cathollc spirituality

MC7 – Practical Steps for Prayer – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Practical Steps for Prayer – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher explores how to integrate Ignatian meditation and contemplation into daily life by offering practical methods for selecting scripture passages. He highlights two primary approaches: using the daily Mass readings for a structured connection to the liturgical year or systematically working through a Gospel with flexibility to revisit passages that resonate deeply. Using simple spiritual commentaries to enrich understanding, he suggests finding a balance between structure and adaptability to sustain daily prayer.

Perseverance is crucial through spiritual ups and downs. Drawing from saints like St. Catherine of Siena and St. John Paul II, who advocate for prayer as the foundation of spiritual growth, Fr. Gallagher shares a practical spiritual program from Venerable Bruno Lanteri, encouraging daily meditation, spiritual reading, and an examen. He concludes with an encouraging reminder from Romans 8:26 that the Holy Spirit aids our weakness in prayer, offering hope and strength for a faithful prayer life.

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Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. Incorporating Scripture into Daily Prayer: How can I structure my daily prayer using either the daily Mass readings or a systematic reading of a Gospel while remaining flexible to the Spirit’s promptings?
  2. Utilizing Spiritual Commentaries: What role can a simple spiritual commentary play in deepening my understanding of Scripture during prayer?
  3. Persevering Through Spiritual Highs and Lows: How can I remain faithful to daily prayer amidst both spiritual consolation and desolation?
  4. Following Practical Spiritual Practices: How can I incorporate daily meditation, spiritual reading, and an examen into my life as recommended by Venerable Bruno Lanteri?
  5. Relying on the Holy Spirit in Prayer: How can I trust in the Holy Spirit’s assistance when I feel weak or unsure in my prayer life?

Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.  Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life:  The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola.” For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio, which are available for purchase, please visit  his  website:   frtimothygallagher.org

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 15 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

MC6 – Using Colloquy in Prayer – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Using Colloquy in Prayer – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher discusses the significance of the colloquy in Ignatian prayer, describing it as the culminating moment when meditation or contemplation transitions into direct, heartfelt conversation with God. Using examples such as the Beatitudes and the storm at sea, he illustrates how scripture reflection leads naturally into personal dialogue with the Lord. This moment of prayer arises spontaneously when the heart, filled with the Word, begins to speak back to God in trust and petition. St. Ignatius encourages resting in this heart-to-heart communication for as long as the soul desires, making it the deepest part of the prayer experience.

Fr. Gallagher also offers a structured example of praying with scripture through the passage of Bartimaeus in Mark 10. He outlines how one might enter into the scene, imagine the setting, and allow the words and actions of Jesus to stir personal prayer. The process includes reading the passage, asking for a specific grace, and then moving into contemplation, where the heart responds to God’s presence.

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Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. Recognizing God’s Plan: Reflect on how God’s unique design for your life shapes your purpose and daily decisions.
  2. Overcoming Feelings of Unworthiness: Consider how Peter and Isaiah’s encounters with God challenge you to trust in His call despite your weaknesses.
  3. Living Marriage as a Vocation: Examine how your marriage or relationships reflect the self-giving love and commitment God calls you to.
  4. Finding Holiness in Suffering: Contemplate how trials in your life can become a path to greater faith and deeper union with Christ.
  5. Understanding the Depth of Vows: Reflect on the lifelong commitment of marriage or religious vows and how they shape your journey to holiness.
  6. Trusting in God’s Timing: Consider how surrendering control to God’s plan can bring peace and clarity in uncertain situations.
  7. Embracing Self-Sacrificial Love: Meditate on how you are called to give of yourself more fully in your relationships and daily life.
  8. Seeing Christ in Family Life: Ponder how Christ is present in your family’s struggles and joys, guiding you toward holiness.
  9. Responding to God’s Invitation: Examine how you can take concrete steps to follow God’s call more faithfully in your current state of life.
  10. Becoming a Witness of Faith: Consider how your actions and choices reflect Christ’s love and serve as a testimony to others.

Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.  Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life:  The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola.” For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio, which are available for purchase, please visit  his  website:   frtimothygallagher.org

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 15 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

MC5 – God’s Presence in Silence – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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God’s Presence in Silence – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher explores the distinction between meditation and contemplation in the Ignatian tradition, and how both forms of prayer deepen one’s relationship with God. Meditation involves reflecting on Scripture’s meaning, while contemplation uses the imagination to place oneself within a Gospel scene. Imaginative prayer is not mere fantasy but a method deeply rooted in Catholic tradition, practiced by saints like St. Ignatius, St. Teresa of Avila, and St. Francis de Sales. Scripture itself, being rich in narrative and imagery, invites this form of engagement. The saving power of Christ’s life is not confined to the past but remains available through prayer, liturgy, and personal devotion.

He also introduces the concept of the colloquy, a key Ignatian practice in which the soul naturally shifts from contemplation into a personal conversation with God, Mary, or the saints.

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Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. Authenticity in Prayer: How can you discern whether your prayer experience, especially in contemplation, is truly an encounter with God rather than just personal imagination?
  2. The Tradition of Imaginative Prayer: What insights from the saints and Scripture itself help you trust that imaginative contemplation is a valid and fruitful way to pray?
  3. Encountering the Living Christ: Since the saving grace of Christ’s life is always accessible, how can you more intentionally enter into His presence through meditation and contemplation?
  4. The Role of the Holy Spirit: How do you recognize the guidance of the Holy Spirit in your prayer, especially when reflecting on Scripture or engaging in imaginative contemplation?
  5. Disposing Yourself for Grace: What practical steps can you take to create the openness necessary to receive the grace God wants to give you in prayer?
  6. Transitioning into Prayer: How can you better prepare your heart before beginning a time of meditation or contemplation to foster a deeper encounter with God?
  7. The Colloquy as Conversation with God: When has your prayer naturally shifted from reflection into direct conversation with God, and how did that change your experience of His presence?
  8. Devotions as Contemplative Prayer: How can practices like the Rosary or the Stations of the Cross become more of a personal encounter with Christ rather than a routine obligation?
  9. Remaining Where Grace is Found: Have you ever experienced a moment in prayer where you felt called to stay with a particular thought, image, or feeling? How did you respond?
  10. Carrying Prayer into Daily Life: How can you take what you receive in prayer—whether in meditation, contemplation, or colloquy—and allow it to shape your daily actions and decisions?

Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.  Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life:  The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola.” For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio, which are available for purchase, please visit  his  website:   frtimothygallagher.org

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 15 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

MC4 – Encountering Christ in Scripture – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Encountering Christ in Scripture – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher delves into the practical and spiritual steps for engaging in Ignatian meditation and contemplation. Preparation is a vital stage, encouraging a moment of stillness to recognize God’s loving presence before beginning prayer. It’s important to read the scripture passage attentively, allowing the text to become “fresh in our consciousness.” We should imaginatively “compose” ourselves within the biblical scene, drawing upon St. Ignatius’ and St. Francis de Sales’ teachings to vividly visualize the setting and characters, enriching the prayer experience.

He recounts examples from the lives of saints, such as St. Jane de Chantal and St. Catherine of Siena, who lingered deeply on meaningful moments in scripture, allowing their hearts to align with God’s. This method leads to profound intimacy with the Lord, where “heart speaks to heart.” Prayer is a grace-filled gift, encouraging freedom from rigid methods and focusing on the relational encounter with God.

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Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. Recognizing God’s Loving Gaze
    Reflect on how you begin your prayer time by acknowledging God’s loving presence and your response to it.
  2. Preparing with Scripture
    Consider the steps you take to make scripture fresh in your heart before entering into meditation or contemplation.
  3. Engaging Imaginatively with the Gospel
    Reflect on how visualizing yourself within a biblical scene enriches your prayer and draws you closer to Jesus.
  4. Remaining Where God Speaks
    Think about how you discern the moments in prayer where God is speaking to your heart and allow yourself to remain there without rushing.
  5. Praying with Simplicity and Trust
    Evaluate how you approach prayer as a gift of grace, setting aside anxiety and focusing on a deep, relational encounter with God.

Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.  Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life:  The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola.” For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio, which are available for purchase, please visit  his  website:   frtimothygallagher.org

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 15 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

MC3 – Walking with Christ in Prayer – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Walking with Christ in Prayer – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher explores Ignatian meditation and contemplation, illustrating these practices through the story of Catherine, a woman who experienced profound spiritual healing during her retreat. Catherine engaged deeply with the Passion of Christ using Ignatian imaginative prayer, placing herself in the Gospel scenes and encountering Jesus’ love and trust in the Father. This prayer journey led her to integrate her own suffering from a life-altering stroke with Christ’s Passion, ultimately experiencing God’s healing grace, renewal, and intimate presence in her struggles.

With the transformative power of daily prayer, whether reflective or imaginative, it can be used as a means to deepen one’s relationship with Go, using St. Ignatius’ advice on beginning prayer with a moment of stillness, lifting one’s heart to God and recognizing His loving gaze. This intentional practice shifts prayer from routine to profound relational encounter, opening the heart to God’s healing and grace. This episode highlights the accessibility and depth of Ignatian prayer as a path to intimacy with God and spiritual growth.

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Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. Encountering Jesus in Prayer: Reflect on how imaginative or reflective prayer can deepen your relationship with Jesus by bringing His experiences into your own life.
  2. Trusting in God’s Providence: Consider moments in your life where suffering might be transformed by trusting in God’s love and plan, as shown in Catherine’s story.
  3. God’s Loving Gaze: Contemplate what it means to see God’s infinite love and mercy in His gaze as you begin your time of prayer.
  4. Joining in Christ’s Passion: Meditate on how entering the Passion of Christ through scripture can reveal the connection between His suffering and your own.
  5. Healing Through Prayer: Ponder areas in your life where prayer could open your heart to healing and reconciliation with God.
  6. Daily Faithfulness to Prayer: Reflect on how incorporating Ignatian prayer practices daily can enrich your spiritual journey and bring about transformation.
  7. Receiving God’s Grace: Think about how prayer, even in small increments, creates space for God’s grace and blessings to flow into your life.

Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.  Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life:  The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola.” For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio, which are available for purchase, please visit  his  website:   frtimothygallagher.org

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 15 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

MC2 – Power of Imaginative Prayer – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Power of Imaginative Prayer – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher explores the distinctions and interplay between meditation and contemplation in the Ignatian tradition, with Fr. Timothy Gallagher providing insights into how these methods deepen engagement with Scripture. Meditation involves reflecting on the meaning of words in Scripture (e.g., pondering “Blessed are the poor in spirit”), while contemplation is an imaginative engagement with biblical events, such as entering the scene of Jesus calming the storm. Fr. Gallagher illustrates these practices through examples from St. John Chrysostom, Jesuit Bishop Alban Goodier, and others, showing how meditation leads to reflection and heart transformation, while contemplation evokes vivid spiritual experiences.

Scripture has a transformative power where both meditation and contemplation awaken a deeper relationship with God. A good way to begin practicing these methods can start simply by setting aside daily time for prayer. Through examples like imaginative contemplation of Jesus’ calmness before Pilate and Mark’s meditation on the Good Shepherd, prayer opens the heart to spiritual consolation, hope, and personal insight.

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Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. Facing the Storms of Life Reflect on how you respond to challenges and where you see Jesus accompanying you during difficult times.
  2. Meditating with Scripture Consider the depth of your reflection on the meaning of God’s Word and how it speaks to your heart.
  3. Engaging the Imagination in Prayer Explore how immersing yourself in Gospel scenes can bring new insights and intimacy with Christ.
  4. Recognizing God’s Presence in Silence Reflect on moments when God seemed distant and how these experiences have shaped your trust in Him.
  5. Commitment to Daily Prayer Assess your dedication to praying with Scripture regularly and the spiritual growth it fosters.

Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.  Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life:  The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola.” For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio, which are available for purchase, please visit  his  website:   frtimothygallagher.org

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 15 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

MC1 – Introduction – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Introduction – Meditation and Contemplation with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher explains the practice of praying with Scripture through meditation and contemplation in the Ignatian tradition. Rooted in St. Ignatius of Loyola’s teachings, meditation uses reason to reflect on the meaning of Scripture, drawing personal insights and applying them to daily life. Contemplation, on the other hand, engages the imagination to enter a Gospel scene, allowing one to “be present” in the event and encounter Jesus personally. Ignatian contemplation is distinct from the mystical prayer described by St. John of the Cross and is accessible to everyone, regardless of spiritual experience.

Prayer, as defined by Vatican II, is the foundation of the spiritual life, and engaging with Scripture provides strength for faith, nourishment for the soul, and a deep well of spiritual growth. It encourages freedom and personalization in choosing meditation, contemplation, or a blend of both to encounter God in a meaningful way. By reflecting on passages like the Beatitudes or imagining Gospel events like the calming of the storm, believers can engage their hearts in a transformative dialogue with God.

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Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. The Role of Scripture in Prayer: How can you integrate daily Scripture reading into your prayer life as encouraged by Vatican II?
  2. Understanding Meditation and Contemplation: Which approach—meditation (reason) or contemplation (imagination)—feels most natural for your prayer, and why?
  3. Personal Connection to Scripture: How has reflecting on or imagining a specific Gospel passage deepened your understanding of God’s presence in your life?
  4. Engaging the Heart in Prayer: In what ways can you allow your heart to respond more deeply to the insights and feelings stirred during your prayer with Scripture?
  5. Freedom and Personalization in Prayer: How can you adapt Ignatian methods of prayer to suit your current spiritual needs and journey?
  6. Transformative Power of Scripture: Reflect on a time when Scripture provided you with strength, nourishment, or spiritual growth—how did it change you?
  7. Starting from Prayer: How does this episode’s emphasis on “everything starts from prayer” inspire you to prioritize prayer in your daily life?

Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.  Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life:  The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola.” For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio, which are available for purchase, please visit  his  website:   frtimothygallagher.org

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 15 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

SBN5 – Hell – Salvation Begins Now: Last Things First with Deacon James Keating – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Episode 5: Hell – Salvation Begins Now: Last Things First

Deacon James Keating discusses the theology of hell, emphasizing it as a reality shaped by human freedom. Hell is the consequence of dying in a state of unrepented mortal sin, where individuals knowingly and freely reject God’s love. This eternal separation from God is marked by isolation and the inability to reciprocate divine love, resulting in profound suffering. Despite cultural and theological trends that have diminished focus on hell, the Church’s teaching remains clear: mortal sin leads to eternal separation unless repented before death.

Dcn. Keating highlights the urgency of evangelization and intercession, urging Christians to pray, fast, and offer Masses for loved ones, especially those who have passed away. While sobering, he offers hope, reminding us that Christ provides all the grace necessary for salvation. By embracing purification and aligning with God’s will, individuals can live in eternal communion with Him. Hell need not be feared if one turns to Christ, whose infinite love and mercy are always extended.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. Understanding Hell as a Choice
    How do I perceive my own freedom and responsibility in choosing to accept or reject God’s love in my daily life?
  2. The Reality of Mortal Sin
    Do I take time to examine my conscience and recognize grave sins that could separate me from God’s grace?
  3. The Finality of Death
    How does the understanding that death solidifies my eternal relationship with God influence my choices and priorities?
  4. Evangelizing Loved Ones
    Am I actively praying, fasting, and seeking opportunities to bring my family and friends closer to Christ?
  5. The Role of Mass in Intercession
    Do I regularly offer Mass intentions for the souls of my loved ones, both living and deceased?
  6. Hope in Christ’s Redemption
    How can I more deeply embrace and trust in the saving grace and mercy of Christ to overcome sin in my life?

From the Catechism of the Catholic Church:

1057 “Hell’s principal punishment consists of eternal separation from God in whom alone man can have the life and happiness for which he was created and for which he longs.”

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

Check out Deacon Keating’s “Discerning Heart” page

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

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

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

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

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

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

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

From the Catechism of the Catholic Church:

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

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

Check out Deacon Keating’s “Discerning Heart” page

SBN3 – Purgatory – Salvation Begins Now: Last Things First with Deacon James Keating – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Episode 3: Purgatory – Salvation Begins Now: Last Things First

Deacon James Keating and Kris McGregor discuss the nature of purgatory, referencing saints’ mystical experiences to explore purification, suffering, and holiness. Saints like St. Catherine of Genoa offer images of purgatory that allow us to meditate on sin’s disruptive nature to the Body of Christ. This purification isn’t bound by time as we know it; rather, it’s a timeless encounter with Jesus’ love that cleanses us from the effects of sin.

There are common misconceptions, such as contrasting physical suffering with the profound, and that relational pain causes isolation from God and others. This relational suffering, which stems from choices that cut us off from communion, parallels the purgatorial experience, calling us toward God for healing. Purgatory is less about physical torment and more about the agony of purification needed to restore our identity in God’s love.

The sacrament of reconciliation is a profound opportunity to undergo purification on earth, preparing us for communion with God. True confession requires courage, as it involves confronting our sins and vulnerabilities openly with God, who meets us with unconditional mercy.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. Understanding Purgatory’s Purpose – How does viewing purgatory as a relational purification rather than a physical torment change your understanding of its purpose?
  2. Contemplating the Impact of Sin – Reflect on how even “small” sins disrupt the harmony of the Body of Christ and affect your own spiritual health.
  3. Identifying Relational Pain – In what ways have feelings of isolation or confusion about your identity impacted your relationship with God and others?
  4. Embracing the Sacrament of Reconciliation – How might regularly participating in the sacrament of reconciliation deepen your experience of God’s mercy and freedom?
  5. Confronting Fear of Truth – What specific fears or rationalizations have kept you from fully admitting your sins to God in the sacrament of confession?
  6. Learning from the Saints – Who in your life exemplifies holiness, and how can you look to them as a guide toward surrender and abandonment to God?
  7. Trusting in God Through Suffering – How can embracing Christ’s Sacred Heart help you surrender fears about suffering or death and experience God’s peace?
  8. Striving for Earthly Holiness – What steps can you take to start your purification process on earth, inspired by the examples of saints like Mother Teresa and St. John Paul II?

From the Catechism of the Catholic Church:

“1030 All who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven.”

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

Check out Deacon Keating’s “Discerning Heart” page