Introduction to the Enthronement, Continued – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff
Msgr. John Esseff discusses preparing for Jesus’ presence in the home, the importance of confession, and heart examination, symbolized by the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
He advises creating a dedicated space in the home for these images to foster spiritual unity and devotion within the family. The enthronement ceremony involves professing faith, consecrating the home, and establishing a continuous spiritual connection with Jesus, leading to a transformative and sanctified family life.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Reflect on the importance of preparation: What steps do you take to prepare your heart for Jesus’ presence in your life?
Confession and spiritual inventory: How can a thorough examination and confession help in receiving Jesus more fully?
External and internal preparation: How do you balance the physical preparation of your home with the spiritual readiness of your heart?
The significance of sacred images: What does the image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus symbolize for you and your family?
Family unity in faith: How can your family come together to embrace and live out your faith daily?
The role of the Holy Spirit: How do you invite the Holy Spirit into your heart and home to reveal and cleanse what separates you from God?
Consecration and commitment: What does it mean to consecrate your home and family to the Sacred Heart of Jesus?
Living out faith publicly: How can you publicly profess and live out your faith within your community?
The impact of spiritual devotion: How does having a dedicated space for prayer and reflection impact your family’s spiritual life?
Understanding enthronement: How do you understand and explain the significance of the enthronement ceremony to others?
Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton. He was ordained on May 30, 1953, by the late Bishop William J. Hafey, D.D. at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Scranton, PA. Msgr. Esseff served 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 St. Pope 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 serves 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.
Letter 165 – The Letters of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity – Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles
Dr. Anthony Lilles and Kris McGregor look into a letter from Elizabeth of the Trinity that reflects her profound reflections on the Eucharist and its spiritual significance. Elizabeth sees the Eucharist as the ultimate expression of God’s love, a foretaste of the beatific vision, and a source of heavenly communion on earth: The union with God through the Eucharist, where believers experience a deep, personal love and presence of God, which transforms them.
They also touch on the historical context of Elizabeth’s time, particularly the closing of the Carmel chapel due to anti-church sentiments in France. Despite external turmoil, Elizabeth focuses on the internal, spiritual reality, urging believers to find solace and transformation in the Eucharist.
Elizabeth’s insights are relevant today, especially for those struggling with self-worth and life’s hardships. She encourages turning inward to God’s immense love in the Eucharist, withdrawing from external distractions, and embracing the presence of Christ in faith, even amidst darkness and trials; as well as renunciation, humility, and accepting God’s trials to make space for His presence in our hearts. The role of Mary, the Mother of God, in guiding believers towards a simple, fruitful surrender to God’s will.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Understanding Elizabeth’s View of the Eucharist How does Elizabeth of the Trinity describe the Eucharist as a consummation of God’s love and a foretaste of the beatific vision?
Historical Context and Spiritual Focus What does Elizabeth’s focus on spiritual realities instead of external turmoil teach us about handling modern-day challenges?
Dealing with Self-Loathing and Hardships How can Elizabeth’s perspective on God’s immense love help individuals struggling with self-loathing and feelings of failure?
Renunciation and Creating Space for God What are practical ways we can practice renunciation in our daily lives to make space for God’s peace and presence?
Embracing Trials for Spiritual Growth How can accepting and surrendering to God during times of trial open our hearts to a deeper relationship with Him?
Role of Mary in Spiritual Life How can we look to Mary, the Mother of God, for guidance and support in our spiritual journey towards a simple, fruitful surrender?
Eucharist as Bread for the Journey In what ways can receiving the Eucharist strengthen and heal us, especially in times of spiritual sickness or challenge?
Silence and Peace in a Noisy World How can we cultivate a soul that is wholly at peace amid the noise and distractions of modern life?
Faith in Darkness What does it mean to have “faith in darkness,” and how can this deepen our bond with Jesus?
Support of the Saints and Angels How can the knowledge that we are supported by the saints, angels, and the Blessed Mother give us courage and strength in our faith journey?
St. Elizabeth of the Trinity
Letter 165
[ June 14, 1903]
Dijon Carmel, June 14
J. M. + J. T.
“Having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.”2
Monsieur l’Abbé, It seems to me that nothing better expresses the love in God’s Heart than the Eucharist: it is union, consummation, He in us, we in Him, and isn’t that Heaven on earth? Heaven in faith while awaiting the face-to-face vision we so desire. Then “we will be satisfied when His glory appears,”3 when we see Him in His light. Don’t you find that the thought of this meeting refreshes the soul, this talk with Him whom it loves solely? Then everything disappears and it seems that one is already entering into the mystery of God! . . .
This whole mystery is so much “ours,” as you said to me in your letter. Oh! pray, won’t you, that I may live fully my bridal dowry. That I may be wholly available, wholly vigilant in faith, so the Master can bear me wherever He wishes. I wish to stay always close to Him who knows the whole mystery, to hear everything from Him. “The language of the Word is the infusion of the gift,”4 oh yes, it is really so, isn’t it, that He speaks to our soul in silence. I find this dear silence a blessing. From Ascension to Pentecost, we were in retreat in the Cenacle, waiting for the Holy Spirit, and it was so good.5 During that whole Octave6 we have the Blessed Sacrament exposed in the oratory; those are divine hours spent in this little corner of Heaven where we possess the vision in substance under the humble Host. Yes, He whom the blessed contemplate in light and we adore in faith is really the same One. The other day someone wrote me such a beautiful thought, I send it on to you: “Faith is the face-to-face in darkness.”7 Why wouldn’t it be so for us, since God is in us and since He asks only to take possession of us as He took possession of the saints? Only, they were always attentive, as Père Vallée says: “They are silent, recollected, and their only activity is to be the being who receives.”8 Let us unite ourselves, therefore, Father, in making happy Him who “has loved us exceedingly,”9 as Saint Paul says. Let us make a dwelling for Him in our soul that is wholly at peace,10 in which the canticle of love, of thanksgiving, is always being sung; and then that great silence, the echo of the silence that is in God! . . . Then, as you said, let us approach the all-pure, all-luminous Virgin, that she may present us to Him whom she has penetrated so profoundly, and may our life be a continual communion, a wholly simple movement toward God. Pray to the Queen of Carmel for me; I, for my part, pray fervently for you, I assure you, and I remain with you in adoration and love! . . .
Sister Marie Elizabeth of the Trinity, r.c.i.
Catez, Elizabeth of the Trinity. The Complete Works of Elizabeth of the Trinity volume 2: Letters from Carmel (pp. 105-106). ICS Publications. Kindle Edition.
We would like to thank Miriam Gutierrez for providing “the voice” of St. Elizabeth for this series
Anthony Lilles, S.T.D., has served the Church and assisted in the formation of clergy and seminarians since 1994. Before coming to St. Patrick’s, he served at seminaries and houses of formation in the Archdiocese of Denver and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The son of a California farmer, married with young adult children, holds a B.A. in theology from the Franciscan University of Steubenville with both the ecclesiastical licentiate and doctorate in spiritual theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome (the Angelicum). An expert in the writings of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity and the Carmelite Doctors of the Church, he co-founded the Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation and the High Calling Program for priestly vocations. He also founded the John Paul II Center for Contemplative Culture, which hosts symposiums, retreats, and conferences. In addition to his publications, he blogs at www.beginningtopray.com .
Episode 1 – The River of the Liturgy – Pathway to Sacred Mysteries with Dr. David Fagerberg Ph.D.
Dr. David Fagerberg and host Kris McGregor discuss the interconnectedness of liturgy and mysticism in Christian life, exploring how these elements, often perceived as separate, are integral to fulfilling one’s baptismal calling.
Dr. Fagerberg explains that baptism is not a one-time event but the beginning of a lifelong spiritual journey involving liturgical responsibilities and mystical enjoyment of God. He emphasizes that liturgy should not be seen merely as ritualistic or formal actions but as a profound expression of one’s faith that should influence daily life.
The concept of “liturgical mysticism,” where personal mystical experiences and the public sacramental life, are intertwined. Dr. Fagerberg uses metaphors such as a river flowing from the throne of God to describe how liturgy impacts both the church and the individual believer. He tells listeners of the importance of recognizing and embracing mysticism in everyday life, suggesting that everyone, not just extraordinary mystics, is called to this deeper spiritual engagement.
Liturgy is the work of God (opus Dei) enacted through human activity, and it aims to glorify God and sanctify humanity. He also touches on the holistic nature of liturgy, which should permeate all aspects of life, and the ultimate goal of uniting with God.
Here are some of the topics explored in this episode:
What is “liturgy”?
What is “mysticism”?
The significance of baptism.
Understanding “teleology”. What’s the telos of a human being?
Understanding the connection between the interior heart personal liturgy and the exterior sacramental public liturgy
From the discussion with Dr. Fagerberg:
“… everything was directed towards a certain end, there was a telos, teleology. The telos of our watches is to tell time, the telos of a knife is to cut. What’s the telos of a human being? Deification, adoption, being taken up into the circulation of the life of the Trinity. How do you make that journey? That’s liturgical. That’s the ascetical struggle. That’s the discipline of spiritual warfare. That’s mysticism. That’s the allure theological in the way the Eastern fathers defined telógia, a union with God. The objective here is union with God. Well, if that’s the telos, the teleological end is our union with God, then everything, not just Sunday morning for 55 minutes, everything in our life and all aspects of our life, liturgical, theological, ascetical, and mystical.”
More taken from the discussion:
“There’s a book on liturgy by an Eastern Rite. Catholic named John Carbone, who takes the imagery from the book of revelation of liturgy as a river flowing from the throne of God. Oh, it’s not like, something that I’m trying to produce. Liturgy isn’t my production. Liturgy is the river of life flowing from the throne of God. And I imagined it landing first in the church in order to make this Mystical Body of Christ. It lands first in the baptismal font, but the font fills up and the river of liturgy overflows the lip of the baptismal font and it hits us.
And now it becomes our personal liturgy. Besides the public Church liturgy, there’s an interior heart personal liturgy. And I thought that’s liturgical mysticism. That’s liturgy happening at an interior mystical spiritual level. That’s an attempt to connect liturgical mysticism with the work of the Church. I surely am not suggesting that there are two tracks and some people like Church and priests and a lot of incense, and other people like to go in their room and pray by themselves. No, no, no. The interior heart personal liturgy must be connected to the exterior sacramental public liturgy.”
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Understanding Liturgy and Mysticism How can we deepen our understanding of liturgy and mysticism to fulfill our baptismal calling?
The Importance of Baptism What aspects of our baptismal identity are we called to live out daily?
Integrating Liturgy into Daily Life How can we make our daily lives reflect the liturgical practices and spiritual disciplines we observe in church?
Personal and Public Liturgy In what ways can we connect our personal spiritual practices with the public liturgy of the church?
Role of Asceticism How can we incorporate ascetical practices into our lives to support our spiritual growth and mystical experiences?
Embracing Mystical Experiences What steps can we take to become more aware of and open to mystical encounters with God in our daily lives?
Liturgical Foundation and Mysticism How can understanding the liturgical foundation of the church help us embrace our role as mystics?
Liturgical Actions as Identity Formation In what ways do our liturgical actions shape our identity as Christians and how can we be more intentional about this process?
Understanding God’s Work in Liturgy How can we better recognize and participate in the work of God through our liturgical practices?
Holistic Christian Life How can we integrate the various aspects of our Christian life—liturgical, theological, ascetical, and mystical—toward the ultimate goal of union with God?
David W. Fagerberg is Professor in the Department of Theology at the University of Notre Dame. He holds masters degrees from Luther Northwestern Seminary, St. John’s University (Collegeville), Yale Divinity School, and Yale University. His Ph.D. is from Yale University in liturgical theology.
Fagerberg’s work has explored how the Church’s lex credendi (law of belief) is founded upon the Church’s lex orandi (law of prayer). This was expressed in Theologia Prima (Hillenbrand Books, 2003). He has integrated into this the Eastern Orthodox understanding of asceticism by considering its role in preparing the liturgical person. This was treated in On Liturgical Asceticism (Catholic University Press, 2013). And these two themes come together in Consecrating the World: On Mundane Liturgical Theology (Angelico Press, 2016).
Living the Examen Prayer – The Daily Prayer of Discernment: The Examen Prayer with Fr. Timothy Gallagher
Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss the Ignatian practice of the Examen prayer. Fr. Gallagher explains that the Examen is a method of prayer designed to help individuals reflect on their daily spiritual experiences. It involves a brief period of introspection, typically 10-15 minutes, during which one reviews the events of the day to discern where God was present, how one responded to His presence, and how to improve future responses to both consolations and desolations.
The Examen is deeply rooted in Ignatian spirituality and serves as a practical way to apply the teachings on discernment of spirits to everyday life. He illustrates this with examples from the lives of saints such as St. Thérèse of Lisieux, Brother Lawrence, and Blessed Pierre Favre, highlighting how ordinary moments can be transformed into profound spiritual encounters through attentive reflection and openness to God’s grace.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Understanding the Examen Prayer: How can the Examen prayer help me recognize God’s presence in my daily life?
Application of Discernment: In what ways can I apply the teachings on discernment of spirits to my everyday experiences?
Daily Reflection: How can I incorporate a 10-15 minute period of reflection to review my day and my spiritual responses?
Recognizing Consolation and Desolation: What moments of consolation or desolation have I experienced today, and how did I respond to them?
Openness to Grace: How can I be more open to recognizing and responding to God’s grace in the small, ordinary moments of my day?
Spiritual Growth: How does regularly practicing the Examen prayer contribute to my spiritual growth and awareness?
Relationship with Jesus: In what ways does the Examen prayer deepen my personal relationship with Jesus?
Contemplation in Action: How can I become more of a contemplative in action, finding God in the midst of my busy life?
Learning from Saints: What can I learn from the experiences of saints like St. Thérèse, Brother Lawrence, and Blessed Pierre Favre regarding attentiveness to God’s presence?
Commitment to Practice: How committed am I to making the Examen prayer a regular part of my spiritual routine, and what steps can I take to ensure consistency?
As outlined from the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola
(translated from the autograph by Fr. E. Mullan, S.J. 1909 in the public domain)
METHOD FOR MAKING THE GENERAL EXAMEN
It contains in it five Points.
First Point.The first Point is to give thanks to God our Lord for the benefits received. Second Point.The second, to ask grace to know our sins and cast them out. Third Point.The third, to ask account of our soul from the hour that we rose up to the present Examen, hour by hour, or period by period: and first as to thoughts, and then as to words, and then as to acts, in the same order as was mentioned in the Particular Examen. Fourth Point. The fourth, to ask pardon of God our Lord for the faults. Fifth Point.The fifth, to purpose amendment with His grace.
OUR FATHER.
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
St. Ephrem of Syria – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson
Born: 306 AD, Nisibis, Turkey
Died: June 9, 373 AD, Edessa, Turkey
Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor discuss the life and contributions of St. Ephraim, who was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1920 by Pope Benedict XV. This recognition was part of an effort to appreciate the Eastern churches and celebrate their spiritual and ecclesiastical heritage. St. Ephraim, known as the “Harp of the Holy Spirit,” is notable for his hymns and poetry, which served both as theological teaching tools and defenses against heresies such as Arianism.
St. Ephraim was born around 306 in what is now modern Turkey and died in 373. He was a prolific writer, composing up to 3 million lines of poetry and 400 hymns. His hymns focused on themes like creation, the Eucharist, and Mary, and were used to counter heretical teachings through memorable and orthodox lyrics. His work established a tradition of integrating hymns and poetry into Christian liturgy, deeply influencing subsequent church practices.
Despite not being ordained a priest, Ephraim had a significant impact as a deacon, poet, and teacher. His practical life included serving his community during famines and plagues, and his hymns and writings provided deep theological insights. Pope Benedict XVI highlighted Ephraim’s ability to combine poetry and theology, making his teachings a part of the Christian prayer life.
The importance of liturgical music that is both beautiful and theologically rich, following Ephraim’s model. It suggests that modern hymn composers should strive to create music that is not only pleasant but also profound in its theological content. St. Ephraim’s life and work serve as a powerful example for today’s Christians to use their gifts in service to God and the church.
St. Ephraim’s Influence: How does St. Ephraim’s integration of poetry and theology inspire you to use your unique talents in service to God and the Church?
Liturgical Importance: Why is it essential for hymns and liturgical music to be both beautiful and theologically rich?
Serving with Humility: In what ways can you follow St. Ephraim’s example of humility and service in your own community?
Facing Heresies: How can we use creative arts today to defend and teach the faith, as St. Ephraim did against Arianism?
Legacy of Faith: What can we learn from St. Ephraim’s dedication to catechizing and deepening the faith of his community, and how can we apply this in contemporary settings?
Multifaceted Contributions: Reflect on the significance of St. Ephraim’s contributions as a poet, teacher, and deacon. How can you utilize all your gifts to serve God?
The Role of Hymns: Consider the role of hymns in your personal spiritual life. How do they help you deepen your faith and understanding of God?
Evangelization through Music: How can we better integrate the theological depth of hymns in our efforts towards the new evangelization?
Historical Context: Reflect on the historical context of St. Ephraim’s life. How did the challenges he faced shape his ministry, and what lessons can we draw from this for our own times?
Living the Faith: How does St. Ephraim’s commitment to living out his faith through service and hymnody challenge you to embody your beliefs in everyday actions?
“The figure of Ephrem is still absolutely timely for the life of the various Christian Churches. We discover him in the first place as a theologian who reflects poetically, on the basis of Holy Scripture, on the mystery of man’s redemption brought about by Christ, the Word of God incarnate. His is a theological reflection expressed in images and symbols taken from nature, daily life and the Bible. Ephrem gives his poetry and liturgical hymns a didactic and catechetical character: they are theological hymns yet at the same time suitable for recitation or liturgical song. On the occasion of liturgical feasts, Ephrem made use of these hymns to spread Church doctrine. Time has proven them to be an extremely effective catechetical instrument for the Christian community.
Ephrem’s reflection on the theme of God the Creator is important: nothing in creation is isolated and the world, next to Sacred Scripture, is a Bible of God. By using his freedom wrongly, man upsets the cosmic order. The role of women was important to Ephrem. The way he spoke of them was always inspired with sensitivity and respect: the dwelling place of Jesus in Mary’s womb greatly increased women’s dignity. Ephrem held that just as there is no Redemption without Jesus, there is no Incarnation without Mary. The divine and human dimensions of the mystery of our redemption can already be found in Ephrem’s texts; poetically and with fundamentally scriptural images, he anticipated the theological background and in some way the very language of the great Christological definitions of the fifth-century Councils.
Ephrem, honoured by Christian tradition with the title “Harp of the Holy Spirit”, remained a deacon of the Church throughout his life. It was a crucial and emblematic decision: he was a deacon, a servant, in his liturgical ministry, and more radically, in his love for Christ, whose praises he sang in an unparalleled way, and also in his love for his brethren, whom he introduced with rare skill to the knowledge of divine Revelation.”
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.
Introduction to the Enthronement – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff
Msgr. John Esseff discusses the importance of enthroning the Sacred Heart of Jesus in families and individual hearts. He emphasizes that this act is not merely symbolic but a profound relationship with Jesus, making Him the head of every family and individual life.
Msgr. Esseff explains the historical and theological significance of the Sacred Heart, highlighting how Jesus’ heart is a symbol of divine love, revealed to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque in the 17th century. Jesus showed her His heart to demonstrate His immense love and to invite humanity to respond with love in return.
He also addresses the challenges faced by families today, underscoring that the enthronement of the Sacred Heart can bring unity, healing, and strength to households. Msgr. Esseff calls on listeners, regardless of their denomination, to invite Jesus into their homes and hearts, emphasizing that God’s love is universal and transformative.
Msgr. Esseff goes into the broader spiritual warfare, noting that love is stronger than hate and that Jesus’ love is the ultimate answer to the world’s suffering and division; encouraging listeners to embrace this love and to establish a deep, personal relationship with Jesus through the devotion to His Sacred Heart.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Understanding the Enthronement: What does it mean to enthrone the Sacred Heart of Jesus in your home and heart, and how can this act transform your personal and family life?
Jesus’ Love for Humanity: How does the image of the Sacred Heart reveal the depth of Jesus’ love for you personally, and how can you respond to this love in your daily actions?
Historical Significance: What is the significance of Jesus’ revelation to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, and how does it influence your understanding of the Sacred Heart devotion?
Family as a Reflection of Divine Love: In what ways can your family become a reflection of the divine love of the Trinity, and what steps can you take to foster this unity?
Overcoming Spiritual Challenges: How can the enthronement of the Sacred Heart help you and your family overcome spiritual and emotional challenges in today’s world?
Universal Love and Acceptance: How does Jesus’ universal love, as discussed in the podcast, challenge you to love others, including those who may be difficult to love or who oppose your beliefs?
Personal Relationship with Jesus: What practical steps can you take to deepen your personal relationship with Jesus and to make Him the center of your life?
Spiritual Warfare and Love: How can you embody the message that love is stronger than hate in your interactions with others, especially in situations of conflict or misunderstanding?
Daily Reflection and Union with Christ: How can you incorporate daily reflections on your union with Jesus into your routine, and what impact might this have on your spiritual growth?
Inclusive Invitation to Devotion: What does it mean for non-Catholic Christians to enthrone the Sacred Heart in their homes, and how can this act foster greater unity among different Christian denominations?
Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton. He was ordained on May 30, 1953, by the late Bishop William J. Hafey, D.D. at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Scranton, PA. Msgr. Esseff served 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 St. Pope 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 serves 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.
A Sister of St. Thérèse: Servant of God, Léonie Martin – Bearer of Hope with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Episode 14
We pick up with Léonie at the dawn of the 1930s, in an era where world events begin to collide cataclysmically. She is writing to her older sister, Marie, about Pauline’s jubilee and recalling challenging medical procedures.
We also discuss the profound impact the teachings and writings of St. Francis de Sales and, to a lesser extent, St. Jane de Chantal and St. Margaret Mary Alacoque had on Léonie. Finally, Fr. Gallagher observes how the Salesian spirituality is very much in keeping with the “Little Way” of her sister, St. Therese, they are.
Léonie then imparts profound insights to her sisters following a retreat, which still rings true for all of us today.
Fr. Gallagher says, “Léonie’s life holds a significant story because she was the forgotten one; she was the one who was in the last place; she was the one who was less gifted than the others. Today we would call her a ‘problem child,’ and we’ll see that she certainly was the source of great anxiety to her parents, especially to her mother, Zélie, who loved her dearly.”
As a child, Léonie suffered from severe illnesses and physical maladies that would plague her entire life. She also struggled with understanding social clues and interactions and with behaving appropriately. Conventional educational models of the day failed to meet her particular needs, and she was labeled “developmentally delayed.” Yet those who knew her well described her as having a “heart of gold.”
Who was Léonie and what were her struggles? Why has her cause of canonization begun? Father Gallagher, along with Kris McGregor, answers these questions and explains why Léonie is “a bearer of hope” in this landmark series.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Embracing Physical Suffering: How can Léonie Martin’s acceptance of her physical sufferings inspire you to endure your own challenges with patience and grace?
Role of Humility in Spiritual Growth: How can embracing humility and recognizing your own limitations help you grow in your spiritual life?
6. Influence of Spirituality of Saints: What aspects of St. Francis de Sales’ and St. Thérèse’s teachings resonate with you, and how can you incorporate them into your daily life?
Living the Little Way: How can you apply the principles of the “little way” in your daily actions and interactions with others?
Trust in God’s Mercy: How can Léonie’s complete trust in God’s mercy encourage you to surrender your weaknesses and limitations to God?
Spiritual Communion with Others: In what ways can you strengthen your spiritual communion with others, especially during times of physical or emotional suffering?
The 4 Sisters - Marie, Pauline, Leonie, and Celine
St. Thérèse
A resource used for this series
Images in this post of the Martin/Guerin family are used with permission from the Archives of the Carmel of Lisieux website for strictly non-commercial use. We encourage you to visit the website for more information on this remarkable family.
For more series Fr. Timothy Gallagher podcasts, visit here
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
Letter 162 – The Letters of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity – Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles
Dr. Anthony Lilles and Kris McGregor discuss a 1903 letter from St. Elizabeth of the Trinity to her aunts. The letter reflects on her deep connection with her family despite geographic distances, and their bond through Christ.
Elizabeth, having emerged from a spiritual “dark night,” expresses profound peace and joy in her Carmel life. She touches on the looming persecution of French religious orders and the potential exile of her convent, yet remains focused on her spiritual journey and relationship with her aunts.
The letter also highlights her rich liturgical experiences, especially during Easter, and her unwavering faith amidst trials. Her descriptions of prayer, memories, and shared spiritual practices with her family shows how Elizabeth’s faith strengthens her resilience and deepens her connections, offering an inspiring model of spiritual devotion and holy indifference.
Letter 162
[April 28–30, 1903]
Dijon Carmel, April
J. M. + J. T.
“My good little Aunts,
It seems to me that Carlipa and Dijon are very close, for my heart has quickly jumped the distance to go find yours! And my Divine Bridegroom gives me wings like this so I can fly off to you: these wings are prayer, and then this unity in faith and love creates the communion of saints! . . . I have many things to tell you, my little Aunts, but where to begin? Oh! if you knew how beautiful Holy Week is in Carmel! I wish you could have attended our beautiful Offices, and especially on our beautiful feast of Easter. On that day, we chant Matins at 3 o’clock in the morning, we enter the choir in procession, wearing our white mantles, each holding a candle and singing the Regina Coeli. At 5 o’clock, we have the Mass of the Resurrection, followed by a magnificent procession in our beautiful garden. Everything was so still, so mysterious, that it seemed our Master was going to appear to us along the solitary paths as He once did to Mary Magdalene, and if our eyes did not see Him, at least our souls met Him in faith. Faith is so good; it is Heaven in darkness, but one day the veil will be lifted and we will contemplate in His light Him whom we love; while awaiting the Bridegroom’s “Veni” we must spend ourselves, suffer for Him, and, above all, love Him greatly. Thank Him for having called your little Elizabeth to Carmel for the persecution;2 I do not know what awaits us, and this perspective of having to suffer because I am His delights my soul. I love my dear cloister so much, and sometimes I have wondered if I don’t love this dear little cell too much,3 where it is so good to be “alone with the Alone.”4 Perhaps one day He will ask me to sacrifice it. I am ready to follow Him everywhere, and my soul will say with Saint Paul: “Who will separate me from the love of Christ?”5 I have within me a solitude where He dwells, and nothing can take that away from me! . . .
Guite had the good idea of passing your dear photographs on to me. I introduced you to our Reverend Mother, since she has heard her little lamb,6 who loves you so much, speak about you for so long. I was also delighted to show her your dear house; what sweet memories it brings back to me. I spent so many wonderful vacations, certainly the best, there among you. And the Serre, is it still so beautiful? What fine prayers must be offered there! Would you tell Monsieur le Curé that I send him my soul to say the Office with him in that dear little valley, pay him my respects and ask him to pray much for me. He is so good, I am sure he would really want to remember me at his Mass. My little Aunts, if you knew how I love your beautiful breviaries! I can’t say it enough, and each time I use them, I take your souls with mine to enter into communion with all Heaven. I assure you that you have made me very happy; they follow me everywhere, and day and night my prayer for you is my “thank you”!
I am leaving you to go to Matins “with you.” I still have many things to tell you, but there’s the bell, so I only have time to kiss you, as well as my good Aunt, from the best of my heart.
Your little Elizabeth of the Trinity r.c.i.
Pray for my dear Mama. Events have really saddened her, but her courage edifies me and I thank Him who has given me such a good one. Hello to Anna.”
Catez, Elizabeth of the Trinity. The Complete Works of Elizabeth of the Trinity volume 2: Letters from Carmel (pp. 101-102). ICS Publications. Kindle Edition.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
Connection through Christ: How can we maintain and strengthen our bonds with loved ones through our faith in Christ?
Emerging from Spiritual Trials: Reflect on a time when you felt spiritually lost. How did you regain your peace and joy in your faith?
Facing Persecution: How can we stay focused on our spiritual journey and trust in God’s plan when facing external challenges or threats?
Liturgical Richness: How do liturgical practices, such as participating in Easter celebrations, enrich your spiritual life?
Faith and Resilience: How does your faith help you remain resilient and steadfast during difficult times?
Sanctifying Places: Consider the places where you pray regularly. How have these places become sanctified through your prayers?
Holy Indifference: What aspects of your life can you practice holy indifference towards, accepting God’s will over personal preferences?
Cherishing Memories: How can recalling and cherishing past spiritual experiences help strengthen your present faith?
Community in Prayer: How does praying for and with others, even from a distance, impact your sense of community and connection?
Faith’s Transformative Power: How has your faith transformed your relationships and interactions with others?
We would like to thank Miriam Gutierrez for providing “the voice” of St. Elizabeth for this series
Anthony Lilles, S.T.D., has served the Church and assisted in the formation of clergy and seminarians since 1994. Before coming to St. Patrick’s, he served at seminaries and houses of formation in the Archdiocese of Denver and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The son of a California farmer, married with young adult children, holds a B.A. in theology from the Franciscan University of Steubenville with both the ecclesiastical licentiate and doctorate in spiritual theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome (the Angelicum). An expert in the writings of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity and the Carmelite Doctors of the Church, he co-founded the Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation and the High Calling Program for priestly vocations. He also founded the John Paul II Center for Contemplative Culture, which hosts symposiums, retreats, and conferences. In addition to his publications, he blogs at www.beginningtopray.com .
Lessons from The Little Prince – Encountering Foreign Worlds with The Little Prince with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B.
Fr. Mauritius Wilde and Kris McGregor explore the metaphor of isolated figures on different planets, relating it to human loneliness and the struggle to connect with others. They highlight the importance of friendship, emphasizing how true friendship arises from brokenness and vulnerability, as exemplified by the Little Prince leaving his planet.
Fr. Wilde reflects on the story’s spiritual principles, including the need to let go of attachments and embrace detachment, citing biblical references and the journey of the Little Prince as he meets various characters, such as the fox who teaches him about taming and creating ties. They discuss the significance of the desert in monastic spirituality, representing a place of solitude where one can truly encounter God, and draw parallels to life’s deserts, like personal crises, that open us to deeper relationships.
The conversation delves into the nature of true friendship, which requires time, presence, and selflessness. They discuss how authentic relationships are developed through patience, shared experiences, and mutual openness. Fr. Wilde concludes by relating these themes to Jesus’ example of friendship in the Gospels, and how Jesus’ presence and time spent with others transformed relationships and demonstrated divine friendship.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:
Understanding Friendship: How do you define true friendship in the context of your faith?
Embracing Brokenness: How has experiencing personal brokenness affected your relationships?
The Role of Detachment: How can detachment from worldly things help us form deeper connections with others?
Lessons from the Desert: Have you experienced a “desert” moment in your life that led to spiritual growth?
Creating and Respecting Rituals: What rituals or practices do you have that strengthen your friendships?
Being Present: How does being present with someone differ from just spending time together?
Reflecting on Jesus’ Friendship: How did Jesus model true friendship during His time on earth?
The Fox’s Wisdom: What does the process of “taming” mean to you in the context of relationships?
Encountering God in Others: How do you recognize the presence of Christ in your friends and family?
One sees clearly only with the heart. Anything essential is invisible to the eyes.
The story of a stranded pilot, an extraordinary little boy, and their remarkable friendship, The Little Prince has become a cherished fable for generations of readers. As enchanting as it is wise, this beloved classic captures the mysteries of the heart and opens us to the meaning of life and the magic of love.
taken from the back an edition of the book no longer in print
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. For more information about the ministry of the Missionary Benedictines of Christ the King Priory in Schuyler, NE
The Peace of Discernment – “What am I to do?” The Discernment of God’s Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher
Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor delve into the third mode of discernment proposed by St. Ignatius of Loyola. They explore how to prayerfully discern between significant life choices when clarity isn’t achieved through the first or second modes of discernment. Fr. Gallagher explains the method of evaluating options based on their advantages and disadvantages from the perspective of God’s greater glory.
He discusses a second approach within the third mode involving three simple tests: advising another in the same situation, reflecting from the perspective of life’s end, and considering the decision in light of eternity. Fr. Gallagher shares a personal example of using this method during his tenure as provincial to decide whether to continue or step down, illustrating the process and its efficacy, as well as the importance of not rushing the discernment process, maintaining a peaceful heart, and seeking guidance from a spiritual director.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:
Researching Options: Have I researched well the different options before making a decision?
Tranquil Time: Am I in a tranquil time where my heart is at peace and free from emotional pressure?
God’s Greater Glory: Is my primary consideration which option will promote God’s greater glory?
Spiritual Freedom: Am I spiritually free to choose either option, with no other motivations at play?
Seeking God’s Help: Have I sought God’s help in prayer before considering the advantages and disadvantages?
Listing Reasons: Have I listed the advantages and disadvantages in a clear and organized manner?
Faith-Based Reasons: Are the reasons I listed based on faith and God’s greater glory?
Preponderance of Reasons: Do I see clearly towards which option the preponderance of reasons leans?
Second Way of Third Mode: If I lack clarity, have I employed the second way of third mode discernment with the three simple tests?
Spiritual Guide Consultation: Have I discussed my discernment process with a spiritual guide?
Seeking Confirmation: Once I feel clarity, have I brought my discerned decision to God in prayer for His confirmation?
From The Discernment of God’s Will in Everyday Decisions:
“Three Times in which a Sound and Good Choice May Be Made
The first time is when God Our Lord so moves and attracts the will that, without doubting or being able to doubt, the devout soul follows what is shown to it, as St. Paul and St. Matthew did in following Christ our Lord.
The second time is when sufficient clarity and understanding is received through experience of consolations and desolations, and through experience of discernment of different spirits.
The third time is one of tranquility, when one considers first for what purpose man is born, that is, to praise God our Lord and save his soul, and, desiring this, chooses as a means to this end some life or state within the bounds of the Church, so that he may be helped in the service of his Lord and the salvation of his soul. I said a tranquil time, that is, when the soul is not agitated by different spirits, and uses its natural powers freely and tranquilly.
If the choice is not made in the first or second time, two ways of making it in this third time are given below.”
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
A Sister of St. Thérèse: Servant of God, Léonie Martin – Bearer of Hope with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Episode 14
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:
