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


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

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

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

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

From the Holy Gospel According to St. Matthew 15:21-28

Jesus left Gennesaret and withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. Then out came a Canaanite woman from that district and started shouting, ‘Sir, Son of David, take pity on me. My daughter is tormented by a devil.’ But he answered her not a word. And his disciples went and pleaded with him. ‘Give her what she wants,’ they said ‘because she is shouting after us.’ He said in reply, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the House of Israel.’ But the woman had come up and was kneeling at his feet. ‘Lord,’ she said ‘help me.’ He replied, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the house-dogs.’ She retorted, ‘Ah yes, sir; but even house-dogs can eat the scraps that fall from their master’s table.’ Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, you have great faith. Let your wish be granted.’ And from that moment her daughter was well again.

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 left Gennesaret and withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. Then out came a Canaanite woman from that district and started shouting, ‘Sir, Son of David, take pity on me. My daughter is tormented by a devil.’ But he answered her not a word. And his disciples went and pleaded with him. ‘Give her what she wants,’ they said ‘because she is shouting after us.’ He said in reply, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the House of Israel.’ But the woman had come up and was kneeling at his feet. ‘Lord,’ she said ‘help me.’ He replied, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the house-dogs.’ She retorted, ‘Ah yes, sir; but even house-dogs can eat the scraps that fall from their master’s table.’ Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, you have great faith. Let your wish be granted.’ And from that moment her daughter was well again.

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 left Gennesaret and withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. Then out came a Canaanite woman from that district and started shouting, ‘Sir, Son of David, take pity on me. My daughter is tormented by a devil.’ But he answered her not a word. And his disciples went and pleaded with him. ‘Give her what she wants,’ they said ‘because she is shouting after us.’ He said in reply, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the House of Israel.’ But the woman had come up and was kneeling at his feet. ‘Lord,’ she said ‘help me.’ He replied, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the house-dogs.’ She retorted, ‘Ah yes, sir; but even house-dogs can eat the scraps that fall from their master’s table.’ Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, you have great faith. Let your wish be granted.’ And from that moment her daughter was well again.

What touched your heart in this time of prayer?

What did your heart feel as you prayed?

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


Our Father, who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come.

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

Give us this day our daily bread,

and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us,

and lead us not into temptation,

 but deliver us from evil.

Amen

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

Day 7 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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

Day 7 – Quest for Truth

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

Anyone who seeks the truth is seeking God, whether consciously or unconsciously.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross underscores the intrinsic connection between the search for truth and the search for God. She suggests that all genuine quests for truth, in any form, are ultimately directed toward God, the source of all truth. This idea encourages us to view our intellectual pursuits and spiritual journeys as deeply interconnected. Edith Stein, a renowned philosopher and theologian, experienced this connection profoundly in her own life, leading her to embrace the Catholic faith and eventually become a Carmelite nun.

Anyone who seeks the truth is seeking God, whether consciously or unconsciously.*

How can you approach your search for truth as a journey toward God, and how does this understanding influence your daily life and interactions?Approach all inquiries and learning with the awareness that they are paths to discovering God. Allow this perspective to inspire integrity and humility in your quest for knowledge, recognizing each step as part of a larger spiritual journey. Deepen your quest for truth by immersing yourself in the Sacred Scriptures, the teachings of the Church, and the writings of the saints. Participate regularly in the sacramental life of the Church, particularly in the Eucharist and Confession, which provide spiritual nourishment and guidance. Seek the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Seat of Wisdom, and ask for her guidance in your studies and pursuits. Engage in prayer and contemplation, allowing the Holy Spirit to enlighten your mind and heart, leading you closer to the fullness of truth found in Christ. This understanding enriches your interactions with others, fostering respect and openness, and encourages you to live out the truths of the Catholic faith in your daily life.

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

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

All-powerful, ever-living God,
  you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
  the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ
  even to the point of giving her life for it.
By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you
  and to seek you with all our hearts,
  for you alone are the source of life.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
*Citation: Edith Stein, Finest Quotes: Collected Works of Edith Stein. ICS Publications.

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

Day 8 – A St. Dominic Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A Novena to St. Dominic for the Discerning Heart

Day 8 – Rosary Devotion

A teaching from St. Dominic:

“Whoever devoutly serves the Blessed Virgin through the recitation of the Rosary will infallibly receive blessings according to their spiritual and temporal needs.”

St. Dominic’s words emphasize the profound importance and power of the Rosary in the life of a faithful Christian. According to tradition, St. Dominic was given the Rosary by the Blessed Virgin Mary in an apparition after his prayer and fasting seeking a way to combat heresy spreading in the world. During his time, many people did not have access to the Bible in their homes. The Rosary became a means of catechizing the faithful through prayerful reflection and immersion in the Gospel message. By responding to the Blessed Virgin Mary’s call to pray the Rosary, we follow her guidance and grow closer to her Son, Jesus Christ. The Rosary is a personal prayer and a means of calling upon God’s grace for ourselves and the world. Each mystery draws us into the biblical narrative, helping us to embrace and live out the teachings of the Gospel. This practice deepens our understanding of Scripture and strengthens our relationship with God, opening us to receive blessings that address both our spiritual and temporal needs.

“Whoever devoutly serves the Blessed Virgin through the recitation of the Rosary will infallibly receive blessings according to their spiritual and temporal needs.”

How can you incorporate the regular recitation of the Rosary into your life, seeking blessings and growing in your understanding and relationship with Christ, as well as addressing the needs of the world?
To incorporate the Rosary into your life, dedicate a specific time each day for its recitation. Focus on the mysteries, which reflect significant events in the life of Christ and Mary, as presented in Scripture and Tradition. Meditating on these mysteries helps embrace Gospel teachings and apply them to daily life. This practice not only strengthens our connection with God but also allows us to receive unseen graces that extend beyond our personal needs to address the spiritual and temporal needs of the world. Through the Rosary, we can intercede for global peace, healing, and conversion, trusting that our prayers contribute to the outpouring of divine grace for the benefit of all.

“Whoever devoutly serves the Blessed Virgin through the recitation of the Rosary will infallibly receive blessings according to their spiritual and temporal needs.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amen

Lord God,
  you gave Saint Dominic to the Church of his day
  as a great preacher of your truth.
We pray that he will help us in our time
  by his merits, his teaching, and his unfailing prayer.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
St. Dominic Quotation taken from: Constitutions of the Order of Preachers

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

The Transfiguration of the Lord – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

The Transfiguration of the Lord – 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 9:2-10

Jesus took with him Peter and James and John and led them up a high mountain where they could be alone by themselves. There in their presence he was transfigured: his clothes became dazzlingly white, whiter than any earthly bleacher could make them. Elijah appeared to them with Moses; and they were talking with Jesus. Then Peter spoke to Jesus: ‘Rabbi,’ he said ‘it is wonderful for us to be here; so let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.’ He did not know what to say; they were so frightened. And a cloud came, covering them in shadow; and there came a voice from the cloud, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved. Listen to him.’ Then suddenly, when they looked round, they saw no one with them any more but only Jesus.
  As they came down from the mountain he warned them to tell no one what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead. They observed the warning faithfully, though among themselves they discussed what ‘rising from the dead’ could mean.

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 took with him Peter and James and John and led them up a high mountain where they could be alone by themselves. There in their presence he was transfigured: his clothes became dazzlingly white, whiter than any earthly bleacher could make them. Elijah appeared to them with Moses; and they were talking with Jesus. Then Peter spoke to Jesus: ‘Rabbi,’ he said ‘it is wonderful for us to be here; so let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.’ He did not know what to say; they were so frightened. And a cloud came, covering them in shadow; and there came a voice from the cloud, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved. Listen to him.’ Then suddenly, when they looked round, they saw no one with them any more but only Jesus.
  As they came down from the mountain he warned them to tell no one what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead. They observed the warning faithfully, though among themselves they discussed what ‘rising from the dead’ could mean.

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 took with him Peter and James and John and led them up a high mountain where they could be alone by themselves. There in their presence he was transfigured: his clothes became dazzlingly white, whiter than any earthly bleacher could make them. Elijah appeared to them with Moses; and they were talking with Jesus. Then Peter spoke to Jesus: ‘Rabbi,’ he said ‘it is wonderful for us to be here; so let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.’ He did not know what to say; they were so frightened. And a cloud came, covering them in shadow; and there came a voice from the cloud, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved. Listen to him.’ Then suddenly, when they looked round, they saw no one with them any more but only Jesus.
  As they came down from the mountain he warned them to tell no one what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead. They observed the warning faithfully, though among themselves they discussed what ‘rising from the dead’ could mean.

What touched your heart in this time of prayer?

What did your heart feel as you prayed?

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


Our Father, who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come.

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

Give us this day our daily bread,

and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us,

and lead us not into temptation,

 but deliver us from evil.

Amen

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

Day 6 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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

Day 6 – Trust and Surrender

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

When night comes, and retrospect shows that everything was patchwork and much which one had planned was left undone; when so many things rouse shame and regret, then take all as it is, lay it in God’s hands, and offer it up to Him.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross speaks to the universal experience of reflection and regret, especially at the end of a day or life phase. She advises turning these feelings into a spiritual offering, placing them in God’s hands as an act of trust and surrender. This practice fosters a sense of peace and acceptance, knowing that divine grace can transform even our shortcomings. Edith Stein’s intellectual and spiritual journeys were marked by moments of uncertainty, yet she consistently found peace in surrendering to God’s will, exemplifying a deep trust in divine providence.

When night comes, and retrospect shows that everything was patchwork and much which one had planned was left undone; when so many things rouse shame and regret, then take all as it is, lay it in God’s hands, and offer it up to Him.*

How can you practice surrender and trust in God’s plan when faced with your own shortcomings and unfinished plans?Offer your regrets and unmet goals to God in prayer, trusting in His mercy and wisdom. Embrace a spirit of humility and acceptance, believing that God can bring good out of every situation and that He guides you towards spiritual growth. Deepen your trust by reflecting on Christ’s own surrender to the Father’s will in the Garden of Gethsemane, and regularly participate in the sacraments, especially Reconciliation and the Eucharist, which provide grace and strength. Seek the intercession of saints like Edith Stein, who found profound peace in trusting God’s plan. Pray for the grace to accept your limitations and to trust in God’s loving providence, knowing that He works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

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

All-powerful, ever-living God,
  you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
  the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ
  even to the point of giving her life for it.
By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you
  and to seek you with all our hearts,
  for you alone are the source of life.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
*Citation: Edith Stein, The Collected Works of Edith Stein, Volume 5: The Science of the Cross. Translated by Josephine Koeppel (ICS Publications, 2002), p. 161.

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

Day 7 – A St. Dominic Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

A Novena to St. Dominic for the Discerning Heart

Day 7 – The Power of Marian Devotion

A teaching from St. Dominic:

“One day, through the Rosary and the Scapular, Our Lady will save the world”

St. Dominic’s prophecy about the Rosary and the Scapular highlights the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Catholic spirituality. The Rosary, with its meditative prayer structure focusing on the life of Christ and Mary, invites us to reflect deeply on the mysteries of our faith. The Scapular, a sign of Mary’s protection and a commitment to live according to her guidance, serves as a constant reminder of our devotion. This prophecy reassures us of Mary’s role in leading souls to Christ and emphasizes the transformative power of these devotions in achieving personal and global salvation. In a world facing many challenges, this promise brings hope and calls for a renewed commitment to Marian devotion, trusting that through prayer and dedication, we can contribute to the salvation of the world.

“One day, through the Rosary and the Scapular, Our Lady will save the world”

How can you incorporate the Rosary and the Scapular into your daily spiritual practices to deepen your devotion to Mary and strengthen your faith?
Incorporating the Rosary and the Scapular into your daily life can profoundly deepen your spiritual journey. Begin by setting a specific time each day for praying the Rosary, allowing you to meditate on its mysteries and draw closer to the life of Christ and Mary. Wearing the Scapular throughout the day serves as a tangible reminder of your commitment to Mary and her protective mantle. Additionally, you can consecrate yourself to Mary, dedicating your daily actions to her guidance. Reflect on the promises associated with the Scapular, such as Mary’s protection and intercession, and strive to live a life that aligns with these spiritual commitments. These practices not only enhance personal piety but also connect you with a broader community of believers who share in these devotions, fostering a sense of unity and support in your faith journey.

“One day, through the Rosary and the Scapular, Our Lady will save the world”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amen

Lord God,
  you gave Saint Dominic to the Church of his day
  as a great preacher of your truth.
We pray that he will help us in our time
  by his merits, his teaching, and his unfailing prayer.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
St. Dominic Quotation taken from: Constitutions of the Order of Preachers

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

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


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

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

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

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

From the Holy Gospel According to St. Matthew 14:13-21

When Jesus received the news of John the Baptist’s death he withdrew by boat to a lonely place where they could be by themselves. But the people heard of this and, leaving the towns, went after him on foot. So as he stepped ashore he saw a large crowd; and he took pity on them and healed their sick.
When evening came, the disciples went to him and said, ‘This is a lonely place, and the time has slipped by; so send the people away, and they can go to the villages to buy themselves some food.’ Jesus replied, ‘There is no need for them to go: give them something to eat yourselves.’ But they answered ‘All we have with us is five loaves and two fish.’ ‘Bring them here to me’ he said. He gave orders that the people were to sit down on the grass; then he took the five loaves and the two fish, raised his eyes to heaven and said the blessing. And breaking the loaves handed them to his disciples who gave them to the crowds. They all ate as much as they wanted, and they collected the scraps remaining; twelve baskets full. Those who ate numbered about five thousand men, to say nothing of women and children.

What word made this passage come alive for you?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

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

When Jesus received the news of John the Baptist’s death he withdrew by boat to a lonely place where they could be by themselves. But the people heard of this and, leaving the towns, went after him on foot. So as he stepped ashore he saw a large crowd; and he took pity on them and healed their sick.
When evening came, the disciples went to him and said, ‘This is a lonely place, and the time has slipped by; so send the people away, and they can go to the villages to buy themselves some food.’ Jesus replied, ‘There is no need for them to go: give them something to eat yourselves.’ But they answered ‘All we have with us is five loaves and two fish.’ ‘Bring them here to me’ he said. He gave orders that the people were to sit down on the grass; then he took the five loaves and the two fish, raised his eyes to heaven and said the blessing. And breaking the loaves handed them to his disciples who gave them to the crowds. They all ate as much as they wanted, and they collected the scraps remaining; twelve baskets full. Those who ate numbered about five thousand men, to say nothing of women and children.

What did your heart feel as you listened?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

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

When Jesus received the news of John the Baptist’s death he withdrew by boat to a lonely place where they could be by themselves. But the people heard of this and, leaving the towns, went after him on foot. So as he stepped ashore he saw a large crowd; and he took pity on them and healed their sick.
When evening came, the disciples went to him and said, ‘This is a lonely place, and the time has slipped by; so send the people away, and they can go to the villages to buy themselves some food.’ Jesus replied, ‘There is no need for them to go: give them something to eat yourselves.’ But they answered ‘All we have with us is five loaves and two fish.’ ‘Bring them here to me’ he said. He gave orders that the people were to sit down on the grass; then he took the five loaves and the two fish, raised his eyes to heaven and said the blessing. And breaking the loaves handed them to his disciples who gave them to the crowds. They all ate as much as they wanted, and they collected the scraps remaining; twelve baskets full. Those who ate numbered about five thousand men, to say nothing of women and children.

What touched your heart in this time of prayer?

What did your heart feel as you prayed?

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


Our Father, who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come.

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

Give us this day our daily bread,

and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us,

and lead us not into temptation,

 but deliver us from evil.

Amen

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

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

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

Day 5 – Nurturing Soul

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

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

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

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

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

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

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

All-powerful, ever-living God,
  you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
  the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ
  even to the point of giving her life for it.
By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you
  and to seek you with all our hearts,
  for you alone are the source of life.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
*Citation: Edith Stein, Essays on Woman. Translated by Freda Mary Oben, The Collected Works of Edith Stein, Volume 2 (ICS Publications, 1996), p. 132.

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

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

A Novena to St. Dominic for the Discerning Heart

Day 6– Mastering Passions

A teaching from St. Dominic:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amen

Lord God,
  you gave Saint Dominic to the Church of his day
  as a great preacher of your truth.
We pray that he will help us in our time
  by his merits, his teaching, and his unfailing prayer.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
St. Dominic Quotation take from: Constitutions of the Order of Preachers

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

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


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

Day 9 – Opening to the Supreme Joy: Friendship with JesusFr. Timothy Gallagher – Discernment of Spirits 1

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

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

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

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

Daily Novena Prayer 

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

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

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

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

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