“On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me: Eight Maids a Milking …”
who were the least of the servants in a home. They symbolize Christ’s love for the least of us, and His faithfulness to those who don’t deserve it. The eight maids stand for the Beatitudes or blessings listed in Matthew.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for standing by us when we least deserve it…we remember today that blessed are the poor in spirit, blessed are those who mourn, blessed are the meek, blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, blessed are the merciful, blessed are the pure in heart, blessed are the peacemakers, blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake….let us open our lives to Your blessings! Amen.
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God – A Christmas Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart
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. Luke 2:16-21
The shepherds hurried away to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. When they saw the child they repeated what they had been told about him, and everyone who heard it was astonished at what the shepherds had to say. As for Mary, she treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds went back glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen; it was exactly as they had been told.
When the eighth day came and the child was to be circumcised, they gave him the name Jesus, the name the angel had given him before his conception.
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:
The shepherds hurried away to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. When they saw the child they repeated what they had been told about him, and everyone who heard it was astonished at what the shepherds had to say. As for Mary, she treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds went back glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen; it was exactly as they had been told.
When the eighth day came and the child was to be circumcised, they gave him the name Jesus, the name the angel had given him before his conception.
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:
The shepherds hurried away to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. When they saw the child they repeated what they had been told about him, and everyone who heard it was astonished at what the shepherds had to say. As for Mary, she treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds went back glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen; it was exactly as they had been told.
When the eighth day came and the child was to be circumcised, they gave him the name Jesus, the name the angel had given him before his conception.
What did your heart feel as you prayed?
What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord?
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
May the Lord bless us, and keep us from all evil, and bring us to everlasting life.
Amen
Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.
Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the need for healing mother and father wounds, a topic that resonates with many. Monsignor Esseff, with his deep spiritual insight and experience, provided profound reflections on the complex dynamics of family life, emphasizing the crucial role of understanding and forgiveness.
Msgr. Esseff discusses the intricacies of parental relationships and the profound impact of fatherhood. Monsignor Esseff shares personal narratives that illustrate the journey of reconciling with parental figures and the transformative power of forgiveness. He highlights how these familial relationships significantly influence our spiritual and emotional growth.
Central to the reflection is the healing from mother and father wounds. Monsignor Esseff addressed the emotional scars left by strained or absent parental relationships and the path to healing these deep-seated wounds. Through his guidance, listeners are encouraged to explore forgiveness, not just as a religious act, but as a vital step towards inner peace and spiritual maturity.
This episode offers an enlightening exploration of the challenges and opportunities for growth presented by our relationships with our parents. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand and heal from the complex emotions tied to their family experiences.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:
Understanding Parental Influence: Reflect on how your relationship with your parents has shaped your faith and personal beliefs. What positive lessons have you learned, and what challenges have you faced?
Healing and Forgiveness: Consider any wounds or unresolved issues you may have with your parents. How can you approach these with a spirit of forgiveness and understanding, as guided by Catholic teachings?
Role of Fathers in Faith: How has the role of your father or father figures impacted your spiritual life? Reflect on the importance of fatherhood in the Catholic faith.
Caring for Aging Parents: Reflect on the commandment to honor your father and mother. How does this apply to caring for aging parents in today’s world, and how can you balance this responsibility with other duties?
Embracing Love and Understanding: How can you better incorporate the virtues of love, patience, and understanding in your family relationships, as modeled by the Holy Family?
Personal Transformation through Forgiveness: Share a personal experience where forgiveness led to healing and transformation in your family or community.
Spiritual Growth through Family Dynamics: In what ways have your family experiences contributed to your spiritual growth? How can you use these experiences to deepen your faith?
Impact of Absent Parents: If applicable, reflect on the impact of an absent parent in your life. How has this shaped your understanding of God as a Father?
Prayer and Family Life: How can prayer strengthen your family relationships? Consider developing a prayer routine that includes praying for and with family members.
Role Modeling and Legacy: What legacy do you wish to leave for your children or future generations in terms of faith and family values?
God sets a father in honor over his children;
a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons.
Whoever honors his father atones for sins,
and preserves himself from them.
When he prays, he is heard;
he stores up riches who reveres his mother.
Whoever honors his father is gladdened by children,
and, when he prays, is heard.
Whoever reveres his father will live a long life;
he who obeys his father brings comfort to his mother.My son, take care of your father when he is old;
grieve him not as long as he lives.
Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him;
revile him not all the days of his life;
kindness to a father will not be forgotten,
firmly planted against the debt of your sins
—a house raised in justice to you.
Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton. He served as a retreat director and confessor to St. Teresa of Calcutta and encountered St. Padre Pio, who became a spiritual father to him. Msgr. Esseff has lived in various parts of the world, working in the Pontifical missions, a Catholic organization established by Pope St. John Paul II to spread the Good News, especially to the poor. Msgr. Esseff continues his service as a retreat leader and director for bishops, priests, sisters, seminarians, and other religious leaders worldwide.
“On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me: Seven Swans A Swimming …”
representing the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving, leading, and compassion or the seven sacraments: baptism, confirmation, penance, Eucharist, marriage, anointing of the sick, and holy orders. This is a day of new beginning, seven is the number of finality and we finish the old year and begin anew this day.
Prayer: Lord, examine our hearts today, let us come to You as anew, pure as the snow of the season. Show us our conscience, help us take Your words to heart, and make a new beginning. Lord, let this season of birth be a new birth in me. Amen
The Feast of the Holy Family – A Christmas Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart
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. Luke 2:22-40
When the day came for them to be purified as laid down by the Law of Moses, the parents of Jesus took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, – observing what stands written in the Law of the Lord: Every first-born male must be consecrated to the Lord – and also to offer in sacrifice, in accordance with what is said in the Law of the Lord, a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.
Now in Jerusalem there was a man named Simeon. He was an upright and devout man; he looked forward to Israel’s comforting and the Holy Spirit rested on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death until he had set eyes on the Christ of the Lord. Prompted by the Spirit he came to the Temple and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the Law required, he took him into his arms and blessed God; and he said:
‘Now, Master, you can let your servant go in peace,
just as you promised;
because my eyes have seen the salvation
which you have prepared for all the nations to see,
a light to enlighten the pagans
and the glory of your people Israel.’
As the child’s father and mother stood there wondering at the things that were being said about him, Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, ‘You see this child: he is destined for the fall and for the rising of many in Israel, destined to be a sign that is rejected – and a sword will pierce your own soul too – so that the secret thoughts of many may be laid bare.’
There was a prophetess also, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was well on in years. Her days of girlhood over, she had been married for seven years before becoming a widow. She was now eighty-four years old and never left the Temple, serving God night and day with fasting and prayer. She came by just at that moment and began to praise God; and she spoke of the child to all who looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem.
When they had done everything the Law of the Lord required, they went back to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. Meanwhile the child grew to maturity, and he was filled with wisdom; and God’s favour was with him.
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:
When the day came for them to be purified as laid down by the Law of Moses, the parents of Jesus took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, – observing what stands written in the Law of the Lord: Every first-born male must be consecrated to the Lord – and also to offer in sacrifice, in accordance with what is said in the Law of the Lord, a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.
Now in Jerusalem there was a man named Simeon. He was an upright and devout man; he looked forward to Israel’s comforting and the Holy Spirit rested on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death until he had set eyes on the Christ of the Lord. Prompted by the Spirit he came to the Temple and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the Law required, he took him into his arms and blessed God; and he said:
‘Now, Master, you can let your servant go in peace,
just as you promised;
because my eyes have seen the salvation
which you have prepared for all the nations to see,
a light to enlighten the pagans
and the glory of your people Israel.’
As the child’s father and mother stood there wondering at the things that were being said about him, Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, ‘You see this child: he is destined for the fall and for the rising of many in Israel, destined to be a sign that is rejected – and a sword will pierce your own soul too – so that the secret thoughts of many may be laid bare.’
There was a prophetess also, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was well on in years. Her days of girlhood over, she had been married for seven years before becoming a widow. She was now eighty-four years old and never left the Temple, serving God night and day with fasting and prayer. She came by just at that moment and began to praise God; and she spoke of the child to all who looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem.
When they had done everything the Law of the Lord required, they went back to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. Meanwhile the child grew to maturity, and he was filled with wisdom; and God’s favour was with him.
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:
When the day came for them to be purified as laid down by the Law of Moses, the parents of Jesus took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, – observing what stands written in the Law of the Lord: Every first-born male must be consecrated to the Lord – and also to offer in sacrifice, in accordance with what is said in the Law of the Lord, a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.
Now in Jerusalem there was a man named Simeon. He was an upright and devout man; he looked forward to Israel’s comforting and the Holy Spirit rested on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death until he had set eyes on the Christ of the Lord. Prompted by the Spirit he came to the Temple and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the Law required, he took him into his arms and blessed God; and he said:
‘Now, Master, you can let your servant go in peace,
just as you promised;
because my eyes have seen the salvation
which you have prepared for all the nations to see,
a light to enlighten the pagans
and the glory of your people Israel.’
As the child’s father and mother stood there wondering at the things that were being said about him, Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, ‘You see this child: he is destined for the fall and for the rising of many in Israel, destined to be a sign that is rejected – and a sword will pierce your own soul too – so that the secret thoughts of many may be laid bare.’
There was a prophetess also, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was well on in years. Her days of girlhood over, she had been married for seven years before becoming a widow. She was now eighty-four years old and never left the Temple, serving God night and day with fasting and prayer. She came by just at that moment and began to praise God; and she spoke of the child to all who looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem.
When they had done everything the Law of the Lord required, they went back to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. Meanwhile the child grew to maturity, and he was filled with wisdom; and God’s favour was with him.
What did your heart feel as you prayed?
What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord?
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
May the Lord bless us, and keep us from all evil, and bring us to everlasting life.
Amen
Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.
Spiritual Joy and Hope – A “Lord of the Rings” Spiritual Retreat w/ Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast
In this episode, Fr. Gallagher continues to discuss the virtue of joy in the “Lord of the Rings,” even in the face of challenges and suffering. He emphasizes the persistent joy found amidst the characters’ struggles, pointing out the deep friendships, like those between Sam and Frodo, as metaphors for spiritual companionship and support.
Father Gallagher also sheds light on Tolkien’s profound love for nature, evident in his detailed descriptions and personal letters. He suggests that Tolkien’s connection to the natural world goes beyond aesthetic appreciation, touching on a contemplative, spiritual relationship with creation. The episode poignantly touches on the bittersweetness of deep friendships through the lens of Gimli’s parting with Lady Galadriel, highlighting the joy and sorrow inherent in true connections.
A significant focus is placed on the theme of hope, particularly through King Theoden’s revival by Gandalf. This revival symbolizes the Christian belief in redemption and the power of hope to illuminate even the darkest times. Gandalf’s character is discussed as a beacon of unshakeable joy, a reflection of the Christian understanding of God’s eternal love and grace.
Father Gallagher concludes with a powerful reminder that the core message of both “The Lord of the Rings” and the Gospel is one of good news and hope, despite life’s sorrows and challenges.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:
1. Friendship and Faith: How do the friendships in “The Lord of the Rings” mirror the Christian concept of communal support in our spiritual lives?
2. Nature and Contemplation: In what ways does Tolkien’s portrayal of nature in “The Lord of the Rings” deepen your appreciation for God’s creation?
3. Joy and Sorrow in Spirituality: Reflect on Gimli’s mixed feelings of joy and sorrow with Lady Galadriel. How does this relate to your own spiritual desires and experiences?
4. Themes of Redemption and Resurrection: How does the revival of King Theoden by Gandalf symbolize Christian themes of redemption and resurrection in your life?
5. Finding Joy in Trials: Gandalf exhibits joy amidst sorrow. How can this perspective help you face challenges in your faith journey?
6. Hope in the Midst of Darkness: The episode highlights finding hope in dark times. Share a personal experience where you found hope in a difficult situation.
7. Life and Fictional Spiritual Journeys: How do the spiritual themes in “The Lord of the Rings” reflect in your own life, reinforcing the Christian message of hope and joy?
8. The Lord of the Rings as a Spiritual Allegory: Reflect on “The Lord of the Rings” as a spiritual allegory. How does this change your view of the story and its characters?
9. Seeking Deeper Spiritual Truths: How does Tolkien’s narrative inspire you to seek deeper spiritual meanings in everyday stories and experiences?
10. Embracing Spiritual Lessons: How does this episode inspire you to embrace both the joys and challenges of your spiritual journey, similar to the characters in “The Lord of the Rings”?
‘Are you angry with me, Gandalf?’ he said, as their guide went out and closed the door. ‘I did the best I could.’
‘You did indeed!’ said Gandalf, laughing suddenly; and he came and stood beside Pippin, putting his arm about the hobbit’s shoulders, and gazing out of the window. Pippin glanced in some wonder at the face now close beside his own, for the sound of that laugh had been gay and merry. Yet in the wizard’s face he saw at first only lines of care and sorrow; though as he looked more intently he perceived that under all there was a great joy: a fountain of mirth enough to set a kingdom laughing, were it to gush forth.
Tolkien, J.R.R. The Return of the King: Being the Third Part of the Lord of the Rings (Kindle Locations 346-351). Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Kindle Edition.
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
“On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me: Six Geese A Laying …”symbolizing the six days of the creation. Eggs are also a universal symbol of new life.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we are reminded this day that there is holiness in the ordinary. There is holiness in the birth of a new child, in the creation of life, and in the ordinary task of raising those children.We are blessed to all be Your children, brothers, and sisters in Christ. Help us to bear our unique responsibility to bring forth into the world the gifts we have received. Lord, let us see the holiness every day in the face of children. Amen.
The Sixth Day in the Octave of Christmas – A Christmas Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart
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 Luke 2:36-40
There was a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was well on in years. Her days of girlhood over, she had been married for seven years before becoming a widow. She was now eighty-four years old and never left the Temple, serving God night and day with fasting and prayer. She came by just at that moment and began to praise God; and she spoke of the child to all who looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem.
When they had done everything the Law of the Lord required, they went back to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. Meanwhile the child grew to maturity, and he was filled with wisdom; and God’s favour was with him.
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:
There was a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was well on in years. Her days of girlhood over, she had been married for seven years before becoming a widow. She was now eighty-four years old and never left the Temple, serving God night and day with fasting and prayer. She came by just at that moment and began to praise God; and she spoke of the child to all who looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem.
When they had done everything the Law of the Lord required, they went back to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. Meanwhile the child grew to maturity, and he was filled with wisdom; and God’s favour was with him.
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:
There was a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was well on in years. Her days of girlhood over, she had been married for seven years before becoming a widow. She was now eighty-four years old and never left the Temple, serving God night and day with fasting and prayer. She came by just at that moment and began to praise God; and she spoke of the child to all who looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem.
When they had done everything the Law of the Lord required, they went back to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. Meanwhile the child grew to maturity, and he was filled with wisdom; and God’s favour was with him.
What did your heart feel as you prayed?
What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord?
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
May the Lord bless us, and keep us from all evil, and bring us to everlasting life.
Amen
Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.
Do you truly know how to pray? A prayer primer with Msgr. John Esseff Discerning Hearts Podcast
In a profound episode of Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts, Msgr. John Esseff and Kris McGregor delve into the essence of prayer and its central role in the Christian life. Msgr. Esseff, with decades of experience in spiritual guidance, emphasizes that prayer is foundational, akin to kindergarten, where one learns the basic, yet crucial aspects of communicating with God. He insists that prayer is not just a ritual but a conversation that necessitates the presence of God. Without this presence, prayer risks becoming an empty gesture.
Drawing on Jesus’ example, Msgr. Esseff encourages finding solitude and silence for prayer, underlining the importance of establishing a relationship with God. He uses the parable of the ten virgins from Matthew’s Gospel to illustrate the difference between merely performing religious acts and cultivating a personal connection with God. This relationship is rooted in understanding one’s identity as God’s child, which then shapes the way one prays.
Kris McGregor broaches the common challenge of discerning God’s voice in prayer. Msgr. Esseff acknowledges this difficulty and suggests that spiritual direction can be invaluable in learning to distinguish and understand the divine communication.
In conclusion, Msgr. Esseff stresses that prayer is not just about asking or saying things to God but also about listening and being open to His will. He urges listeners to approach prayer with a focus on forming a deep relationship with God, which, in turn, empowers them to be channels of God’s peace in the world. The podcast is a reminder of the transformative power of prayer in the Christian journey.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:
Understanding Prayer as Relationship:
How do you currently perceive prayer in your life? Is it more of a routine or a relational conversation with God?
Reflect on the idea that prayer is like kindergarten. In what ways are you learning the basics of prayer, and how can you grow in this area?
Presence of God in Prayer:
Recall a time when you felt God’s presence strongly during prayer. What was different about that experience compared to other times?
How can you create a conducive environment for recognizing God’s presence in your daily prayer life?
The Role of Solitude and Silence:
What are the distractions that most commonly interfere with your prayer life? How can you minimize these distractions?
How can you incorporate solitude and silence into your daily routine to enhance your prayer experience?
Personal Relationship with God:
Reflect on the parable of the ten virgins. In what ways are you like the wise virgins, and in what ways are you like the foolish ones in your spiritual life?
What practical steps can you take to strengthen your personal relationship with God?
Identity as a Child of God:
How does understanding your identity as a child of God change the way you approach prayer?
In moments of prayer, how can you remind yourself of this identity and its significance?
Listening to God:
What are some of the challenges you face in listening to God during prayer?
How can you develop a more discerning heart to recognize and understand God’s voice?
The Importance of Spiritual Direction:
Have you ever considered seeking spiritual direction? If not, what might be holding you back?
How can a spiritual director assist you in deepening your prayer life and relationship with God?
Applying the ‘Our Father’ Prayer:
Reflect on how you usually pray the ‘Our Father’. How can you pray it more thoughtfully and intentionally, considering Msgr. Esseff’s insights?
How does the ‘Our Father’ encapsulate your relationship with God and your daily spiritual needs?
Msgr. Esseff offers a basic of prayer, R.I.M. – Relationship, Identity, and Mission.
Matthew 6:9-13Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSVCE)
9 Pray then like this:
Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come,
Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread;[a] 12 And forgive us our debts, As we also have forgiven our debtors; 13 And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil.[b]
Episode 6 – Insights into Advanced Directives and Catholic Ethical Perspectives
– The Final Journey with Dr. Stephen Doran, M.D.
In this episode, Dr. Stephen Doran and Kris McGregor highlight the crucial significance of advanced directives, in particular the living will and durable power of attorney for healthcare. Emphasizing the need for understanding these documents, Dr. Doran underscores their role in guiding healthcare decisions when communication from the patient is impossible.
He cautions against misinterpretations in the practical aspects of advanced directives, urging alignment with genuine desires through open communication with the designated power of attorney. The podcast stresses the importance of the durable power of attorney for healthcare, designating a crucial point person for medical decisions and facilitating family support.
Dr. Doran also advises caution on physician orders for life-sustaining treatment, encouraging viewers to view advanced directives as expressions of the human inclination to control destiny while embracing mystery and grace in the face of death.
Stephen Doran, M.D., a board-certified neurosurgeon with over twenty-five years of experience, is an ordained permanent deacon and serves as the bioethicist for the Archdiocese of Omaha. His writings in bioethics, neurosurgery, and gene therapy for brain disorders have been widely published in national media outlets, academic journals, and neurosurgery textbooks. He is married with five sons. He co-founded Seeking Truth Catholic Bible Study with his wife, Sharon.
Discerning Hearts reflection questions for this episode:
Understanding and Embracing Mortality: How does creating an advanced directive challenge us to confront and accept our own mortality from a Catholic perspective? Reflect on how this acceptance can lead to a deeper spiritual understanding and preparation for death.
The Role of Faith in Decision-Making: In light of the conversation about advanced directives and living wills, how can your faith inform your decisions about end-of-life care? Consider the Catholic Church’s teachings on the dignity of human life and the sanctity of death.
Choosing a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: Why is it important to select someone who shares your faith and values as your durable power of attorney for healthcare? Reflect on the significance of having someone who respects and understands your beliefs making decisions on your behalf.
The Limits of Human Control and Trust in God: How does the desire to control every aspect of our end-of-life care reflect our human nature? From a Catholic perspective, how can we balance this desire with trust in God’s plan and the mystery of His grace?
Ethical and Moral Considerations: Discuss the ethical and moral considerations that should guide the creation of an advanced directive or living will. How can these documents be aligned with Catholic teaching on end-of-life care?
Communication and Community in End-of-Life Decisions: How important is open communication with family members and loved ones when preparing for end-of-life decisions? Reflect on the role of community, family, and the church in supporting these conversations.
Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide: In light of Dr. Doran’s mention of euthanasia and assisted suicide as expressions of controlling one’s destiny, discuss the Catholic Church’s stance on these issues. How does this stance challenge contemporary societal views on death and dying?
The Spiritual Journey of Dying Well: Reflect on the concept of dying well from a Catholic viewpoint. How can preparing for death through advanced directives and thoughtful consideration of end-of-life care be a part of a spiritual journey toward eternal life?
Dr. Stephen Doran draws from his vast experience as a neurosurgeon, a bioethicist, and a permanent deacon to present the Catholic perspective on the art of dying well. The spiritual and moral issues related to death and the process of dying can be challenging and complicated. To Die Well provides a detailed yet readily understandable guide to these topics.
Each chapter begins with a story from Dr. Doran’s personal or professional life that not only provides context for the topic at hand but also gently draws the reader toward the personal realities of dying. The first part focuses on the moral issues that surround death and dying, including end-of-life medical decisions. The second part is devoted to the Catholic spiritual understanding of dying and the rites that accompany the death of a Catholic.
To Die Well will help readers contemplate, pray about, and prepare for the end of their earthly lives.
“On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me: Seven Swans A Swimming …” 
In this episode, Fr. Gallagher continues to discuss the virtue of joy in the “Lord of the Rings,” even in the face of challenges and suffering. He emphasizes the persistent joy found amidst the characters’ struggles, pointing out the deep friendships, like those between Sam and Frodo, as metaphors for spiritual companionship and support.
“On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me: Six Geese A Laying …”symbolizing the six days of the creation. Eggs are also a universal symbol of new life.
