Day 5 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Novena for the Discerning Heart

Day 5 – Nurturing Soul

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

The soul of woman must therefore be expansive and open to all human beings; it must be quiet so that no small weak flame will be extinguished by stormy winds; warm so as not to benumb fragile buds; clear so that no vermin will settle in dark corners and recesses; self-contained, so that no invasions from without can imperil the inner life; empty of itself, in order that extraneous life may have room in it; finally, mistress of itself and also of its body, so that the entire person is readily at the disposal of every call.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross uses vivid imagery to describe the ideal qualities of a woman’s soul. She emphasizes openness, nurturing warmth, clarity, and self-discipline as essential characteristics that enable women to care for others while maintaining their own integrity and strength. This vision encourages women to develop these traits actively. Edith Stein often wrote about the importance of balancing contemplation and action, advocating for a deeply integrated spiritual life.

The soul of woman must therefore be expansive and open to all human beings; it must be quiet so that no small weak flame will be extinguished by stormy winds; warm so as not to benumb fragile buds; clear so that no vermin will settle in dark corners and recesses; self-contained, so that no invasions from without can imperil the inner life; empty of itself, in order that extraneous life may have room in it; finally, mistress of itself and also of its body, so that the entire person is readily at the disposal of every call.*

In what ways can you cultivate a soul that is open, nurturing, and self-disciplined, ready to serve others?”
Develop a deep prayer life and regular participation in the sacraments, which nourish the soul. Engage in acts of service and charity, reflecting God’s love to others, and practice virtues like patience, humility, and kindness to strengthen your spiritual life.

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

All-powerful, ever-living God,

you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ

even to the point of giving her life for it.

By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you

and to seek you with all our hearts,

for you alone are the source of life.

Grant this 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.

*Citation: Edith Stein, Essays on Woman. Translated by Freda Mary Oben, The Collected Works of Edith Stein, Volume 2 (ICS Publications, 1996), p. 132.

For the complete 9-Day St. Teresa of Benedicta Novena for the Discerning Hearts visit here

What it Means to “Put on Christ” – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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What it Means to “Put on Christ” – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff and Kris McGregor reflect on the spiritual teachings found in the fourth chapter of Ephesians. Msgr.Esseff draws parallels between the scripture and everyday experiences, such as children’s fascination with superheroes and their costumes, to illustrate the concept of putting on a new self in Christ and shedding our old, deceitful selves to embrace our true identity in Christ, as Paul encourages.

Elaborating on how this transformation involves embracing our divine nature and living out our true selves, which align with God’s design, he references biblical stories, such as the Israelites receiving manna in the desert and Jesus’ proclamation as the bread of life, to reinforce the idea that spiritual nourishment comes from God and that the Eucharist is a profound means of sustaining this new life in Christ.

They also touch on the role of fear and trust. Fear, Msgr. Esseff explains, is a constant threat that can prevent us from living fully as Christ in the world. Overcoming fear requires courage and trust in God. Monsignor Esseff underscores the importance of unconditional love and non-judgmental attitudes, especially towards family members, as a practical application of living out the Christ life.

From Ephesians 4:20 -24

22 Put off your old nature which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful lusts, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and put on the new nature, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. – RCVCE

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Putting on the New Self: How can you actively shed your old, deceitful self to embrace your true identity in Christ today?
Overcoming Fear: What specific fears are preventing you from fully living out your Christ-like identity, and how can you confront them with courage and trust?
Living Unconditional Love: In what ways can you practice unconditional love towards your family members and those around you, without judgment or criticism?
Eucharistic Nourishment: How does participating in the Eucharist help you sustain your commitment to living as Christ in your daily life?
Role Models of Faith: Which saints or holy figures inspire you to live out your divine identity, and how can you emulate their example in your own life?
Daily Christ-like Actions: What practical steps can you take today to ensure that your thoughts, words, and actions reflect your true self in Christ?
Trusting God’s Plan: How can you deepen your trust in God’s plan for your life, especially in times of uncertainty and fear?

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.

Day 6 – A St. Dominic Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A Novena to St. Dominic for the Discerning Heart

Day 6– Mastering Passions

A teaching from St. Dominic:

“A man who governs his passions is master of the world. We must either rule them, or be ruled by them. It is better to be the hammer than the anvil.”

St. Dominic practiced a disciplined lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of self-control and temperance. He believed that mastering one’s passions is key to achieving true freedom and spiritual growth. This aligns with the Catholic virtue of temperance, which helps individuals regulate their desires and actions in harmony with God’s will.

“A man who governs his passions is master of the world. We must either rule them, or be ruled by them. It is better to be the hammer than the anvil.”

What steps can you take to better manage your passions and desires?
To manage your passions and desires, start by practicing self-discipline through regular prayer and meditation. Participate in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, to receive grace and strength. Embrace the virtue of temperance by moderating your consumption of food, drink, and other pleasures. Reflect on your actions and motivations regularly through an examination of conscience. Engaging in spiritual exercises, such as retreats or fasting, can help strengthen your will and focus on God’s will for your life. Seek guidance from a spiritual director or confessor to stay accountable and receive personalized advice.

“A man who governs his passions is master of the world. We must either rule them, or be ruled by them. It is better to be the hammer than the anvil.”

The Dominican Blessing, from an anonymous 13th-century English Dominican, captures St. Dominic’s timeless call for blessings, healing, and divine guidance.

May God the Father, who made us, bless us.

May God the Son, who redeemed us, send healing into our midst.

May God the Holy Spirit, who gives us life, move within us.

May God give us eyes to see to God, ears to hear God, and hands to bring God’s work into the world.

May we walk with God and preach the word of God to all.

May the angel of peace watch over us and lead us at last by God’s grace to the eternal Kingdom.

Amen

Lord God,

you gave Saint Dominic to the Church of his day

as a great preacher of your truth.

We pray that he will help us in our time

by his merits, his teaching, and his unfailing prayer.

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.

St. Dominic Quotation take from: Constitutions of the Order of Preachers

For the complete 9-Day Novena to St. Dominic visit here

St. Clare of Assisi Novena – Day 3 – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Day 3

From a letter to St. Agnes of Prague

Consider also the midst of his life, his humility, or at least his blessed poverty, the countless hardships, and the punishments that he endured for the redemption of the human race. Indeed, ponder the final days of this mirrored one, contemplate the ineffable love with which he was willing to suffer on the tree of the cross and to die there a kind of death that is more shameful than any other. That mirror suspended upon the wood of the cross from there kept urging those passing by of what must be considered, saying: O all you who pass by this way, look and see if there is any suffering like my suffering. In response let us with one voice and in one spirit answer him who is crying out and lamenting: I will remember this over and over and my soul will sink within me.

Dear St. Clare,

As a young girl you imitated your mother’s love for the poor of your native Assisi.

Inspired by the preaching of St. Francis, who sang enthusiastically of His Lord Jesus and Lady Poverty, you gave your life to Jesus at nineteen years of age, allowing St. Francis to cut off your beautiful hair and invest you with the Franciscan habit.

All through your life you offered your great suffering for your Sisters, the Poor Clares, and the conversion of souls. You greatly aided St. Francis with his new order, carrying on his spirit in the Franciscans after his death.

Most of all you had a deep love of Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament, which fueled your vocation to love and care for the poor.

Please pray for me (mention your request) that I will seek to keep Jesus as my first love, as you did. Help me to grow in love of the Blessed Sacrament, to care for the poor, and to offer my whole life to God.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of St. Clare. Through her intercession, please hear and answer my prayer, in the name of Jesus Your Son.

Amen.

For the complete novena visit the St. Clare Novena Discerning Hearts Page

A Novena in Honor of Ven. Bruno Lanteri Day 9 – Mp3 audio and Text

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A Novena in honor of Ven. Bruno Lanteri, founder of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary

Day 9 – Opening to the Supreme Joy: Friendship with Jesus

“[The heart of the human person] finds itself in great distress without a close union with God, because only the fullness of being, of intelligence and of love, the infinite Unity and ineffable Trinity of God, can fill and satisfy its immense capacity.”

“The Church sings the solemn chant: Nobis datus, nobis natus–For us he has been given, for us he is born! Who would ever doubt this truth after so many testimonies? Jesus Christ is all for us. His Father gave him to us. He gave himself to us. There is no other acquisition better than this gift. He is therefore mine. Yes, he is mine and belongs to me. Oh Love! Oh Goodness! What is necessary on my part to gain this gift, greater than any gift, that contains in itself every other gift? Three things are necessary: faith, confidence and offering.”

“They are always in Jesus’ company; they are always conversing with Jesus. They strive to keep their memory gently fixed on Jesus, to accustom their intellect to always see and judge everything according to Jesus, to keep their will always tranquil and united to that of Jesus.”

Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you created me in your plan of love. You created all the things on the face of the earth to help me find true happiness. Fully aware of my weakness, I resolve this day to become a living copy of Jesus, letting him rejoice in me.

Daily Novena Prayer

Venerable Bruno Lanteri, I come to you confident in the words of Jesus: Ask and you shall receive (Matthew 7:7). You said, “It is impossible to hope too much; the one who hopes for everything attains everything.” You taught that the greatest miracles are those that change the heart. Through your intercession, may the good God, whose infinite mercy surpasses all the malice of the world, console my heart and grant my request.

By your prayers keep my poor heart in peace, protect me from discouragement, and help me to serve God with a holy joy. Amen.

O Father, fountain of all life and holiness you gave Father Bruno Lanteri great faith in Christ, your Son, a lively hope, and an active love for the salvation of his brethren. You made him a prophet of your Word and a witness to your Mercy. He had a tender love for Mary and by his very life he taught fidelity to the Church. Father, hear the prayer of your family and, through the intercession of Fr. Lanteri, grant us the grace for which we now ask…. May he be glorified on earth that we may give you greater praise.

We ask this through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

For more teachings from Ven. Bruno Lanteri visit
Fr. Timothy Gallagher’s “Begin Again” Discerning Hearts series

Sunday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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Sunday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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

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

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

From the Holy Gospel According to St. John 6:24-35

When the people saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into boats and crossed to Capernaum to look for Jesus. When they found him on the other side, they said to him, ‘Rabbi, when did you come here?’
Jesus answered:
‘I tell you most solemnly,
you are not looking for me because you have seen the signs
but because you had all the bread you wanted to eat.
Do not work for food that cannot last,
but work for food that endures to eternal life,
the kind of food the Son of Man is offering you,
for on him the Father, God himself, has set his seal.’
Then they said to him, ‘What must we do if we are to do the works that God wants?’ Jesus gave them this answer, ‘This is working for God: you must believe in the one he has sent.’ So they said, ‘What sign will you give to show us that we should believe in you? What work will you do? Our fathers had manna to eat in the desert; as scripture says: He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ Jesus answered:
‘I tell you most solemnly,
it was not Moses who gave you bread from heaven,
it is my Father who gives you the bread from heaven,
the true bread;
for the bread of God
is that which comes down from heaven
and gives life to the world.’
‘Sir,’ they said ‘give us that bread always.’ Jesus answered:
‘I am the bread of life.
He who comes to me will never be hungry;
he who believes in me will never thirst.’

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 people saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into boats and crossed to Capernaum to look for Jesus. When they found him on the other side, they said to him, ‘Rabbi, when did you come here?’
Jesus answered:
‘I tell you most solemnly,
you are not looking for me because you have seen the signs
but because you had all the bread you wanted to eat.
Do not work for food that cannot last,
but work for food that endures to eternal life,
the kind of food the Son of Man is offering you,
for on him the Father, God himself, has set his seal.’
Then they said to him, ‘What must we do if we are to do the works that God wants?’ Jesus gave them this answer, ‘This is working for God: you must believe in the one he has sent.’ So they said, ‘What sign will you give to show us that we should believe in you? What work will you do? Our fathers had manna to eat in the desert; as scripture says: He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ Jesus answered:
‘I tell you most solemnly,
it was not Moses who gave you bread from heaven,
it is my Father who gives you the bread from heaven,
the true bread;
for the bread of God
is that which comes down from heaven
and gives life to the world.’
‘Sir,’ they said ‘give us that bread always.’ Jesus answered:
‘I am the bread of life.
He who comes to me will never be hungry;
he who believes in me will never thirst.’

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 people saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into boats and crossed to Capernaum to look for Jesus. When they found him on the other side, they said to him, ‘Rabbi, when did you come here?’
Jesus answered:
‘I tell you most solemnly,
you are not looking for me because you have seen the signs
but because you had all the bread you wanted to eat.
Do not work for food that cannot last,
but work for food that endures to eternal life,
the kind of food the Son of Man is offering you,
for on him the Father, God himself, has set his seal.’
Then they said to him, ‘What must we do if we are to do the works that God wants?’ Jesus gave them this answer, ‘This is working for God: you must believe in the one he has sent.’ So they said, ‘What sign will you give to show us that we should believe in you? What work will you do? Our fathers had manna to eat in the desert; as scripture says: He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ Jesus answered:
‘I tell you most solemnly,
it was not Moses who gave you bread from heaven,
it is my Father who gives you the bread from heaven,
the true bread;
for the bread of God
is that which comes down from heaven
and gives life to the world.’
‘Sir,’ they said ‘give us that bread always.’ Jesus answered:
‘I am the bread of life.
He who comes to me will never be hungry;
he who believes in me will never thirst.’

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.

Day 4 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Novena for the Discerning Heart

Day 4 – Joy Amidst Suffering

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

To suffer and to be happy although suffering, to have one’s feet on the earth, to walk on the dirty and rough paths of this earth and yet to be enthroned with Christ at the Father’s right hand, to laugh and cry with the children of this world and to sing praises with the angels—this is the life of the Christian until the morning of eternity breaks forth.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross reflects on the paradoxical nature of Christian life, where joy and suffering coexist. She emphasizes the need to embrace both aspects, finding joy not in the absence of suffering but in the presence of faith and hope. Edith Stein’s experiences during the tumultuous times of World War II, including her martyrdom at Auschwitz, reflect her profound acceptance of suffering and unwavering faith in God’s plan.

To suffer and to be happy although suffering, to have one’s feet on the earth, to walk on the dirty and rough paths of this earth and yet to be enthroned with Christ at the Father’s right hand, to laugh and cry with the children of this world and to sing praises with the angels—this is the life of the Christian until the morning of eternity breaks forth.*

How can you find joy and maintain faith amidst the trials and sufferings of life?
Focus on the hope and promise of eternal life, finding joy in the presence of God and the support of the Christian community. Trust in God’s providence and look for blessings and opportunities to grow in faith during difficult times.

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

All-powerful, ever-living God,

you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ

even to the point of giving her life for it.

By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you

and to seek you with all our hearts,

for you alone are the source of life.

Grant this 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.

*Citation: Edith Stein, Self-Portrait in Letters, 1916-1942. Translated by Josephine Koeppel, The Collected Works of Edith Stein, Volume 1 (ICS Publications, 1993), p. 93.

For the complete 9-Day St. Teresa of Benedicta Novena for the Discerning Hearts visit here

Day 5 – A St. Dominic Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A Novena to St. Dominic for the Discerning Heart

Day 5– Spiritual Defense

A teaching from St. Dominic:

“Arm yourself with prayer rather than a sword; wear humility rather than fine clothes.”

St. Dominic, renowned for his humility and dedication to a simple life, advised using spiritual tools over physical ones. He promoted prayer and humility as true defenses in life. This reflection invites us to consider what we rely on for protection and strength—encouraging a shift from external symbols of power to internal virtues.

“Arm yourself with prayer rather than a sword; wear humility rather than fine clothes.”

How can you cultivate humility and spiritual discipline in your life?
Cultivating humility and spiritual discipline involves setting regular times for prayer, such as daily morning and evening prayers, and engaging in fasting and almsgiving to foster self-denial and charity. Simplify your lifestyle, focusing on spiritual growth over material possessions. Seek guidance through spiritual direction, and participate in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Confession, to maintain a close relationship with God. Additionally, involve yourself in acts of service within your community to cultivate a humble heart and a deeper understanding of Christ’s love.

“Arm yourself with prayer rather than a sword; wear humility rather than fine clothes.”

The Dominican Blessing, from an anonymous 13th-century English Dominican, captures St. Dominic’s timeless call for blessings, healing, and divine guidance.

May God the Father, who made us, bless us.

May God the Son, who redeemed us, send healing into our midst.

May God the Holy Spirit, who gives us life, move within us.

May God give us eyes to see to God, ears to hear God, and hands to bring God’s work into the world.

May we walk with God and preach the word of God to all.

May the angel of peace watch over us and lead us at last by God’s grace to the eternal Kingdom.

Amen

Lord God,

you gave Saint Dominic to the Church of his day

as a great preacher of your truth.

We pray that he will help us in our time

by his merits, his teaching, and his unfailing prayer.

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.

St. Dominic Quotation take from: Raymond of Capua, “Life of St. Dominic.”

For the complete 9-Day Novena to St. Dominic visit here

St. Clare of Assisi Novena – Day 2 – Discerning Hearts podcast

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Day 2

From a letter to St. Agnes of Prague

“…you might totally love Him who gave Himself totally out of love for you, whose beauty the sun and moon admire, and whose rewards, in both their preciousness and magnitude, are without end. I am speaking about the Son of the Most High, to whom the Virgin gave birth and, after whose birth, she remained a virgin. May you cling to his most sweet Mother, who gave birth to the kind of Son whom the heavens could not contain, and yet, she carried him in the tiny enclosure of her sacred womb.”

Dear St. Clare,

As a young girl, you imitated your mother’s love for the poor of your native Assisi.

Most of all you had a deep love of Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament, which fueled your vocation to love and care for the poor.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of St. Clare. Through her intercession, please hear and answer my prayer, in the name of Jesus Your Son.

Amen.

For the complete novena visit the St. Clare Novena Discerning Hearts Page

Saturday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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Saturday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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

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

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

From the Holy Gospel According to Matthew 14:1-12

Herod the tetrarch heard about the reputation of Jesus, and said to his court, ‘This is John the Baptist himself; he has risen from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.’
Now it was Herod who had arrested John, chained him up and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. For John had told him, ‘It is against the Law for you to have her.’ He had wanted to kill him but was afraid of the people, who regarded John as a prophet. Then, during the celebrations for Herod’s birthday, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and so delighted Herod that he promised on oath to give her anything she asked. Prompted by her mother she said, ‘Give me John the Baptist’s head, here, on a dish.’ The king was distressed but, thinking of the oaths he had sworn and of his guests, he ordered it to be given her, and sent and had John beheaded in the prison. The head was brought in on a dish and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. John’s disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went off to tell Jesus.

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:

Herod the tetrarch heard about the reputation of Jesus, and said to his court, ‘This is John the Baptist himself; he has risen from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.’
Now it was Herod who had arrested John, chained him up and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. For John had told him, ‘It is against the Law for you to have her.’ He had wanted to kill him but was afraid of the people, who regarded John as a prophet. Then, during the celebrations for Herod’s birthday, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and so delighted Herod that he promised on oath to give her anything she asked. Prompted by her mother she said, ‘Give me John the Baptist’s head, here, on a dish.’ The king was distressed but, thinking of the oaths he had sworn and of his guests, he ordered it to be given her, and sent and had John beheaded in the prison. The head was brought in on a dish and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. John’s disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went off to tell Jesus.

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:

Herod the tetrarch heard about the reputation of Jesus, and said to his court, ‘This is John the Baptist himself; he has risen from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.’
Now it was Herod who had arrested John, chained him up and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. For John had told him, ‘It is against the Law for you to have her.’ He had wanted to kill him but was afraid of the people, who regarded John as a prophet. Then, during the celebrations for Herod’s birthday, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and so delighted Herod that he promised on oath to give her anything she asked. Prompted by her mother she said, ‘Give me John the Baptist’s head, here, on a dish.’ The king was distressed but, thinking of the oaths he had sworn and of his guests, he ordered it to be given her, and sent and had John beheaded in the prison. The head was brought in on a dish and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. John’s disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went off to tell Jesus.

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.

A St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Novena for the Discerning Heart

Day 5 – Nurturing Soul

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

For the complete 9-Day St. Teresa of Benedicta Novena for the Discerning Hearts visit here

What it Means to “Put on Christ” – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

From Ephesians 4:20 -24

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

A Novena to St. Dominic for the Discerning Heart

Day 6– Mastering Passions

For the complete 9-Day Novena to St. Dominic visit here

For more teachings from Ven. Bruno Lanteri visit Fr. Timothy Gallagher’s “Begin Again” Discerning Hearts series

Sunday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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.

A St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Novena for the Discerning Heart

Day 4 – Joy Amidst Suffering

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

For the complete 9-Day St. Teresa of Benedicta Novena for the Discerning Hearts visit here

A Novena to St. Dominic for the Discerning Heart

Day 5– Spiritual Defense

For the complete 9-Day Novena to St. Dominic visit here

Saturday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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.

For more teachings from Ven. Bruno Lanteri visit
Fr. Timothy Gallagher’s “Begin Again” Discerning Hearts series