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An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part One: Formation, Prayer, and More – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part One: Formation, Prayer, and More

In this introductory episode, Kris McGregor welcomes listeners to Discerning Hearts and offers a guided overview of the rich spiritual resources available through the platform. From deep spiritual formation with renowned teachers like Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Dr. Anthony Lilles, to practical tools like the Daily Lectio Divina and Examen Prayer, Kris highlights how Discerning Hearts supports daily growth in prayer, scripture, and Catholic teaching. We are introduced to major categories including prayer and devotionals, scripture study, Church history, apologetics, Catholic social teaching, and more—all accessible for free through the website, mobile app, podcast platforms, and 24/7 streaming.

Whether you’re beginning your journey or seeking to deepen it, this episode shows how Discerning Hearts can become a daily companion in your spiritual life.

Transcription

Welcome to Discerning Hearts. I’m Kris McGregor, and whether this is your first time with us or you’re returning after journeying with us for a while, I’m so glad you’re here. This short series is designed to introduce—or reintroduce—you to everything Discerning Hearts offers. Over the next few episodes, I’ll walk with you step by step, showing you how to explore our content, use the app or website, and discover the spiritual tools that can help you grow closer to Christ.

Today, I want to give you a brief overview of the major categories you’ll find across our platform—whether you’re using the app, the website, or your favorite podcast platform. We begin with the heart of our mission: spiritual formation. Here, you’ll find podcast series that delve into the interior life, prayer, discernment, and the mystical tradition of the Church. We feature voices like Fr. Timothy Gallagher on Ignatian spirituality and the life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux and her family, Dr. Anthony Lilles, and Fr. Donald Haggerty, who guide us into the depths of Carmelite mysticism. Fr. Thomas McDermott teaches the wisdom of St. Catherine of Siena and the Dominican tradition; Fr. Mauritius Wilde shares from the Benedictine way of life; and Deacon James Keating speaks on contemplative prayer and intimacy with Christ. These are just a few of the many series in this section.

In our Prayers and Devotionals section, you’ll find novenas structured as nine-day journeys with a saint, enriched with reflections and teachings from their lives. We also offer multiple versions of the Rosary, Stations of the Cross, and a treasury of litanies and prayers to the Sacred Heart, Our Lady, St. Joseph, and more. Central to our daily rhythm are the Daily Lectio Divina and Examen Prayer—tools to help you notice God’s presence throughout your day.

If you want to go deeper into Sacred Scripture, we have in-depth studies from Sharon Doran’s Seeking Truth series, seasonal Gospel reflections, and thematic episodes tied to the liturgical year. It’s not just about learning the Word—it’s about loving and living it.

In the Church History and Apologetics section, you’ll find teachings from the early Church to the modern day. Mike Aquilina explores the early Church Fathers, Dr. Matthew Bunson highlights the Doctors of the Church. Other series showcase voices of conversion and evangelization, from G.K. Chesterton to St. John Henry Newman.

We also offer content on Living the Faith in the World, which explores Catholic social teaching, faith, and culture. Deacon Omar Gutierrez speaks on social doctrine and others explore art, literature, and beauty through a Gospel lens.

All of this is available for free on our website and the Discerning Hearts mobile app. You can also stream through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our YouTube channel. Be sure to sign up for our daily email newsletter for new reflections and episodes, and check out our 24/7 streaming channels—like a podcast radio, always on and always available. You don’t need to have a plan—just begin. We’re here to walk with you.

In our next episode, I’ll guide you through how to navigate the app and website, how to find the series that speaks to your heart, and how to integrate Discerning Hearts into your daily rhythm of prayer and formation. Thank you for being with us—may this be the beginning, or the deepening, of a beautiful spiritual journey.

St. Peter Chrysologus – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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St. Anthony of Padua Doctor of Church Matthew Bunson Podcast

St. Peter Chrysologus – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson

Born: 406 AD, Imola, Italy
Died: July 31, 450 AD

Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor discuss St. Peter Chrysologus, a Doctor of the Church known as the “Doctor of Homilies” due to his exceptional preaching skills. Chrysologus, who lived from around 380 to 450 AD, was noted for his brief, clear, and impactful homilies that conveyed deep theological truths concisely to avoid boring his congregation. His teachings emphasized prayer, fasting, and mercy, which he believed were interdependent and vital for a steadfast faith and virtuous life.

Declared a Doctor of the Church in 1729 by Pope Benedict XIII, Chrysologus was honored during a period of rationalism and skepticism in Europe. His ability to distill complex theological concepts into accessible and inspiring messages made him an essential figure during the Enlightenment. Despite the turmoil of his era, including the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the rise of various heresies like Arianism and Monophysitism, Chrysologus remained a steadfast defender of orthodox Christian doctrine.

Chrysologus’s significant influence is highlighted by his relationship with Pope Leo the Great and his response to the heretic Eutyches, which emphasized papal primacy and the importance of unity in the Church. His eloquence and gentle nature, combined with his theological depth, made his homilies resonate deeply with his congregation and contributed to his lasting legacy in the Church. The podcast underscores the relevance of Chrysologus’s teachings in today’s context of social and religious challenges, encouraging listeners to draw inspiration from his life and work.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Understanding the Impact of Brevity in Homilies: How can the example of St. Peter Chrysologus’s concise and clear homilies inspire contemporary preachers to communicate more effectively?
Emulating the Zeal for Truth: In what ways can we, as modern Catholics, emulate St. Peter Chrysologus’s zeal for defending and teaching the true faith amidst today’s skepticism and rationalism?
Integrating Prayer, Fasting, and Mercy: How can we incorporate St. Peter Chrysologus’s teaching on the interdependence of prayer, fasting, and mercy into our daily spiritual practices?
Importance of Papal Primacy: Why is understanding and respecting papal primacy, as emphasized by St. Peter Chrysologus, important for maintaining unity and orthodoxy in the Church today?
Living the Faith Through Action: Reflect on a specific way you can live out your faith in action, following the example of St. Peter Chrysologus’s life and teachings.
Addressing Modern Heresies: What are some modern-day heresies or false teachings that the Church faces, and how can we effectively respond to them using the wisdom of St. Peter Chrysologus?
Importance of Holiness in Relationships: How does the relationship between St. Peter Chrysologus and other Church leaders like Pope Leo the Great illustrate the importance of fostering holy and supportive relationships within the Church community?
Lessons from Historical Context: How can the historical context of St. Peter Chrysologus’s time help us understand and address the challenges facing the Church in our current era?
Role of Homilies in Worship: Why is it crucial for homilies to be integrated within the context of worship and liturgy, as St. Peter Chrysologus exemplified?
Personal Spiritual Growth: Reflect on a recent homily that deeply moved you. How did it inspire your spiritual growth, and how can you seek to apply its message in your life?

For more on St. Peter Chrysologus and his teachings

From Wikipedia:

“Peter was born in Imola, where Cornelius, bishop of Roman Catholic Diocese of Imola, baptized him, educated him, and ordained him a deacon. He was made an archdeacon through the influence of Emperor Valentinian III. Pope Sixtus III appointed Peter as Bishop of Ravenna (or perhaps archbishop) circa 433, apparently rejecting the candidate whom the people of the city ofRavenna elected. The traditional account, as recorded in the Roman Breviary, is that Sixtus had a vision of Pope Saint Peter the Apostle and Saint Apollinaris of Ravenna, the first bishop of that see, who showed Sixtus a young man, the next Bishop of Ravenna. When a group from Ravenna arrived, including Cornelius and his archdeacon Peter from Imola, Sixtus recognized Peter as the young man in his vision and consecrated him as a bishop.

People knew Saint Peter Chrysologus, the Doctor of Homilies, for his short but inspired talks; he supposedly feared boring his audience. His piety and zeal won universal admiration. After hearing oratory of his first homily as bishop, Roman Empress Galla Placidia supposedly gave him the surname Chrysologus, meaning “golden-worded.” Empress Galla Placidia patronized many of projects of Bishop Saint Peter.

In his extant homilies, bishop Peter explained Biblical texts briefly and concisely. He also condemned Arianism and Monophysitism as heresies and explained beautifully the Apostles’ Creed, the mystery of the Incarnation, and other topics in simple and clear language. He dedicated a series of homilies to Saint John the Baptist and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Peter advocated daily reception of Eucharist. He urged his listeners to confide in the forgiveness offered through Christ. He shared the confidence of Saint Pope Leo I the Great (440-461), another doctor of the Church.

A synod held in Constantinople in 448 condemned Eutyches for Monophysitism; Eutyches then appealed to Saint Peter Chrysologus but failed in his endeavour to win the support of the Bishop. The Acts of the Council of Chalcedon(451) preserves the text of letter of Saint Peter Chrysologus in response to Eutyches; Peter admonishes Eutyches to accept the ruling of the synod and to give obedience to the Bishop of Rome as the successor of Saint Peter.

Archbishop Felix of Ravenna in the early eighth century collected and preserved 176 of his homilies. Various authors edited and translated these works into numerous languages.

Death and veneration

St Peter died circa or after 450 during a visit to Imola, the town of his birth. Older reference books say he died on 2 December, but a more recent interpretation of the ninth-century “Liber Pontificalis Ecclesiae Ravennatis” indicated that he died on 31 July. When in 1729 he was declared a Doctor of the Church, his feast day, not already included in the Tridentine Calendar, was inserted in the Roman Catholic calendar of saints for celebration on 4 December. In 1969 his feast was moved to 30 July, as close as possible to the day of his death, 31 July, the feast day of Saint Ignatius of Loyola.”

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

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

BTP-LR20 – Day 14 – Part 2 – The Last Retreat by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity – Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Day 14 – Part 2 – The Last Retreat by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity- Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles

Dr. Anthony Lilles and Kris McGregor explore Day 14 of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity’s Last Retreat. The reflection centers on the idea that Holy Communion is not merely a moment of devotion but an invitation to unite fully with Christ’s obedience to the Father’s will. Elizabeth points to Christ’s declaration, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me”, to reveal that receiving the Eucharist properly requires interior readiness and surrender. When we approach the altar with selfish motives or spiritual distraction, we hinder the grace meant to transform us. Instead, St. Elizabeth calls for a soul open to the mystery of divine will: one that continues to offer praise and fidelity long after Mass ends. This disposition leads us deeper into the very heart of Christ’s sacrificial love, enabling us to join him in his prayer and suffering.

Silence is the place where union with God matures. St. Elizabeth portrays this silence not as mere absence of noise, but as the crucible of transformation, especially in suffering. Drawing from Jesus’ own cries from the cross—“Why have you abandoned me?” and “I thirst”—she identifies the soul’s participation in divine love through desolation and thirst for God. This silence prepares the heart to echo Jesus’ final surrender: “Into your hands I commend my spirit.” Dr. Lilles reflects that such surrender, born from silence and suffering, allows God’s glory and joy to enter the world. In a noisy culture, this interior stillness is rare but deeply necessary. It is within this silence, he says, that God astonishes the soul with his presence and leads it beyond its limits into the boundless mystery of divine love.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How does receiving Holy Communion invite you to align your will with the Father’s, beyond the moment of the Mass?
In what ways might you be approaching Communion with personal agendas rather than openness to God’s purpose?
What does it mean for you personally to make the Father’s will your “food,” as Christ did?
How can you cultivate silence in your life as a place of strength and union with God?
When have you experienced the silence of God, and how did it affect your faith?
Are you willing to let suffering become a path through which God communicates his love to others?
How might embracing silence after Communion deepen your intimacy with Christ?
What does Jesus’ thirst from the cross reveal about his desire for your soul and others?
How can you surrender more fully to God in times of spiritual abandonment or trial?
What does it look like in your life to let Christ increase and yourself decrease?

From “Last Retreat Day 14” found in The Complete Works vol 1:

36. “It seems to me that all is loss since I have known the excelling knowledge of my Lord, Jesus Christ. For love of Him I have forfeited everything; I have accounted all else rubbish that I may gain Christ, so as to be found in Him, not with my own justice but with the justice that comes from God through faith. What I want is to know Him, to share in His sufferings, to become like Him in His death. I pursue my course, striving to attain to what Christ has destined me for by taking hold of me; my whole concern is to forget what is behind and to strain forward constantly to what is ahead; I run straight to the goal . . . , to the prize of the heavenly vocation to which God has called me in Christ Jesus.” 212 The Apostle has often revealed the greatness of this vocation: “God,” he says, “has chosen us in Him before the creation of the world that we might be holy and immaculate in His presence in love. . . . We have been predestined by the decree of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, so that we may be the praise of His glory.” 213

37. But how do we respond to the dignity of this vocation? This is the secret: “Mihi vivere Christus est! . . . Vivo enim, jam non ego, vivit vero in me Christus. . . .” 214 We must be transformed into Jesus Christ; again it is St. Paul who teaches me this: “Those whom God has foreknown, He has predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.” 215 It is important then that I study this divine Model so as to identify myself so closely with Him that I may unceasingly reveal Him to the eyes of the Father. First of all, what did He say when He came into the world? “Here I am, O God, I come to do your will.” 216 I think that this prayer should be like the bride’s heartbeat: 217 “Here we are, O Father, we come to do your will!”

This the text we are using to discuss “Heaven in Faith” you can find it here and order from the Carmelite Sisters

We would like to thank Miriam Gutierrez for providing “the voice” of St. Elizabeth for this series

For other episodes in the series visit the Discerning Hearts page for Dr. Anthony Lilles

Anthony Lilles, S.T.D., has served the Church and assisted in the formation of clergy and seminarians since 1994. Before coming to St. Patrick’s, he served at seminaries and houses of formation in the Archdiocese of Denver and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The son of a California farmer, married with young adult children, holds a B.A. in theology from the Franciscan University of Steubenville with both the ecclesiastical licentiate and doctorate in spiritual theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome (the Angelicum). An expert in the writings of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity and the Carmelite Doctors of the Church, he co-founded the Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation and the High Calling Program for priestly vocations. He also founded the John Paul II Center for Contemplative Culture, which hosts symposiums, retreats, and conferences. In addition to his publications, he blogs at www.beginningtopray.com .

The Legacy of St. Charbel Makhluf and St. Nimatullah Kassab – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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The Legacy of St. Charbel Makhluf and St. Nimatullah Kassab – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff shares a personal and profound connection with Saint Charbel Makhlouf, a Maronite saint from Lebanon, whose feast day is being celebrated. Msgr. Esseff recounts his experience in Lebanon as the Pontifical Mission Director, where he visited Saint Charbel’s shrine and learned about his life and influence.

Saint Charbel was a Maronite monk known for his deep spirituality and ascetic life, who eventually chose a hermit’s life for 27 years of prayer and fasting. His life and miraculous incorrupt body, which glowed after his death, drew many pilgrims, including Muslims and Christians.

Msgr. Esseff discusses the significance of Saint Charbel for both Eastern and Western Christians, and the importance for unity in Christ despite historical and political division and the need for holiness and true leadership rooted in Christ rather than worldly power.

St. Charbel Makhlouf... some call him the Padre Pio of Lebanon 1 — Saint Charbel Makhluf, O.L.M. (or Sharbel Maklouf)

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Reflect on how the lives of saints, particularly Saint Charbel, can inspire and guide your spiritual journey.
Consider the importance of personal holiness and how you can strive to be more Christ-like in your daily life.
Examine the qualities of true leadership in the Church, as exemplified by Saint Charbel, and how they differ from worldly power and prestige.
Contemplate the common foundation of faith in Christ that unites Eastern and Western Christians, despite historical and political differences.
Reflect on the role of prayer and fasting in deepening your relationship with God, inspired by Saint Charbel’s example.
Think about the significance of miracles in the Church, such as the incorrupt body of Saint Charbel, and what they reveal about God’s presence and power.
Consider how you can be a witness to Christ in your community, following the example of Saint Charbel’s humble and devoted life.

Reading 1 JER 2:1-3, 7-8, 12-13

This word of the LORD came to me:
Go, cry out this message for Jerusalem to hear!

I remember the devotion of your youth,
how you loved me as a bride,
Following me in the desert,
in a land unsown.
Sacred to the LORD was Israel,
the first fruits of his harvest;
Should any presume to partake of them,
evil would befall them, says the LORD.

When I brought you into the garden land
to eat its goodly fruits,
You entered and defiled my land,
you made my heritage loathsome.
The priests asked not,
“Where is the LORD?”
Those who dealt with the law knew me not:
the shepherds rebelled against me.
The prophets prophesied by Baal,
and went after useless idols.

Be amazed at this, O heavens,
and shudder with sheer horror, says the LORD.
Two evils have my people done:
they have forsaken me, the source of living waters;
They have dug themselves cisterns,
broken cisterns, that hold no water.

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 serves 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.

Hospitality of the Heart – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Hospitality of the Heart – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

In this episode of Building a Kingdom of Love, Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the readings from Genesis and Luke, inviting listeners to rediscover the gift of hospitality and the presence of God in daily life. He begins with Abraham’s encounter with the Lord in the form of three visitors, pointing out how acts of welcome—once instinctive in many homes—have diminished in a world grown fearful and distant. Drawing from his own heritage and childhood memories, Msgr. Esseff recalls how guests were always seen as a gift from God, echoing the Benedictine phrase, “Here comes Christ.”Whether it’s a stranger at the door or a family member across the table, he reminds us that Christ often comes to us hidden in the ordinary.

He then turns to the story of Martha and Mary, where Mary quietly receives the Lord while Martha grows anxious in her serving. Msgr. Esseff warns that we can lose sight of our identity as sons and daughters of God when we focus only on doing rather than being. The heart of the Gospel is not about performance but relationship—a truth that Mary lived and Martha struggled to understand. Paul’s words in Colossians, “Christ in you, the hope of glory,” invite each of us to carry the awareness that God is with us, not just in church, but everywhere: in the hospital room, in the kitchen, in moments of silence, and in the faces of those we serve. Msgr. Esseff closes with the reminder that God longs for us not just to serve Him, but to know Him—and to let ourselves be known.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

Do I welcome others into my life with the same reverence Abraham showed to the strangers at his tent?
Can I recognize Christ in the ordinary people I meet throughout my day?
Have I made space in my life to sit quietly with God as Mary did?
Do I define myself by what I do, or by who I am as a child of God?
When I go to Mass, am I truly present to the Lord who is present to me?
Is my relationship with God something I carry into the whole day, or just certain moments?
Am I allowing God to bring peace into my heart, or am I clinging to anxiety like Martha?

Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest of the Diocese of Scranton. He served as a retreat director and confessor to St. Teresa of Calcutta and continues to offer spiritual direction and lead retreats for the Sisters of the Missionaries of Charity worldwide. Msgr. Esseff also had a profound encounter with St. Padre Pio, who became his spiritual father. He has served in various parts of the world through the Pontifical Missions, a Catholic organization founded by St. John Paul II to share the Good News, especially with the poor. . Msgr. Esseff continues to lead retreats and provide spiritual direction to bishops, priests, seminarians, sisters, and other religious leaders around the world.

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.

BTP-LR19 – Day 14 – Part 1 – The Last Retreat by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity – Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Day 14 – Part 1 – The Last Retreat by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity- Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles

In this episode of Beginning to Pray, Dr. Anthony Lilles and Kris McGregor reflect on Day 14 of The Last Retreat by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity. As Elizabeth nears the close of her earthly life, she draws deeply from the writings of St. Paul to express her complete surrender to Christ and her longing to be united with Him in everything.

Her words are filled with Scripture—not simply quoted, but absorbed into her heart and prayer. She speaks of letting go of all else in order to press forward toward Christ, who has taken hold of her completely. Dr. Lilles offers insight into how her prayer is not shaped by emotion or technique, but by a steady and trusting love—a love that remains even in suffering.

Listeners are invited to consider how Elizabeth’s trust in God’s eternal plan—set in place before the foundation of the world—can shape our own response to trials, loss, or uncertainty. Her surrender is not passive, but strong and deliberate, rooted in the desire to do the Father’s will in all things. This conversation opens a path toward interior transformation, where even the most painful moments can become occasions of grace and deeper communion with Christ.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. In your current season of life, what attachments or distractions may be keeping you from a deeper intimacy with Christ?
2. How have you tried to earn God’s favor, and what would it look like to rest more fully in His free gift of grace?
3. When your prayer feels uneventful or dry, how can you remain committed to simply being present to God?
4. Think about a recent difficulty you faced: how might Christ be inviting you to let His life guide your response?
5. How does remembering that God’s plan for you began before creation change the way you view today’s challenges?
6. In practical terms, what daily habit could help you say a more ready “yes” to God’s will?
7. Where do you notice self‑doubt creeping in, and how can turning to Christ’s strength reshape that inner dialogue?
8. Who in your life could benefit from your intercessory prayer this week, and how will you make space to pray intentionally for that person?
9. How might reflecting on Scripture from memory—following Elizabeth’s example—reshape the atmosphere of your day?
10. Looking ahead, what concrete step can you take to be sure that love, rather than fear, motivates your decisions?

From “Last Retreat Day 14” found in The Complete Works vol 1:

36. “It seems to me that all is loss since I have known the excelling knowledge of my Lord, Jesus Christ. For love of Him I have forfeited everything; I have accounted all else rubbish that I may gain Christ, so as to be found in Him, not with my own justice but with the justice that comes from God through faith. What I want is to know Him, to share in His sufferings, to become like Him in His death. I pursue my course, striving to attain to what Christ has destined me for by taking hold of me; my whole concern is to forget what is behind and to strain forward constantly to what is ahead; I run straight to the goal . . . , to the prize of the heavenly vocation to which God has called me in Christ Jesus.” 212 The Apostle has often revealed the greatness of this vocation: “God,” he says, “has chosen us in Him before the creation of the world that we might be holy and immaculate in His presence in love. . . . We have been predestined by the decree of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, so that we may be the praise of His glory.” 213

37. But how do we respond to the dignity of this vocation? This is the secret: “Mihi vivere Christus est! . . . Vivo enim, jam non ego, vivit vero in me Christus. . . .” 214 We must be transformed into Jesus Christ; again it is St. Paul who teaches me this: “Those whom God has foreknown, He has predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.” 215 It is important then that I study this divine Model so as to identify myself so closely with Him that I may unceasingly reveal Him to the eyes of the Father. First of all, what did He say when He came into the world? “Here I am, O God, I come to do your will.” 216 I think that this prayer should be like the bride’s heartbeat: 217 “Here we are, O Father, we come to do your will!

This the text we are using to discuss “Heaven in Faith” you can find it here and order from the Carmelite Sisters

We would like to thank Miriam Gutierrez for providing “the voice” of St. Elizabeth for this series

For other episodes in the series visit the Discerning Hearts page for Dr. Anthony Lilles

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.

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

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St. Bonaventure, pt. 2 – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson

Born: 1221, Bagnoregio, Italy
Died: July 15, 1274, Lyon, France
Education: University of Paris

Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor discuss the life and contributions of St. Bonaventure. They highlight his significance as a theologian, his practical approach to administration as the master general of the Franciscans, and his influence in the Church, particularly at the Council of Lyon, which attempted to reunify the Eastern and Western Churches. Dr. Bunson emphasizes Bonaventure’s humility and his deep theological insights, particularly his focus on mystical contemplation and Christ-centered spirituality.

Despite being compared to Thomas Aquinas, Bonaventure is noted for his unique blend of intellectual and practical theology, his emphasis on love, and his impact on both the Franciscan Order and broader Church theology. His life of deep prayer, contemplation, and active engagement with the world makes him a significant figure in Church history and a Doctor of the Church.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Significance of St. Bonaventure’s Theological Contributions: How can St. Bonaventure’s emphasis on mystical contemplation and practical theology inspire your own spiritual practices?
Humility and Leadership: In what ways does Bonaventure’s humility, as seen in his resignation from the Archbishop of York position, challenge your understanding of true leadership?
Christ-Centered Spirituality: How does Bonaventure’s focus on Christ and the cross influence your personal journey towards holiness and love?
Role in Church Unity: Reflect on the significance of Bonaventure’s efforts at the Council of Lyon and consider how you can contribute to unity within the Church today.
Balancing Knowledge and Practice: How can Bonaventure’s balance of intellectual study and practical application guide you in living out your faith more fully?
Living a Life of Love: What steps can you take to ensure that love remains at the core of your spiritual and everyday life, as exemplified by St. Bonaventure?
Integration of Prayer and Action: How can you integrate contemplative prayer and active engagement with the world in your own life, following Bonaventure’s example?
The Importance of Guidance: How can seeking spiritual guidance, as Bonaventure did, help you grow in your faith and understanding of God’s will?

For more on St. Bonaventure and his teachings

From Vatican.va, an excerpt from the teachings of Pope Benedict XVI

From the General Audience on St. Bonaventure

In this regard, St Bonaventure, as Minister General of the Franciscans, took a line of government which showed clearly that the new Order could not, as a community, live at the same “eschatological height” as St Francis, in whom he saw the future world anticipated, but guided at the same time by healthy realism and by spiritual courage he had to come as close as possible to the maximum realization of the Sermon on the Mount, which for St Francis was the rule, but nevertheless bearing in mind the limitations of the human being who is marked by original sin.

Thus we see that for St Bonaventure governing was not merely action but above all was thinking and praying. At the root of his government we always find prayer and thought; all his decisions are the result of reflection, of thought illumined by prayer. His intimate contact with Christ always accompanied his work as Minister General and therefore he composed a series of theological and mystical writings that express the soul of his government. They also manifest his intention of guiding the Order inwardly, that is, of governing not only by means of commands and structures, but by guiding and illuminating souls, orienting them to Christ.

I would like to mention only one of these writings, which are the soul of his government and point out the way to follow, both for the individual and for the community: the Itinerarium mentis in Deum, [The Mind’s Road to God], which is a “manual” for mystical contemplation. This book was conceived in a deeply spiritual place: Mount La Verna, where St Francis had received the stigmata. In the introduction the author describes the circumstances that gave rise to this writing: “While I meditated on the possible ascent of the mind to God, amongst other things there occurred that miracle which happened in the same place to the blessed Francis himself, namely the vision of the winged Seraph in the form of a Crucifix. While meditating upon this vision, I immediately saw that it offered me the ecstatic contemplation of Fr Francis himself as well as the way that leads to it” (cf. The Mind’s Road to God, Prologue, 2, in Opere di San Bonaventura. Opuscoli Teologici / 1, Rome 1993, p. 499).

The six wings of the Seraph thus became the symbol of the six stages that lead man progressively from the knowledge of God, through the observation of the world and creatures and through the exploration of the soul itself with its faculties, to the satisfying union with the Trinity through Christ, in imitation of St Francis of Assisi. The last words of St Bonaventure’s Itinerarium, which respond to the question of how it is possible to reach this mystical communion with God, should be made to sink to the depths of the heart: “If you should wish to know how these things come about, (the mystical communion with God) question grace, not instruction; desire, not intellect; the cry of prayer, not pursuit of study; the spouse, not the teacher; God, not man; darkness, not clarity; not light, but the fire that inflames all and transports to God with fullest unction and burning affection…. Let us then… pass over into darkness; let us impose silence on cares, concupiscence, and phantasms; let us pass over with the Crucified Christ from this world to the Father, so that when the Father is shown to us we may say with Philip, “It is enough for me‘” (cf. ibid., VII 6).

For more visit Vatican.va

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

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

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St. Bonaventure, pt. 1 – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson

Born: 1221, Bagnoregio, Italy
Died: July 15, 1274, Lyon, France
Education: University of Paris

Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor discuss the life and contributions of St. Bonaventure, a significant figure in the 13th-century Catholic Church. St. Bonaventure, a contemporary and peer of St. Thomas Aquinas, was a prominent theologian and member of the Franciscan Order. Born in Tuscany, Bonaventure was reportedly healed as a child by St. Francis of Assisi, which led to his lifelong connection with the Franciscans.

Bonaventure pursued his studies at the University of Paris, a major intellectual hub of the time, where he was influenced by notable scholars and navigated the challenges of integrating the mendicant life with academic scholarship. He earned his Master of Theology around 1257 and was known for his intellectual prowess alongside figures like Thomas Aquinas.

As the General of the Franciscan Order, Bonaventure addressed internal tensions and challenges, such as the rigid adherence to the rule of St. Francis and the rise of the Franciscan spirituals, who promoted a radical interpretation of Franciscan ideals. Bonaventure emphasized the importance of balancing theological study with spiritual contemplation and practical application, stressing the need for a life of prayer and virtue.

Bonaventure’s theological contributions include his work “The Journey of the Mind to God,” a manual for mystical contemplation and spiritual progress. He believed in the accessibility of mystical union with God for all believers, not just a select few, and emphasized the integration of faith and reason in theology.

Dr. Bunson highlights Bonaventure’s deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and his role in promoting the Angelus prayer. Bonaventure’s legacy as a preacher, teacher, and spiritual leader continues to influence the Church, demonstrating the enduring relevance of his teachings and the importance of a holistic approach to theology and spirituality.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Loss of Great Theologians: Reflect on the impact the simultaneous deaths of St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Bonaventure had on the Church and how the 13th century was shaped by their theological contributions.
Early Influences: Consider the significance of Bonaventure’s miraculous healing by St. Francis of Assisi and how early life experiences can shape one’s spiritual journey.
Academic Journey: Ponder the challenges Bonaventure faced in balancing academic scholarship with his Franciscan vocation and how we can integrate intellectual pursuits with our faith.
Role of Leadership: Think about Bonaventure’s leadership as the General of the Franciscan Order and the difficulties he encountered in maintaining the order’s integrity and unity.
Theology and Contemplation: Reflect on the importance Bonaventure placed on the relationship between theological study and mystical contemplation in developing a deeper spiritual life.
Universal Call to Holiness: Contemplate Bonaventure’s belief that mystical contemplation and union with God are accessible to all believers, and how we can strive for holiness in our own lives.
Devotion to Mary: Consider the role of Marian devotion in Bonaventure’s spiritual life and how we can deepen our relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary through prayer and devotion.
Effective Preaching: Reflect on the importance Bonaventure placed on good preaching and the use of scripture to touch hearts and communicate the truths of the faith effectively.
Faith and Reason: Ponder the careful relationship between faith and reason that Bonaventure emphasized, and how we can ensure our theological studies are rooted in a life of faith.
Humility of Founders: Think about the humility of St. Francis and other great founders who preferred their successors to carry forward their mission, and how we can embody humility in our own spiritual leadership.

For more on St. Bonaventure and his teachings:

From Vatican.va, an excerpt from the teachings of Pope Benedict XVI:

From the General Audience on St. Bonaventure

“St Bonaventure, in all likelihood born in 1217, died in 1274. Thus he lived in the 13th century, an epoch in which the Christian faith which had deeply penetrated the culture and society of Europe inspired imperishable works in the fields of literature, the visual arts, philosophy and theology. Among the great Christian figures who contributed to the composition of this harmony between faith and culture Bonaventure stands out, a man of action and contemplation, of profound piety and prudent government.

He was called Giovanni di Fidanza. An episode that occurred when he was still a boy deeply marked his life, as he himself recounts. He fell seriously ill and even his father, who was a doctor, gave up all hope of saving him from death. So his mother had recourse to the intercession of St Francis of Assisi, who had recently been canonized. And Giovanni recovered.

The figure of the Poverello of Assisi became even more familiar to him several years later when he was in Paris, where he had gone to pursue his studies. He had obtained a Master of Arts Diploma, which we could compare with that of a prestigious secondary school in our time. At that point, like so many young men in the past and also today, Giovanni asked himself a crucial question: “What should I do with my life?”. Fascinated by the witness of fervour and evangelical radicalism of the Friars Minor who had arrived in Paris in 1219, Giovanni knocked at the door of the Franciscan convent in that city and asked to be admitted to the great family of St Francis’ disciples. Many years later he explained the reasons for his decision: he recognized Christ’s action in St Francis and in the movement he had founded. Thus he wrote in a letter addressed to another friar: “I confess before God that the reason which made me love the life of blessed Francis most is that it resembled the birth and early development of the Church. The Church began with simple fishermen, and was subsequently enriched by very distinguished and wise teachers; the religion of Blessed Francis was not established by the prudence of men but by Christ” (Epistula de tribus quaestionibus ad magistrum innominatum, in Opere di San Bonaventura. Introduzione generale, Rome 1990, p. 29).

So it was that in about the year 1243 Giovanni was clothed in the Franciscan habit and took the name “Bonaventure”. He was immediately sent to study and attended the Faculty of Theology of the University of Paris where he took a series of very demanding courses. He obtained the various qualifications required for an academic career earning a bachelor’s degree in Scripture and in the Sentences. Thus Bonaventure studied profoundly Sacred Scripture, the Sentences of Peter Lombard the theology manual in that time and the most important theological authors. He was in contact with the teachers and students from across Europe who converged in Paris and he developed his own personal thinking and a spiritual sensitivity of great value with which, in the following years, he was able to infuse his works and his sermons, thus becoming one of the most important theologians in the history of the Church. It is important to remember the title of the thesis he defended in order to qualify to teach theology, the licentia ubique docendi, as it was then called. His dissertation was entitled Questions on the knowledge of Christ. This subject reveals the central role that Christ always played in Bonaventure’s life and teaching. We may certainly say that the whole of his thinking was profoundly Christocentric.”