BTP14 – Heaven In Faith: Day 7 Prayer 2 by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity – Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 29:33 — 20.4MB) | Embed

Episode 14 – “Heaven in Faith” Day 7 Prayer 2 – “Be holy for I am holy”

Dr. Anthony Lilles and Kris McGregor discuss the second prayer in the seventh day of Heaven and Faith. The prayer focuses on the purifying and transforming dimensions of contemplation, and how the prayer emphasizes the importance of remaining lovingly turned towards God to reflect His image.

They delve into the concept of inner integrity and the formation of the soul’s likeness to God through contemplation, as well as the significance of prayer in realizing holiness and the universal call to holiness proclaimed by the Church. Reflecting on the teachings of mystics such as Elizabeth of the Trinity and St. John of the Cross, reminding listeners of the deep desires of God’s heart for humanity.

Dr. Lilles shares a personal story about his grandmother’s experience of prayer and hope in the face of physical suffering, illustrating the transformative power of contemplative prayer.

From “Heaven in Faith: Day 7 Prayer 2”:

Second prayer: “Be holy for I am holy.” It is the Lord who speaks. “Whatever may be our way of life or the clothing we wear, each of us must be the holy one of God.” Who then is “the most holy”? “The one who is most loving, who gazes longest on God and who most fully satisfies the desires of His gaze.” How do we satisfy the desires of God’s gaze but by remaining “simply and lovingly” turned towards Him so that He may reflect His own image as the sun is reflected through a pure crystal.“Let us make man in our own image and likeness”: such was the great desire in the Heart of our God. “Without the likeness which comes from grace, eternal damnation awaits us. When God sees that we are prepared to receive His grace, His generous goodness is ready to give us the gift that will give us His likeness. Our aptitude for receiving His grace depends on the inner integrity with which we move towards Him.” And then God, “bringing us His gifts,” can “give Himself, imprint on us His likeness, forgive and free us.”

“The highest perfection in this life,” says a pious author, “consists in remaining so closely united to God that the soul with all its faculties and its powers is recollected in God,” “that its affections united in the joy of love find rest only in possession of the Creator. The image of God imprinted in the soul is formed by reason, memory, and will. As long as these faculties do not bear the perfect image of God, they do not resemble Him as on the day of creation. The form of the soul is God who must imprint Himself there like the seal on wax, like the stamp on its object. Now this is not fully realized unless the intellect is completely enlightened by knowledge of God, the will captivated by love of the supreme good, and the memory fully absorbed in contemplation and enjoyment of eternal happiness.” “And as the glory of the blessed is nothing else than the perfect possession of this state, it is obvious that the initial possession of these blessings constitutes perfection in this life.” To “realize this ideal” we must “keep recollected within ourselves,” “remain silently in God’s presence,” “while the soul immerses itself, expands, becomes enkindled and melts in Him, with an unlimited fullness.

Elizabeth of the Trinity. The Complete Works of Elizabeth of the Trinity, vol. 1 (featuring a General Introduction and Major Spiritual Writings) (Elizabeth of the Trinity Complete Work) (pp. 104-105). ICS Publications. Kindle Edition.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Purifying and Transforming Dimensions of Contemplation: How does the concept of inner integrity play a role in the formation of the soul’s likeness to God through contemplation?
The Universal Call to Holiness: Reflect on the Church’s proclamation of the universal call to holiness. How does this call intersect with the teachings on contemplative prayer discussed in the episode?
God’s Deep Desires: Consider the notion of God’s deep desires for humanity as discussed in the episode. How does this understanding influence your perception of prayer and your relationship with God?
The Transformative Power of Contemplative Prayer: Reflect on Dr. Lilles’ personal story about his grandmother’s experience of prayer and hope amidst physical suffering. How does this story illustrate the transformative power of contemplative prayer in the midst of adversity?
Making Prayer a Priority: Evaluate the importance of making prayer a priority in your daily life. How can you ensure that prayer remains central amidst the distractions and busyness of the world?
Hope and Trust in God: Discuss the connection between contemplative prayer and hope in God. How does prayer strengthen your trust in God’s love and providence, especially in challenging circumstances?

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 .

CTD5 – Leaving the Desert – Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion with Deacon James Keating – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 28:58 — 20.0MB) | Embed

Leaving the Desert – Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion with Deacon James Keating

In this episode, Deacon James Keating and Kris McGregor explore Lent’s significance, urging introspection and acknowledgment of sin. Deacon Keating highlights society’s loss of this sense, attributing it partly to psychology’s influence.

This reminds us of personal responsibility and freedom in recognizing sin; especially cultural desensitization to sin, emphasizing intentional conscience formation through spiritually grounded fellowship. They advocate for gentle yet firm engagement on moral issues to foster genuine community within parishes.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Lenten Self-Reflection: How can you deepen your introspection during Lent to identify areas of sin in your life?
Responsibility and Freedom: Reflect on how you balance acknowledging external influences with taking personal responsibility for your actions.
Desensitization to Sin: How can you guard against societal desensitization to sin, especially in media and cultural norms?
Intentional Conscience Formation: In what ways can you intentionally cultivate a spiritually grounded fellowship to form your conscience?
Engaging on Moral Issues: How can you engage in conversations about moral issues with both gentleness and firmness, guided by love?
Fostering Community in Parishes: What steps can you take to foster genuine community within your parish, where faith is shared and nurtured collectively?

An excerpt from “Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion”:

“Celebrating the sacrament of reconciliation is, for many Catholics, a most daunting prospect. This sacrament has been the source of many jokes, composed perhaps by persons seeking to reduce the level of stress they feel regarding one of its main components: naming personal sin.

The naming of one’s own sin to oneself and to a priest is self-revelatory to the point of evoking anxiety. Initially, it can be true that some level of apprehension may accompany this sacrament, but over time with regular celebration of this form of worship, anxiety diminishes. Most positively the sacrament of reconciliation promotes truthful self-knowledge regarding sin in the context of Christ’s saving presence. Once someone experiences both the naming of sin and the reception of God’s mercy in this sacrament, he or she actually begins to celebrate this sacrament and see it as a great gift from Christ and his Church.”

Deacon James Keating, Ph.D., is a professor of Spiritual Theology and serves as a spiritual director at Kenrick Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, MO.

Check out Deacon Keating’s “Discerning Heart” page

The Litany of St. Joseph – text and mp3 download

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 3:08 — 7.2MB) | Embed

The Litany of Saint Joseph

V/ Lord, have mercy.

R/ Lord, have mercy.

V/ Christ, have mercy.

R/ Christ, have mercy.

V/ Lord, have mercy.

R/ Lord, have mercy.

V/ Jesus, hear us.

R/ Jesus, graciously hear us.

V/ God, the Father of Heaven,

R/ have mercy on us.

V/ God, the Son, Redeemer of the world,

R/ have mercy on us.

V/ God, the Holy Spirit,

R/ have mercy on us.

V/ Holy Trinity, One God,

R/ have mercy on us.

R/for ff: pray for us.

Holy Mary,

St. Joseph, Renowned offspring of David,

Light of Patriarchs,

Spouse of the Mother of God,

Chaste guardian of the Virgin,

Foster father of the Son of God,

Diligent protector of Christ,

Head of the Holy Family,

Joseph most just,

Joseph most chaste,

Joseph most prudent,

Joseph most strong,

Joseph most obedient,

Joseph most faithful,

Mirror of patience,

Lover of poverty,

Model of artisans,

Glory of home life,

Guardian of virgins,

Pillar of families,

Solace of the wretched,

Hope of the sick,

Patron of the dying,

Terror of demons,

Protector of Holy Church,

Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,

R/ spare us, O Lord.

Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,

R/ graciously hear us, O Lord.

Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.

R/ have mercy on us.

He made him the lord of his household.

R/ And prince over all his possessions.

Let us pray. O God, in your ineffable providence you were pleased to choose Blessed Joseph to be the spouse of your most holy Mother; grant, we beg you, that we may be worthy to have him for our intercessor in heaven whom on earth we venerate as our Protector: You who live and reign forever and ever. R/ Amen.

The faithful foster-father and guardian – St. Bernardine of Siena from the Office of Readings – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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

From a sermon by Saint Bernardine of Siena, priest

The faithful foster-father and guardian

There is a general rule concerning all special graces granted to any human being. Whenever the divine favour chooses someone to receive a special grace, or to accept a lofty vocation, God adorns the person chosen with all the gifts of the Spirit needed to fulfil the task at hand.

This general rule is especially verified in the case of Saint Joseph, the foster-father of our Lord and the husband of the Queen of our world, enthroned above the angels. He was chosen by the eternal Father as the trustworthy guardian and protector of his greatest treasures, namely, his divine Son and Mary, Joseph’s wife. He carried out this vocation with complete fidelity until at last God called him, saying: “Good and faithful servant enter into the joy of your Lord.”

What then is Joseph’s position in the whole Church of Christ? Is he not a man chosen and set apart? Through him and, yes, under him, Christ was fittingly and honourably introduced into the world. Holy Church in its entirety is indebted to the Virgin Mother because through her it was judged worthy to receive Christ. But after her we undoubtedly owe special gratitude and reverence to Saint Joseph.

In him the Old Testament finds its fitting close. He brought the noble line of patriarchs and prophets to its promised fulfilment. What the divine goodness had offered as a promise to them, he held in his arms.

Obviously, Christ does not now deny to Joseph that intimacy, reverence and very high honour which he gave him on earth, as a son to his father. Rather we must say that in heaven Christ completes and perfects all that he gave at Nazareth.

Now we can see how the last summoning words of the Lord appropriately apply to Saint Joseph: “Enter into the joy of your Lord.” In fact, although the joy of eternal happiness enters into the soul of a man, the Lord preferred to say to Joseph: “Enter into joy.” His intention was that the words should have a hidden spiritual meaning for us. They convey not only that this holy man possesses an inward joy, but also that it surrounds him and engulfs him like an infinite abyss.

Remember us, Saint Joseph, and plead for us to your foster-child. Ask your most holy bride, the Virgin Mary, to look kindly upon us, since she is the mother of him who with the Father and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns eternally. Amen.

Let us pray.

Almighty God,
at the beginnings of our salvation,
when Mary conceived your Son and brought him forth into the world,
you placed them under Joseph’s watchful care.
May his prayer still help your Church
to be an equally faithful guardian of your mysteries
and a sign of Christ to mankind.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 9:46 — 6.8MB) | Embed

Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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

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

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

From the Holy Gospel of Matthew 1:16,18-21,24

Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary; of her was born Jesus who is called Christ.

This is how Jesus Christ came to be born. His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph; but before they came to live together she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph; being a man of honour and wanting to spare her publicity, decided to divorce her informally. He had made up his mind to do this when the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because she has conceived what is in her by the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son and you must name him Jesus, because he is the one who is to save his people from their sins.’ When Joseph woke up he did what the angel of the Lord had told him to do.

What word made this passage come alive for you?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

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

Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary; of her was born Jesus who is called Christ.

This is how Jesus Christ came to be born. His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph; but before they came to live together she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph; being a man of honour and wanting to spare her publicity, decided to divorce her informally. He had made up his mind to do this when the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because she has conceived what is in her by the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son and you must name him Jesus, because he is the one who is to save his people from their sins.’ When Joseph woke up he did what the angel of the Lord had told him to do.

What did your heart feel as you listened?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

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

Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary; of her was born Jesus who is called Christ.

This is how Jesus Christ came to be born. His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph; but before they came to live together she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph; being a man of honour and wanting to spare her publicity, decided to divorce her informally. He had made up his mind to do this when the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because she has conceived what is in her by the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son and you must name him Jesus, because he is the one who is to save his people from their sins.’ When Joseph woke up he did what the angel of the Lord had told him to do.

What touched your heart in this time of prayer?

What did your heart feel as you prayed?

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

Our Father, who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come.

Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread,

and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us,

and lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

Amen

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

DWG1 – Guided by Grace – The Discernment of God’s Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 31:31 — 21.7MB) | Embed

Guided by Grace – “What am I to do?” The Discernment of God’s Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor focus on discerning the will of God in Christian decision-making, particularly through an Ignatian lens. Fr. Gallagher teaches us that Christians seek to make choices consciously aligned with God’s will, ranging from daily decisions to major life choices; and the importance of preparation through spiritual exercises such as examination of conscience, meditation, and prayer, which dispose the soul to discern God’s will.

Fr. Gallagher provides various scenarios to illustrate discernment principles. For instance, he discusses choices between morally good and bad options, emphasizing the importance of choosing what aligns with God’s will. He also delves into decisions between competing goods, where fidelity to one’s vocation guides discernment. Additionally, he explores the process of prayerfully considering factors, making decisions, finding peace, and learning from the outcomes.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

Aligning Choices with God’s Will: How can I ensure that my decisions, whether small or significant, are consciously aligned with God’s will, reflecting a desire to live as a disciple of Christ?
Preparation through Spiritual Exercises: In what ways can I incorporate spiritual exercises like examination of conscience, meditation, and prayer into my daily life to better prepare myself for discerning God’s will?
Choosing between Morally Good and Bad Options: When faced with decisions between morally good and bad options, how can I find the courage to consistently choose what aligns with God’s will, even in challenging circumstances?
Seeking Guidance from Church Teaching: How can I integrate the teachings of the Church, particularly in areas where societal norms may conflict with Christian values, to ensure that my discernment aligns with God’s will?
Balancing Responsibilities within Vocation: Reflecting on Ruth’s situation, how can I discern between competing goods, ensuring that I prioritize fidelity to the duties of my vocation while also recognizing opportunities for service and growth?
Prayerful Consideration of Daily Choices: In my daily life, how can I incorporate prayerful reflection and consideration of factors into my decision-making process, seeking God’s guidance in even the smallest of choices?
Embracing a Disposition of Heart Like Mary’s: How can I cultivate a disposition of heart that mirrors Mary’s openness to God’s will, eagerly saying “yes” to whatever God asks of me, even when it involves sacrifice or difficult choices?
Continuous Learning and Growth: How can I review my past decisions, both those that align with God’s will and those that may not have, in order to learn and grow in my ability to discern God’s will in future choices?

From The Discernment of God’s Will in Everyday Decisions:

“Three Times in which a Sound and Good Choice May Be Made

The first time is when God Our Lord so moves and attracts the will that, without doubting or being able to doubt, the devout soul follows what is shown to it, as St. Paul and St. Matthew did in following Christ our Lord.

The second time is when sufficient clarity and understanding is received through experience of consolations and desolations, and through experience of discernment of different spirits.

The third time is one of tranquility, when one considers first for what purpose man is born, that is, to praise God our Lord and save his soul, and, desiring this, chooses as a means to this end some life or state within the bounds of the Church, so that he may be helped in the service of his Lord and the salvation of his soul. I said a tranquil time, that is, when the soul is not agitated by different spirits, and uses its natural powers freely and tranquilly.

If the choice is not made in the first or second time, two ways of making it in this third time are given below.”

Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life: The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola”. For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio which are available for purchase, please visit his website: frtimothygallagher.org

For the other episodes in this series check out Fr. Timothy Gallagher’s “Discerning Hearts” page

BTP13 – Heaven In Faith: Day 7 Prayer 1 by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity – Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 29:14 — 20.2MB) | Embed

Episode 13 – “Heaven in Faith” Day 7 Prayer 1 – “God chose us in Him before creation, that we should be holy and immaculate in His presence, in love.”

In this episode, Dr. Anthony Lilles and Kris McGregor discuss the rich teachings of Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity, particularly focusing on the concept of contemplative prayer and its transformative power. They delve into Elizabeth’s writings, highlighting her emphasis on the Holy Trinity and the inner life of God as foundational to understanding prayer and dealing with sin.

Elizabeth’s teachings invite listeners to slow down, make prayer a priority, and enter into the loving gaze of God and the primacy of contemplation in the Christian life, wherein believers are called to behold and participate in the eternal love and harmony of the Trinity. This contemplative approach transcends mere intellectual understanding and involves a deepening relationship with God through faith and love.

The ancient understanding of truth is something to behold rather than solve; the transformative nature of encountering the truth of God’s love. They discuss how contemplative prayer helps individuals confront their brokenness and sinfulness, leading to self-awareness and a deeper reliance on God’s grace for transformation and healing, and the profound gift of contemplative prayer in opening hearts to God’s presence, fostering spiritual growth, and enabling believers to live more fully in accordance with God’s love and truth.

From “Heaven in Faith: Day 7 Prayer 1”:

22. “God chose us in Him before creation, that we should be holy and immaculate in His presence, in love.”

“The Holy Trinity created us in its image, according to the eternal design that it possessed in its bosom before the world was created,” in this “beginning without beginning” of which Bossuet speaks following St. John: “In principio erat Verbum.” In the beginning was the Word; and we could add: in the beginning was nothing, for God in His eternal solitude already carried us in His thought. “The Father contemplates Himself” “in the abyss of His fecundity, and by the very act of comprehending Himself He engendered another person, the Son, His eternal Word. The archetype of all creatures who had not yet issued out of the void eternally dwelt in Him, and God saw them and contemplated them in their type in Himself. This eternal life which our archetypes possessed without us in God, is the cause of our creation.”

23. “Our created essence asks to be rejoined with its principle.” The Word, “the Splendor of the Father, is the eternal archetype after which creatures are designed on the day of their creation.” This is “why God wills that, freed from ourselves, we should stretch out our arms towards our exemplar and possess it,” “rising” above all things “towards our model.” “This contemplation opens” the soul “to unexpected horizons.” “In a certain manner it possesses the crown towards which it aspires.” “The immense riches that God possesses by nature, we may possess by virtue of love, by His dwelling in us and by our dwelling in Him.”“It is by virtue of this immense love” that we are drawn into the depths of the “intimate sanctuary” where God “imprints on us a true image of His majesty.” Thus it is, thanks to love and through love, as the Apostle says, that we can be holy and immaculate in God’s presence, and can sing with David: “I will be unblemished and I will guard myself from the depths of sinfulness within me.”

Elizabeth of the Trinity. The Complete Works of Elizabeth of the Trinity, vol. 1 (featuring a General Introduction and Major Spiritual Writings) (Elizabeth of the Trinity Complete Work) (pp. 103-104). ICS Publications. Kindle Edition.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Reflecting on Prayer Priority: How does Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity’s emphasis on the richness of prayer challenge your own priorities in daily life? Are there competing demands that hinder your ability to prioritize prayer?
Contemplation of the Trinity: Consider the concept of the Trinity as presented in the podcast. How does understanding the inner life of the Trinity deepen your appreciation of God’s love and inform your prayer life?
Embracing the Mystery: In what ways can you shift your perspective on the concept of mystery, moving away from a desire to solve or conquer it, towards a posture of beholding and embracing its beauty? How might this shift impact your spiritual journey?
Encountering Truth: Reflect on the ancient understanding of truth discussed in the podcast. How does this perspective reshape your approach to seeking truth in your life? In what ways can you allow truth to illuminate and transform your heart?
Confronting Brokenness: Consider the idea of confronting brokenness and sinfulness in prayer. How do you currently engage with your own brokenness and weaknesses in prayer? How might you deepen your reliance on God’s grace for transformation and healing?
Priority of Contemplation: Reflect on the notion of the primacy of contemplation in the Christian life. How can you cultivate a deeper commitment to contemplative prayer amidst the busyness and distractions of daily life?

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

St. Cyril of Jerusalem – The Doctors of the Church with Dr. Matthew Bunson – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 28:39 — 19.8MB) | Embed

St. Cyril of Jerusalem – The Doctors of the Church with Dr. Matthew Bunson

Born: 313 AD, Caesarea Maritima, Israel
Died: March 18, 386 AD, Jerusalem, Israel

Dr. Matthew Bunson discusses St. Cyril of Jerusalem, recognized as a Doctor of the Church by Pope Leo XIII in 1883. St. Cyril, born around 315 AD, witnessed Jerusalem’s transformation into a Christian center under Constantine the Great and his mother, St. Helena.

Despite his humble and moderate nature, he faced challenges, including being falsely accused of supporting the Arian heresy by Bishop Acacius. St. Cyril’s time as Bishop of Jerusalem was marked by jurisdictional disputes and three exiles due to political and theological conflicts.

His enduring legacy lies in his catechetical lectures, particularly his mystagogical teachings on baptism, Eucharist, and prayer, which hold relevance for modern Christian formation and the new evangelization. St. Cyril’s gentle approach to dialogue and his commitment to orthodoxy amid controversy serve as a model for fostering unity and understanding within the Church.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How does the late recognition of St. Cyril as a Doctor of the Church by Pope Leo XIII reflect a broader emphasis on Eastern Church figures and early Church history during that time?
Reflect on the significance of St. Cyril’s upbringing in Jerusalem amidst its transformation into a Christian center under Constantine the Great and St. Helena. How might this context have influenced his faith and teachings?
St. Cyril faced false accusations and political conflicts, particularly regarding the Arian heresy and jurisdictional disputes. How did his response to these challenges demonstrate his commitment to orthodoxy and unity within the Church?
Consider the format and content of St. Cyril’s catechetical lectures. How do his teachings on baptism, Eucharist, and prayer provide a framework for Christian formation and ongoing spiritual growth?
Reflect on the importance of mystagogical catechesis, particularly in post-baptismal formation. How can the Church reclaim and integrate this aspect into contemporary catechetical programs?
St. Cyril’s moderate and gentle nature allowed him to engage in dialogue and seek unity within the Church despite theological differences. How can his example guide us in fostering understanding and reconciliation in modern-day theological debates?
Visualize St. Cyril delivering his catechetical lectures in the sacred setting of Jerusalem. How might the historical and spiritual significance of this location have influenced the delivery and reception of his teachings?
Reflect on the enduring impact of St. Cyril’s life and teachings. How does his example inspire us to deepen our own faith and engage in the mission of the Church today?

For more on St. Cyril and his teachings:

St. Cyril of Jerusalem – Catechetical Lectures

From Vatican.va, an excerpt from the teachings of Pope Benedict XVI General Audience 2007:

“Taken as a whole, Cyril’s homilies form a systematic catechesis on the Christian’s rebirth through Baptism.

He tells the catechumen: “You have been caught in the nets of the Church (cf. Mt 13: 47). Be taken alive, therefore; do not escape for it is Jesus who is fishing for you, not in order to kill you but to resurrect you after death. Indeed, you must die and rise again (cf. Rom 6: 11, 14)…. Die to your sins and live to righteousness from this very day” (Procatechesis, 5).

From the doctrinal viewpoint, Cyril commented on the Jerusalem Creed with recourse to the typology of the Scriptures in a “symphonic” relationship between the two Testaments, arriving at Christ, the centre of the universe.

The typology was to be described decisively by Augustine of Hippo: “In the Old Testament there is a veiling of the New, and in the New Testament there is a revealing of the Old” (De catechizandis rudibus 4, 8).

As for the moral catechesis, it is anchored in deep unity to the doctrinal catechesis: the dogma progressively descends in souls who are thus urged to transform their pagan behaviour on the basis of new life in Christ, a gift of Baptism.

The “mystagogical” catechesis, lastly, marked the summit of the instruction that Cyril imparted, no longer to catechumens but to the newly baptized or neophytes during Easter week. He led them to discover the mysteries still hidden in the baptismal rites of the Easter Vigil.

Enlightened by the light of a deeper faith by virtue of Baptism, the neophytes were at last able to understand these mysteries better, having celebrated their rites.”

For more visit Vatican.va

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.

5th Monday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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

5th Monday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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

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

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

From the Holy Gospel of St. John 8:1-11

Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. At daybreak he appeared in the Temple again; and as all the people came to him, he sat down and began to teach them.
The scribes and Pharisees brought a woman along who had been caught committing adultery; and making her stand there in full view of everybody, they said to Jesus, ‘Master, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery, and Moses has ordered us in the Law to condemn women like this to death by stoning. What have you to say?’ They asked him this as a test, looking for something to use against him. But Jesus bent down and started writing on the ground with his finger. As they persisted with their question, he looked up and said, ‘If there is one of you who has not sinned, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.’ Then he bent down and wrote on the ground again. When they heard this they went away one by one, beginning with the eldest, until Jesus was left alone with the woman, who remained standing there. He looked up and said, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ ‘No one, sir’ she replied. ‘Neither do I condemn you,’ said Jesus ‘go away, and do not sin any more.’

What word made this passage come alive for you?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

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

Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. At daybreak he appeared in the Temple again; and as all the people came to him, he sat down and began to teach them.
The scribes and Pharisees brought a woman along who had been caught committing adultery; and making her stand there in full view of everybody, they said to Jesus, ‘Master, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery, and Moses has ordered us in the Law to condemn women like this to death by stoning. What have you to say?’ They asked him this as a test, looking for something to use against him. But Jesus bent down and started writing on the ground with his finger. As they persisted with their question, he looked up and said, ‘If there is one of you who has not sinned, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.’ Then he bent down and wrote on the ground again. When they heard this they went away one by one, beginning with the eldest, until Jesus was left alone with the woman, who remained standing there. He looked up and said, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ ‘No one, sir’ she replied. ‘Neither do I condemn you,’ said Jesus ‘go away, and do not sin any more.’

What did your heart feel as you listened?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

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

Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. At daybreak he appeared in the Temple again; and as all the people came to him, he sat down and began to teach them.
The scribes and Pharisees brought a woman along who had been caught committing adultery; and making her stand there in full view of everybody, they said to Jesus, ‘Master, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery, and Moses has ordered us in the Law to condemn women like this to death by stoning. What have you to say?’ They asked him this as a test, looking for something to use against him. But Jesus bent down and started writing on the ground with his finger. As they persisted with their question, he looked up and said, ‘If there is one of you who has not sinned, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.’ Then he bent down and wrote on the ground again. When they heard this they went away one by one, beginning with the eldest, until Jesus was left alone with the woman, who remained standing there. He looked up and said, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ ‘No one, sir’ she replied. ‘Neither do I condemn you,’ said Jesus ‘go away, and do not sin any more.’

What touched your heart in this time of prayer?

What did your heart feel as you prayed?

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

Our Father, who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come.

Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread,

and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us,

and lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

Amen

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

The Fifth Sunday of Lent – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 28:34 — 19.7MB) | Embed

The Fifth Sunday of Lent – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

For the fifth Sunday of Lent, Msgr. Esseff and Kris McGregor discuss the Lazarus story from John’s Gospel, emphasizing belief in Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit’s role in baptism. Msgr. Esseff reminds listeners the need for a deep spiritual journey in the RCIA process, not just education. They reflect on the creed’s affirmation of the Holy Spirit’s sanctifying power and hope for a renewed understanding of the Church’s holiness.

Discerning Hearts reflection questions for this episode:

Belief in Jesus Christ: How does the story of Lazarus reinforce the importance of belief in Jesus Christ as the resurrection and the life?
Role of the Holy Spirit in Baptism: What role does the Holy Spirit play in the baptismal journey, according to Msgr. Esseff’s teachings on the podcast?
Depth of Spiritual Journey in RCIA: Reflecting on the dangers of an overly educational approach in the RCIA process, how can we ensure a deeper spiritual journey for those preparing for baptism?
Renunciation of Sin and Examination of Soul: How does the podcast suggest that the examination of the soul and renunciation of sin are integral parts of the baptismal journey?
Affirmation of the Creed and the Holy Spirit: Discuss the significance of the creed’s affirmation of the Holy Spirit’s role in revealing sin, driving out death, and sanctifying believers.
Hope for Renewed Understanding of the Church’s Holiness: In what ways can we foster a renewed understanding of the Church as holy, Catholic, and apostolic, as discussed in the podcast’s conclusion?

Taken from Gospel of St. John Chapter 11:

The Death of Lazarus

11 Now a certain man was ill, Laz′arus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 It was Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Laz′arus was ill. 3 So the sisters sent to him, saying, “Lord, he whom you love is ill.” 4 But when Jesus heard it he said, “This illness is not unto death; it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by means of it.”

5 Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Laz′arus. 6 So when he heard that he was ill, he stayed two days longer[a] in the place where he was. 7 Then after this he said to the disciples, “Let us go into Judea again.” 8 The disciples said to him, “Rabbi, the Jews were but now seeking to stone you, and are you going there again?” 9 Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any one walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. 10 But if any one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” 11 Thus he spoke, and then he said to them, “Our friend Laz′arus has fallen asleep, but I go to awake him out of sleep.” 12 The disciples said to him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.” 13 Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he meant taking rest in sleep. 14 Then Jesus told them plainly, “Laz′arus is dead; 15 and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” 16 Thomas, called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”

Jesus the Resurrection and the Life

17 Now when Jesus came, he found that Laz′arus[b] had already been in the tomb four days. 18 Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles[c]off, 19 and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them concerning their brother. 20 When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, while Mary sat in the house. 21 Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 And even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you.” 23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” 24 Martha said to him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life;[d] he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” 27 She said to him, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, he who is coming into the world.”

Jesus Weeps

28 When she had said this, she went and called her sister Mary, saying quietly, “The Teacher is here and is calling for you.” 29 And when she heard it, she rose quickly and went to him. 30 Now Jesus had not yet come to the village, but was still in the place where Martha had met him. 31 When the Jews who were with her in the house, consoling her, saw Mary rise quickly and go out, they followed her, supposing that she was going to the tomb to weep there. 32 Then Mary, when she came where Jesus was and saw him, fell at his feet, saying to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled; 34 and he said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Lord, come and see.” 35 Jesus wept. 36 So the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” 37 But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?”

Jesus Raises Lazarus to Life

38 Then Jesus, deeply moved again, came to the tomb; it was a cave, and a stone lay upon it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, “Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for he has been dead four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” 41 So they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, “Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. 42 I knew that thou hearest me always, but I have said this on account of the people standing by, that they may believe that thou didst send me.” 43 When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, “Laz′arus, come out.” 44 The dead man came out, his hands and feet bound with bandages, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.”

The Plot to Kill Jesus

45 Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what he did, believed in him;

Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © 1946, 1952, and 1971 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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