Inside the Pages Archives

IP#289 Fr. Robert Spitzer S.J. – The Souls Upward Yearning on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor pt 1

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“The Souls Upward Yearning: : Clues to Our Transcendent Nature from Experience and Reason (Happiness, Suffering, and Transcendence)” has become one of my favorite books of all-time! Fr. Robert Spitzer S.J. once again offers an incredible work that “feeds” not only the mind but also the heart. As a matter of fact, the beauty of this book, on the transcendental nature of our souls, is that it begins with the experience of the heart and then moves us to the head (which is an important flip from how we typically travel the beginnings of the spiritual journey).

In part one of our conversation, we discuss how contemporary evidence indicates how we are built by God, invited by God, from the very beginning of our creation, to receive God. Fr. Spitzer, in this particular episode, sites the work of Carl Jung (psychiatrist) and Mircea Eliade (historian of religion) along with many other experts in their fields to make the case for the beauty of the transcendent soul.

Now why is this topic so vitally important today? Because the loss of transcendence is negatively affecting our entire society. It has robbed us of our happiness, dignity, ideals, virtues, and a sense of our eternal destiny. We were created for greater things and we must believe in that fundamental truth and we must help others to come to that understanding as well! This is a classic work, in its truest sense, of Christian apologetics! Absolutely not to be missed!

You can find the book here

“Father Spitzer displays a broad range of arguments in favor of the reality and the compelling importance of the transcendent dimension of our existence on the basis of religious literature, our interior awareness of transcendent reality, the cosmic struggle between good and evil, metaphysics, our natural desire to experience perfect goodness, love and beauty, the evidence of near-death experiences, and contemporary science, especially astrophysics.”
—

Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York

Take a listen to our episode we feature the first book in this great series:
Fr. Robert Spitzer S.J. – Finding True Happiness on Inside the Pages

IP#291 Robert Royal – A Deeper Vision on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

When I saw the author, Robert Royal, and then the title of the book, “A Deeper Vision: The Catholic Intellectual Tradition in the Twentieth Century” on the front cover, I knew this was going to be a great adventure in reading. I was not disappointed. In fact, this book is incredible! DO NOT be intimidated by the subject matter, on the contrary, embrace it as a cherished gift for the mind and heart!

In this conversation with Robert Royal, we can only touch the tip of this towering mountain. Pope Benedict XVI, St. John Paul II, Hans Urs von Balthasar are just some of the great “thinkers” we discuss. We also talk about the challenges faced in communicating an authentically catholic (universal) balanced truth. What principles dictate the expression? And how can we navigate through hazardous traps of opinion and punditry that is presented to us today by “would-be” theologians and intellectuals who appear to “specialize” in presenting Catholic thought though the use of the internet and other media outlets? If we are not familiar with the basic principles, vocabulary, and virtues of Catholic thought we could be doomed to fall into unfortunate intellectual (and possibly heretical) traps.

This is a tremendous work, so very well done! Thank you to Ignatius Press for once again serving up an incredible spiritual feast! Highly, highly recommended!

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The book can be found here

From the book description:

Royal presents in a single volume a sweeping but readable account of how Catholic thinking developed in philosophy, theology, Scripture studies, culture, literature, and much more in the twentieth century. This involves great figures, recognized as such both inside and outside the Church, such as Jacques Maritain, Bernard Lonergan, Joseph Pieper, Edith Stein, Alasdair MacIntyre, Charles Taylor, Romano Guardini, Karl Rahner, Henri du Lubac, Karol Wojtyla, Joseph Ratzinger, Hans Urs von Balthasar,Charles Peguy, Paul Claudel, George Bernanos, Francois Mauriac, G. K. Chesterton, Gerard Manley Hopkins, Christopher Dawson, Graham Greene, Sigrid Undset, J. R. R. Tolkien, Czeslaw Milosz, and many more.

IP#288 The Heart of the Diaconate – Deacon James Keating on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

“The Heart of the Diaconate” is an another outstanding work by Deacon James Keating, PhD. It focuses on the interior life and how important the disposition of our interiority is to our vocational call. While directed primarily to those in diaconate formation and those who have been ordained as deacons, the fundamental principles addressed in this book could be applied to all living the lay vocation. Don’t miss!

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You can find the book here

From the book description:

Through the three areas of Calling, Formation and Ordination, and Ministry, The Heart of the Diaconate explores the creative tension of the diaconate vocation and what the diaconate for the future will look like. The book outlines what those who are considering the diaconate must possess if it is truly going to be an effective and vibrant ministry within the church. With a focus on availability to both prayer and ministry, the future of the diaconate must be both mystical and youthful and address one important question: Where has the gospel yet to reach in my diocese?

IP#260 Daria Sockey – The Everyday Catholic’s Guide to the Liturgy of the Hours with Kris McGregor

“The Everyday Catholic’s Guide to the Liturgy of the Hours” is fantastic for anyone who would like to enter into this wonderful tradition of prayer. It’s also enriching for those who may have been praying the “office”‘ for some time! Daria Sockey has filled this work with a treasure trove of gems that even the most seasoned devotees will find enriching. It gently walks beginners through the basics, while offering rich insights and resources that will surely enhance the seasoned participants experience. In our conversation we touch upon the history and structure of the prayer this “Divine Office”, and why it should be a part of everyone’s daily spiritual practice. Highly recommended.

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You can find the book here

From the book description:

You don’t live in a cloister or a monastery, but you take your prayer life seriously and want to explore ways to pray regularly and better. The Liturgy of the Hours, aka Divine Office, is one of those ways–and according to the Catholic Church, one of the very best. Long considered the sole territory of priests and religious, the digital revolution has made the Liturgy of the Hours accessible to everyone. But for those of us who find it a little intimidating, Daria Sockey provides a solid overview to this ancient prayer practice. The Everyday Catholic’s Guide to the Liturgy of the Hours will answer questions like:

What is the history of the Liturgy of the Hours?
How can the Liturgy of the Hours fit into a busy schedule?
Why is the Liturgy of the Hours relevant today?
Print or digital berviaries: Which is better?

“This is the first clear and simple introduction to the Church’s hours I’ve seen, and I can’t imagine a better one. Daria Sockey has given ‘the rest of us’ another path to prayer–a path proven by tradition and by the experience of the saints–a path that had, til now, seemed obscure and impassible. I’m very grateful.”

-Mike Aquilina, author of Yours is the Church, EWTN host.

IP#295 Dr. Peter Kreeft – How to be Holy on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Video Podcast

Once again a spiritual classic has been given to us from the prolific Catholic philosopher Dr. Peter Kreeft!. “How to be Holy: First Steps in Becoming a Saint” derives it’s direction from the incredible “Abandonment to Divine Providence” by Jean-Pierre de Caussade, S.J. and it’s simple message that God reveals himself through the daily events of our lives. How we respond is the key to faith and our opportunity to grow in holiness. Do you place your trust the Father’s will? Can you respond in love? Do you truly believe Romans 8:28 “We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose” (RSV)? To be holy, we must take the first step…Dr. Kreeft shows us the way. Outstanding!

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You can find the book here

From the book description:

The ever-popular and prolific Peter Kreeft says that the most important question he has written about is how one becomes holy; or to put it another way, how one becomes a saint. This question is central to all the great religions, Kreeft demonstrates, for striving toward holiness, moving toward perfect love, is the whole purpose of life.

Kreeft admits that he is only a beginner on the climb to holiness, and it is to novices like him that he has written this engaging and encouraging book. Using the insights and experiences of saints and great spiritual writers throughout history, Kreeft shows what holiness is and how it can be achieved.

IP#264 – Elizabeth Ficocelli – “Therese, Faustina, and Bernadette” on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

“Therese, Faustina and Bernadette: Three Saints Who Challenged My Faith, Gave Me Hope, and Taught Me How to Love” ties beautifully together the theological virtues (faith, hope, and love) and shows us how they are particularly lived out in the lives of three of the most beloved saints of our modern era. Author Elizabeth Ficocelli shares her personal relationship with these beautiful saints and how they helped her to grow in her understanding and trust in Christ. More than just a biography of each saint, this work is a road map for the spiritual life based on the lives of women who are joyfully showing us the way.

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You can find the book here

“With openness and candor, Elizabeth Ficocelli reveals her personal experiences of living the challenges of her Catholic faith. Her peace and joy come in meeting these challenges by embracing the cross though the grace of prayer and the sacraments, as well as following the example of newfound friends, her favorite saints. This book will help anyone who also experiences challenges in life through the assistance of some wonderful friends!”–Mother Mary Assumpta Long, Prioress General, Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist

“Tender, honest, introspective, and deeply personal, this book provides beautiful witness to the loveliness and wonder of the feminine genius! Elizabeth Ficocelli, writing from the insightful perspective of a convert to Catholicism who seeks to understand and unpack the mysteries of her own spiritual journey, reminds us in this gem of a book that we should all seek to acquire friendship with the saints and grow in the theological virtues. I highly recommend this book!”–Rev. Donald Calloway, M.I.C., Author of Under the Mantle

IP#275 Dr. Austen Ivereigh – The Great Reformer on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

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“The Great Reformer: Francis and the Making of a Radical Pope” by Austen Ivereigh is a must read!

Shared from a unique vantage point, the insights Dr. Ivereigh provides are incredibly important for our times. He has an engaging writing style that offers vivid historical clarity to the issues and challenges which surround the pontificate of Pope Francis. In this book he beautifully places into context Jorge Mario Bergoglio’s upbringing, the events taking place in Latin America, his formation in Jesuit spirituality, and the Church’s life on the world stage. When we can appreciate the Holy Father as operating from the role he is most comfortable with, that of a master spiritual director and one who seeks to “discern” God’s will in the classic sense, then many of the “reforms” and the actions surrounding their implementation, make sense. A fascinating conversation and an outstanding book. Don’t miss!

You can find the book here

“Ivereigh has written the best available chronicle of the formative events in the life and thinking of Jorge Mario Bergoglio and demonstrates how his call for a ‘Church in permanent mission’ extends and deepens the ‘New Evangelization’ proclaimed by St. John Paul II.”—George Weigel, author of Evangelical Catholicism”

“Well written, full of information; this is the best biography of Pope Francis to date.”—Thomas Reese, Senior Analyst, National Catholic Reporter and author of Inside the Vatican: The Politics and Organization of the Catholic Church

“Probing, comprehensive, eminently readable and absorbing . . . In a growing list of books on the first Latin American pope, Ivereigh’s is uniquely well informed and persuasive.”—Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archbishop of Philadelphia

IP#286 Marcus Grodi – “Life from Our Land” on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

What a phenomenal book! The “journey home” never looked more beautiful. I didn’t want to put down “Life from Our Land: The Search for a Simpler Life in a Complex World”. St. Benedict in the Holy Rule implores us to “listen with the ears of our hearts”. Marcus Grodi, founder of the Coming Home International ministry and EWTN show host, shows us how it can be done. So much more than just a spiritual memoir, Marcus offers us a road map we too could follow that leads from “the head to the heart.” His writing is engaging, funny, and steeped in a warm humility…what a delight. Rich spiritual fruit can be harvested from this book.

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You can find the book here

“If we ponder carefully the insights in this book, we can learn how to grow in detachment, simplicity, holiness, and humility.”
— Paul Thigpen, Author, Manual for Spiritual Warfare

“Read this book and you will receive the riches Mammon cannot provide and reap the harvest of hope and wisdom.”
— Joseph Pearce, Author, Catholic Literary Giants

“This book is a hymn of gratitude for the wonder that is creation, which manifests the deep purpose of things.”
— Dr. Timothy O’Donnell, President, Christendom College

IP#37 Fr. Peter John Cameron O.P. – Mysteries of the Virgin Mary on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

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Fr. Peter John Cameron O.P. – Mysteries of the Virgin Mary on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Stunning…simply stunning. I love “Mysteries of the Virgin Mary: Living Our Lady’s Graces”! A beautiful and lovingly assembled collection of and meditations on the 13 principal Marian mysteries celebrated by the Church. From the sound theological foundations for our devotion to Our Lady to the reflections and teachings of the saints, Fr. Peter John Cameron, founding editor-in-chief of the monthly worship aid Magnificat, has given us a wonderful resource to deepen our walk with the Blessed Mother of God.

You kind find this book at here

From the book description:

You may wonder why the Church celebrates so many feasts in honor of Mary throughout the year. You may also wonder what meaning they have for your own life. Fr. Peter John Cameron considers some of the major mysteries associated with the Mother of God not only to help you better understand these feasts, but also to help you see that Mary is always at hand, ready to help you become who you are meant to be. She stands in solidarity with you so that you might stand in solidarity with her Son, living your life to the fullest.

About the Author: Father Peter John Cameron O.P. grew up in Vernon, Connecticut. He was ordained a Dominican priest in 1986. He holds a Licentiate in Sacred Theology from the Dominican House of Studies, and a Master of Fine Arts in playwriting from the Catholic University of America. He is the author of ten books, including The Classics of Catholic Spirituality, Blessing Prayers, Mysteries of the Virgin Mary, Made for Love—Loved by God, Novenas for the Church Year, Jesus Present Before Me, and Why Preach: Encountering Christ in God’s Word. He served two terms as the director of preaching for his Dominican province. Fr. Peter John is the founding editor-in-chief of Magnificat, where he worked from 1998-2018. He is the Prior (the local superior) of St. Patrick Priory.

IP#219 Fr. Kenneth Baker S.J. – The Will of God on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

“The Will of God: Finding and Fulfilling Your Purpose in Life” is a great book which uses the great Psalm 119 to help us in the area of discernment. Taking a lifetime of steeped in prayer and sound theology, Fr. Baker gives us a unique and penetrating resource to aid in our growth in the areas of contemplation and discernment. Father Baker was the editor of Homiletic & Pastoral Review for more than 40 years, and currently serves as Editor Emeritus of the online edition. He was a joy to talk with and to learn from….not to be missed for the discerning heart!

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You can find the book here

“Father Baker helps us to discover God’s will and, what is even more, important how to live God’s will! He uses the Holy Scriptures,the teaching of the Church and the saints to help us become holy and transformed into the saints that God created us to be. Read this book and discover what God wants you to do!” —Fr. Larry Richards, Author, Be a Man!