Inside the Pages Archives

IP#483 Fr. Aaron Wessman – The Church’s Mission in a Polarized World, Part 1 on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Fr. Aaron Wessman – The Church’s Mission in a Polarized World, Part 1 on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In Part 1 of a 2-part conversation, Fr. Aaron Wessman and Kris McGregor discuss Fr. Aaron’s book ‘The Church’s Mission in a Polarized World‘. Fr. Aaron explains how the project grew from a personal journey after returning to the U.S. from studying theology abroad. Upon his return, he noticed a worsening division in American society and within the Church, which also affected him personally. This led him to research the issue and eventually write the book, which examines how polarization impacts Christians.

Christians, particularly in the U.S., are influenced by polarized political and social dynamics. Fr. Aaron describes this “hurricane of polarization” as something that often affects how people engage with others, making it harder to follow Christ’s call to love and dialogue. With this book, he calls for Christians to step back from political hostility and gain perspective through faith, using Christ’s example of engaging even those considered enemies.

Political partisanship and the language of culture wars have entered the Church, using war-like metaphors that can distance believers from the Gospel’s true message of love and reconciliation. Fr. Aaron highlights the importance of choosing words carefully, suggesting that Christians focus on prudence and listening, aiming to understand rather than attack.

He invites Christians to prioritize their identity in Christ over political affiliations. Fr. Aaron encourages humility, dialogue, and discernment as ways to navigate an increasingly polarized world, drawing connections to historical figures like St. Francis de Sales, who responded to similar challenges with wisdom and charity.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Personal Experience of Polarization: How have I seen polarization affect my own heart and interactions with others in daily life?
Impact of Political Identity on Christian Life: Am I allowing my political identity to overshadow my identity as a disciple of Christ?
Christ’s Call to Engage Others: In what ways can I better approach others with love and understanding, especially those I disagree with?
Prudence in Engagement: How can I exercise prudence in choosing when and how to engage in conversations with others, particularly in polarized environments?
Influence of Media and Social Media: Am I aware of how my media consumption, especially on social media, shapes my perspective and engagement with others?
Words and Metaphors in Communication: How can I be more mindful of the words and metaphors I use in discussions, ensuring they reflect the Gospel message of reconciliation?
Rooting Identity in Christ: What steps can I take to deepen my relationship with Christ so that my actions reflect His teachings in a polarized world?

From the book description:

“Christians and other people of good will are longing for a response that can lead the way out of the divisiveness and vitriol of our times. I wrote this book to provide some assistance to readers to discern a way out of the toxicity in which we live, and to stimulate courage and hope, so that all people can see the age in which we live more clearly and respond with the grace necessary to follow more fully the call God has spoken—a missionary call to deepen Christ’s incarnational movement in our world.”

-Fr. Robert Aaron Wessman

About the Author

Fr. Robert Aaron Wessman, a priest of the Roman Catholic Church, is the 1 st -Vice- President (Vicar General) and Director of Formation for the Glenmary Home Missioners. He has a PhD from the Catholic University of Louvain (Belgium) in Systematic Theology (2019). He serves as an at-large board member for the Conference of Major Superiors of Men Religious (CMSM) and is a guest lecturer at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology. The religious order he belongs to, Glenmary, is a missionary society of apostolic life of the Catholic Church that conducts mission in rural, poor, and non-Catholic areas of the United States, primarily in the southeast and Appalachia. Visit glenmary.org for more information.

IP#364 Fr. John Bartunek – The Better Part: The Gospels pt. 2 – Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Fr. John Bartunek – The Better Part: The Gospels pt. 2 on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In part 2 of their conversation, Fr. John Bartunek and Kris McGregor discuss deepening one’s relationship with God through prayer, using Fr. Bartunek’s book, The Better Part, as a central resource. They explore the importance of the fourth step of prayer, “commit,” which is about renewing one’s commitment to the relationship with God after a time of prayer, much like a mother responds to her child’s needs in a relationship.

Prayer is not about seeking spiritual consolations but about faith and deepening friendship with God. Warning against using prayer merely to seek internal experiences rather than genuine contact with God, Fr. Bartunek compares some non-Christian meditation practices as potentially distracting from true prayer.

Highlighting the unique role of the Gospels as a direct encounter with Jesus, meant to be rediscovered continually with a sense of wonder, Fr. Bartunek’s work is praised for helping believers engage deeply with the Gospels, not just as sacred texts, but as an ongoing dialogue with Christ. The discussion also touches on the significance of spiritual companionship, community, and sharing one’s spiritual journey with others, as well as the necessity of a spiritual director or good spiritual friends to help navigate the challenges of prayer and spiritual growth.

You can find the set here.

Discerning Hearts Discussion Questions

Commitment in Prayer: How can you actively renew your commitment to your relationship with God after each time of prayer?
Seeking Consolation: Do you find yourself more focused on seeking spiritual consolations rather than deepening your friendship with God?
Scripture Engagement: How do you ensure that your reading of the Gospels is a personal encounter with Christ rather than just a routine task?
Overcoming Familiarity: What steps can you take to rediscover the wonder and richness of the Gospels in your daily life?
Spiritual Companionship: How can you cultivate spiritual friendships or find a spiritual director to support your journey of faith?
Sharing Spiritual Goods: In what ways can you share your experiences of Christ with others to enrich your community?
Trust in God’s Providence: How do you remind yourself that everything in your life, even challenges, is under God’s providence and part of His plan for your growth?

From the book description:

“Every saint and renowned spiritual director through the ages has said the same thing: if we desire to become saints, we must spend time daily in meditation. With this set, Fr. John Bartunek has created an extensive, Christ-centered resource to serve as your daily meditation companion. The Better Part offers a practical explanation of Christian meditation, as well as material to draw from during your meditations, including a Bible study on the Gospels, a survey of saints writings, and a handy guide to prayer.

As you learn to read, meditate upon, absorb, and apply the Gospels to your life, you’ll also find ways to personalize your times of prayer, allowing you to follow the Holy Spirit’s lead along the path of holiness. Open these pages to discover the methods of meditation that best suit you, develop your friendship with Christ, and experience the true Christian joy of a deep, fruitful life of prayer.”

IP#363 Fr. John Bartunek – The Better Part: The Gospels pt. 1 – Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Fr. John Bartunek – The Better Part: The Gospels pt. 1 on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Kris McGregor and Fr. John Bartunek discuss the book series, The Better Part, which is a Christ-centered resource for personal prayer based on the Gospels. They discuss the inspiration behind the series, which originated as a directive from Fr. Bartunek’s religious order, the Legionnaires of Christ. They identified a need for a resource that would help people deepen their prayer life in the modern world.

The Better Part is designed not as a traditional scripture study, but as a tool to foster personal encounters with Christ through the Gospels. The approach is rooted in the idea that the Gospels are a place to encounter Christ and enter into dialogue with Him. The series offers a structure that guides readers through meditation on the Gospels, helping them engage in mental prayer that is personalized and unique to their own spiritual journey.

The importance of understanding Christian meditation offers a simple, yet profound, four-step process: concentrate, consider, converse, and commit. Each step is meant to help the individual enter into a deeper relationship with Christ, utilizing different aspects of the soul—will, intellect, and heart.

Fr. Bartunek also discusses the influences of various spiritual traditions, such as Ignatian, Benedictine, and Carmelite spirituality, in shaping the structure of the series.

You can find the set here.

Discerning Hearts Discussion Questions

Recognizing God’s Presence: How do you cultivate an awareness of God’s presence in the ordinary moments of your daily life?
Embracing Silence in Prayer: How do you intentionally create space for silence in your prayer life to listen for God’s voice?
Trusting in Divine Providence: In what ways do you surrender your worries and concerns to God’s providential care?
The Role of Sacraments in Spiritual Growth: How do the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and Reconciliation, strengthen your relationship with Christ?
Deepening Your Love for Scripture: How do you make Scripture a central part of your daily prayer and reflection?
Practicing Gratitude: How do you express gratitude to God in your prayer, especially for the small blessings in your life?
Seeking Spiritual Direction: How do you seek guidance from a spiritual director or mentor to grow in your spiritual life?

From the book description:

“Every saint and renowned spiritual director through the ages has said the same thing: if we desire to become saints, we must spend time daily in meditation. With this set, Fr. John Bartunek has created an extensive, Christ-centered resource to serve as your daily meditation companion. The Better Part offers a practical explanation of Christian meditation, as well as material to draw from during your meditations, including a Bible study on the Gospels, a survey of saints writings, and a handy guide to prayer.

As you learn to read, meditate upon, absorb, and apply the Gospels to your life, you’ll also find ways to personalize your times of prayer, allowing you to follow the Holy Spirit’s lead along the path of holiness. Open these pages to discover the methods of meditation that best suit you, develop your friendship with Christ, and experience the true Christian joy of a deep, fruitful life of prayer.”

IP#505 Dr. Christopher Reed – Sacred Conversations on Inside the Pages w/ Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Sacred Conversations by Dr. Christopher Reed on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of “Inside the Pages”, Kris McGregor interviews Dr. Christopher Reed about his book “Sacred Conversations.” Exploring the integration of faith into everyday interactions and emphasizes the importance of meaningful dialogue guided by agape love—selfless, Christ-like love. Dr. Reed shares how a pivotal conversation inspired him to write the book in just 21 days, offering a process involving invitation, intention, inquiry, illumination, and integration to guide faith-based conversations.

Using the transformative power of intentional, loving conversations, particularly during times of crisis or in the context of social media; Kris and Dr. Reed discuss the necessity of patience, kindness, and genuine listening to deepen understanding and compassion; and the benefits of sacred conversations across various settings, including family, marital relationships, and professional and community environments.

Dr. Reed also shares his personal faith journey, his parents’ support in his exploration and return to the Catholic Church. His experiences have shaped his dedication to helping others through sacred conversations. and to view each interaction as an opportunity to embody God’s love and grace, fostering personal and communal transformation through meaningful dialogue guided by the Holy Spirit.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

Faith and Everyday Interactions How can we intentionally incorporate faith into our daily conversations and interactions with others?
The Principles of Agape Love What are practical ways to demonstrate agape love in our communication with family, friends, and colleagues?
Transformative Power of Conversations How can we ensure that our conversations are not only meaningful but also transformative for ourselves and those we interact with?
Navigating Crises and Social Media In what ways can sacred conversations help us navigate challenging times, such as crises or the impact of social media on communication?
Personal Faith Journeys How have your personal experiences and struggles shaped your approach to conversations about faith?
Applying Sacred Conversations in Various Settings How can the principles of sacred conversations be applied differently in family, marital, professional, and community contexts?
Listening with Compassion What strategies can we use to improve our ability to listen with patience, kindness, and genuine interest in others?
Embodying God’s Love and Grace How can we view each interaction as an opportunity to be a vessel of God’s love and grace in our daily lives?

From the book’s description:

“Imagine the best conversation you’ve ever had–one that set your heart on fire, challenged your thinking, brought you closer to God, and inspired you to act. Recall how that conversation made you feel and how it changed your heart and your life. Such interactions rise to the level of the sacred–sacred conversations–dialogues that transform hearts, strengthen relationships, and make the world a better place by converting compassionate love into action.

Conversations like this are rare but accessible to all of us all the time, regardless of where we are on our spiritual journeys. Dr. Christopher Reed provides a divinely inspired, scientifically tested, step-by-step process for guiding interactions between “seekers” and “helpers.” We are all seekers, and we can all become helpers. This book will show you how to relate to others in their pain, frustration, hopes, and dreams. You will also learn:

The six components of peak communication

How you can invite, understand, and illuminate others through your conversations

Three historical and scriptural reasons we should study and use sacred conversations

How to stop, connect, reflect, and choose the best course of action in dialogue

Five ingredients in the anatomy of sacred conversations

Practical ways to build community, give thanks to God, and show gratitude for others

Using Scripture, real-world examples, key scientific studies, and stories from his own formation, Dr. Reed provides approachable, fun-filled, well-researched advice on how you can use sacred conversations to become your best self and build closer relationships with others and with the Lord.

This isn’t merely another Christian self-help book. It’s an inspired invitation to transform your life, and our world, one “sacred conversation” at a time.”

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Reed, a Catholic Christian and husband, integrates over 25 years of communication expertise with spiritual growth. His journey includes a master’s degree in interpersonal communication and a doctorate focusing on human and cultural communication studies. Following a postdoctoral role at the University of Michigan, he developed consultation methods and authored “Future-Ready Leadership.” In 2021, he answered a spiritual calling to promote Sacred Conversations, culminating in his book published by Sophia Institute Press. Dr. Reed continues to advocate for transformative dialogue across diverse sectors through speaking, writing, and workshops.

IP#14 – Fr. Paul Hamans – Edith Stein and Companions on the Way to Auschwitz on Inside the Pages

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Fr. Paul Hamans – Edith Stein and Companions on the Way to Auschwitz on Inside the Pages

In this episode of “Inside the Pages”, Fr. Paul Hamans discusses with Kris McGregor his book Edith Stein and Companions on the Way to Auschwitz, which chronicles the lives of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) and 113 other Catholic Jews who were martyred by the Nazis in retaliation for a pastoral letter written by Dutch bishops protesting the Nazi regime.

Fr. Hamans, a Church history professor in the Netherlands, reminds listeners of the importance of remembering these martyrs, whose sacrifices were both an act of faith and a stand against Nazi atrocities. He highlights the deep spiritual significance of these lives, their willingness to suffer for their faith, and the ongoing legacy of their witness. In addition, he addresses the impact of the Dutch bishops’ resistance, the persecution faced by Jewish converts to Catholicism, and the profound example set by Edith Stein and others who embraced their crosses in service to God and the Church.

You can buy a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Sacrifice and Faith: How do the sacrifices of Edith Stein and her companions inspire you to deepen your own faith and commitment to Christ?
Witness of Martyrdom: What lessons can you draw from the courage of the Catholic martyrs in standing against injustice, even at the cost of their lives?
Legacy of Resistance: How does the Dutch bishops’ resistance to Nazi atrocities challenge you to speak out against modern-day injustices?
Spiritual Resilience: In what ways can you embrace and carry your own crosses in your daily life, following the example of these martyrs?
Hope in Eternal Life: How does the focus on eternal life, as emphasized by Fr. Hamans, influence your perspective on the challenges and sufferings you face?

From the Book’s Description:

“On the same summer day in 1942, Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) and hundreds of other Catholic Jews were arrested in Holland by the occupying Nazis. One hundred thirteen of those taken into custody, several of them priests and nuns, perished at Auschwitz and other concentration camps. They were murdered in retaliation for the anti-Nazi pastoral letter written by the Dutch Catholic bishops.

While Saint Teresa Benedicta is the most famous member of this group, having been canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1998, all of them deserve the title of martyr, for they were killed not only because they were Jews but also because of the faith of the Church, which had compelled the Dutch bishops to protest the Nazi regime.

Through extensive research in both original and secondary sources, P.W.F.M. Hamans has compiled these martyrs’ biographies, several of them detailed and accompanied by photographs. Included in this volume are some remarkable conversion stories, including that of Edith Stein, the German philosopher who had entered the Church in 1922 and later became a Carmelite nun, taking the name Sister Teresa Benedicta of the Cross.

Several of the witnesses chronicled here had already suffered for their faith in Christ before falling victim to Hitler’s “Final Solution”, enduring both rejection by their own people, including family members, and persecution by the so-called Christian society in which they lived. Among these were those who, also like Sister Teresa Benedicta, perceived the cross they were being asked to bear and accepted it willingly for the salvation of the world.”

About the Author

Fr. Paul Hamans is a diocesan priest in Roermond, Netherlands, where he teaches Church history at the seminary there. He has a doctorate in history from the University of Augsburg, Germany, and is an expert on the Dutch martyrs of the twentieth century. His other publications include History of the Catholic Church in the Netherlands.

IP#251 – Anne Costa – Embracing Edith Stein on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

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Anne Costa – Embracing Edith Stein on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of “Inside the Pages”, Kris McGregor and Anne Costa discuss Anne’s book, Embracing Edith Stein: Wisdom for Women from St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, which aims to introduce Edith Stein’s rich spirituality to a broader audience and her significance for women today.

Describing Edith Stein’s life, from her birth in Germany as the youngest of 11 children, through her rise as a prominent philosopher, to her eventual conversion to Catholicism inspired by the writings of St. Teresa of Avila and the example of devout Catholics; Edith’s intellectual journey was marked by a deep pursuit of truth, which eventually led her to Catholicism and a vocation as a Carmelite nun.

Edith’s writings, particularly on the nature and mission of women, are highlighted as deeply relevant today. Her thoughts on the complementarity of men and women, the importance of self-possession for women, and the need to balance intellectual and spiritual life resonate strongly in contemporary times. The podcast underscores how her wisdom, grounded in both personal experience and profound faith, offers practical guidance for modern women.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Encountering Truth in Our Lives: How do I seek truth in my daily life, and am I open to the possibility that true wisdom may come from an encounter with Christ rather than just intellectual pursuit?
Embracing Our Feminine Gifts: In what ways can I better understand and utilize my unique gifts as a woman, according to God’s design, to serve my family and community?
The Cross and Suffering: How do I perceive and carry my own crosses, and can I learn from St. Edith Stein’s example to embrace suffering with hope and trust in God’s ultimate triumph?
Role of Prayer in Daily Life: Do I prioritize time for prayer in the midst of my daily responsibilities, allowing God to order my day and give me the strength to fulfill my duties?
Influence of Saints on Our Spiritual Journey: How can I foster a deeper relationship with the saints, particularly St. Edith Stein, to guide and support me in my spiritual growth during challenging times?

From the book description:

“Embracing Edith Stein shows how the different aspects of the life and teachings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross can serve as a guide for women and their unique vocation today. Written in a friendly, conversational style, this is one woman sharing the story of her friendship with this saint with her readers.”

About the Author

Anne Costa is a Catholic author and speaker with five books published including Embracing Edith Stein: Wisdom for Women from St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Servant) and Refresh Me Lord! Meditations to Renew a Women’sSpirit (The Word Among Us Press). She works with two apostolates: Sacred Heart Apostolate, Inc. as communications officer and the John Paul II Center for Women, Inc. Anne is a wife and mother, and enjoys traveling, painting and Eucharistic adoration.

IP#283 – Sr. Regina van den Berg – Communion with Christ according to St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross on Inside the Pages w/ Kris McGregor

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Sr. Regina van den Berg – Communion with Christ according to St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of “Inside the Pages”, Sr. Regina van den Berg joins in conversation with Kris McGregor about Sr. Regina’s book, Communion with Christ. Focusing on the life and spirituality of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, also known as Edith Stein, Sr. Regina shares how she first became interested in Edith Stein after being encouraged to read her works when she took the religious habit. Edith Stein’s journey from a Jewish background to Catholicism, and eventually to becoming a Carmelite nun, serves as a central theme in the conversation.

Sr. Regina explains that Edith Stein, influenced by her philosophical background and personal experiences, offers profound insights into suffering, empathy, and the vocation of both men and women; as well as the contrast between community and association; that true communion involves a deep, personal connection with others and with God, unlike associations formed merely for a specific goal.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Understanding Communion with Christ: How does St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross deepen your understanding of true communion with Christ, especially through embracing the cross?
The Role of Suffering in Faith: In what ways can you find meaning and consolation in your own suffering by uniting it with the suffering of Christ?
Empathy and Communion: How can the practice of empathy, as described by St. Teresa Benedicta, enhance your relationships with others and deepen your spiritual life?
Identity and God’s Will: Are you at peace with who God created you to be, and how do you surrender your will to align with God’s will in your daily life?
Community versus Association: How does your participation in your community reflect true communion, rather than just an association with a shared goal?

From the Book’s Description:

“Pope Saint John Paul II declared that the great challenge for Christians today is to become “the home and school of communion.”St. Teresa Benedicta (Edith Stein) is a sure guide to attaining the communion for which every human heart longs. This work considers St. Teresa’s life and writings in the context of the “spirituality of communion”. As a philosopher she was directed towards attaining communion with the Truth, and she discovered that Truth was a Person, Jesus Christ. As a Carmelite nun she gave up everything for communion with him.

Dr. Alice von Hildebrand, in the foreword, says Edith Stein’s message “is above her time” and that the author, Sister M. Regina van den Berg, F.S.G.M. “is well qualified to write such a book.” Sister Regina explores in detail Edith Stein’s theory of empathy as developed in her doctoral dissertation, as well as her later theory of community. Sister Regina has also used a number of Edith Stein’s writings that, until this work, have not yet been available in English translation.

Each chapter explores an aspect of “communion”, richly revealing the wisdom of Edith Stein, “a Jew who became a philosopher . . . a convert to Catholicism who became a Carmelite nun and crowned her life with martyrdom”. Stein’s work “provides insights that can help us to grow in the spirituality of communion, first by presenting to us the truth about the human person’s nature and vocation and then by showing us how we can arrive at a spirituality of communion in the various aspects of life.”

About the Author

Sister M. Regina van den Berg, F.S.G.M., obtained her Ph.D. in Philosophy from the Catholic University of America. She has served in various apostolates for her religious community and currently resides in Rome.

IP#502 Adam Blai – The History of Exorcism, Part 2 on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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Adam Blai on “The History of Exorcism,” Part Two – Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In part two of our conversation, Adam Blai and Kris McGregor discuss the nature of spiritual warfare and deliverance, emphasizing the central role of sacramental life and personal conversion. Adam Blai explains that 90% of the enemy’s actions are temptations, which can be effectively countered through the sacraments like confession, mass, baptism, and confirmation. Deliverance primarily comes through these sacraments and genuine personal transformation, rather than dramatic prayers or rituals. True deliverance requires a sincere turn towards God and away from sin, with the person actively participating in their spiritual growth and repentance.

Blai highlights that even in cases of possession, the goal is spiritual growth and conversion, not just relief from suffering. Exorcism is a liturgical act aimed at guiding individuals towards a life of faith, repentance, and forgiveness. Forgiving others and oneself is crucial, as demons can exploit unforgiveness to maintain their hold. And the historical context of exorcism in the church, noting that it evolved over centuries and has become more regulated to ensure proper and safe practice.

The importance of the church’s authority and wisdom in handling exorcisms, cautioning against individuals attempting exorcisms without proper authorization and training. Blai advises those facing spiritual issues to seek help from their parish priests or diocesan offices and stresses that the focus should always be on Jesus, not the devil. The ultimate message is one of hope and trust in God’s love and the transformative power of a life centered on Christ.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Understanding the Enemy’s Strategies: How does recognizing that 90% of the enemy’s actions are temptations change your approach to spiritual warfare?
Role of Sacraments in Deliverance: In what ways have you experienced the power of sacramental grace in your life, especially through confession and the Eucharist?
Personal Conversion and Deliverance: Reflect on a time when personal conversion and repentance brought you closer to God. How did this impact your spiritual struggles?
Forgiveness as a Path to Freedom: How can you practice forgiveness towards others and yourself to prevent spiritual oppression?
Historical Context of Exorcism: How does understanding the historical development of exorcism in the Church deepen your appreciation for its current practice and regulation?
Authority and Wisdom in Exorcism: Why is it important for the Church to regulate who performs exorcisms, and how does this safeguard both the practitioner and the person in need?
Focus on Christ, Not the Devil: How can you ensure that your spiritual life remains Christ-centered and not overly focused on fear of the devil?
Seeking Help within the Church: When facing spiritual difficulties, how can you effectively seek help from your parish priest or diocesan offices?

From the book description:

“Due to the advancement of observable evil in our society, the topic of exorcism has increasingly come to the forefront in the West in this century. In Hollywood movies, exorcism has often been sensationalized and misconstrued. Although volumes have been written about demons and exorcism, little has been explained about what solemn exorcism really is within the larger context of deliverance ministry. But now, Church-decreed expert on demonology and exorcism Adam Blai thoroughly explores the roots of exorcism and breaks open its significance for you.

You will find answers to wide-ranging questions such as: Is possession an exclusively Christian phenomenon, or is it a universal problem? Did exorcism exist before Jesus, or did He introduce it? If it predated Christianity, how did other cultures see it and deal with it? How do other world religions view the phenomenon of possession and exorcism? Are there other methods of confronting it besides the Catholic rite?

Blai lays out how exorcisms were performed in the earliest days of the Church. Over time, a liturgical rite was developed and teachings were provided to safeguard the faithful in the practice of exorcisms.
In these pages, Blai reveals:

Twenty-one guidelines for exorcists, produced under St. Charles Borromeo

Fascinating examples of actual exorcisms (some made famous in movies!)

Astounding examples of how saints helped drive out demons (even from the great beyond!)

Which psalm is known for offering protection and deliverance from evil spirits (Can you guess?)

The revolutionary way in which Jesus performed exorcisms

You will learn about how a harpist helped deliver King Saul of an evil spirit and how the spirits of giants tormented people. As you read about the evolution of exorcism, you will observe how strange practices sometimes occurred through the use of magic and superstition. You will also find five exorcism guidelines from the Middle Ages and four signs of genuine possession today.

Additionally, you will see how the 1614 rite of exorcism differs from the 1998 rite. You will also find a helpful appendix about how to determine whether a disturbance is spiritual, mental, or medical. Extensive references are included throughout the book.”

About the Author: Adam Blai (pronounced “Bly”) is a Church-decreed expert on religious demonology and exorcism in the Pittsburgh diocese. He is an auxiliary member of the International Association of Exorcists based in Rome. Over the past decade, he has helped educate priests regarding exorcism at national conferences, seminars, and through consultation on many cases in a number of dioceses.

IP#501 Adam Blai – The History of Exorcism, Part 1 on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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Adam Blai on “The History of Exorcism,” Part One – Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In Part 1 of this conversation, Adam Blai discusses with Kris McGregor the history and practice of exorcism. Adam Blai emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and history of exorcism to demystify misconceptions often perpetuated by media. He explains that exorcism has been a part of human history since ancient times and that it involves a range of prayers, with solemn exorcism being qualitatively different from deliverance prayers.

He shares his journey into this ministry, highlighting his background in psychology and how his curiosity about spiritual phenomena led him to work with exorcists. He clarifies that as a layperson, his role is to train and coach priests, not to perform exorcisms himself. The conversation covers the development of institutes like the Pope Leo XIII Institute, which train exorcists and their teams, emphasizing the need for proper order and protection in this ministry.

He touches on the use of Psalms in exorcism rituals, the distinction between possession and other forms of spiritual oppression, and the rigorous process required to determine if a solemn exorcism is necessary and of relying on documented signs of possession rather than subjective discernment to ensure the appropriate response and the crucial role of the bishop in granting permission for solemn exorcisms.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Understanding the Historical Context of Exorcism How does knowing the history and context of exorcism help demystify common misconceptions about the practice?
The Role of Exorcism in the Church In what ways does exorcism contribute to the spiritual life and mission of the Church, both historically and in contemporary practice?
The Importance of Proper Training and Authority Why is it essential for exorcists to be properly trained and authorized by the Church? How does this safeguard the integrity of the ministry?
The Distinction Between Solemn Exorcism and Deliverance Prayers What are the key differences between solemn exorcism and deliverance prayers, and why is it important to understand these distinctions?
The Role of Scripture in Spiritual Warfare How does the use of Psalms and other Scripture passages in exorcism highlight the power of God’s word in combating evil?
Personal and Community Protection in Spiritual Ministry What steps can laypeople and clergy take to ensure they are protected when involved in spiritual ministry, especially in deliverance and exorcism work?
The Discernment Process in Identifying Possession How does the objective process of documenting signs of possession before requesting a solemn exorcism from the bishop reflect the Church’s careful approach to spiritual matters?
The Balance Between Charismatic and Institutional Responses How can the Church maintain a balance between the charismatic expressions of faith and the structured, institutional responses to spiritual phenomena?
Trusting in God’s Sovereignty Over Evil In what ways does recognizing Jesus’ ultimate authority over evil influence the approach to exorcism and deliverance ministry?
Personal Reflection on Spiritual Readiness Reflect on your own spiritual practices and readiness. How can you ensure you are spiritually prepared to face challenges and assist others in spiritual battles?

From the book description:

“Due to the advancement of observable evil in our society, the topic of exorcism has increasingly come to the forefront in the West in this century. In Hollywood movies, exorcism has often been sensationalized and misconstrued. Although volumes have been written about demons and exorcism, little has been explained about what solemn exorcism really is within the larger context of deliverance ministry. But now, Church-decreed expert on demonology and exorcism Adam Blai thoroughly explores the roots of exorcism and breaks open its significance for you.

You will find answers to wide-ranging questions such as: Is possession an exclusively Christian phenomenon, or is it a universal problem? Did exorcism exist before Jesus, or did He introduce it? If it predated Christianity, how did other cultures see it and deal with it? How do other world religions view the phenomenon of possession and exorcism? Are there other methods of confronting it besides the Catholic rite?

Blai lays out how exorcisms were performed in the earliest days of the Church. Over time, a liturgical rite was developed and teachings were provided to safeguard the faithful in the practice of exorcisms.
In these pages, Blai reveals:

Twenty-one guidelines for exorcists, produced under St. Charles Borromeo

Fascinating examples of actual exorcisms (some made famous in movies!)

Astounding examples of how saints helped drive out demons (even from the great beyond!)

Which psalm is known for offering protection and deliverance from evil spirits (Can you guess?)

The revolutionary way in which Jesus performed exorcisms

You will learn about how a harpist helped deliver King Saul of an evil spirit and how the spirits of giants tormented people. As you read about the evolution of exorcism, you will observe how strange practices sometimes occurred through the use of magic and superstition. You will also find five exorcism guidelines from the Middle Ages and four signs of genuine possession today.

Additionally, you will see how the 1614 rite of exorcism differs from the 1998 rite. You will also find a helpful appendix about how to determine whether a disturbance is spiritual, mental, or medical. Extensive references are included throughout the book.”

For Part 2 of this conversation visit: IP#502 Adam Blai – The History of Exorcism, Part 2 on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts podcasts

IP#488 Joseph Pearce – Faith of Our Fathers on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Joseph Pearce – Faith of Our Fathers on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Joseph Pearce discusses his book “Faith of Our Fathers,” exploring the history of Catholic England. Viewing history through God’s omnipresence, he makes historical figures like Alfred the Great feel present. Detailing the early Christian influence in England, with figures like St. Joseph of Arimathea and sites like Glastonbury, Pearce praises the poetic heritage of England, highlighting writers like Chaucer and Shakespeare, and the deep Catholic roots reflected in their works.

He touches on the resilience of English Catholics through centuries of persecution, viewing it as a period of glory despite its brutality. Pearce also notes the blend of languages and cultures in English history, influencing modern English and the enduring spiritual and cultural legacy of Catholic England.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

God’s Omnipresence in History How does viewing history through God’s omnipresence change our perception of historical events and figures?
Early Christian Influences In what ways can we see early Christian influences in England’s history and culture?
Catholic Roots in Literature How do the works of poets like Chaucer and Shakespeare reflect the Catholic roots of England?
Resilience of English Catholics What lessons can we learn from the resilience of English Catholics during periods of persecution?
Language and Culture Blend How has the blend of languages and cultures in English history shaped modern English?
Spiritual Heritage Sites What is the significance of sites like Glastonbury in understanding the spiritual heritage of England?
Inspiration from Historical Faith How can the historical examples of faith and perseverance inspire our own spiritual journey?
Legacy of Catholic England In what ways does the cultural legacy of Catholic England continue to impact the world today?

From the book description:

“The Catholic Church has been a part of English history since the arrival of Christian missionaries to Roman Britain in the first century after Christ. England was evangelized in these early centuries to such an extent that, by the time the Romans withdrew in the fifth century, the Celtic population was largely Catholic.

Anglo-Saxon England, prior to the Norman Conquest, was a land of saints. From St. Bede, with his history of the early Church, to the holy king St. Edward the Confessor, Saxon England was ablaze with the light of Christ. During the reign of St. Edward, a vision of the Virgin at Walsingham placed the Mother of God on the throne as England’s queen, the land being considered her dowry. Even following the Norman Conquest, the Faith continued to flourish and prosper, making its joyful presence felt in what would become known as Merrie England.

Then in the sixteenth century, this Catholic heart was ripped from the people of England, against their will and in spite of their spirited and heroic resistance, by the reign of the Tudors. This made England once again a land of saints—that is, of martyrs, with Catholic priests and laity being put to death for practicing the Faith. The martyrdoms would continue for 150 years, followed by a further 150 years of legal and political persecution.

In the nineteenth century, against all the odds, there was a great Catholic revival, heralded by the conversion of St. John Henry Newman, which would continue into the twentieth century. Much of the greatest literature of the past century has been written by literary converts to the Church, such as G. K. Chesterton, Evelyn Waugh, Graham Greene, and J. R. R. Tolkien.

This whole exciting, faith-filled story is told by Joseph Pearce within a single-volume history of “true England”, the England that remained true to the faith through thick and thin, in times both “merrie” and perilous. It is a story not only worth telling but worth celebrating.”