The Gift of Holiness – Advent Retreat Reflection by Deacon James Keating Ph.D.
Deacon James Keating reflects on the spiritual journey of focusing on “the one thing necessary,” inspired by the story of the Magi in Matthew 2, and the human tendency to be attracted to many distractions and how the saints exemplify unwavering commitment to God despite their struggles.
The sacrament of reconciliation, spiritual direction, and the liturgical seasons of Advent and Lent help us to purify our hearts and draw us closer to God. Holiness brings interior quiet, freedom, and simplicity, which are cultivated through deep participation in the Eucharist and attentiveness to God’s presence in daily life. With the pervasive “spirit of distraction” in modern culture we must resist despair by embracing the ideals of faith.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
What Attracts Your Heart? Reflect on the things that draw your attention and whether they lead you closer to God or distract you from Him.
Are You Focused on the One Thing Necessary? Examine how well you prioritize your relationship with Christ amidst the chaos and distractions of life.
How Do You Respond to Spiritual Restlessness? Consider whether you seek peace through deeper communion with God or turn to worldly solutions that fail to satisfy.
Do You Allow the Eucharist to Transform You? Evaluate the depth of your participation in the Eucharist and its ability to bring quiet, freedom, and simplicity to your soul.
How Do You Handle Distractions and Temptations? Reflect on your willingness to notice distracting thoughts and redirect them to Christ through prayer and trust.
Are You Embracing the Ideals of Faith? Ask yourself whether you welcome the challenging yet uplifting ideals of the Gospel or allow discouragement to pull you away.
What Treasure Are You Offering to Christ? Consider how you can, like the magi, pour out your life as a gift to Christ in gratitude and surrender.
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.
Spiritual Masters: Living and Praying in the Catholic Tradition by Archbishop Emeritus Alfred Hughes on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor
Kris McGregor discusses with Archbishop Hughes his recently published book, “Spiritual Masters: Living and Praying in the Catholic Tradition.” Archbishop Hughes explains that the book was inspired by a widespread desire for deeper spiritual engagement and a lack of knowledge on how to pursue it more meaningfully, in addition to the importance of moving beyond mere factual knowledge to gaining wisdom through reflection and divine guidance, advocating for an intellectual and spiritual conversion to deepen one’s faith and understanding.
They touch on the challenges posed by the digital age, which tends to keep people engaged only on a superficial level, and the necessity of creating reflective spaces to cultivate a deeper spiritual life. They also go into the significance of entering into solitude, as exemplified by St. Anthony of the Desert, and the role of spiritual direction in Christian life, a practice notably advanced by St. Anthony’s life and work.
Reflecting on the importance of not skipping the introductory sections of spiritual texts, as these often contain essential wisdom and guidance for reading the rest of the work; shifting from a student’s mindset to that of a disciple, seeking to learn and live out the teachings and wisdom found in spiritual writings.
Spiritual Exercises vs. Spiritual Understanding: Discuss how Archbishop Hughes’ book shifts from a typical biographical approach to a format that engages the reader in spiritual exercises. How does this approach challenge your understanding of spiritual reading?
Consequences of the Digital Age: Reflect on the Archbishop’s view that the digital age keeps us at the surface of life. How has technology affected your personal prayer life or your ability to engage deeply with your faith?
Knowledge versus Wisdom: The Archbishop differentiates between gathering knowledge and cultivating wisdom. Can you share an instance where you felt your spiritual knowledge transitioned into deeper wisdom? How did this impact your faith practices?
The Importance of Solitude: Why do you think solitude is emphasized as the starting point for spiritual growth in the podcast? Share your thoughts on how solitude can lead to a deeper spiritual life.
Spiritual Direction and Guidance: How important is spiritual direction in your life? Discuss the benefits and challenges of seeking and maintaining a relationship with a spiritual director.
Reflective Time and Intellectual Conversion: Archbishop Hughes stresses the need for reflective time as essential for wisdom and spiritual conversion. How can you implement or improve reflective practices in your daily routine?
Learning from Saints and Spiritual Masters: Which saint or spiritual master do you feel most connected to, and what have they taught you about living a faithful Christian life? Discuss how their example can be applied in today’s world.
The Role of Desire in Spiritual Life: Reflect on the role of desire in your spiritual journey. How does understanding and nurturing your spiritual desires influence your relationship with God?
Scripture as a Living Word: Discuss the concept of Scripture as a ‘love letter from God’. How does this perspective change the way you read and interact with the Bible?
The Impact of Spiritual Writings on Modern Life: Considering the diverse teachings and lives of the spiritual masters mentioned, how can their wisdom be effectively applied to address the challenges of modern Christian living?
From the book’s description:
“This book introduces the reader to thirteen Christian spiritual classics that illustrate the ordinary steps we can take toward living the Gospel life more fully.
Drawing on the rich teaching of a particular saint or mystic, each chapter helps us grow in a different aspect of holiness, of intimacy with God. Archbishop Hughes offers an itinerary for becoming a good disciple of the Lord, giving the reader access to an impressive spiritual library that can support and strengthen progress in discipleship throughout one’s life.
Among the great saints and spiritual writers whose writings are included in this book are Augustine, Anthony of the Desert, Aelred, Teresa of Avila, Benedict, Guigo, Catherine of Siena, Walter Hilton, Francis de Sales, Ignatius of Loyola, Jean-Pierre de Caussade, Thomas à Kempis, and John of the Cross.”
About the Author
Archbishop Emeritus Alfred Hughes, a native of Boston, was ordained a priest in 1957. Having secured a doctorate in Spiritual Theology at the Gregorian University, he served in parish, seminary and administrative roles in Boston. Pope St. John Paul II appointed him Bishop of Baton Rouge in 1993 and Archbishop of New Orleans in 2002. As Emeritus, he now serves at Notre Dame Seminary.
Episode 8 – Walking the Little Way Together – St. Thérèse and Marie: The Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher
St. Thérèse of Lisieux
Fr. Timothy Gallagher continues his look at the lives of St. Thérèse of Lisieux and her cousin, Marie Guérin, who joined the Carmel as Sister Marie of the Eucharist in 1895.
St.Thérèse, as assistant novice mistress, lovingly guided Marie during her formative years in religious life. Through letters, poetry, and spiritual counsel, Thérèse helped Marie navigate struggles with scrupulosity and emotional exuberance, fostering a deeper understanding of virtue and selflessness. Thérèse’s guidance combined firmness, tenderness, and profound spiritual wisdom, reflecting her personal sanctity and commitment to the “Little Way.” Her letters and poems, such as “Jesus Alone” and “My Weapons,” offer a glimpse into her profound love for Jesus and her deep reliance on divine grace.
This includes the spiritual milestones during these last two years of her life, including her discovery of the “Little Way,” her act of offering herself to God’s merciful love, and her experience of spiritual darkness amidst her illness. Despite her physical suffering, Thérèse remained fully devoted to uplifting and forming her novices, including her cousin Celine, and fostering joy and unity in the community.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Role of Spiritual Friendship: How can we cultivate spiritual friendships that guide others toward holiness while respecting their individuality and unique journey?
Guidance with Firmness and Tenderness: In what ways can we balance firmness and tenderness when offering guidance to those we mentor or love?
Finding Jesus in Daily Life: How can Thérèse’s “Little Way” inspire us to love God fully through the ordinary events of our daily lives?
Offering Our Suffering: How can we, like Thérèse, unite our personal suffering with Christ for the spiritual benefit of others?
Sacrifices for Vocations: What sacrifices are we willing to make, as individuals or families, to support vocations to religious life or priesthood?
Deepening Trust in God’s Love: How does reflecting on Jesus’ maternal and paternal love help us overcome fear and scruples in our relationship with Him?
Scripture as a Source of Strength: How can the example of Thérèse’s immersion in scripture inspire us to deepen our own prayer life and spiritual understanding?
Living Joyfully in Community: How can we contribute to a spirit of joy and virtue within our own families, parishes, or communities?
Embracing the Eternal Perspective: How does keeping heaven in mind shape the way we approach our struggles and relationships on earth?
Legacy of Holiness: In what ways can we leave a lasting spiritual impact on those we love, as St. Thérèse did for her novices and the Church?
Marie Guérin
About this Series
Fr. Timothy Gallagher reflects upon the enduring legacy of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, exploring how her life and spirituality, deeply influenced by her family and how it offers profound insights into everyday holiness. He examines the role of family and spiritual friendships in nurturing faith, the importance of compassionate care for others, and how Thérèse’s example can inspire listeners to seek sanctity in their daily lives. He also brings forth more details of the spiritual bond between the Martin and Guérin families, offering a model for fostering deeper connections within one’s own family and community.
Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life: The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola”. For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio which are available for purchase, please visit his website: frtimothygallagher.org
Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!
The Third Sunday of Advent – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff
Msgr. Esseff reflects on the Advent season as a time of joy, repentance, and renewal, urging listeners to recognize Christ’s presence not just in history or the future but in their lives today. Drawing from scripture, he describes baptized Christians as the “New Jerusalem,” living temples of God called to reflect Christ’s love in the world. We should rejoice in God’s nearness and respond to the call of John the Baptist by repenting of sins such as judgment, greed, envy, and unforgiveness. Through prayer, fasting, and acts of mercy, believers can prepare their hearts for Christ’s transformative work.
Priests, deacons, and lay leaders ought to foster communal spiritual renewal during Advent through prayer and reflection. Msgr. Esseff shares personal stories, such as a family gathering for confession, as examples of responding to God’s call; and how Christ’s mission, bringing salvation and peace to all nations, should inspire us to embrace Advent as a time to joyfully ask, “What should I do?” and live as witnesses of Christ’s presence in a broken world.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Rejoicing in God’s Presence: How can I better recognize and celebrate Christ’s presence in my daily life as the “New Jerusalem”?
Examining My Heart: What sins or habits, such as judgment, greed, or unforgiveness, is God calling me to repent of during this Advent season?
Living the Gospel: How can I practically reflect Christ’s love and mercy in my family, workplace, and community today?
Preparing for Christ’s Coming: What steps can I take, like prayer, fasting, or acts of charity, to spiritually prepare for the birth of Christ this Christmas?
Hearing the Call to Renewal: In what ways can I encourage others, such as family or parish members, to deepen their faith and renew their relationship with God?
Seeking Forgiveness: Are there relationships in my life that require reconciliation, and how can I offer or seek forgiveness from the heart?
Responding to God’s Voice: When I ask, “What should I do?” in prayer, how am I open to hearing and acting on Christ’s guidance for my spiritual growth?
Proclaiming Joy to the World: How can I bring the joy of Christ to others, especially to those who are suffering or feel distant from God?
The crowds asked John the Baptist,
“What should we do?”
He said to them in reply,
“Whoever has two cloaks
should share with the person who has none.
And whoever has food should do likewise.”
Even tax collectors came to be baptized and they said to him,
“Teacher, what should we do?”
He answered them,
“Stop collecting more than what is prescribed.”
Soldiers also asked him,
“And what is it that we should do?”
He told them,
“Do not practice extortion,
do not falsely accuse anyone,
and be satisfied with your wages.”Now the people were filled with expectation,
and all were asking in their hearts
whether John might be the Christ.
John answered them all, saying,
“I am baptizing you with water,
but one mightier than I is coming.
I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals.
He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
His winnowing fan is in his hand to clear his threshing floor
and to gather the wheat into his barn,
but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”
Exhorting them in many other ways,
he preached good news to the people.
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.
Growth – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.
Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor explore the spiritual challenges faced during prayer, using Cathy’s journey as a case study to illustrate how prayer evolves over time.
Cathy initially experiences deep spiritual consolation and healing by using reflective and imaginative methods of Ignatian prayer. However, as her prayer life matures, she finds these approaches less fulfilling and even distracting. This shift leads her to wonder if she’s praying incorrectly. Cathy’s transition to a simpler, quieter form of prayer reflects spiritual growth rather than failure. Drawing an analogy to the deepening intimacy in a long marriage, he emphasizes that prayer, at its core, is a relationship with God, and Cathy’s increasing desire for silent communion signifies a deeper, richer connection with Him.
This simplification of prayer is a natural progression for those who persevere in their spiritual journey. Whether through contemplative silence, liturgical prayer like the Liturgy of the Hours, or cherished devotions like the Rosary, the key is fidelity to daily prayer and attentiveness to the heart’s movement toward God. Changes in prayer experiences are opportunities for growth and invites them to seek guidance, such as through spiritual direction, to navigate transitions. Perseverance remains the essential virtue that ensures continued progress toward a closer relationship with God.
What is the Role of Consolation and Desolation in Prayer? How can experiences of consolation and desolation guide your spiritual growth and reliance on God?
How Does Perseverance Shape Your Prayer Life? In what ways can remaining faithful to prayer, even during dryness or struggle, deepen your relationship with God?
Is Your Prayer Adapting to Your Spiritual Growth? How might God be inviting you to simplify or change the way you pray as your relationship with Him matures?
How Do You Experience God’s Presence in Silence? What can moments of quiet communion with God teach you about trust and intimacy in your spiritual life?
What Role Does Spiritual Direction Play in Your Journey? How could seeking guidance from a spiritual director help you navigate challenges or transitions in your prayer life?
How Does Group Prayer Complement Personal Prayer? In what ways do communal practices like the Rosary or Liturgy of the Hours support and enrich your individual prayer experiences?
Are You Open to Grace in Unexpected Forms? How can you recognize and embrace God’s work in your life, even in moments of dryness or change in prayer?
An excerpt from the chapter, “Growth”:
“Yes, this situation can be confusing. What is happening in Cathy’s prayer? It has become dry. Is this because she lacks formation (chapter 15), has grown negligent (chapter 16), or has permitted an inconsistency between her life and prayer (chapter 17)? None of this appears to be present: Cathy has received formation in prayer, is faithful to it, and shows no sign of inconsistency between her life and prayer. Yet her prayer is dry. Something else, then, is at work, and in this case, something blessed. Cathy finds herself less drawn than before to reflect on or imagine a scriptural text. She esteems this way of praying and has found it fruitful in the past.
Now, however, when she reflects or imagines, she says that “it felt like work, ‘busier’ than I wanted to be in prayer.” On the other hand, at one point “I let the imagining go and just sat with the Lord. That felt better.” Very likely, Cathy’s prayer is simplifying. At times, her heart desires to relinquish the “busyness” of reflecting and imagining and simply be with the Lord, her heart with his heart, with little activity, simply together in a blessed and loving communion. She fears that when she gives her heart this freedom, she is not really praying — not thinking about the meaning of a text or participating imaginatively as it unfolds.
On the contrary! Cathy, and anyone in her situation, needs to know that this silent, loving communion is genuine prayer.”
Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (p. 111). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.
“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!
Pure Faith in Contemplative Prayer – St. John of the Cross: Master of Contemplation with Fr. Donald Haggerty
Fr. Haggerty explains the natural evolution of prayer, such as the Rosary, which may simplify over time as the soul becomes more attuned to God. This simplification reflects a deeper spiritual maturity, where prayer focuses less on intellectual or visual stimulation and more on surrender and love.
Faith and love guide us through the “darkness” of contemplation, leading the soul toward a hidden encounter with God. He shares the image of a blind man led by faith and love to illustrate the trust and surrender needed in the contemplative journey.
There are challenges in solitary prayer, and we must be cautious of self-oriented desires for spiritual experiences. True contemplative prayer involves surrendering expectations and allowing God to guide the soul in unpredictable ways. This profound journey of prayer is not about techniques or methods but a personal encounter with God, supported by silence and the fruits of love and service.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Simplicity in Prayer: How has your prayer life evolved over time, and do you find yourself drawn toward a simpler, more heartfelt approach?
Faith and Love as Guides: In what ways do you trust faith and love to lead you through spiritual darkness or uncertainty in your journey with God?
Encounter vs. Knowledge: Do you prioritize knowing about God intellectually, or do you seek a deeper, personal encounter with His presence in your prayer?
Authentic Transformation: How does your prayer life inspire changes in your daily actions, particularly in demonstrating greater love, humility, and charity?
Surrendering Expectations: Are you willing to let go of specific expectations or desired experiences in prayer to allow God to work freely within you?
Silent Commitment: How can you incorporate moments of silence into your daily routine to foster a deeper relationship with God?
Seeing Christ in Others: How do you encounter Christ in the poor, the suffering, or those in need around you, and how does this shape your spiritual life?
Praying for Others: Is your prayer life marked by acts of charity, such as interceding for strangers, the dying, or those in crisis, beyond your personal intentions?
Avoiding Spiritual Self-Absorption: How can you ensure that your prayer does not become self-focused but remains a genuine offering of love and surrender to God?
Living the Fruits of the Spirit: What evidence of the fruits of the Spirit—like peace, patience, and kindness—do you see as a result of your contemplative practices?
An excerpt from St. John of the Cross: Master of Contemplation
“In this case, under the influence of deeper faith, the cooperation involves a mortification by the intellect: an emptying of the desire for spiritual gratifications that can be enjoyed by the intellect in the life of prayer. These can be sought in a way that becomes an impediment to the pure pursuit of God for himself alone. A “complete pacification of the spiritual house” (AMC 2.1.2) is required that will “quiet down” the impulse to pursue experiences of an intellectual or imaginative satisfaction in prayer. This “ascetical” task for the intellect in the interior life of prayer entails, in a telling phrase, “the negation through pure faith of all the spiritual faculties and gratifications and appetites” (AMC 2.1.2). What this “pure faith” will mean as a virtue of the intellect in contemplation needs to be explained with some care. For the intellect must cooperate in its own purification precisely through this exercise of pure faith. Taking us farther along in explanation, and referring to the stanza of his poem, Saint John of the Cross comments: “The soul, consequently, affirms that it departed ‘in darkness, and secure.’ For anyone fortunate enough to possess the ability to journey in the obscurity of faith, as do the blind with their guide, and depart from all natural phantasms [images] and intellectual reasonings, walks securely. . . . For the less a soul works with its own abilities, the more securely it proceeds, because its progress in faith is greater” (AMC 2.1.2, 3).”
Haggerty, Donald. Saint John of the Cross: Master of Contemplation (pp. 67-68). Ignatius Press. Kindle Edition.
The Gift of Holiness at Christmas with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B.
This reflection was given during a special advent evening of prayer and meditation service at St. Margaret Mary’s Church, in Omaha, NE.
Fr. Mauritius Wilde reflects on the joy and love that naturally accompany creativity, whether through artistic endeavors, parenting, or spiritual growth. Connecting human creativity to the divine, he illustrates how God’s act of creation in Genesis reflects His delight in what He has made.
Just as we love the fruits of our labor or gaze lovingly upon our children, God looks at us with unwavering love, marveling at His creation. Through Jesus Christ, the perfect image of God, we are invited to embrace this divine love and strive toward holiness, becoming more fully aligned with God’s image through grace and spiritual growth.
Advent is an invitation to focus on Christ’s transformative gift of holiness. Drawing on the wisdom of Meister Eckhart, Fr. Mauritius likens God to a sculptor, who patiently removes what obscures His image within us. Fr. Wilde encourages listeners to embrace this process of refinement by being actively receptive to God’s grace.
Holiness is not about striving for perfection on our own but about allowing God to work in us, making His image shine more fully.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
How Do I See My Creative Work? Reflect on whether you view your creative efforts as a participation in God’s creative power and a way to glorify Him.
Do I Recognize God’s Delight in Me? Consider how often you acknowledge God’s loving gaze upon you as His beloved creation.
What Does Holiness Mean in My Life? Ponder how you can actively embrace the grace of God to become a clearer image of His holiness.
Am I Open to God’s Transformative Work? Reflect on your willingness to let God sculpt and refine you, removing what obscures His image.
How Do I Prepare for Christ at Advent? Evaluate whether your Advent practices focus on deepening your relationship with Christ rather than external busyness.
Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome.
The Immaculate Conception – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff
On the the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, Msgr. Esseff reflects on the significance of the Immaculate Conception of Mary within the broader plan of salvation history. He uses Genesis, Ephesians, and the Gospel of Luke to show us God’s eternal plan to reconcile humanity with Himself through Jesus Christ. Humanity’s fall through Adam and Eve introduced sin and death into the world, but God’s response was the plan of redemption, preordained before creation, culminating in the birth of Christ. Mary, conceived without sin, is presented as the new Eve, uniquely chosen to bring Jesus into the world. Her “yes” to the angel Gabriel is seen as a pivotal moment in God’s plan, countering the disobedience of the first parents and initiating the ultimate defeat of sin, Satan, and death.
Through Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection, humanity is adopted as children of God and incorporated into Christ’s body, the Church. He encourages us to see the Immaculate Conception as a profound reminder of God’s love and the invitation to holiness.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
God’s Eternal Plan: How does reflecting on God’s plan for redemption before creation deepen your trust in His providence?
The Fall and Redemption: In what ways can recognizing the effects of original sin in your life inspire a greater appreciation for Christ’s saving work?
Mary’s Role in Salvation: How does the Immaculate Conception help you understand Mary’s unique role in God’s plan and her intercession for you?
Adoption in Christ: What does it mean to you personally to be adopted into God’s family through Jesus Christ?
Living as the Body of Christ: How can you live more fully as a member of Christ’s body, united with Him and His Church?
Advent Preparation: In this Advent season, how are you preparing your heart to welcome Christ more fully into your life?
Power of the Holy Spirit: How do you experience the Holy Spirit working in your life to bring about holiness and transformation?
Contemplating Mary’s Example: How can Mary’s fiat, her “yes” to God, inspire you to trust and surrender to His will in your own life?
“After the man, Adam, had eaten of the tree,
the LORD God called to the man and asked him, “Where are you?”
He answered, “I heard you in the garden;
but I was afraid, because I was naked,
so I hid myself.”
Then he asked, “Who told you that you were naked?
You have eaten, then,
from the tree of which I had forbidden you to eat!”
The man replied, “The woman whom you put here with me
she gave me fruit from the tree, and so I ate it.”
The LORD God then asked the woman,
“Why did you do such a thing?”
The woman answered, “The serpent tricked me into it, so I ate it.”Then the LORD God said to the serpent:
“Because you have done this, you shall be banned
from all the animals
and from all the wild creatures;
on your belly shall you crawl,
and dirt shall you eat
all the days of your life.
I will put enmity between you and the woman,
and between your offspring and hers;
he will strike at your head,
while you strike at his heel.”The man called his wife Eve,
because she became the mother of all the living.”
Brothers and sisters:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who has blessed us in Christ
with every spiritual blessing in the heavens,
as he chose us in him, before the foundation of the world,
to be holy and without blemish before him.
In love he destined us for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ,
in accord with the favor of his will,
for the praise of the glory of his grace
that he granted us in the beloved.
In him we were also chosen,
destined in accord with the purpose of the One
who accomplishes all things according to the intention of his will,
so that we might exist for the praise of his glory,
we who first hoped in Christ.
“The angel Gabriel was sent from God
to a town of Galilee called Nazareth,
to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph,
of the house of David,
and the virgin’s name was Mary.
And coming to her, he said,
“Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”
But she was greatly troubled at what was said
and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.
Then the angel said to her,
“Do not be afraid, Mary,
for you have found favor with God.
Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son,
and you shall name him Jesus.
He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High,
and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father,
and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever,
and of his Kingdom there will be no end.”
But Mary said to the angel,
“How can this be,
since I have no relations with a man?”
And the angel said to her in reply,
“The Holy Spirit will come upon you,
and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.
Therefore the child to be born
will be called holy, the Son of God.
And behold, Elizabeth, your relative,
has also conceived a son in her old age,
and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren;
for nothing will be impossible for God.”
Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.
May it be done to me according to your word.”
Then the angel departed from her.”
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.
The Second Sunday of Advent – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff
On the Second Sunday of Advent, Msgr. John Esseff focuses on Advent as a season of hope, preparation, and trust in God. Reflecting on Mary’s surrender during the Annunciation and as the ultimate model of faith and dependence on God. Msgr. Esseff reminds us of the transformative power of repentance, faith, and love; using a moving testimony of a woman miraculously healed at Lourdes underscores the greater miracle of selfless love and intercessory prayer for others.
The scriptural themes of redemption urge us to live courageously and joyfully as the “new Jerusalem,” radiating God’s glory. We must have confidence in Christ’s victory, encouraging listeners to embrace the sacraments and prepare for the Lord’s coming with renewed faith.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Faith in Surrender: How can Mary’s complete trust in God inspire you to surrender your fears and uncertainties to His will?
Trust in God’s Providence: In what areas of your life do you need to let go of self-reliance and place total dependence on God?
Love as a Miracle: How does the testimony of selfless prayer and intercession challenge you to prioritize the needs of others in your relationship with God?
Advent Preparation: How are you preparing your heart during this Advent season to welcome Christ with joy and trust?
Living the Beatitudes: How can you embrace the struggles and challenges in your life as opportunities to live out the Beatitudes with faith and courage?
Joy Amidst Suffering: What steps can you take to find joy and hope in God’s promises, even during times of personal or communal suffering?
Being the New Jerusalem: How can you reflect God’s light and love in your daily actions, becoming a witness to His glory and redemption?
Embracing the Sacraments: How do the Eucharist and other sacraments strengthen your faith and empower you to live as a disciple of Christ?
In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar,
when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea,
and Herod was tetrarch of Galilee,
and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region
of Ituraea and Trachonitis,
and Lysanias was tetrarch of Abilene,
during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas,
the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the desert.
John went throughout the whole region of the Jordan,
proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins,
as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah: A voice of one crying out in the desert:
“Prepare the way of the Lord,
make straight his paths.
Every valley shall be filled
and every mountain and hill shall be made low.
The winding roads shall be made straight,
and the rough ways made smooth,
and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.”
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.
St. Ambrose of Milan, Part 2 – The Doctors of the Church with Dr. Matthew Bunson
Born: 340 AD
Died: January 1, 397 AD
Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor continue their discussion on the life and profound impact of St. Ambrose of Milan, a pivotal figure in Church history and a Doctor of the Church. Dr. Bunson emphasizes how Ambrose’s unexpected rise to the episcopate during a time of crisis in the Western Roman Empire exemplified his integrity and strength of character. Chosen by opposing factions who hoped to sway him to their cause, Ambrose steadfastly upheld orthodox Christian teaching, most notably opposing the Arian heresy. His tenure as Bishop of Milan was marked by his dedication to unity, deep prayer life, and commitment to scriptural study, which not only inspired his contemporaries but also profoundly influenced St. Augustine, whom he guided gently toward conversion. Ambrose’s unique method of silent scriptural reading and contemplative prayer impressed Augustine and modeled a new depth of spiritual engagement, contributing to the theological foundation of Christian mysticism.
St. Ambrose’s fearless moral authority extended to his interactions with the Roman emperors, particularly his courageous confrontation with Emperor Theodosius after the massacre of 7,000 innocents. By demanding genuine repentance from the emperor, Ambrose demonstrated his unwavering commitment to justice and the spiritual well-being of his flock, including rulers. His legacy also includes his promotion of Marian theology, the introduction of Eastern hymns to Western liturgy, and his composition of the Te Deum, reportedly written for Augustine’s baptism. Although Ambrose died relatively young at around 60, his life exemplified total self-gift to God, leaving an enduring legacy of wisdom, courage, and pastoral care. His life and teachings continue to inspire modern bishops and faithful, calling all to live with integrity, grace, and a relentless pursuit of truth.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Integrity in Leadership: How can I emulate St. Ambrose’s steadfastness in upholding truth and unity in my own roles of influence?
Prayerful Scripture Engagement: In what ways can I deepen my prayer life by absorbing scripture into my heart, as St. Ambrose exemplified?
Guiding Others Gently: How can I, like St. Ambrose with St. Augustine, accompany others on their spiritual journey with patience and wisdom?
Moral Courage: Am I willing to stand up for truth and justice, even when it requires confronting authority or making personal sacrifices?
Living the Faith Fully: How can I integrate my beliefs into daily actions to reflect Christ’s presence in the world?
Witnessing through Worship: In what ways can my participation in and promotion of sacred traditions, like hymns and liturgy, enhance my community’s faith experience?
Total Self-Gift to God: What areas of my life am I still holding back from offering completely to God’s service?
Concern for Eternal Souls: How can I show genuine love and concern for the spiritual well-being of others, even those in positions of power or authority?
Influence of the Blessed Mother: How does my devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary inspire me to grow in holiness and faithfulness to Christ?
Legacy of Faith: What steps can I take to leave a lasting impact on others by living a life of grace and virtue, as St. Ambrose did?
For more on St. Ambrose of Milan and his teachings
Dr. Matthew E. Bunson is a Register senior editor and a senior contributor to EWTN News. For the past 20 years, he has been active in the area of Catholic social communications and education, including writing, editing, and teaching on a variety of topics related to Church history, the papacy, the saints and Catholic culture. He is faculty chair at Catholic Distance University, a senior fellow of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology, and the author or co-author of over 50 books including The Encyclopedia of Catholic History, The Pope Encyclopedia, We Have a Pope! Benedict XVI, The Saints Encyclopedia and best-selling biographies of St. Damien of Molokai and St. Kateri Tekakwitha.
