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SJC1 – The Hiding Place of the Beloved – St. John of the Cross with Fr. Donald Haggerty – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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The Hiding Place of the Beloved – St. John of the Cross: Master of Contemplation with Fr. Donald Haggerty

In this introductory episode, Father Donald Haggerty and Kris McGregor discuss the spiritual depth and teachings of St. John of the Cross and his role as a “Master of Contemplation.” St. John of the Cross is portrayed as a mystic and poet whose writings lead believers to a deeper union with God.

St. John’s insights, such as those in his poetry and writings like the Spiritual Canticle, were often birthed from profound suffering, including his imprisonment. This hiddenness of God—where He seems absent but is present in a concealed way—forms a central theme. The longing for God in prayer, even in silence and dryness, is a means of growing in spiritual depth, aligning with John’s teaching that God uses such longing to draw souls closer to Him.

His teachings on love and detachment resonate in the lives of saints like St. Thérèse of Lisieux and St. Teresa of Calcutta, who lived out his call to love in small, selfless acts. Contemplative prayer isn’t a technique but a relational journey toward God, requiring a stripping away of distractions and desires. St. John’s suffering in prison also became a crucible for spiritual beauty, producing poetry that communicates profound truths about God’s presence and longing for the soul.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

The Hiddenness of God in Prayer: How have you experienced God’s presence as both hidden and mysteriously near in your prayer life?
Longing for Union with God: In what ways can you embrace the longing for God as a central part of your spiritual journey?
Learning from Suffering: How can the trials in your life, like St. John of the Cross’s imprisonment, become opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with God?
The Call to Contemplative Prayer: How can you move beyond methods and activities in prayer to focus on cultivating a quiet, loving presence with God?
Living Love in Small Acts: How can you demonstrate love for God and others in small, selfless ways in your daily life, inspired by saints like St. Thérèse and Mother Teresa?
Detachment and Freedom: What desires or distractions might you need to surrender to grow in deeper union with God?
Finding God in the Ordinary: How can you better recognize and serve Christ in the hidden and ordinary moments of your day?
Reflecting on St. John’s Writings: How can the poetry and teachings of St. John of the Cross inspire a new depth in your spiritual life?

Here is the excerpt from the Spiritual Canticle by St. John of the Cross that Fr. Haggerty references in the podcast:

SONG OF THE SOUL AND THE BRIDEGROOM

I
THE BRIDE

Where have You hidden Yourself,
And abandoned me in my groaning, O my Beloved? You have fled like the hart,
Having wounded me.
I ran after You, crying; but You were gone.

O shepherds, you who go
Through the sheepcots up the hill, If you shall see Him
Whom I love the most,
Tell Him I languish, suffer, and die.

III

In search of my Love
I will go over mountains and strands;
I will gather no flowers,
I will fear no wild beasts;
And pass by the mighty and the frontiers.

O groves and thickets
Planted by the hand of the Beloved; O verdant meads
Enameled with flowers,
Tell me, has He passed by you?

Where have you hidden,
Beloved, and left me moaning?
You fled like the stag
after wounding me;

I went out calling you, but you were gone. This initial stanza of “The Spiritual Canticle” unlocks the bolt of a door, allowing us a first glimpse at the soul of Saint John of the Cross and his intense love for God. In these opening lines of a lengthy poem, we hear the agonized voice of a lover tormented by her solitude, in a terrible suffering after the departure of her Beloved. The piercing lament of the bride, wounded in the depth of her soul, is an image of the lover of God who seeks for his return after earlier enjoying his close presence. The mood of loneliness in the poem will shift over the course of its forty stanzas to a recognition of the Beloved’s presence even in his concealment. But for now, as the poem commences, the pain is strong and irremediable. Many of the stanzas of this exquisite poem, full of lush natural images, were composed by Saint John of the Cross without pen or paper, the stanzas kept in his memory, while he was locked in a windowless, six-by-ten-foot converted closet, with only a thin slit of light high up in a wall. That room served as a makeshift prison cell in the Calced Carmelite Friars’ monastery in Toledo, Spain, for nine months of his life, from December 1577 until August 1578. Only in the very last period of the nine months did he receive pen and paper from a sympathetic friar serving as his jailer and write down verses. He later recounted to Carmelite nuns that another important poem, “The Dark Night”, was completed before he left that prison cell.

Haggerty, Donald. Saint John of the Cross: Master of Contemplation (pp. 18-19). Ignatius Press. Kindle Edition.

For more episodes in this series visit Fr. Haggerty’s Discerning Hearts page here

You find the book on which this series is based here.

Thursday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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Thursday of the Thirty-Third 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. Luke 19:41-44

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem and came in sight of the city he shed tears over it and said, ‘If you in your turn had only understood on this day the message of peace! But, alas, it is hidden from your eyes! Yes, a time is coming when your enemies will raise fortifications all round you, when they will encircle you and hem you in on every side; they will dash you and the children inside your walls to the ground; they will leave not one stone standing on another within you – and all because you did not recognise your opportunity when God offered it!’

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:

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem and came in sight of the city he shed tears over it and said, ‘If you in your turn had only understood on this day the message of peace! But, alas, it is hidden from your eyes! Yes, a time is coming when your enemies will raise fortifications all round you, when they will encircle you and hem you in on every side; they will dash you and the children inside your walls to the ground; they will leave not one stone standing on another within you – and all because you did not recognise your opportunity when God offered it!’

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:

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem and came in sight of the city he shed tears over it and said, ‘If you in your turn had only understood on this day the message of peace! But, alas, it is hidden from your eyes! Yes, a time is coming when your enemies will raise fortifications all round you, when they will encircle you and hem you in on every side; they will dash you and the children inside your walls to the ground; they will leave not one stone standing on another within you – and all because you did not recognise your opportunity when God offered it!’

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.

SBN4 – Heaven – Salvation Begins Now: Last Things First with Deacon James Keating – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Episode 4: Heaven – Salvation Begins Now: Last Things First

Deacon James Keating explores the nature of heaven as a relationship with Christ rather than a physical place. Heaven begins now, insofar as we are “in Christ.” This communion, nurtured through prayer, sacraments, and repentance, is the essence of heaven. Sin disrupts this union, leading to unhappiness, but God works continuously through His grace, the Holy Spirit, and the sacraments to heal and restore us. Evangelization, therefore, is not about institutional growth but sharing God’s urgent desire for all to enter this eternal communion.

Each person will experience God’s particular love in a unique and fulfilling way, retaining their identity in the resurrection. Mystical experiences, accessible through deeper participation in the sacraments and prayer, provide a foretaste of heaven and shift our desires toward eternal values over earthly ones.

Trust in Jesus’ promises and attachment to Him through the Eucharist prepare us for the fulfillment of all desires in the eternal communion of love between God and His people. Heaven is not just a future hope but a present reality we are called to live now.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

What Is Heaven to You? Reflect on how you understand heaven as a relationship with Christ rather than a physical place.
Are You Living Heaven Now? Consider whether your current prayer and sacramental life reflect the call to begin living in communion with Christ today.
How Does Sin Affect Your Happiness? Examine how venial and mortal sins may disrupt your union with God and your pursuit of authentic happiness.
Do You Trust in God’s Promises? Reflect on your trust in Jesus’ promise of eternal life and how it inspires hope in your daily actions.
Are You Growing in Mysticism? Contemplate whether you are deepening your prayer life and sacramental participation to experience God more intimately.
How Do You Proclaim Heaven to Others? Evaluate how your life and actions evangelize the urgency of living in Christ to those around you.
Do You Recognize God’s Particular Love for You? Meditate on the personal and unique way God loves you, even now, as a foretaste of heaven.
What Earthly Attachments Do You Need to Relinquish? Identify areas of your life where earthly values may overshadow your desire for eternal communion with God.
How Do You Prepare for Heaven? Reflect on how your choices, virtues, and faith practices align with your journey toward full union with Christ.
What Does “Heaven Begins Now” Mean to You? Contemplate the ways you can live heaven today by embracing God’s love and sharing it with others.

From the Catechism of the Catholic Church:

1024 “This perfect life with the Most Holy Trinity—this communion of life and love with the Trinity, with the Virgin Mary, the angels and all the blessed—is called “heaven.” Heaven is the ultimate end and fulfillment of the deepest human longings, the state of supreme, definitive happiness.”

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

Check out Deacon Keating’s “Discerning Heart” page

Wednesday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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Wednesday of the Thirty-Third 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 Luke 19:11-28

While the people were listening, Jesus went on to tell a parable, because he was near Jerusalem and they imagined that the kingdom of God was going to show itself then and there. Accordingly he said, ‘A man of noble birth went to a distant country to be appointed king and afterwards return. He summoned ten of his servants and gave them ten pounds. “Do business with these” he told them “until I get back.” But his compatriots detested him and sent a delegation to follow him with this message, “We do not want this man to be our king.”

‘Now on his return, having received his appointment as king, he sent for those servants to whom he had given the money, to find out what profit each had made. The first came in and said, “Sir, your one pound has brought in ten.” “Well done, my good servant!” he replied “Since you have proved yourself faithful in a very small thing, you shall have the government of ten cities.” Then came the second and said, “Sir, your one pound has made five.” To this one also he said, “And you shall be in charge of five cities.” Next came the other and said, “Sir, here is your pound. I put it away safely in a piece of linen because I was afraid of you; for you are an exacting man: you pick up what you have not put down and reap what you have not sown.” “You wicked servant!” he said “Out of your own mouth I condemn you. So you knew I was an exacting man, picking up what I have not put down and reaping what I have not sown? Then why did you not put my money in the bank? On my return I could have drawn it out with interest.” And he said to those standing by, “Take the pound from him and give it to the man who has ten pounds.” And they said to him, “But, sir, he has ten pounds…”. “I tell you, to everyone who has will be given more; but from the man who has not, even what he has will be taken away.

‘“But as for my enemies who did not want me for their king, bring them here and execute them in my presence.”’
When he had said this he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem.

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:

While the people were listening, Jesus went on to tell a parable, because he was near Jerusalem and they imagined that the kingdom of God was going to show itself then and there. Accordingly he said, ‘A man of noble birth went to a distant country to be appointed king and afterwards return. He summoned ten of his servants and gave them ten pounds. “Do business with these” he told them “until I get back.” But his compatriots detested him and sent a delegation to follow him with this message, “We do not want this man to be our king.”

‘Now on his return, having received his appointment as king, he sent for those servants to whom he had given the money, to find out what profit each had made. The first came in and said, “Sir, your one pound has brought in ten.” “Well done, my good servant!” he replied “Since you have proved yourself faithful in a very small thing, you shall have the government of ten cities.” Then came the second and said, “Sir, your one pound has made five.” To this one also he said, “And you shall be in charge of five cities.” Next came the other and said, “Sir, here is your pound. I put it away safely in a piece of linen because I was afraid of you; for you are an exacting man: you pick up what you have not put down and reap what you have not sown.” “You wicked servant!” he said “Out of your own mouth I condemn you. So you knew I was an exacting man, picking up what I have not put down and reaping what I have not sown? Then why did you not put my money in the bank? On my return I could have drawn it out with interest.” And he said to those standing by, “Take the pound from him and give it to the man who has ten pounds.” And they said to him, “But, sir, he has ten pounds…”. “I tell you, to everyone who has will be given more; but from the man who has not, even what he has will be taken away.

‘“But as for my enemies who did not want me for their king, bring them here and execute them in my presence.”’
When he had said this he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem.

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:

While the people were listening, Jesus went on to tell a parable, because he was near Jerusalem and they imagined that the kingdom of God was going to show itself then and there. Accordingly he said, ‘A man of noble birth went to a distant country to be appointed king and afterwards return. He summoned ten of his servants and gave them ten pounds. “Do business with these” he told them “until I get back.” But his compatriots detested him and sent a delegation to follow him with this message, “We do not want this man to be our king.”

‘Now on his return, having received his appointment as king, he sent for those servants to whom he had given the money, to find out what profit each had made. The first came in and said, “Sir, your one pound has brought in ten.” “Well done, my good servant!” he replied “Since you have proved yourself faithful in a very small thing, you shall have the government of ten cities.” Then came the second and said, “Sir, your one pound has made five.” To this one also he said, “And you shall be in charge of five cities.” Next came the other and said, “Sir, here is your pound. I put it away safely in a piece of linen because I was afraid of you; for you are an exacting man: you pick up what you have not put down and reap what you have not sown.” “You wicked servant!” he said “Out of your own mouth I condemn you. So you knew I was an exacting man, picking up what I have not put down and reaping what I have not sown? Then why did you not put my money in the bank? On my return I could have drawn it out with interest.” And he said to those standing by, “Take the pound from him and give it to the man who has ten pounds.” And they said to him, “But, sir, he has ten pounds…”. “I tell you, to everyone who has will be given more; but from the man who has not, even what he has will be taken away.

‘“But as for my enemies who did not want me for their king, bring them here and execute them in my presence.”’
When he had said this he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem.

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.

IP#506 Fr. James Kubicki, S.J. – A Year of Daily Offerings on Inside the Pages w/ Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A Year of Daily Offerings by Fr. James Kubicki, S.J. on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of “Inside the Pages”, Fr. James Kubicki discusses his book, A Year of Daily Offerings: Giving Your Life to God One Day at a Time, which encourages believers to begin each day with a prayer of offering and reflect on how to live out the Eucharist in daily life.

Prayer is a response to God’s love and presence, which always comes first. Through brief reflections inspired by saints’ lives and writings, the book helps individuals integrate spiritual practices like discernment and examination, fostering a deeper relationship with Christ.

With challenges posed by modern distractions like technology, we must use discipline to prioritize spiritual growth, sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Confession, and the communal aspect of faith; rooted in the “communion of saints.”

This book provides practical, concise reflections to fit into busy schedules, serving as both a standalone spiritual tool and a complement to other devotions.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

Daily Offering Practice
How can I incorporate a daily offering prayer into my routine to dedicate my actions to God?
Responding to God’s Love
In what ways can I better recognize and respond to God’s love in my life?
Learning from the Saints
What aspects of a particular saint’s life inspire me to deepen my relationship with God?
Evening Reflection
How can I review my day to see where I encountered God and how I responded to His presence?
Discerning God’s Presence
Am I attentive to the movements of the Holy Spirit and the challenges God places before me throughout the day?
Managing Modern Distractions
What steps can I take to reduce distractions from technology and create more space for prayer?
Living the Eucharist
How can I make my daily life a reflection of the love and sacrifice I celebrate in the Eucharist?
Sacramental Life
How do regular participation in the sacraments, especially Confession and the Eucharist, shape my spiritual journey?
Building Spiritual Discipline
What practical changes can I make to develop a more disciplined and consistent prayer life?
Communion and Community
How can I better embrace the communal aspect of my faith, both in the Church and in my personal relationships?

From the book’s description:

“A daily offering of one’s life to God is an indispensable practice for every serious Catholic. In this book, Fr. James Kubicki, S.J., a longtime spiritual guide on Relevant Radio, presents a 366-day experience of morning offerings for busy laypeople. This rich array of reflections, based on the liturgical calendar and inspired by Ignatian spirituality, will help you develop—or reinvigorate—the habit of beginning each day by sincerely offering it to Christ.

For each day of the year, Fr. Kubicki offers a meditation based on the saint of the day or liturgical calendar, an offering prayer, and a “Daily Word” to help you recall the offering throughout the day. Each day concludes with a review question, based on the daily theme, inviting you to make an Examen.

Making and living a daily offering, uniting our everyday experience with the life of Christ—in imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary—can help strengthen each of us to take up his daily cross and live a Eucharistic life.”

About the Author

Fr. James Kubicki, S.J., was ordained a Jesuit priest in 1983. He was the national director of the Apostleship of Prayer from 2003 to 2017. He currently leads retreats and parish missions while serving as a spiritual director at St. Francis de Sales Seminary in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

Tuesday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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Tuesday of the Thirty-Third 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 Luke 19:1-10

Jesus entered Jericho and was going through the town when a man whose name was Zacchaeus made his appearance: he was one of the senior tax collectors and a wealthy man. He was anxious to see what kind of man Jesus was, but he was too short and could not see him for the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus who was to pass that way. When Jesus reached the spot he looked up and spoke to him: ‘Zacchaeus, come down. Hurry, because I must stay at your house today.’ And he hurried down and welcomed him joyfully. They all complained when they saw what was happening. ‘He has gone to stay at a sinner’s house’ they said. But Zacchaeus stood his ground and said to the Lord, ‘Look, sir, I am going to give half my property to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody I will pay him back four times the amount.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because this man too is a son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek out and save what was lost.’

What word made this passage come alive for you?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

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

Jesus entered Jericho and was going through the town when a man whose name was Zacchaeus made his appearance: he was one of the senior tax collectors and a wealthy man. He was anxious to see what kind of man Jesus was, but he was too short and could not see him for the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus who was to pass that way. When Jesus reached the spot he looked up and spoke to him: ‘Zacchaeus, come down. Hurry, because I must stay at your house today.’ And he hurried down and welcomed him joyfully. They all complained when they saw what was happening. ‘He has gone to stay at a sinner’s house’ they said. But Zacchaeus stood his ground and said to the Lord, ‘Look, sir, I am going to give half my property to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody I will pay him back four times the amount.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because this man too is a son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek out and save what was lost.’

What did your heart feel as you listened?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

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

Jesus entered Jericho and was going through the town when a man whose name was Zacchaeus made his appearance: he was one of the senior tax collectors and a wealthy man. He was anxious to see what kind of man Jesus was, but he was too short and could not see him for the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus who was to pass that way. When Jesus reached the spot he looked up and spoke to him: ‘Zacchaeus, come down. Hurry, because I must stay at your house today.’ And he hurried down and welcomed him joyfully. They all complained when they saw what was happening. ‘He has gone to stay at a sinner’s house’ they said. But Zacchaeus stood his ground and said to the Lord, ‘Look, sir, I am going to give half my property to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody I will pay him back four times the amount.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because this man too is a son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek out and save what was lost.’

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.

SISL14 – Forms of Dryness – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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Forms of Dryness – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor examine the struggles and remedies in the spiritual life, focusing on dryness in prayer. Through stories like Paul’s father, who struggles with confusion and distraction as he begins praying with scripture. Learning how to meditate effectively, preparing in advance, and using resources like Bible studies or guided reflections can help deepen one’s prayer life.

Spiritual dryness is natural, especially for beginners, and persistence is key. We must embrace the idea of “praying badly” as a necessary first step and to seek guidance through spiritual reading, retreats, or confession.

There is a value in spiritual companionship, whether through friends, confessors, or spiritual directors. Stories like Julie’s show how a spiritual friend can gently help identify distractions and encourage a return to effective practices. Even without a formal spiritual director, forming a network of support is crucial for sustaining prayer. Fr. Gallagher advises adapting prayer practices to individual needs, reflecting deeply on scripture, and using interruptions as opportunities to refocus on God. With patience, persistence, and proper formation, the struggles of dryness can lead to a richer, more fulfilling spiritual life.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

The Role of Formation in Prayer: How can you deepen your understanding of scripture and prayer practices to overcome confusion or dryness in your spiritual life?
Preparation for Prayer: Are you intentionally preparing for prayer, such as choosing a quiet time and space or reviewing scripture beforehand?
Addressing Dryness in Prayer: How do you respond to feelings of dryness or distraction in prayer—do you persevere or seek guidance?
Value of Spiritual Companionship: Who are the spiritual friends, confessors, or mentors in your life who can offer encouragement and guidance in your journey?
Seeking God in Distractions: How can you turn interruptions or challenges in prayer into opportunities to refocus on God?
The Importance of Persistence: Are you willing to embrace small struggles in prayer, trusting that God will bless your efforts as you grow in spiritual maturity?
Exploring New Resources: Have you considered using tools like guided meditations, retreats, or spiritual readings to enrich your prayer life?
Reflecting on Prayer Practices: What adjustments can you make to your daily routines to foster a more fruitful and consistent prayer life?

An excerpt from the chapter, “A Need for Formation”:

“Paul’s father’s dryness in prayer does not arise from any fault on his part. On the contrary, he is diligent in preparing and approaches his prayer with goodwill. It derives, rather, from a lack of formation in prayer. Signs of this abound. When Paul’s father begins to pray, he chooses the Rosary because he saw his parents pray it. He knows little about the Rosary beyond its mechanics and, understandably, is easily distracted when he prays it.

Paul’s father has never read the Bible. He has no formation in Scripture and, again unsurprisingly, struggles to comprehend it. When he tries to meditate, he encounters more questions than spiritual insight. He does not understand why given Gospel passages are chosen for given days. With good intentions but unwisely, he chooses a time and place that render prayer difficult. Most likely, if Paul’s father continues to pray in this way, his prayer will be dry. Even more likely, he will not persevere.

This will change when he receives formation in prayer. Bible study will help him to understand the texts and so permit them to nourish him spiritually. Parish classes on prayer; spiritual books about meditation; resources on the web; meetings with a spiritual director, if possible; conversation with Paul, who is more experienced in prayer — all this will prepare Paul’s father to meditate fruitfully. As his schooling in prayer deepens, his meditation will no longer be dry. The Rosary, too, understood as contemplation of Jesus, will be less distracted. Formation in prayer resolves this form of dryness.

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (pp. 96-97). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

An excerpt from the chapter, “Something Has Slipped”:

“In this experience of dryness, the issue is negligence regarding prayer. The solution is to reverse that negligence. We all have routines, times of day, ways of choosing material, places, and the like that we know help us to pray. When we are faithful to them, this form of dryness resolves.”

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (pp. 100-101). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description:

“Here is a powerful, life-changing book that will help you understand and conquer the struggles you face in your spiritual life. It’s a book for those who love the Lord and desire holiness yet often feel adrift or stagnant in their search for spiritual growth.

All of us encounter valleys on our journey with the Lord — those periods of spiritual desolation that are a painful yet unavoidable feature of our prayer life. Spiritual desolation is as complex as we are, so understanding what is happening and responding to it properly are critical to reaching the heights of holiness.

With warmth and understanding, Fr. Gallagher carefully identifies in this book the various forms of spiritual and nonspiritual desolation and supplies the remedy for each. You’ll learn how to discern whether your struggles derive from medical or psychological conditions or whether those struggles are spiritual and permitted by the Lord for reasons of growth. In each case, you’ll be given the remedy for the struggle. You’ll also learn the forms of spiritual dryness and of the Dark Night — and how to respond to them.

In chapter after chapter, Fr. Gallagher presents a particular struggle as experienced by fictional characters and then provides the advice he gives to those who come to him for spiritual direction about that struggle. You’ll gain confidence as you journey through desolation, and you’ll learn to reject the enemy’s ploys to infect you with a sense of hopelessness.“

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

Monday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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Monday of the Thirty-Third 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. Luke 18:35-43

As Jesus drew near to Jericho there was a blind man sitting at the side of the road begging. When he heard the crowd going past he asked what it was all about, and they told him that Jesus the Nazarene was passing by. So he called out, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me.’ The people in front scolded him and told him to keep quiet, but he shouted all the louder, ‘Son of David, have pity on me.’ Jesus stopped and ordered them to bring the man to him, and when he came up, asked him, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ ‘Sir,’ he replied ‘let me see again.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Receive your sight. Your faith has saved you.’ And instantly his sight returned and he followed him praising God, and all the people who saw it gave praise to God for what had happened.

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:

As Jesus drew near to Jericho there was a blind man sitting at the side of the road begging. When he heard the crowd going past he asked what it was all about, and they told him that Jesus the Nazarene was passing by. So he called out, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me.’ The people in front scolded him and told him to keep quiet, but he shouted all the louder, ‘Son of David, have pity on me.’ Jesus stopped and ordered them to bring the man to him, and when he came up, asked him, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ ‘Sir,’ he replied ‘let me see again.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Receive your sight. Your faith has saved you.’ And instantly his sight returned and he followed him praising God, and all the people who saw it gave praise to God for what had happened.

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:

As Jesus drew near to Jericho there was a blind man sitting at the side of the road begging. When he heard the crowd going past he asked what it was all about, and they told him that Jesus the Nazarene was passing by. So he called out, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me.’ The people in front scolded him and told him to keep quiet, but he shouted all the louder, ‘Son of David, have pity on me.’ Jesus stopped and ordered them to bring the man to him, and when he came up, asked him, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ ‘Sir,’ he replied ‘let me see again.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Receive your sight. Your faith has saved you.’ And instantly his sight returned and he followed him praising God, and all the people who saw it gave praise to God for what had happened.

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.

No One Knows The Day Or Hour – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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No One Knows The Day Or Hour – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the urgency of living a Christ-centered life as the liturgical year draws to a close. Drawing from the readings in Daniel and Hebrews, the inevitability of death and the hope of resurrection for those united with Christ. He contrasts the repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant with the singular, perfect offering of Jesus, which provides eternal forgiveness and salvation. We ought to examine our lives for self-centeredness and idolatry, seeking repentance, trust in God’s providence, and reception of the sacraments.

The Gospel’s message that acts of love and service to others—feeding the hungry, welcoming strangers, and caring for the vulnerable—are essential to living out faith authentically and preparing for eternal life.

Amid global unrest and personal trials, Christ’s constant presence and victory over fear and tribulation are a source of hope. Love is important as the essence of God and the key to heaven, transcending religious and cultural divides. By living with charity and selflessness, believers can find peace and unity with God.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Eternal Readiness: How am I preparing my soul to meet God and embrace the promise of eternal life?
Living Sacramentally: Do I fully appreciate the power of Christ’s one perfect sacrifice through the sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist?
Acts of Love: How can I better serve Christ by loving and caring for the hungry, sick, and marginalized in my daily life?
Rejecting Fear: In what ways can I entrust my fears and anxieties to God amid personal and global challenges?
Authentic Faith: Am I living with self-centeredness or idolatry, and how can I redirect my heart toward God and others?
Universal Call to Love: How can I embody God’s love in my relationships, especially with those who are different from me?
Gratitude and Trust: How can I cultivate gratitude for God’s blessings and deepen my trust in His providence during uncertain times?

Gospel Mk 13:-24-35

Jesus said to his disciples:
“In those days after that tribulation
the sun will be darkened,
and the moon will not give its light,
and the stars will be falling from the sky,
and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.

“And then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in the clouds’
with great power and glory,
and then he will send out the angels
and gather his elect from the four winds,
from the end of the earth to the end of the sky.

“Learn a lesson from the fig tree.
When its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves,
you know that summer is near.
In the same way, when you see these things happening,
know that he is near, at the gates.
Amen, I say to you,
this generation will not pass away
until all these things have taken place.
Heaven and earth will pass away,
but my words will not pass away.

“But of that day or hour, no one knows,
neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”

Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton. Msgr. Esseff served as a retreat director and confessor to St. 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 Pope St. 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 continues to serve 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.

Sunday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

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Sunday of the Thirty-Third 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. Mark 13:24-32

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘In those days, after the time of distress, the sun will be darkened, the moon will lose its brightness, the stars will come falling from heaven and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory; then too he will send the angels to gather his chosen from the four winds, from the ends of the world to the ends of heaven.

‘Take the fig tree as a parable: as soon as its twigs grow supple and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. So with you when you see these things happening: know that he is near, at the very gates. I tell you solemnly, before this generation has passed away all these things will have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

‘But as for that day or hour, nobody knows it, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son; no one but the Father.’

What word made this passage come alive for you?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

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

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘In those days, after the time of distress, the sun will be darkened, the moon will lose its brightness, the stars will come falling from heaven and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory; then too he will send the angels to gather his chosen from the four winds, from the ends of the world to the ends of heaven.

‘Take the fig tree as a parable: as soon as its twigs grow supple and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. So with you when you see these things happening: know that he is near, at the very gates. I tell you solemnly, before this generation has passed away all these things will have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

‘But as for that day or hour, nobody knows it, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son; no one but the Father.’

What did your heart feel as you listened?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

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

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘In those days, after the time of distress, the sun will be darkened, the moon will lose its brightness, the stars will come falling from heaven and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory; then too he will send the angels to gather his chosen from the four winds, from the ends of the world to the ends of heaven.

‘Take the fig tree as a parable: as soon as its twigs grow supple and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. So with you when you see these things happening: know that he is near, at the very gates. I tell you solemnly, before this generation has passed away all these things will have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

‘But as for that day or hour, nobody knows it, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son; no one but the Father.’

What touched your heart in this time of prayer?

What did your heart feel as you prayed?

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

Our Father, who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come.

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

Give us this day our daily bread,

and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us,

and lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

Amen

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

The Hiding Place of the Beloved – St. John of the Cross: Master of Contemplation with Fr. Donald Haggerty

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

For more episodes in this series visit Fr. Haggerty’s Discerning Hearts page here

You find the book on which this series is based here.

Thursday of the Thirty-Third 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.

Episode 4: Heaven – Salvation Begins Now: Last Things First

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

From the Catechism of the Catholic Church:

Wednesday of the Thirty-Third 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 Year of Daily Offerings by Fr. James Kubicki, S.J. on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

From the book’s description:

About the Author

Tuesday of the Thirty-Third 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.

Forms of Dryness – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

An excerpt from the chapter, “A Need for Formation”:

An excerpt from the chapter, “Something Has Slipped”:

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description:

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

Monday of the Thirty-Third 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.

No One Knows The Day Or Hour – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Gospel Mk 13:-24-35

Sunday of the Thirty-Third 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.

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!