom to find you,
conduct pleasing to you,
faithful perseverance in waiting for you,
and a hope of finally embracing you.
Thursday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast
St. Francis de Sales Novena – Day 9
