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IP#251 – Anne Costa – Embracing Edith Stein on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

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Anne Costa – Embracing Edith Stein on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of “Inside the Pages”, Kris McGregor and Anne Costa discuss Anne’s book, Embracing Edith Stein: Wisdom for Women from St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, which aims to introduce Edith Stein’s rich spirituality to a broader audience and her significance for women today.

Describing Edith Stein’s life, from her birth in Germany as the youngest of 11 children, through her rise as a prominent philosopher, to her eventual conversion to Catholicism inspired by the writings of St. Teresa of Avila and the example of devout Catholics; Edith’s intellectual journey was marked by a deep pursuit of truth, which eventually led her to Catholicism and a vocation as a Carmelite nun.

Edith’s writings, particularly on the nature and mission of women, are highlighted as deeply relevant today. Her thoughts on the complementarity of men and women, the importance of self-possession for women, and the need to balance intellectual and spiritual life resonate strongly in contemporary times. The podcast underscores how her wisdom, grounded in both personal experience and profound faith, offers practical guidance for modern women.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Encountering Truth in Our Lives: How do I seek truth in my daily life, and am I open to the possibility that true wisdom may come from an encounter with Christ rather than just intellectual pursuit?
Embracing Our Feminine Gifts: In what ways can I better understand and utilize my unique gifts as a woman, according to God’s design, to serve my family and community?
The Cross and Suffering: How do I perceive and carry my own crosses, and can I learn from St. Edith Stein’s example to embrace suffering with hope and trust in God’s ultimate triumph?
Role of Prayer in Daily Life: Do I prioritize time for prayer in the midst of my daily responsibilities, allowing God to order my day and give me the strength to fulfill my duties?
Influence of Saints on Our Spiritual Journey: How can I foster a deeper relationship with the saints, particularly St. Edith Stein, to guide and support me in my spiritual growth during challenging times?

From the book description:

“Embracing Edith Stein shows how the different aspects of the life and teachings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross can serve as a guide for women and their unique vocation today. Written in a friendly, conversational style, this is one woman sharing the story of her friendship with this saint with her readers.”

About the Author

Anne Costa is a Catholic author and speaker with five books published including Embracing Edith Stein: Wisdom for Women from St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Servant) and Refresh Me Lord! Meditations to Renew a Women’sSpirit (The Word Among Us Press). She works with two apostolates: Sacred Heart Apostolate, Inc. as communications officer and the John Paul II Center for Women, Inc. Anne is a wife and mother, and enjoys traveling, painting and Eucharistic adoration.

Introduction & The First Way – The Nine Ways of Prayer of St. Dominic – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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The Nine Ways of Prayer of St. Dominic

Holy teachers like Augustine, Ambrose, Gregory, Hilary, Isidore, John Chrysostom, John Damascene, Bernard, and other saintly Greek and Latin doctors have discoursed on prayer at great length. They have encouraged and described it, pointed out its necessity and value, explained the method, the dispositions which are required, and the impediments which stand in its way. In learned books, the glorious and venerable doctor, Brother Thomas Aquinas, and Albert, of the Order of Preachers, as well as William in his treatise on the virtues, have considered admirably and in a holy, devout, and beautiful manner that form of prayer in which the soul makes use of the members of the body to raise itself more devoutly to God. In this way the soul, in moving the body, is moved by it. At times it becomes rapt in ecstasy as was Saint Paul, or is caught up in a rapture of the spirit like the prophet David. Saint Dominic often prayed in this way, and it is fitting that we say something of his method.

Certainly many saints of both the Old and New Testament are known to have prayed like this at times. Such a method serves to enkindle devotion by the alternate action of soul upon body and body upon soul. Prayer of this kind would cause Saint Dominic to be bathed in tears, and would arouse the fervor of his holy will to such intensity that his bodily members could not be restrained from manifesting his devotion by certain signs. As a result, the spirit of the supplicant was sometimes raised up during its entreaties, petitions, and thanksgivings.

The following, then, are the special modes of prayer, besides those very devout and customary forms, which Saint Dominic used during the celebration of Mass and the praying of the psalmody. In choir or along the road, he was often seen lifted suddenly out of himself and raised up with God and the angels.

The First Way of Prayer

Saint Dominic’s first way of prayer was to humble himself before the altar as if Christ, signified by the altar, were truly and personally present and not in symbol alone. He would say with Judith: “O Lord, God, the prayer of the humble and the meek hath always pleased Thee [Judith 9:16]. “It was through humility that the Canaanite woman and the prodigal son obtained what they desired; as for me, “I am not worthy that Thou shouldst come under my roof” [Matt. 8:8] for “I have been humbled before you exceedingly, O Lord [Ps. 118:107].:

In this way our holy father, standing erect, bowed his head and humbly considering Christ, his Head, compared his lowliness with the excellence of Christ. He then gave himself completely in showing his veneration. The brethren were taught to do this whenever they passed before the humiliation of the Crucified One in order that Christ, so greatly humbled for us, might see us humbled before his majesty. And he commanded the friars to humble themselves in this way before the entire Trinity whenever they chanted solemnly: “Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.” In this manner of profoundly inclining his head, as shown in the drawing, Saint Dominic began his prayer.

The text was taken from the book St. Dominic: Biographical Documents, edited by Fr. Francis C. Lehner, O.P. The chapter “The Nine Ways of Prayer of St. Dominic” was translated by Fr. Andrew Kolzow, O.P.

“The Nine Ways of Prayer of St. Dominic” from St. Dominic: Biographical Documents, © 1964 by The Thomist Press.
Nihil obstat: Reverend A. D. Lee, O.P. Censor Deputatus
Imprimatur: Patrick A. O’Boyle Archbishop of Washington
April 29,1964

The Gift of Empty Hands – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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The Gift of Empty Hands – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the readings from Ecclesiastes, Colossians, and the Gospel of Luke, focusing on the destructive nature of greed and the illusion of security found in material wealth. He contrasts the pursuit of possessions with the call to live in Christ, who alone satisfies the human heart. Using the parable of the rich man and stories from his own ministry, including encounters with the poor, missionaries, and saints like Mother Teresa, Msgr. Esseff illustrates how worldly riches can enslave the soul, while true freedom and peace come from union with Christ and a life centered on eternal values.

He shares moving examples of individuals who lived simply yet gave abundantly, revealing how detachment from luxury leads to spiritual richness. Msgr. Esseff also describes the radical poverty of the Missionaries of Charity and their joy in Christ, challenging listeners to examine their own relationship with wealth. He encourages young people to consider lives of missionary discipleship, not for fame or fortune, but to radiate Christ in the world. True richness, he says, is found in living a full life in God, where identity and peace are rooted not in possessions but in the presence of Jesus within.

From the Gospel of St. Luke 12:13-21

“Someone in the crowd said to Jesus,
“Teacher, tell my brother to share the inheritance with me.”
He replied to him,
“Friend, who appointed me as your judge and arbitrator?”
Then he said to the crowd,
“Take care to guard against all greed,
for though one may be rich,
one’s life does not consist of possessions.”

Then he told them a parable.
“There was a rich man whose land produced a bountiful harvest.
He asked himself, ‘What shall I do,
for I do not have space to store my harvest?’
And he said, ‘This is what I shall do:
I shall tear down my barns and build larger ones.
There I shall store all my grain and other goods
and I shall say to myself, “Now as for you,
you have so many good things stored up for many years,
rest, eat, drink, be merry!”’
But God said to him,
‘You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you;
and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?’
Thus will it be for all who store up treasure for themselves
but are not rich in what matters to God.”

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

What role do material possessions play in your life, and how might they be drawing your heart away from God?
How do you discern the difference between necessities and luxuries in your daily living?
In what ways are you seeking what is above, as St. Paul exhorts, rather than what is earthly?
Are there forms of hidden idolatry in your life, such as dependence on wealth, status, or comfort?
How can you practice generosity toward the poor and marginalized in a concrete way?
When was the last time you encountered poverty that challenged your perspective on your own abundance?
What would it mean for you to live a “full life in Christ” rather than just a successful or comfortable one?
How can you use your career or vocation as a mission field to reflect Christ to others?
In what areas of your life do you feel empty despite having much, and could that be a call to deeper union with God?
If you were to die today, would your life reflect a pursuit of eternal riches or temporary ones?

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 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.

An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part Two: How to Use the Discerning Hearts App – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part Two: How to Use the Discerning Hearts App

In Part Two, Kris McGregor introduces us to the features and resources available through the Discerning Hearts website and mobile app. The platform offers rich spiritual content including spiritual formation, prayers, scripture study, Church teaching, and reflections. Listeners can easily navigate categories like “Spiritual Formation” to explore podcast series from trusted Catholic voices such as Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Dr. Anthony Lilles. The app includes user-friendly features like downloading episodes, playback controls, and access to 24/7 streaming channels focused on formation and meditative prayer.

She encourages us to explore content based on their spiritual needs, whether they’re seeking healing, dealing with grief, growing in prayer, or learning about the saints. Discerning Hearts is also available on all major podcast platforms and YouTube, and users can subscribe to a daily email with new content.

Transcription

Today, let’s help you take the next step: where to begin and how to explore what’s waiting for you. Whether you’re using our website or our free mobile app, we’ve designed it all to be easy to navigate and spiritually fruitful—but there is a lot.

Let’s start with the app. When you first open the Discerning Hearts app, you’ll see several major categories such as Spiritual Formation, Prayers and Devotionals, Scripture, Church History, and more. Once you enter a category—let’s say, Spiritual Formation—you’ll see a list of voices and themes: trusted teachers like Father Timothy Gallagher, Dr. Anthony Lilles, Father Donald Haggerty, and others, each offering series rooted in rich spiritual charisms.

When you tap on one of those voices or topics, you’ll see the podcast series available—some in audio form, others also available as YouTube videos. Once you enter into a particular series, you’ll find a list of episodes ready to explore.

Each episode includes a star icon you can tap to mark it as a favorite, and a circle with a downward arrow to download it for later listening. When you select an episode, you’ll see a full-screen player along with complete show notes so you can follow along or go deeper.

Your podcast will begin playing at the bottom of your screen where a small black bar will appear. If you tap that bar, the player will expand, giving you access to fast-forward and rewind controls. At the top right of the screen, you’ll find a small gear icon—tap that and you can adjust the playback speed, set the podcast to repeat, or even use a sleep timer to turn off playback automatically.

It’s all designed to be intuitive, flexible, and a true companion for your prayer and learning. And there’s more. Within the app, you’ll also find access to two 24/7 streaming audio channels. Think of them as spiritual radio—always on, always available.

DH1 offers continuous spiritual formation programming, while DH2 features continuous music, prayer, and guided meditation. Just tap to listen and enter into the rhythm of grace wherever you are.

And if you’re not sure where to begin, one of the easiest places is the Latest Podcast section on the website. You’ll find it just by scrolling down the homepage. You’ll also see links to our prayer and devotional offerings, frequently asked questions, and a complete list of all our series. The same features are available in the app—right at your fingertips.

Remember, Discerning Hearts is also on all major podcast platforms—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and many more. Just search “Discerning Hearts” and you’ll find both our full channel and individual series like Inside the Pages or Building a Kingdom of Love.

You’ll also find us on YouTube, where many of our podcasts and teachings are available in video format if you prefer to watch or want to share a visual resource with a friend. Our YouTube channel is another simple way to stay connected and inspired.

And if you haven’t already, don’t forget to sign up for our daily newsletter. Every day, we’ll send a fresh offering to your inbox—sometimes a new podcast episode, other times a prayer or reflection. It’s a quiet, gentle way to stay close to the heart of this mission.

Finally, if you find Discerning Hearts helpful and you believe in this mission, there’s a donate button right within the app. Your gift, no matter the size, helps keep this content free and accessible to souls around the world.

Most of all, I want to invite you to explore with trust. You’re not just opening an app—you’re opening a door to a deeper relationship with Christ. Through every series, every episode, and every prayer, may you come to hear His voice more clearly and follow Him more closely.

In our next episode, we’ll help you match your season of life—or the longings of your heart—with the series and content that can meet you there. Whether you’re seeking healing, wrestling with grief, drawn to the saints, or just looking to go deeper in prayer, we’ll help you find the right place to start.

Until then, thank you for being with us, and may God continue to bless your journey.

An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part One: Formation, Prayer, and More – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part One: Formation, Prayer, and More

In this introductory episode, Kris McGregor welcomes listeners to Discerning Hearts and offers a guided overview of the rich spiritual resources available through the platform. From deep spiritual formation with renowned teachers like Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Dr. Anthony Lilles, to practical tools like the Daily Lectio Divina and Examen Prayer, Kris highlights how Discerning Hearts supports daily growth in prayer, scripture, and Catholic teaching. We are introduced to major categories including prayer and devotionals, scripture study, Church history, apologetics, Catholic social teaching, and more—all accessible for free through the website, mobile app, podcast platforms, and 24/7 streaming.

Whether you’re beginning your journey or seeking to deepen it, this episode shows how Discerning Hearts can become a daily companion in your spiritual life.

Transcription

Welcome to Discerning Hearts. I’m Kris McGregor, and whether this is your first time with us or you’re returning after journeying with us for a while, I’m so glad you’re here. This short series is designed to introduce—or reintroduce—you to everything Discerning Hearts offers. Over the next few episodes, I’ll walk with you step by step, showing you how to explore our content, use the app or website, and discover the spiritual tools that can help you grow closer to Christ.

Today, I want to give you a brief overview of the major categories you’ll find across our platform—whether you’re using the app, the website, or your favorite podcast platform. We begin with the heart of our mission: spiritual formation. Here, you’ll find podcast series that delve into the interior life, prayer, discernment, and the mystical tradition of the Church. We feature voices like Fr. Timothy Gallagher on Ignatian spirituality and the life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux and her family, Dr. Anthony Lilles, and Fr. Donald Haggerty, who guide us into the depths of Carmelite mysticism. Fr. Thomas McDermott teaches the wisdom of St. Catherine of Siena and the Dominican tradition; Fr. Mauritius Wilde shares from the Benedictine way of life; and Deacon James Keating speaks on contemplative prayer and intimacy with Christ. These are just a few of the many series in this section.

In our Prayers and Devotionals section, you’ll find novenas structured as nine-day journeys with a saint, enriched with reflections and teachings from their lives. We also offer multiple versions of the Rosary, Stations of the Cross, and a treasury of litanies and prayers to the Sacred Heart, Our Lady, St. Joseph, and more. Central to our daily rhythm are the Daily Lectio Divina and Examen Prayer—tools to help you notice God’s presence throughout your day.

If you want to go deeper into Sacred Scripture, we have in-depth studies from Sharon Doran’s Seeking Truth series, seasonal Gospel reflections, and thematic episodes tied to the liturgical year. It’s not just about learning the Word—it’s about loving and living it.

In the Church History and Apologetics section, you’ll find teachings from the early Church to the modern day. Mike Aquilina explores the early Church Fathers, Dr. Matthew Bunson highlights the Doctors of the Church. Other series showcase voices of conversion and evangelization, from G.K. Chesterton to St. John Henry Newman.

We also offer content on Living the Faith in the World, which explores Catholic social teaching, faith, and culture. Deacon Omar Gutierrez speaks on social doctrine and others explore art, literature, and beauty through a Gospel lens.

All of this is available for free on our website and the Discerning Hearts mobile app. You can also stream through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our YouTube channel. Be sure to sign up for our daily email newsletter for new reflections and episodes, and check out our 24/7 streaming channels—like a podcast radio, always on and always available. You don’t need to have a plan—just begin. We’re here to walk with you.

In our next episode, I’ll guide you through how to navigate the app and website, how to find the series that speaks to your heart, and how to integrate Discerning Hearts into your daily rhythm of prayer and formation. Thank you for being with us—may this be the beginning, or the deepening, of a beautiful spiritual journey.

St. Peter Chrysologus – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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St. Anthony of Padua Doctor of Church Matthew Bunson Podcast

St. Peter Chrysologus – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson

Born: 406 AD, Imola, Italy
Died: July 31, 450 AD

Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor discuss St. Peter Chrysologus, a Doctor of the Church known as the “Doctor of Homilies” due to his exceptional preaching skills. Chrysologus, who lived from around 380 to 450 AD, was noted for his brief, clear, and impactful homilies that conveyed deep theological truths concisely to avoid boring his congregation. His teachings emphasized prayer, fasting, and mercy, which he believed were interdependent and vital for a steadfast faith and virtuous life.

Declared a Doctor of the Church in 1729 by Pope Benedict XIII, Chrysologus was honored during a period of rationalism and skepticism in Europe. His ability to distill complex theological concepts into accessible and inspiring messages made him an essential figure during the Enlightenment. Despite the turmoil of his era, including the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the rise of various heresies like Arianism and Monophysitism, Chrysologus remained a steadfast defender of orthodox Christian doctrine.

Chrysologus’s significant influence is highlighted by his relationship with Pope Leo the Great and his response to the heretic Eutyches, which emphasized papal primacy and the importance of unity in the Church. His eloquence and gentle nature, combined with his theological depth, made his homilies resonate deeply with his congregation and contributed to his lasting legacy in the Church. The podcast underscores the relevance of Chrysologus’s teachings in today’s context of social and religious challenges, encouraging listeners to draw inspiration from his life and work.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Understanding the Impact of Brevity in Homilies: How can the example of St. Peter Chrysologus’s concise and clear homilies inspire contemporary preachers to communicate more effectively?
Emulating the Zeal for Truth: In what ways can we, as modern Catholics, emulate St. Peter Chrysologus’s zeal for defending and teaching the true faith amidst today’s skepticism and rationalism?
Integrating Prayer, Fasting, and Mercy: How can we incorporate St. Peter Chrysologus’s teaching on the interdependence of prayer, fasting, and mercy into our daily spiritual practices?
Importance of Papal Primacy: Why is understanding and respecting papal primacy, as emphasized by St. Peter Chrysologus, important for maintaining unity and orthodoxy in the Church today?
Living the Faith Through Action: Reflect on a specific way you can live out your faith in action, following the example of St. Peter Chrysologus’s life and teachings.
Addressing Modern Heresies: What are some modern-day heresies or false teachings that the Church faces, and how can we effectively respond to them using the wisdom of St. Peter Chrysologus?
Importance of Holiness in Relationships: How does the relationship between St. Peter Chrysologus and other Church leaders like Pope Leo the Great illustrate the importance of fostering holy and supportive relationships within the Church community?
Lessons from Historical Context: How can the historical context of St. Peter Chrysologus’s time help us understand and address the challenges facing the Church in our current era?
Role of Homilies in Worship: Why is it crucial for homilies to be integrated within the context of worship and liturgy, as St. Peter Chrysologus exemplified?
Personal Spiritual Growth: Reflect on a recent homily that deeply moved you. How did it inspire your spiritual growth, and how can you seek to apply its message in your life?

For more on St. Peter Chrysologus and his teachings

From Wikipedia:

“Peter was born in Imola, where Cornelius, bishop of Roman Catholic Diocese of Imola, baptized him, educated him, and ordained him a deacon. He was made an archdeacon through the influence of Emperor Valentinian III. Pope Sixtus III appointed Peter as Bishop of Ravenna (or perhaps archbishop) circa 433, apparently rejecting the candidate whom the people of the city ofRavenna elected. The traditional account, as recorded in the Roman Breviary, is that Sixtus had a vision of Pope Saint Peter the Apostle and Saint Apollinaris of Ravenna, the first bishop of that see, who showed Sixtus a young man, the next Bishop of Ravenna. When a group from Ravenna arrived, including Cornelius and his archdeacon Peter from Imola, Sixtus recognized Peter as the young man in his vision and consecrated him as a bishop.

People knew Saint Peter Chrysologus, the Doctor of Homilies, for his short but inspired talks; he supposedly feared boring his audience. His piety and zeal won universal admiration. After hearing oratory of his first homily as bishop, Roman Empress Galla Placidia supposedly gave him the surname Chrysologus, meaning “golden-worded.” Empress Galla Placidia patronized many of projects of Bishop Saint Peter.

In his extant homilies, bishop Peter explained Biblical texts briefly and concisely. He also condemned Arianism and Monophysitism as heresies and explained beautifully the Apostles’ Creed, the mystery of the Incarnation, and other topics in simple and clear language. He dedicated a series of homilies to Saint John the Baptist and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Peter advocated daily reception of Eucharist. He urged his listeners to confide in the forgiveness offered through Christ. He shared the confidence of Saint Pope Leo I the Great (440-461), another doctor of the Church.

A synod held in Constantinople in 448 condemned Eutyches for Monophysitism; Eutyches then appealed to Saint Peter Chrysologus but failed in his endeavour to win the support of the Bishop. The Acts of the Council of Chalcedon(451) preserves the text of letter of Saint Peter Chrysologus in response to Eutyches; Peter admonishes Eutyches to accept the ruling of the synod and to give obedience to the Bishop of Rome as the successor of Saint Peter.

Archbishop Felix of Ravenna in the early eighth century collected and preserved 176 of his homilies. Various authors edited and translated these works into numerous languages.

Death and veneration

St Peter died circa or after 450 during a visit to Imola, the town of his birth. Older reference books say he died on 2 December, but a more recent interpretation of the ninth-century “Liber Pontificalis Ecclesiae Ravennatis” indicated that he died on 31 July. When in 1729 he was declared a Doctor of the Church, his feast day, not already included in the Tridentine Calendar, was inserted in the Roman Catholic calendar of saints for celebration on 4 December. In 1969 his feast was moved to 30 July, as close as possible to the day of his death, 31 July, the feast day of Saint Ignatius of Loyola.”

For more from Dr. Matthew Bunson, check out his Discerning Hearts page.

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.

BTP-LR20 – Day 14 – Part 2 – The Last Retreat by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity – Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Day 14 – Part 2 – The Last Retreat by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity- Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles

Dr. Anthony Lilles and Kris McGregor explore Day 14 of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity’s Last Retreat. The reflection centers on the idea that Holy Communion is not merely a moment of devotion but an invitation to unite fully with Christ’s obedience to the Father’s will. Elizabeth points to Christ’s declaration, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me”, to reveal that receiving the Eucharist properly requires interior readiness and surrender. When we approach the altar with selfish motives or spiritual distraction, we hinder the grace meant to transform us. Instead, St. Elizabeth calls for a soul open to the mystery of divine will: one that continues to offer praise and fidelity long after Mass ends. This disposition leads us deeper into the very heart of Christ’s sacrificial love, enabling us to join him in his prayer and suffering.

Silence is the place where union with God matures. St. Elizabeth portrays this silence not as mere absence of noise, but as the crucible of transformation, especially in suffering. Drawing from Jesus’ own cries from the cross—“Why have you abandoned me?” and “I thirst”—she identifies the soul’s participation in divine love through desolation and thirst for God. This silence prepares the heart to echo Jesus’ final surrender: “Into your hands I commend my spirit.” Dr. Lilles reflects that such surrender, born from silence and suffering, allows God’s glory and joy to enter the world. In a noisy culture, this interior stillness is rare but deeply necessary. It is within this silence, he says, that God astonishes the soul with his presence and leads it beyond its limits into the boundless mystery of divine love.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How does receiving Holy Communion invite you to align your will with the Father’s, beyond the moment of the Mass?
In what ways might you be approaching Communion with personal agendas rather than openness to God’s purpose?
What does it mean for you personally to make the Father’s will your “food,” as Christ did?
How can you cultivate silence in your life as a place of strength and union with God?
When have you experienced the silence of God, and how did it affect your faith?
Are you willing to let suffering become a path through which God communicates his love to others?
How might embracing silence after Communion deepen your intimacy with Christ?
What does Jesus’ thirst from the cross reveal about his desire for your soul and others?
How can you surrender more fully to God in times of spiritual abandonment or trial?
What does it look like in your life to let Christ increase and yourself decrease?

From “Last Retreat Day 14” found in The Complete Works vol 1:

36. “It seems to me that all is loss since I have known the excelling knowledge of my Lord, Jesus Christ. For love of Him I have forfeited everything; I have accounted all else rubbish that I may gain Christ, so as to be found in Him, not with my own justice but with the justice that comes from God through faith. What I want is to know Him, to share in His sufferings, to become like Him in His death. I pursue my course, striving to attain to what Christ has destined me for by taking hold of me; my whole concern is to forget what is behind and to strain forward constantly to what is ahead; I run straight to the goal . . . , to the prize of the heavenly vocation to which God has called me in Christ Jesus.” 212 The Apostle has often revealed the greatness of this vocation: “God,” he says, “has chosen us in Him before the creation of the world that we might be holy and immaculate in His presence in love. . . . We have been predestined by the decree of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, so that we may be the praise of His glory.” 213

37. But how do we respond to the dignity of this vocation? This is the secret: “Mihi vivere Christus est! . . . Vivo enim, jam non ego, vivit vero in me Christus. . . .” 214 We must be transformed into Jesus Christ; again it is St. Paul who teaches me this: “Those whom God has foreknown, He has predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.” 215 It is important then that I study this divine Model so as to identify myself so closely with Him that I may unceasingly reveal Him to the eyes of the Father. First of all, what did He say when He came into the world? “Here I am, O God, I come to do your will.” 216 I think that this prayer should be like the bride’s heartbeat: 217 “Here we are, O Father, we come to do your will!”

This the text we are using to discuss “Heaven in Faith” you can find it here and order from the Carmelite Sisters

We would like to thank Miriam Gutierrez for providing “the voice” of St. Elizabeth for this series

For other episodes in the series visit the Discerning Hearts page for Dr. Anthony Lilles

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 .

The Legacy of St. Charbel Makhluf and St. Nimatullah Kassab – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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The Legacy of St. Charbel Makhluf and St. Nimatullah Kassab – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff shares a personal and profound connection with Saint Charbel Makhlouf, a Maronite saint from Lebanon, whose feast day is being celebrated. Msgr. Esseff recounts his experience in Lebanon as the Pontifical Mission Director, where he visited Saint Charbel’s shrine and learned about his life and influence.

Saint Charbel was a Maronite monk known for his deep spirituality and ascetic life, who eventually chose a hermit’s life for 27 years of prayer and fasting. His life and miraculous incorrupt body, which glowed after his death, drew many pilgrims, including Muslims and Christians.

Msgr. Esseff discusses the significance of Saint Charbel for both Eastern and Western Christians, and the importance for unity in Christ despite historical and political division and the need for holiness and true leadership rooted in Christ rather than worldly power.

St. Charbel Makhlouf... some call him the Padre Pio of Lebanon 1 — Saint Charbel Makhluf, O.L.M. (or Sharbel Maklouf)

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Reflect on how the lives of saints, particularly Saint Charbel, can inspire and guide your spiritual journey.
Consider the importance of personal holiness and how you can strive to be more Christ-like in your daily life.
Examine the qualities of true leadership in the Church, as exemplified by Saint Charbel, and how they differ from worldly power and prestige.
Contemplate the common foundation of faith in Christ that unites Eastern and Western Christians, despite historical and political differences.
Reflect on the role of prayer and fasting in deepening your relationship with God, inspired by Saint Charbel’s example.
Think about the significance of miracles in the Church, such as the incorrupt body of Saint Charbel, and what they reveal about God’s presence and power.
Consider how you can be a witness to Christ in your community, following the example of Saint Charbel’s humble and devoted life.

Reading 1 JER 2:1-3, 7-8, 12-13

This word of the LORD came to me:
Go, cry out this message for Jerusalem to hear!

I remember the devotion of your youth,
how you loved me as a bride,
Following me in the desert,
in a land unsown.
Sacred to the LORD was Israel,
the first fruits of his harvest;
Should any presume to partake of them,
evil would befall them, says the LORD.

When I brought you into the garden land
to eat its goodly fruits,
You entered and defiled my land,
you made my heritage loathsome.
The priests asked not,
“Where is the LORD?”
Those who dealt with the law knew me not:
the shepherds rebelled against me.
The prophets prophesied by Baal,
and went after useless idols.

Be amazed at this, O heavens,
and shudder with sheer horror, says the LORD.
Two evils have my people done:
they have forsaken me, the source of living waters;
They have dug themselves cisterns,
broken cisterns, that hold no water.

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.

Hospitality of the Heart – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Hospitality of the Heart – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

In this episode of Building a Kingdom of Love, Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the readings from Genesis and Luke, inviting listeners to rediscover the gift of hospitality and the presence of God in daily life. He begins with Abraham’s encounter with the Lord in the form of three visitors, pointing out how acts of welcome—once instinctive in many homes—have diminished in a world grown fearful and distant. Drawing from his own heritage and childhood memories, Msgr. Esseff recalls how guests were always seen as a gift from God, echoing the Benedictine phrase, “Here comes Christ.”Whether it’s a stranger at the door or a family member across the table, he reminds us that Christ often comes to us hidden in the ordinary.

He then turns to the story of Martha and Mary, where Mary quietly receives the Lord while Martha grows anxious in her serving. Msgr. Esseff warns that we can lose sight of our identity as sons and daughters of God when we focus only on doing rather than being. The heart of the Gospel is not about performance but relationship—a truth that Mary lived and Martha struggled to understand. Paul’s words in Colossians, “Christ in you, the hope of glory,” invite each of us to carry the awareness that God is with us, not just in church, but everywhere: in the hospital room, in the kitchen, in moments of silence, and in the faces of those we serve. Msgr. Esseff closes with the reminder that God longs for us not just to serve Him, but to know Him—and to let ourselves be known.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

Do I welcome others into my life with the same reverence Abraham showed to the strangers at his tent?
Can I recognize Christ in the ordinary people I meet throughout my day?
Have I made space in my life to sit quietly with God as Mary did?
Do I define myself by what I do, or by who I am as a child of God?
When I go to Mass, am I truly present to the Lord who is present to me?
Is my relationship with God something I carry into the whole day, or just certain moments?
Am I allowing God to bring peace into my heart, or am I clinging to anxiety like Martha?

Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest of the Diocese of Scranton. He served as a retreat director and confessor to St. Teresa of Calcutta and continues to offer spiritual direction and lead retreats for the Sisters of the Missionaries of Charity worldwide. Msgr. Esseff also had a profound encounter with St. Padre Pio, who became his spiritual father. He has served in various parts of the world through the Pontifical Missions, a Catholic organization founded by St. John Paul II to share the Good News, especially with the poor. . Msgr. Esseff continues to lead retreats and provide spiritual direction to bishops, priests, seminarians, sisters, and other religious leaders around the world.

IP#504 Dan LeRoy – Why We Think What We Think on Inside the Pages w/ Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Why We Think What We Think by Dan LeRoy on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor, guest Dan LeRoy discusses his book, which explores the decline of philosophical thinking in the Western world. They discuss the importance of philosophy for fostering critical thinking and understanding cultural shifts. LeRoy critiques modern philosophy for becoming disconnected from practical realities, arguing that it has contributed to societal confusion and dissatisfaction.

They explore historical and philosophical influences, highlighting how figures like Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and later, St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas, have shaped Western thought. The discussion emphasizes the enduring relevance of classical philosophers and the consequences of abandoning their teachings in modern times. LeRoy argues that reconnecting with these foundational ideas is essential for addressing contemporary issues and achieving true happiness, which aligns with the pursuit of virtue and truth.

LeRoy also critiques modern philosophical trends that prioritize individual happiness over communal responsibility, linking these trends to broader societal unhappiness. The conversation underscores the need for a philosophical renaissance that embraces ancient and medieval thinkers’ rigorous, virtue-oriented approach to remedying modern existential and ethical dilemmas.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

Personal Reflection on Philosophy: How does your understanding of philosophy align with the perspectives shared by Dan Leroy? In what ways can you incorporate philosophical thinking into your daily life to make more informed, virtuous decisions?
Role of Virtue: How do you define virtue in your own life? Reflect on how the pursuit of virtue can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment, as discussed by LeRoy. Are there areas in your life where you could strive more actively for virtue?
Influence of Historical Philosophers: Consider the impact of philosophers like Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, St. Augustine, and St. Thomas Aquinas on your own understanding of the world. How do their teachings on truth and virtue resonate with your personal beliefs and practices?
Modern Philosophy’s Disconnect: LeRoy discusses the disconnect of modern philosophy from practical and ethical concerns. Reflect on any modern philosophical ideas or movements you are aware of. Do you agree that they are disconnected from “real-world” applications? Why or why not?
Critical Thinking in Culture: In what ways do you think critical thinking is lacking in today’s culture? How can the revival of classical philosophical principles contribute to solving contemporary problems?
Philosophy and the Catholic Faith: Reflect on how philosophy can complement your Catholic faith. How can embracing philosophical inquiry enhance your spiritual life and your understanding of Catholic teachings?
Community and Individualism: Reflect on the tension between individualism and community responsibilities as discussed in the episode. How do you balance personal freedom with communal obligations in your own life?
Pursuit of Truth and Happiness: How does your pursuit of truth impact your happiness? Do you agree with the assertion that true happiness comes from fulfilling our purpose and seeking virtue? Why or why not?
Engagement with Philosophical Texts: Are there philosophical texts or thinkers you have been meaning to explore? What might be holding you back, and how could engaging with these materials enrich your intellectual and spiritual life?
Action Steps: Based on the discussion in the podcast, what are some practical steps you can take to deepen your philosophical understanding and apply it to your life challenges?

From the book’s description:

We’re all starting to hear people ask how the world has gotten to be the way it is. Grafted onto the usual complaints about why people are so greedy, self-absorbed, and callous toward one another are new expressions of frustration about even more fundamental concerns. Why can’t we agree on concepts that used to be basic common sense? Why does our very language now seem to be a minefield that only the most wily and tactical (or cynical) among us can navigate?

The only way to understand fully how we have arrived at this state — and what, if anything, we might be able to do about it — is to embark on a journey back in time to see where we went off the rails. With candor and occasional humor, Dan LeRoy tells the sweeping story of Western thought from its beginnings to the present, revealing the souls and idiosyncrasies of its greatest thinkers. Through stirring vignettes, he tells the real story of how our customs and thought patterns developed and then relates it to our current moment of rupture.

In pages that sometimes read like an Indiana Jones adventure, LeRoy explains the detour that philosophy took nearly a thousand years ago that has led Western society to its current, dire situation. With sharp pen and clear eye, he reveals:

The roots of classical philosophy, including empiricism (Ready to wade into the water?)

How views on ethics and morality began to take shape even before Christ

The three ways to attain happiness, according to the Big Three philosophers

Four splinter groups and how their philosophies impact us today

The enduring teachings of Sts. Augustine and Aquinas, among many others

About the Author

Dan LeRoy is an author, journalist and teacher who has been the director of the Writing and Publishing Department at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School in Midland, Pennsylvania, since 2006. His writing about music and politics has appeared in the New York Times, Rolling Stone, Newsweek, the Village Voice, Alternative Press, Esquire, and National Review Online.

Anne Costa – Embracing Edith Stein on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

From the book description:

About the Author

The Nine Ways of Prayer of St. Dominic

The First Way of Prayer

The text was taken from the book St. Dominic: Biographical Documents, edited by Fr. Francis C. Lehner, O.P. The chapter “The Nine Ways of Prayer of St. Dominic” was translated by Fr. Andrew Kolzow, O.P.

“The Nine Ways of Prayer of St. Dominic” from St. Dominic: Biographical Documents, © 1964 by The Thomist Press. Nihil obstat: Reverend A. D. Lee, O.P. Censor Deputatus Imprimatur: Patrick A. O’Boyle Archbishop of Washington April 29,1964

The Gift of Empty Hands – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

From the Gospel of St. Luke 12:13-21

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part Two: How to Use the Discerning Hearts App

Transcription

An Introduction to Discerning Hearts – Part One: Formation, Prayer, and More

Transcription

St. Peter Chrysologus – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

For more on St. Peter Chrysologus and his teachings

From Wikipedia:

Death and veneration

Day 14 – Part 2 – The Last Retreat by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity- Beginning to Pray with Dr. Anthony Lilles

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

From “Last Retreat Day 14” found in The Complete Works vol 1:

The Legacy of St. Charbel Makhluf and St. Nimatullah Kassab – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Reading 1 JER 2:1-3, 7-8, 12-13

Hospitality of the Heart – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

Why We Think What We Think by Dan LeRoy on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

From the book’s description:

About the Author

“The Nine Ways of Prayer of St. Dominic” from St. Dominic: Biographical Documents, © 1964 by The Thomist Press.
Nihil obstat: Reverend A. D. Lee, O.P. Censor Deputatus
Imprimatur: Patrick A. O’Boyle Archbishop of Washington
April 29,1964