Series Archives

HSE3 – The Charism and Gift of St. Ignatius – The Heart of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola with Fr. Anthony Wieck S.J. – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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The Gift of Charism – The Heart of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola with Fr. Anthony Wieck S.J.

Fr. Anthony Wieck begins by situating St. Ignatius’ spiritual exercises in the context of Ignatius’ life and mystical experiences, noting that knowing his background helps one understand the gifts God entrusted to him for the whole Church. He recounts Pope Benedict’s view that certain charisms, such as Ignatius’, are so close to the heart of the Church they will endure. While the classic 30-day retreat is ideal, Fr. Wieck explains that Ignatian principles can still deeply shape one’s prayer life without a formal retreat. He likens Ignatius’ insights to removing “spiritual cataracts,” granting clarity in perceiving God’s work. Drawing on Fr. Hugo Rahner’s image of a triptych, he describes the first panel as “God above”—the ever-greater Trinity—highlighting Ignatius’ profound devotion to each divine person and his transformative Cardoner River experience, which gave him a symphonic vision of truth and instilled reverential awe and loving humility toward God.

The second panel centers on Christ, the God-man—Ignatius’ “Creator and Lord”—who perfectly manifests the fullness of God and mediates our relationship with the Father. Fr. Wieck emphasizes the importance of encountering Jesus in Scripture through Ignatius’ meditations and contemplations, entering into biblical scenes to understand what Jesus and those around Him experienced, rather than starting with self-reflection. This method personalizes prayer through “colloquies,” intimate dialogues with Christ or the saints. He notes that everything Jesus does reveals the Trinity, inviting us into the divine exchange of self-giving love. Such prayer fosters trust in God’s will, freeing us from our “puny grasp” on life and leading to deeper joy and flourishing beyond what our own plans could achieve.

Discerning Hearts Catholic Reflection Questions:

How can learning about St. Ignatius’ life and mystical experiences help you better receive the gifts God has given through his spirituality?
In what ways might you bring elements of the Spiritual Exercises into your daily prayer, even without a formal retreat?
How do you personally experience “reverential awe” before the ever-greater God in your prayer life?
When was the last time you prayed distinctly to each Person of the Trinity, and what happened in your relationship with God as a result?
How does reflecting on the Cardoner River experience inspire you to seek deeper clarity in discerning God’s truth?
What steps can you take to grow in loving humility, recognizing that you are not God yet are deeply loved by Him?
How might entering into a Gospel scene as if you were there change the way you relate to Jesus?
What is one area of your life where you need to release your “puny grasp” and trust the Father’s will more fully?
How can you practice receiving yourself and others as a gift, in imitation of the Trinitarian self-giving love?
What might God be inviting you to see or do differently when you view all of Jesus’ actions as revelations of the Trinity?

Fr. Anthony Wieck is a Jesuit priest of the Central & Southern province. Sixth of nine children, raised on a farm in Oregon, Fr. Anthony began religious life in 1994, spending his first five years of formation in Rome, Italy, studying at the Casa Balthasar and the Gregorian. The former was under the watchful patronage of Pope Benedict XVI (then-Card. Joseph Ratzinger). Fr. Anthony currently acts as retreat master at White House Jesuit Retreat in St. Louis, Missouri. He also offers spiritual direction at the St. Louis diocesan seminary for 25 future priests there.

HIDT8 – Conference 8 – Hope in Difficult Times with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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Conference 8 – Hope in Difficult Times: with Sts. Therese, Louis, and Zelie and Their Family with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher recounts St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s compassionate outreach to Sister Maria of St. Joseph, a troubled nun often avoided by her community due to severe mood swings and emotional instability. Instead of joining in the avoidance, Thérèse intentionally sought her out, offering to assist in the linen room and patiently enduring her anger, all as a way of living her “casting flowers” spirituality—small acts of love and sacrifice offered to Jesus, who transforms them into blessings for the whole Church. While her words to the sister may sound poetic, Fr. Gallagher explains that beneath the tender imagery lies a steely, deliberate charity rooted in perseverance, humility, and the conviction that every small offering—especially in difficult relationships—has immense spiritual value when united to Christ.

Fr. Gallagher also reflects on Thérèse’s own explanation of “casting flowers” from Story of a Soul: never letting a single opportunity for love pass by, whether in smiles, patient endurance, or unnoticed sacrifices, and trusting Jesus to use them for the good of souls in purgatory and the Church on earth. The episode concludes with letters from Thérèse’s sister Léonie, showing how the Little Way shaped her own life. By the time of her final profession and even five weeks before her death, Léonie radiated the same trust, gratitude, and spiritual confidence, fully convinced that her littleness would lead her straight into the arms of Jesus.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How can I respond with intentional love to those in my life who are difficult to be around?
When have I missed opportunities to offer small acts of kindness, and how can I be more attentive to them?
Do I truly believe that my smallest sacrifices, united to Jesus, have value for the whole Church?
In what ways am I tempted to avoid people who are isolated or struggling, and how might God be calling me to draw closer?
How do I practice perseverance in love when my efforts are met with ingratitude or rejection?
Can I see my own “littleness” as a path to greater trust in God, as Thérèse and Léonie did?
What “flowers” — daily acts of love — can I consciously offer to Jesus this week?

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 15 different podcasts series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

Fr. Gallagher obtained his doctorate in 1983 from Gregorian University. He has taught (St. John’s Seminary, Brighton, MA; Our Lady of Grace Seminary Residence, Boston, MA), assisted in formation work for twelve years, and served two terms as provincial in his own community. He has dedicated many years to an extensive ministry of retreats, spiritual direction, and teaching about the spiritual life. Fr. Gallagher is the author of six books (Crossroad) on the spiritual teaching of St. Ignatius of Loyola.

Are You a Faithful Servant? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Are You a Faithful Servant? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects on God’s promise of an eternal home, drawing from the story of Abraham as an example of trusting and following God’s word. The “promised land” given to Abraham foreshadows the true kingdom that Christ came to reveal — not an earthly territory, but eternal life in heaven. Earthly nations, possessions, and positions of authority are temporary, and those entrusted with leadership — whether in the Church, family, or public office — will be held accountable for guiding those under their care toward their heavenly inheritance. The Gospel passage urges readiness for the Lord’s return at any moment, living each day with the awareness that our true home is not in this world but in God’s kingdom of love and truth.

We need to examine our responsibilities and influence, no matter how hidden, and to lead others toward eternal life through example, prayer, and faithfulness. He challenges us to resist the pull of a secular mindset focused on this life alone, instead preparing hearts and communities for the life to come. God’s message is not one of fear, but of mercy, compassion, and hope — and to turn away from distractions and attachments, live with readiness, and guide His “little flock” toward everlasting joy, peace, and union with Him.

From the Gospel of St. Luke 12:32-48

“Jesus said to his disciples:
“Do not be afraid any longer, little flock,
for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom.
Sell your belongings and give alms.
Provide money bags for yourselves that do not wear out,
an inexhaustible treasure in heaven
that no thief can reach nor moth destroy.
For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.

“Gird your loins and light your lamps
and be like servants who await their master’s return from a wedding,
ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks.
Blessed are those servants
whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival.
Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself,
have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them.
And should he come in the second or third watch
and find them prepared in this way,
blessed are those servants.
Be sure of this:
if the master of the house had known the hour
when the thief was coming,
he would not have let his house be broken into.
You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect,
the Son of Man will come.”

Then Peter said,
“Lord, is this parable meant for us or for everyone?”
And the Lord replied,
“Who, then, is the faithful and prudent steward
whom the master will put in charge of his servants
to distribute the food allowance at the proper time?
Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so.
Truly, I say to you, the master will put the servant
in charge of all his property.
But if that servant says to himself,
‘My master is delayed in coming,’
and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants,
to eat and drink and get drunk,
then that servant’s master will come
on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour
and will punish the servant severely
and assign him a place with the unfaithful.
That servant who knew his master’s will
but did not make preparations nor act in accord with his will
shall be beaten severely;
and the servant who was ignorant of his master’s will
but acted in a way deserving of a severe beating
shall be beaten only lightly.
Much will be required of the person entrusted with much,
and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.””

Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

How does Abraham’s trust in God’s promise inspire you to deepen your own faith in His plan for your life?
In what ways are you preparing daily for the “true home” Christ has promised in heaven?
Who is part of your “little flock,” and how are you leading them closer to God’s kingdom?
What earthly attachments might be distracting you from living for eternal life?
How can you use your position, influence, or relationships to witness to the hope of heaven?
When the Lord returns, what would you want Him to find you doing?
How can you make acts of mercy and compassion more present in your leadership and daily example?
What practical steps can you take this week to remind yourself and others that “this world is passing away”?

Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton. He was ordained on May 30, 1953, by the late Bishop William J. Hafey, D.D. at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Scranton, PA. Msgr. Esseff served 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 St. Pope 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.

HSE2 – The Gift of Charism – The Heart of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola with Fr. Anthony Wieck S.J. – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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The Gift of Charism – The Heart of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola with Fr. Anthony Wieck S.J.

Fr. Anthony Wieck reflects on how St. Ignatius’ deepening relationship with God transformed him from a self-focused seeker of sanctity into a man whose identity became rooted in serving others. Ignatius’ spiritual growth involved a shift from personal ambition to openness—allowing the graces he received in prayer to bear fruit in the lives of those around him. His life mirrors the pattern of saints like Catherine of Siena, whose contemplative encounters with God led naturally into acts of service. Fr. Wieck highlights that true transformation involves a movement from interior conversion to active love, not through personal projects, but through discerned response to God’s promptings.

Fr. Wieck also emphasizes Ignatius’ fidelity to the Church, particularly through the story of his forced departure from the Holy Land, which shaped his path toward religious life. He speaks of Ignatius’ commitment to reform from within—helping Catholics rediscover Christ through the Spiritual Exercises. The exercises are not merely techniques but encounters with the living Christ who calls each soul to deeper surrender. Fr. Wieck warns against reactionary spiritual motives and instead invites listeners to focus on the heart of Jesus. By pruning distractions and growing in holy detachment, we become more available for God’s mission, living out our vocations with clarity and authentic zeal.

Discerning Hearts Catholic Reflection Questions:

How is God inviting me to move from self-focus to a life poured out in love for others?
In what ways do I experience the graces of prayer as something to be quietly received rather than immediately shared?
Am I willing to let God direct how and when I share spiritual gifts, or do I take initiative without discernment?
Do I approach my daily responsibilities with anxious striving, or with a Marian spirit of receptivity and cooperation with Jesus?
How do I respond when God’s will comes through imperfect human authority, as Ignatius experienced in the Holy Land?
Is my spiritual energy rooted in reaction against something, or drawn from love for Christ and His Church?
What areas of my life need “holy pruning” so that my actions bear lasting fruit for God’s Kingdom?
How might I be called to share in Christ’s thirst for the salvation of souls through my vocation?
Do I view the Church as the place where God forms and purifies me, even when that’s uncomfortable?
How is Jesus inviting me to deeper intimacy so that my zeal flows from union with His heart?

When Was Your Transfiguration? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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When Was Your Transfiguration? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the mystery of the Transfiguration and its deep personal meaning for every Christian. Just as Jesus was transfigured on Mount Tabor in preparation for the suffering of Calvary, each Christian also experiences moments of radiant grace that prepare them to endure life’s inevitable trials. These moments are signs of the glory to come and serve as encouragement for the journey through suffering, death, and eventual resurrection with Christ.

Msgr. Esseff shares stories of individuals—including a father holding his newborn son, a radiant bride, his own ordination day, and a Peruvian street child named Walter—to illustrate how such moments reveal the divine presence and joy amid the hardships of life. We should reflect on our own lives to recognize these transformative experiences, which often go unnoticed amid modern distractions and lack of interior reflection.

From the Gospel of St. Mark 9:2-10

“Jesus took Peter, James, and John
and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves.
And he was transfigured before them,
and his clothes became dazzling white,
such as no fuller on earth could bleach them.
Then Elijah appeared to them along with Moses,
and they were conversing with Jesus.
Then Peter said to Jesus in reply,
“Rabbi, it is good that we are here!
Let us make three tents:
one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
He hardly knew what to say, they were so terrified.
Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them;
from the cloud came a voice,
“This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.”
Suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone
but Jesus alone with them.As they were coming down from the mountain,
he charged them not to relate what they had seen to anyone,
except when the Son of Man had risen from the dead.
So they kept the matter to themselves,
questioning what rising from the dead meant.”

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

When have you experienced a moment in your life that felt like a “Mount Tabor” — a glimpse of God’s glory?
What “cross” are you being asked to carry right now, and how might God be preparing you through it?
Have you taken time recently to reflect on the sacred events in your life where God’s presence was unmistakable?
In what ways has suffering deepened your relationship with Christ?
Who or what has helped you see God’s love during your darkest moments?
Can you identify a moment when you were transformed by love, beauty, or grace?
How do distractions in your daily life keep you from reflecting on God’s work in your story?
Have you ever resisted suffering, thinking only of pain, and missed the invitation to glory within it?
What role does silence and prayer play in helping you remember God’s faithfulness?
How might your story—both the joys and the trials—be a witness to Christ for others?

Ep 9 – The 13th Shewing pt. 1 – All Shall Be Well w/ Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts

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All Shall Be Well: A Journey Through Julian of Norwich’s Revelations of Divine Love with Kris McGregor

Episode 9: The Thirteenth Shewing (Part 1) — The Mystery of Sin and the Assurance of Divine Love

Summary:

In Episode 9 we begin with part 1 of the Thirteenth Shewing, Julian confronts the mystery of sin and the question that has echoed through every age: why did God allow it? Her desire for understanding is met not with explanation but with a word of divine assurance—”All shall be well.” This episode invites us into the mystery of redemptive hope, where God’s hidden work is not yet seen but fully underway. This is the first of several episodes on Julian’s longest and most theologically rich revelation.

For other episodes in this series visit: All Shall Be Well: A Journey Through Julian of Norwich’s Revelations of Divine Love with Kris McGregor

Full Julian of Norwich Quotations Used in Episode 9:

From Revelations of Divine Love, Long Text, Chapters XXVII-XXXI, trans. Grace Warrack, Methuen & Co., 1901 (PDF edition).

The Mystery of Sin and the Surpassing Assurance of Christ

“AFTER this the Lord brought to my mind the longing that I had to Him afore. And I saw that nothing letted me but sin. And so I looked, generally, upon us all, and methought: If sin had not been, we should all have been clean and like to our Lord, as He made us.

And thus, in my folly, afore this time often I wondered why by the great foreseeing wisdom of God the beginning of sin was not letted: for then, methought, all should have been well. This stirring [of mind] was much to be forsaken, but nevertheless mourning and sorrow I made therefor, without reason and discretion.

But Jesus, who in this Vision informed me of all that is needful to me, answered by this word and said: It behoved that there should be sin; but all shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well.” (Ch. 27)

The Nature of Sin, the Purpose of Pain, and the Consolation of the Passion

“But I saw not sin: for I believe it hath no manner of substance nor no part of being, nor could it be known but by the pain it is cause of.
And thus pain, it is something, as to my sight, for a time; for it purgeth, and maketh us to know ourselves and to ask mercy. For the Passion of our Lord is comfort to us against all this, and so is His blessed will.” (Ch. 27)

“And for the tender love that our good Lord hath to all that shall be saved, He comforteth readily and sweetly, signifying thus: It is sooth that sin is cause of all this pain; but all shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner [of] thing shall be well.

These words were said full tenderly, showing no manner of blame to me nor to any that shall be saved. Then were it a great unkindness to blame or wonder on God for my sin, since He blameth not me for sin.”(Ch. 27)

Christ’s Compassion and the Glory to Come

THUS I saw how Christ hath compassion on us for the cause of sin. And right as I was afore in the [Shewing of the] Passion of Christ fulfilled with pain and compassion, like so in this [sight] I was fulfilled, in part, with compassion of all mine even-Christians—for that well, well beloved people that shall be saved. For God’s servants, Holy Church, shall be shaken in sorrow and anguish, tribulation in this world, as men shake a cloth in the wind.

And as to this our Lord answered in this manner: A great thing shall I make hereof in Heaven of endless worship and everlasting joys.”(Ch. 28)

“And then I saw that each kind compassion that man hath on his even-Christians with charity, it is Christ in him.

That same noughting that was shewed in His Passion, it was shewed again here in this Compassion. Wherein were two manner of understandings in our Lord’s meaning. The one was the bliss that we are brought to, wherein He willeth that we rejoice. The other is for comfort in our pain: for He willeth that we perceive that it shall all be turned to worship and profit by virtue of His passion, that we perceive that we suffer not alone but with Him, and see Him to be our Ground, and that we see His pains and His noughting passeth so far all that we may suffer, that it may not be fully thought.” (Ch. 28)

The Hidden Part and the Peace of Trusting God

“The other [part] is hid and shut up from us: that is to say, all that is beside our salvation. For it is our Lord’s privy counsel, and it belongeth to the royal lordship of God to have His privy counsel in peace, and it belongeth to His servant, for obedience and reverence, not to learn wholly His counsel. Our Lord hath pity and compassion on us for that some creatures make themselves so busy therein; and I am sure if we knew how much we should please Him and ease ourselves by leaving it, we would. The saints that be in Heaven, they will to know nothing but that which our Lord willeth to shew them: and also their charity and their desire is ruled after the will of our Lord: and thus ought we to will, like to them. Then shall we nothing will nor desire but the will of our Lord, as they do: for we are all one in God’s seeing.” (Ch. 30)

The Fivefold Promise of the Trinity

“AND thus our good Lord answered to all the questions and doubts that I might make, saying full comfortably: I may make all thing well, I can make all thing well, I will make all thing well, and I shall make all thing well; and thou shalt see thyself that all manner of thing shall be well.

In that He saith, I may, I understand [it] for the Father; and in that He saith, I can, I understand [it] for the Son; and where He saith, I will, I understand [it] for the Holy Ghost; and where He saith, I shall, I understand [it] for the unity of the blessed Trinity: three Persons and one Truth; and where He saith, Thou shalt see thyself, I understand the oneing of all mankind that shall be saved unto the blessed Trinity. And in these five words God willeth we be enclosed in rest and in peace.” (Ch. 31)

The Great Deed, the Mystery of Salvation, and the Fidelity of God

“That there be deeds evil done in our sight, and so great harms taken, that it seemeth to us that it were impossible that ever it should come to good end. And upon this we look, sorrowing and mourning therefor, so that we cannot resign us unto the blissful beholding of God as we should do. And the cause of this is that the use of our reason is now so blind, so low, and so simple, that we cannot know that high marvellous Wisdom, the Might and the Goodness of the blissful Trinity. And thus signifieth He when He saith: THOU SHALT SEE THYSELF if all manner of things shall be well. As if He said: Take now heed faithfully and trustingly, and at the last end thou shalt verily see it in fulness of joy.” (Ch. 32)

“And in this sight I marvelled greatly and beheld our Faith, marvelling thus: Our Faith is grounded in God’s word, and it belongeth to our Faith that we believe that God’s word shall be saved in all things; and one point of our Faith is that many creatures shall be condemned: as angels that fell out of Heaven for pride, which be now fiends; and man in earth that dieth out of the Faith of Holy Church… all these shall be condemned to hell without end, as Holy Church teacheth me to believe. And all this so standing, methought it was impossible that all manner of things should be well, as our Lord shewed in the same time.” (Ch. 32)

“And as to this I had no other answer in Shewing of our Lord God but this: That which is impossible to thee is not impossible to me: I shall save my word in all things and I shall make all things well. Thus I was taught, by the grace of God, that I should steadfastly hold me in the Faith as I had aforehand understood, [and] therewith that I should firmly believe that all things shall be well, as our Lord shewed in the same time. For this is the Great Deed that our Lord shall do, in which Deed He shall save His word and He shall make all well that is not well. How it shall be done there is no creature beneath Christ that knoweth it, nor shall know it till it is done; according to the understanding that I took of our Lord’s meaning in this time.” (Ch. 32)

Scripture Featured

(Translations used: Revised Standard Version [RSV] )

(Romans 5:20, RSV)

“Where sin increased, grace abounded all the more.”

(Romans 8:18, RSV)

“I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”

(Galatians 2:20, RSV)

“.It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me”

(2 Corinthians 1:5)

“For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.”

(Deuteronomy 29:29)

“The secret things belong to the Lord our God; but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever.”

(1 Timothy 2:4)

“God desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (also cited in CCC 1037)

Catechism of the Catholic Church

“God permits it, however, because he respects the freedom of his creatures and, mysteriously, knows how to derive good from it.” (CCC 311)

“To God, all moments of time are present in their immediacy. When therefore he establishes his eternal plan of ‘predestination’, he includes in it each person’s free response to his grace.” (CCC 600)

“The last judgment will reveal even to its furthest consequences the good each person has done or failed to do during his earthly life… Then through his Son Jesus Christ he will pronounce the final word on all history.” (CCC 1039)

“God predestines no one to go to hell; for this, a willful turning away from God (a mortal sin) is necessary, and persistence in it until the end.” (CCC 1037)

“In everything God works for good with those who love him… and the greatest moral evil ever committed—the rejection and murder of God’s only Son—was permitted by God… in order to bring about his saving plan of redemption.” (CCC 312)

St. Thomas Aquinas:

“Evil is the privation of good, which belongs properly to the subject. Hence, it has no formal or specific nature of its own, but is rather the absence of some good.”— Summa Theologiae, I, q. 48, a. 1

“Since every nature, as such, is good, evil cannot signify a particular nature or being, but only the privation of good in a being.”— Summa Theologiae, I, q. 48, a. 3

St. Augustine:

“And I beheld and saw that whatsoever is, is good. And that evil is not a substance; for if it were, it would be good. For either it would be an incorruptible substance, and so be the chief good; or a corruptible substance, which, unless it were good, could not be corrupted. I saw that all that is corrupted is deprived of good.” Confessions, trans. E.B. Pusey, Book VII, Ch. 12 (sometimes labeled §16–17 in scholarly editions)

God judged it better to bring good out of evil than not to permit evil to exist.” (Enchiridion, 11.3)

Reflection Questions for Prayer

When Julian says “Sin is behovable,” what does this suggest about God’s sovereignty even over human failure?
How does the repetition of “All shall be well” speak differently to your heart each time you hear it?
Have you ever mourned over suffering or evil in the world and struggled to believe God could bring good from it?
In what ways might we try to “understand” mysteries that are instead meant to be trusted?
What role does humility play in receiving a truth that our reason cannot yet grasp?

Closing Prayer

O Lord of all wisdom and mercy,
You who know the end from the beginning,
Draw our restless hearts into the stillness of trust.
In the face of sin, You reveal Your Passion.
In the shadow of sorrow, You speak peace.
May we hold fast to Your word—
Even when we do not understand—
And rest in the mystery that all shall be well.
Amen.

Amen.

HIDT7- Conference 7 – Hope in Difficult Times with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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Conference 7 – Hope in Difficult Times: with Sts. Therese, Louis, and Zelie and Their Family with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher reflects on the pivotal transformation in Léonie Martin’s life, one of St. Thérèse’s sisters. He recounts the painful history between Léonie and the family maid, Louise, who secretly mistreated her for years under the guise of discipline. Despite outward appearances of affection, Marie, Léonie’s older sister, discerned something amiss. After the death of their aunt, Marie bravely revealed her concerns to their mother, Zélie, who took immediate action, forbidding Louise from interacting with Léonie and arranging her eventual dismissal. This intervention opened Léonie’s heart for the first time to true maternal love and marked the beginning of her interior healing. Though her path remained marked by trials, including repeated failed attempts to enter religious life, this moment was a decisive turning point.

The second half of the talk centers on the deep spiritual bond between Thérèse and her aunt, Celine, who had stepped in as a maternal figure after Zélie’s death. Fr. Gallagher reads a letter from Thérèse to her aunt on her feast day, expressing profound gratitude and love, and a moving response from Celine. Through these letters, listeners glimpse the loving sensitivity of Thérèse’s heart and the Martin family’s ethos of grace, forgiveness, and deep familial affection. Fr. Gallagher beautifully illustrates how love—especially when rooted in Christ—has the power to heal, restore, and elevate even the most wounded of hearts.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How can I become more attentive to hidden suffering in those around me, as Marie was with Léonie?
In what ways do I respond when others dismiss or overlook someone’s pain?
Do I trust that God’s grace can bring transformation even after years of struggle?
How do I practice forgiveness toward those who have hurt me deeply, as Léonie eventually did?
When have I mistaken control or harshness for love in my own relationships?
Do I pray for those I struggle to understand or help, as Zélie did for her daughter?
How does my love for God overflow into love for family and others, like it did for Thérèse?
Who has been a spiritual mother or father to me, and have I expressed gratitude to them?
Do I believe that God can work healing even through my weakest and most painful moments?
How can I imitate the Martin family’s trust in God during trials, especially in my own home?

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 15 different podcasts series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

The Gift of Empty Hands – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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The Gift of Empty Hands – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the readings from Ecclesiastes, Colossians, and the Gospel of Luke, focusing on the destructive nature of greed and the illusion of security found in material wealth. He contrasts the pursuit of possessions with the call to live in Christ, who alone satisfies the human heart. Using the parable of the rich man and stories from his own ministry, including encounters with the poor, missionaries, and saints like Mother Teresa, Msgr. Esseff illustrates how worldly riches can enslave the soul, while true freedom and peace come from union with Christ and a life centered on eternal values.

He shares moving examples of individuals who lived simply yet gave abundantly, revealing how detachment from luxury leads to spiritual richness. Msgr. Esseff also describes the radical poverty of the Missionaries of Charity and their joy in Christ, challenging listeners to examine their own relationship with wealth. He encourages young people to consider lives of missionary discipleship, not for fame or fortune, but to radiate Christ in the world. True richness, he says, is found in living a full life in God, where identity and peace are rooted not in possessions but in the presence of Jesus within.

From the Gospel of St. Luke 12:13-21

“Someone in the crowd said to Jesus,
“Teacher, tell my brother to share the inheritance with me.”
He replied to him,
“Friend, who appointed me as your judge and arbitrator?”
Then he said to the crowd,
“Take care to guard against all greed,
for though one may be rich,
one’s life does not consist of possessions.”

Then he told them a parable.
“There was a rich man whose land produced a bountiful harvest.
He asked himself, ‘What shall I do,
for I do not have space to store my harvest?’
And he said, ‘This is what I shall do:
I shall tear down my barns and build larger ones.
There I shall store all my grain and other goods
and I shall say to myself, “Now as for you,
you have so many good things stored up for many years,
rest, eat, drink, be merry!”’
But God said to him,
‘You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you;
and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?’
Thus will it be for all who store up treasure for themselves
but are not rich in what matters to God.”

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

What role do material possessions play in your life, and how might they be drawing your heart away from God?
How do you discern the difference between necessities and luxuries in your daily living?
In what ways are you seeking what is above, as St. Paul exhorts, rather than what is earthly?
Are there forms of hidden idolatry in your life, such as dependence on wealth, status, or comfort?
How can you practice generosity toward the poor and marginalized in a concrete way?
When was the last time you encountered poverty that challenged your perspective on your own abundance?
What would it mean for you to live a “full life in Christ” rather than just a successful or comfortable one?
How can you use your career or vocation as a mission field to reflect Christ to others?
In what areas of your life do you feel empty despite having much, and could that be a call to deeper union with God?
If you were to die today, would your life reflect a pursuit of eternal riches or temporary ones?

An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part Two: How to Use the Discerning Hearts App – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part Two: How to Use the Discerning Hearts App

In Part Two, Kris McGregor introduces us to the features and resources available through the Discerning Hearts website and mobile app. The platform offers rich spiritual content including spiritual formation, prayers, scripture study, Church teaching, and reflections. Listeners can easily navigate categories like “Spiritual Formation” to explore podcast series from trusted Catholic voices such as Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Dr. Anthony Lilles. The app includes user-friendly features like downloading episodes, playback controls, and access to 24/7 streaming channels focused on formation and meditative prayer.

She encourages us to explore content based on their spiritual needs, whether they’re seeking healing, dealing with grief, growing in prayer, or learning about the saints. Discerning Hearts is also available on all major podcast platforms and YouTube, and users can subscribe to a daily email with new content.

Transcription

Today, let’s help you take the next step: where to begin and how to explore what’s waiting for you. Whether you’re using our website or our free mobile app, we’ve designed it all to be easy to navigate and spiritually fruitful—but there is a lot.

Let’s start with the app. When you first open the Discerning Hearts app, you’ll see several major categories such as Spiritual Formation, Prayers and Devotionals, Scripture, Church History, and more. Once you enter a category—let’s say, Spiritual Formation—you’ll see a list of voices and themes: trusted teachers like Father Timothy Gallagher, Dr. Anthony Lilles, Father Donald Haggerty, and others, each offering series rooted in rich spiritual charisms.

When you tap on one of those voices or topics, you’ll see the podcast series available—some in audio form, others also available as YouTube videos. Once you enter into a particular series, you’ll find a list of episodes ready to explore.

Each episode includes a star icon you can tap to mark it as a favorite, and a circle with a downward arrow to download it for later listening. When you select an episode, you’ll see a full-screen player along with complete show notes so you can follow along or go deeper.

Your podcast will begin playing at the bottom of your screen where a small black bar will appear. If you tap that bar, the player will expand, giving you access to fast-forward and rewind controls. At the top right of the screen, you’ll find a small gear icon—tap that and you can adjust the playback speed, set the podcast to repeat, or even use a sleep timer to turn off playback automatically.

It’s all designed to be intuitive, flexible, and a true companion for your prayer and learning. And there’s more. Within the app, you’ll also find access to two 24/7 streaming audio channels. Think of them as spiritual radio—always on, always available.

DH1 offers continuous spiritual formation programming, while DH2 features continuous music, prayer, and guided meditation. Just tap to listen and enter into the rhythm of grace wherever you are.

And if you’re not sure where to begin, one of the easiest places is the Latest Podcast section on the website. You’ll find it just by scrolling down the homepage. You’ll also see links to our prayer and devotional offerings, frequently asked questions, and a complete list of all our series. The same features are available in the app—right at your fingertips.

Remember, Discerning Hearts is also on all major podcast platforms—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and many more. Just search “Discerning Hearts” and you’ll find both our full channel and individual series like Inside the Pages or Building a Kingdom of Love.

You’ll also find us on YouTube, where many of our podcasts and teachings are available in video format if you prefer to watch or want to share a visual resource with a friend. Our YouTube channel is another simple way to stay connected and inspired.

And if you haven’t already, don’t forget to sign up for our daily newsletter. Every day, we’ll send a fresh offering to your inbox—sometimes a new podcast episode, other times a prayer or reflection. It’s a quiet, gentle way to stay close to the heart of this mission.

Finally, if you find Discerning Hearts helpful and you believe in this mission, there’s a donate button right within the app. Your gift, no matter the size, helps keep this content free and accessible to souls around the world.

Most of all, I want to invite you to explore with trust. You’re not just opening an app—you’re opening a door to a deeper relationship with Christ. Through every series, every episode, and every prayer, may you come to hear His voice more clearly and follow Him more closely.

In our next episode, we’ll help you match your season of life—or the longings of your heart—with the series and content that can meet you there. Whether you’re seeking healing, wrestling with grief, drawn to the saints, or just looking to go deeper in prayer, we’ll help you find the right place to start.

Until then, thank you for being with us, and may God continue to bless your journey.

SFTH-7 – The Days of Formation – Stories from the Heart with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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Episode Seven – The Days of Formation – Stories from the Heart with Msgr. John Esseff

In this episode of Stories from the Heart, Msgr. John Esseff joins Kris McGregor to reflect on his seminary years beginning in 1945 during the final months of World War II. He recalls the rigorous training in Latin and Greek and his deep love for philosophy, which he describes as refreshing and life-giving. The writings of Thomas Aquinas and Augustine awakened a hunger in him for truth, and the structure of disciplined study shaped his intellect and soul.

Msgr. Esseff later studied theology and Semitic languages at The Catholic University of America. There, he encountered extraordinary professors including Archbishop Fulton Sheen, Monsignor Joseph Clifford Fenton, and Fr. John Courtney Murray, whose work on religious freedom would shape the Second Vatican Council. He reflects on the vibrant discussions and theological tensions of that era, noting both the richness and the shortcomings of his formation. Though the sacraments were central, he was not taught how to pray from the heart. Over time, he came to understand true prayer as a response to the living presence of God. He encourages listeners to see prayer not as something we perform but as a loving relationship awakened by God’s own invitation.

Reflection Questions

What can Msgr. Esseff’s early commitment to becoming a good priest teach us about responding to God’s call in our own lives?
How did the structured routine of prayer, study, and sacramental life form his character, and what routines shape our faith today?
Why did the study of philosophy stir something so deep in Msgr. Esseff, and how do we nourish our minds in pursuit of truth?
How did the experience of daily Mass and weekly Confession sustain him during difficult times in formation?
What is the difference between being told to pray and being taught how to pray, as Msgr. Esseff describes it?
How can we become more aware of the presence of God in our daily life, especially in quiet moments of prayer?
Why does Msgr. Esseff say that prayer begins with God’s initiative, and how does this change our approach to prayer?
What does it mean to treat prayer as the breath of the soul, and how can we keep our spiritual life alive through daily prayer?

About the Series

In this deeply personal and spiritually rich podcast series, Msgr. John Esseff—renowned retreat master, confessor, and spiritual director—shares intimate stories of his remarkable life. Having encountered some of the most beloved and influential figures of the modern Church, including St. Teresa of Calcutta, St. Padre Pio, Pope St. John Paul II, and many others, Msgr. Esseff offers listeners a living memory of the Church’s heart in the 20th and 21st centuries. This series also explores his missionary work with the poor, his years of service through the Pontifical Missions, and the profound lessons drawn from hidden saints and everyday holiness.