Abiding Together

In this episode, we talk about what it means to live an authentically human life in an increasingly digital world. Technology is reshaping the way we live and it affects more than just how we work and play. We reflect on how our thoughts, relationships, and emotions are being influenced, and why we need to be intentional about making space for real, human connection. We share how beauty, creativity, and wonder draw us out of an artificial reality and remind us of the goodness of being human. We also offer practical ideas for finding balance with technology, learning to savor rather than simply consume, and allowing the Lord to rightly order our lives. Heather's One Thing - Humanality's Digital Detox Program Heather's Other One Thing - Ave Maria Press and Spoonful of Comfort Sister Miriam's One Thing - Therese of Lisieux: Secrets of Joy by Fr Pierre Descouvemont Michelle's One Thing - Ella Langley Shirt from her friends in Auburn and Farmers Markets Journal Questions: What am I giving my attention to? Where…

In this episode, we reflect on how to integrate the rhythms of the liturgical year into our everyday lives. We talk about the different graces available to us in each liturgical season, and how by living these seasons year after year, we are slowly being taught how to thrive. We also reflect on the value of our attention, what it means to be human, and how sacramentals can help call our attention back to God. Living liturgically is not simply another thing to do, but an invitation to become the women God created us to be. Heather's One Thing - Catholic Artists Sister Miriam's One Thing - All Our Abiding Together Sponsors Michelle's One Thing - Brie and Cheddar Beer Soup Other Resources Mentioned: Ascension 2027 Planner Journal Questions: How is the Lord inviting me to embrace liturgical living? Who is the Mother Church inviting you to become in our season of Ordinary Time? What have I been meditating on in daily life and how can I savor the Gospel? Is there somebody or something that has taken God's place at…

In this episode, we continue our reflection on the mysteries of our lives by exploring our luminous and glorious mysteries. We talk about how God has been inviting us to trust His plans, especially when they look different from our own. We also share how God has been restoring relationships in our lives, reminding us that He is faithful even when we cannot see the full picture of what He is doing. Through these reflections, we are reminded that when God brings something to light, He is inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him. And that His glory is often revealed through quiet moments of restoration and redemption. Luminous - Something the Lord brought to the light to and an area of pruning, a longing, and ache Glorious - Something you see the Lord redeeming and restoring (it can still be in process) Heather's One Thing - The Good Life Hallow Series on Hallow Sister Miriam's One Thing - Oremoose Michelle's One Thing - Dolly Parton and Wendell Berry Journal Questions: What is a Luminous Mystery of your…

Welcome to Season 19! In this episode, we continue our tradition of reflecting on the mysteries of our lives through the mysteries of the Rosary. In every season of our lives, God invites us to grow in charity, receive His grace, and allow Him to work more deeply in our hearts. It's important to pause from time to time and reflect on how God has been moving in and through our lives. We model what this reflection can look like and share about our joyful and sorrowful mysteries. Joyful - A delight, an area of gratitude Sorrowful - A hurt or obstacle Heather's One Thing - Abiding Together and Ascension 2027 Planner Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Good News Conference and everyone who plans events Michelle's One Thing - College Football and Summer Camps Journal Questions: What has God been doing in my life? What are the Joyful Mysteries of my life in this season? What are the Sorrowful Mysteries of my life in this season? How is the Lord inviting me to surrender the pain of my Sorrowful Mysteries? Discussion…

To read Sr. Miriam's Letter, visit the Friends of the Bridegroom's website.

In this episode, we conclude our book study on Friendship in the Lord and welcome Fr. John Burns, Founder of Friends of the Bridegroom, to the podcast. We reflect on our deep longing to be known and loved and the ways fear can cause us to cling to others or settle for lesser goods. We talk about hoping for the possibility of beautiful friendship, even when our own experience has been marked by loneliness, disappointment, or suffering. We also discuss the beauty of celibate friendship as a witness to the primacy of God's love, the role of feedback in relationships, and how the limitations we encounter in friendship ultimately reveal the deeper truth that we were made for God. Friends, we feel so blessed to have been able to journey with you this summer. We will see you on September 28th for the start of Season 19! Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on Instagram to receive updates! Announcement: You can buy your copy of Friendship in the Lord from Ave Maria Press (or Amazon). Journal Questions: How has…

In this episode, we continue our book study on Friendship in the Lord and reflect on the gift of friendship as a foretaste of heaven and a living image of God's love. We talk about how we are meant to journey through life with each other, how God bonds us together along the way, and how these friendships are meant to last forever. We also discuss the gift of praising God for our friends, what it means to behold and not possess beauty, and how focusing on gratitude allows us to hold joy and sorrow in tension. Announcement: You can buy your copy of Friendship in the Lord from Ave Maria Press (or Amazon). Journal Questions: Who has accompanied you through the valleys and mountaintops of your life? When do I show up to my friendships from a place of woundedness, deficiency, or insecurity? How is the Lord inviting me into deeper security? What is the Lord inviting me to delight in? How have I turned my unmet expectations into demands in my friendships? Discussion Questions: What are you grateful for? Where in…

In this episode, we continue our book study on Friendship in the Lord and discuss how friendship with others leads us into deeper intimacy with God. We talk about our longing for both human and divine communion, how healthy friendships free us from self-preoccupation, and why learning to receive feedback is essential to our growth. We also reflect on how unmet desires in friendship are signs of our longing for the Trinity and the importance of releasing lesser goods so that we can be free to receive God's greater gifts. Announcement: You can buy your copy of Friendship in the Lord from Ave Maria Press (or Amazon). Journal Questions: What makes me feel at home with the Trinity? How has God invited me to be a more faithful friend? Where do I need to grow in self-awareness and be freed from self-preoccupation? What is my disposition when someone lovingly reveals my own weaknesses and shortcomings to me? How have I refused to grow? Discussion Questions: What makes you feel at home with other people? How is God…

In this episode, we continue our book study on Friendship in the Lord and reflect on how loving appreciation and reconciliation are the places where friendship matures. We talk about why healthy adult friendships draw us closer to the Lord, how the unique gifts of women and men reveal different facets of God's love, and how learning to behold another's beauty without trying to grasp or possess it calls forth our true identity. We also discuss the importance of recognizing how we've hurt others, expressing sincere sorrow, and allowing others to do the same. As we bring our wounds, suffering, and sin into the love of Christ, we discover that the very places we fear most can become the biggest places of resurrection. Other Resources Mentioned: Restore the Glory Podcast on Confession (Parts 1-3) S18 Forgiveness Meditation (with questions from the book Forgiving as Unity with Christ) S11 Forgiveness Meditation with Sister Miriam Announcement: You can buy your copy of Friendship in the Lord from Ave Maria Press…

In this episode, we continue our book study on Friendship in the Lord and reflect on the ways God invites us to grow through the relationships He has entrusted to us. We talk about the importance of rightly ordered love, why true friendship always draws our gaze toward Christ, and the beauty of virtuous friendships between men and women. We also talk honestly about the fears, wounds, and misunderstandings that can arise in friendship, and the importance of repair in deepening a friendship. Friendship is not about finding someone to complete us, but about walking together toward holiness while helping one another become who God created us to be. Other Resources Mentioned: Restore the Glory Podcast on Confession Announcement: You can buy your copy from Ave Maria Press (or Amazon). Journal Questions: When have I experienced healthy and holy friendship between men and women? Where is my gaze within my friendships? Do any of my friendships serve a higher purpose than just the friendship itself? When have I…

In this episode, we continue our book study on Friendship in the Lord and reflect on what it means to be truly known, deeply loved, and fully at home with another. We talk about why we must first learn to abide in the love of God, how appreciation helps others become who they were created to be, and what it looks like to grow in friendship over time. Whether friendship feels life-giving or challenging in this season of your life, we invite you to bring every desire, wound, and longing before the Lord, who first calls you His friend. Announcement: You can buy your copy of Friendship in the Lord from Ave Maria Press (or Amazon). Journal Questions: How is the Lord inviting me to cultivate deeper community where I live? Where in my life am I trying to love others without being in communion with God? Am I truly allowing the love of Christ to come out within a community? Am I at home with the Lord? How have I been possessive of my relationships within my community? When have I experienced belonging within…

In this episode, we begin our summer book study on Friendship in the Lord by Fr. Paul Hinnebusch, OP. We focus on the foreword and prologue and reflect on the difference between prudence and fear, the ways we self-protect in relationships, and our longing for authentic communion. We also talk about what it means to love without possessing, how to receive others as a gift, and why friendship is a foretaste of heaven. Other Resources Mentioned: Friendship in the Lord Study Webpage Small Group Discussion Guide Announcement: If you'd like a copy of Friendship in the Lord, you can buy your copy from Ave Maria Press (or Amazon). Journal Questions: How do I self protect and hide myself in my relationships? When have I felt embarrassed by my own need for friendship? Do I allow people to be free in my relationships? How has a friend failed me and how have I failed a friend? Discussion Questions: How do you define good friendship? How have your friendships brought you closer to the Lord? How is God inviting you to…

In this episode, we conclude season 18 by reflecting on the grace-filled moments this past season and the quiet ways the Lord continues to invite us into deeper communion with Him. We share who our favorite guests were, which episodes deeply ministered to us, and what we are hoping for in this next season. Thank you for spending this season with us, friends. It has been such a gift to walk alongside you in every conversation, prayer, and story shared. We'll be holding you close in prayer over the summer and look forward to gathering with you again on July 6th, 2026 for our summer book study. Heather's One Thing - Our Abiding Together Team: Kristina, Camille, and Kate! Heather's Other One Thing - The team for a Healing the Whole Person Retreat in England Sister Miriam's One Thing - Seeing Abiding Together listeners in the wild! Sister Miriam's Other One Thing - The Dignity of Dependence by Lea Libresco Sargeant Michelle's One Thing - Timothy Shriver's Laetare Address and Eric Church's Commencement Address…

In this episode, we reflect on how Pentecost is more than just an event of the past, but can be an ongoing outpouring of God's love and grace in our lives today. We discuss how the Holy Spirit helps heal our wounds, restores communion with God, and teaches us how to live with power and boldness, even in the places where we feel unable to love the Lord. As we prepare our hearts for Pentecost, we talk practically about cultivating a posture of receptivity, learning to invite the Holy Spirit more deeply into our hearts, and how to allow His fire to illuminate our identity and transform us from within. The Holy Spirit is alive within us, able to enter even the locked places of our hearts, and desires to help us bear much fruit in our lives. Heather's One Thing - Pentecost | Holy Spirit Rest on Us Playlist Heather's Other One Thing - Wild Goose Series with Fr. Dave Pivonka Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Discerning Hearts Podcast App Michelle's One Thing - College Graduations Other Resources Mentioned: Be…

In this episode, we reflect on the sacred wounds of Jesus, the reality of our own woundedness, and Jesus' invitation to make us well. We talk about how our wounds, so often hidden in shame or self-protection, when transformed, can actually become places of communion and grace. We also share about our personal experiences of facing fear or disappointment and how the slow, often painful, process of healing reminds us that God's ways are not our own. Jesus tenderly meets us in every broken place within our hearts and ardently desires to make all things new. Heather's One Thing - Worship Session with Kory Miller Sister Miriam's One Thing - Life Transitions Part One and Part Two with Chris Benzinger Michelle's One Thing - The Kentucky Derby Other Resources Mentioned: Glory: Women's Gathering The Restore the Glory Podcast The Anatomy of a Wound Series Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 Journal Questions: Where am I self-protecting instead of bringing my wounds before the Lord? Do I think Jesus can make me…

In this episode, we reflect on the beautiful call of women to prophetic motherhood. We talk about how Our Lady models for us a motherhood that speaks life and calls forth goodness to all those she encounters. We also ponder what it means to be a spiritual mother, how Mary can help heal our wounded experiences of motherhood, and the difference between affirmations and prophetic words. As Pentecost draws near, we invite you to ask for Our Lady's intercession to prepare your heart for a fresh outpouring of grace and to help you become a woman who brings life wherever she goes. Heather's One Thing - A 24 Hour Time of Worship at Franciscan University Heather's Other One Thing - St. Anne's Women's Conference in Dallas, TX and the WWP Flourish Conference in St. Louis Sister Miriam's One Thing - Everyone Getting Married this Summer Sister Miriam's Other One Thing - Pilgrimage to Medjugorje with the JPII Healing Center Michelle's One Thing - NFL Draft Michelle's Other One Thing - Franklin, TN and St. Philip's Parish…

In this episode, we welcome Arthur and Ester Brooks to talk about marriage, suffering, and the path to lasting love. Arthur and Ester share what it's like to minister together, revealing both the grace needed and the hard work it takes to love each other faithfully over decades. We also reflect on suffering as an invitation for growth, why pain is fruitful, and how the hardest places in life are where love is purified. Whether you are married, single, or in religious life, intimacy with God is our source of strength for every situation we encounter in life. Heather's One Thing - Franciscan's Resurrection Party! Heather's Other One Thing - 10 Day Pentecost Audio Prayer Plan Sister Miriam's One Thing - Heather's Easter Spotify Playlist Michelle's One Thing - Everyone who just came into the Catholic Church! Ester's One Thing - Her husband Arthur! Ester's Other One Thing - Professional Cycling Arthur's One Thing - Opportunities to witness to the Catholic faith during The Meaning of Your Life book launch Other…

Happy Easter! In this episode, we conclude our Lenten book study on "The Way of Trust and Love" and focus on Chapter 6: Enduring Trials. We talk about how even in the light of Easter, we may still experience suffering and how we can choose to rejoice in God's goodness when His ways remain hidden. We also reflect on why trials are not signs of God's absence, how we learn to recognize God at work in the present moment, and how to embrace suffering as a necessary path to share in the fullness of Easter. Friends, in this Easter octave, we invite you to reflect on how God has transformed your heart this past Lent. Let us enter into this Easter season with renewed hope, gratitude, and a deeper surrender to God's unfailing love. We will see you in two weeks! Heather's One Thing - Fire 50 Challenge with Many Parts Ministries. It's a free 50-day spiritual journey designed to deepen your relationship with the Holy Spirit! Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Divine Mercy Novena and Divine Mercy Sunday Michelle's One Thing…

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study on "The Way of Trust and Love" and focus on Chapter 5: God's Infinite Mercy. We reflect on the paradox of true strength—how becoming little, dependent, and surrendered before the Lord is the very place where His strength takes root in us. We also talk about what it means to live with a pure heart, not by striving harder, but by bringing every part of ourselves into honest communion with Christ and allowing His kindness to call us higher. This week, as we wrestle with fear, worry, and the temptation to rely on ourselves, we encourage you to be reminded that it is God's love that heals, restores, and leads us to freedom. Heather's One Thing - Dwelling Place by The Belonging Co. Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Sacrament of Reconciliation Michelle's One Thing - Living Easter: 50 Days to Practice Resurrection by Laura Kelly Fanucci Michelle's Other One Thing - March Madness! Journal Questions: What has the Lord convicted me of this Lent? What is the Lord inviting…

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study on "The Way of Trust and Love" and focus on Chapter 4: Trusting More and More. We reflect on the tender places where our trust in the Father has been wounded—especially in the disappointments we carry with ourselves, our children, and the circumstances in our lives—and how God gently invites us to bring those disappointments to Him. We also talk about the lies that quietly erode our trust in God, the temptation to carry life's burdens alone, and the way simple rhythms of prayer allow God to personally reveal to us His goodness. This week, we invite you to honestly bring your disappointments before God and ask Him to reveal to you His goodness. Heather's One Thing - The Springtime! Sister Miriam's One Thing - March Madness Michelle's One Thing - Her floor to ceiling library! Journal Questions: Where do I lack trust in the Father? When do I see God as my enemy? What narratives of your life are you seeking to control? What is bothering me most acutely right…

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study on "The Way of Trust and Love" and focus on Chapter 3: Being Reconciled to Our Weakness. We talk about how our struggles with ourselves often spill over into our relationships with others and how learning to accept our own weakness can soften our hearts towards the weakness we see in those around us. We also reflect on the tension between accepting our littleness and desiring real conversion, how we become more aware of our imperfections as we draw closer to the Lord, and the gift of community in helping us clearly see our lives. This week, we invite you to receive God's love, extend that love to yourself, and then offer it freely to others. Heather's One Thing - Attending the funeral of Francis Bergsma Sister Miriam's One Thing - Stations of the Cross with Our Sister St. Thérèse from Little Way Books Michelle's One Thing - The funness of our listeners! Journal Questions: Where am I experiencing a lack of harmony in myself and in my relationships with…

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study on "The Way of Trust and Love" and focus on Chapter 2: An Elevator for Small Children. We talk about the quiet places of discouragement, and self-reliance that keep us striving instead of surrendering. We also reflect about how radical dependence on God is not laziness, the subtle ways we resist being little before a loving Father, and how our poverty is a doorway into deeper trust. This week, we invite you to fall into the Father's arms, allow Him to pick you up, and rest in the One who delights in you. Heather's One Thing - The Prince of Egypt Movie Sister Miriam's One Thing - Bishop Erik Varden's Lenten Reflections to Pope Leo (I especially recommend the reflections entitled: Bernard the Idealist, God's Help, Becoming Free, and Splendour of Truth) Michelle's One Thing - Art Lectio Instagram Account Journal Questions: Where are you feeling discouraged? Where do I experience self-reliance, codependency, or hypervigilance in my life? When in the past have I…

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study on "The Way of Trust and Love" and focus on Chapter 1: A Completely New Way. We reflect on the "little way" of St. Thérèse, the invitation to become spiritual children before the Father, and how weakness becomes the very place where Christ comes to meet us. We also talk about the difference between being childish and childlike, why true maturity in faith begins with admitting our own poverty, and how small acts of courage open the door to deep healing. This week, we invite you to name the desires stirring in your heart and let the Holy Spirit awaken a new song within you. Heather's One Thing - Franciscan's Campus-wide "Behold" Retreat Sister Miriam's One Thing - Healing Wounds by Bishop Erik Varden Michelle's One Thing - The O' Grady's Beach House Michelle's Other One Thing - Emily Lex Watercolor Workbooks Journal Questions: How often do I accept the letter of God's adoption of me, and not the spirit of God's adoption? Where in my life do I need Mother Mary…

In this episode, we begin our Lenten book study on "The Way of Trust and Love" and focus on the Introduction. We talk about how St. Thérèse's "little way" offers hope to weary hearts who feel small, fragile, or poor. We discuss how the Lord can transform our lives in a moment, how to boast in our poverty instead of bemoaning it, and the power of a listening heart. This Lent, we invite you into a gentler, deeper journey—one rooted not in striving, but in trust and love. Heather's One Thing - The Good News Cruise and everyone who put together this experience Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Pause App Michelle's One Thing - The Body of Christ Other Resources Mentioned: Pope Leo's Lenten Letter Magnificat or Word Among Us Journal Questions: Where is the Holy Spirit inviting me this Lent? Where do I feel like the burdens of life are mine to carry? How does my heart respond to St. Therese's Little Way? What does it mean to be childlike and not childish? How will I create time to listen to God this Lent? When…

In this episode, we reflect on Lent as a Holy Spirit led journey through the desert to bring us into a deeper union with God. We talk about the resistance many of us feel to fasting, why Lent is not a self-improvement project, and the importance of discerning our Lenten practices. We also discuss how, through Lent, our true identity as beloved daughters is revealed, tested, and healed. Before Lent begins on Wednesday, we invite you to notice where your heart may feel numb, distracted, or defensive, and ask the Holy Spirit what He desires to restore. Our Lenten book study "The Way of Trust and Love" will begin next week! We look forward to journeying with you. Heather's One Thing - Her Lenten Playlist "Songs in the Desert" Sister Miriam's One Thing - You're Gonna Be OK by Jen Johnson and Bethel Music Michelle's One Thing - Nazareth Organics Announcement: Our 2026 Lenten book study will be "The Way of Trust and Love" by Fr. Jacques Philippe. Scepter Publishers has offered 15% off with the code ABIDE15. They…

In this episode, we welcome author, counselor, and speaker John Eldredge to the show, who is best known for his book Wild at Heart. We have a powerful conversation about intimacy with God in a world full of chaos, suffering, and spiritual hunger. We reflect on what it means to reclaim a "re-enchanted" Christian worldview, how to pray against chaos, the profound gift women have to offer the world right now. We also talk practically about how to pray as a couple, ask John to lead us in a guided "Pause" prayer, and invite you into a moment of stillness, surrender, and loving awareness of Jesus dwelling within you. Heather's One Thing - Midst from the Belonging Co. Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Story I'll Tell by Naomi Raine Michelle's One Thing - The Way of Trust and Love by Father Jacques Philippe Michelle's Other One Thing - Jayber Crow by Wendell Berry John's One Thing - The Abiding Together Podcast! John's Other One Thing - William Augusto Instrumental Background Music Other Resources Mentioned: The Pause…

In this episode, we explore why spending time Scripture is essential for staying rooted in Christ and how it aids us in the midst of spiritual battle. We reflect on the reality that Scripture is the living Word of God, far more powerful than we often realize. It has the ability to encourage, correct, heal, and transform our hearts. We share personal stories of how the Holy Spirit has brought Scripture to life for us and how God's Word has been an anchor during seasons of difficulty. Friends, God desires to speak to you personally through His Word and is inviting you not into just another task, but into a deeper, life-giving relationship with Him. Heather's One Thing - The Sisters of Life on Franciscan's Campus Sister Miriam's One Thing - Healing Prayers and Renunciations by Bob Schuchts Michelle's One Thing - Frontier Camp with Life Teen Other Resources Mentioned: The Bible in the Year Podcast Walking with Purpose Bible Studies Ignatius Catholic Study Bible (Or find it at Ignatius Press here) Magnificat…

In this episode, we reflect on the tender and often misunderstood topic of forgiveness, what it is, what it isn't, and why it's central to finding freedom in Christ. We talk honestly about how resentment and unforgiveness can quietly build in the heart, often as an attempt to protect ourselves from further pain. We also acknowledge how difficult forgiveness can be, what to do with the cry of our hearts when we have been wounded, and how to entrust it to God when we don't yet feel capable of forgiving. Friends, forgiveness does not strip us of our identity, it affirms who we are in Christ. Even in the deepest places of hurt, we find hope because of the loving presence of a God who never abandons us in our pain. Heather's One Thing - Greatness of the Lord by Brooke Ligertwood Heather's Other One Thing - The Franciscan University Community Sister Miriam's One Thing - Heather's Battle Cry Playlist Michelle's One Thing - Congratulations to Indiana University for winning the championship! Michelle's Other One…

Welcome to season 18 kickoff with our annual tradition of the Word of the Year episode! Each year, we ask God to give us a theme to focus on for the new year and invite you to do the same. After personal prayer and reflection, we share what our words for 2026 mean to us and chat about the Saints journeying with us this year. We are excited to be back and look forward to what this year will bring! Heather's One Thing - Big God, Little Devil by Dr. Sean Tobin (listen to Dr. Sean on the Restore the Glory Podcast too!) Heather's Other One Thing - Let There Be by Amanda Cook Sister Miriam's One Thing - Friendship in the Lord by Fr. Paul Hinnebusch, OP (buy on Amazon here) Michelle's One Thing - Theo of Golden by Allen Levi Other Resources Mentioned: Example of Grafting Announcement: Our 2026 Lenten book study will be "The Way of Trust and Love" by Fr. Jacques Philippe. Scepter Publishers has offered 15% off with the code ABIDE15. They also offer an ebook version as well. We will announce more information about…

In this episode, we end our journey at the Stable, the humble place where God chose for us to meet His Son. We reflect on the stable of our own hearts, how Jesus chooses to meet us in our own poverty now, and why His very presence brings healing. We also talk about how when we sit in our emptiness, release control, and surrender each part of our lives to God, He is able to work more powerfully in our lives. Finally, we ponder Mary's quiet and loving gaze upon the Christ Child and how we are invited to slow down and notice Jesus smiling back at us. Friends, we've deeply enjoyed journeying with you this year. As we take a break, please know you are in our prayers. We will see you on January 19th, 2026 when Season 18 begins! Have a blessed and merry Christmas! Heather's One Thing - Our Abiding Together staff: Camille, Kate, and Kristina! Heather's Other One Thing - The Sisters of Life new St. Francis convent in Steubenville Heather's Third One Thing - Every Sacred Sunday's Edition of the Catechism of the…

In this episode, we journey to Elizabeth's house, the place of the Visitation. We reflect on Mary's haste as she makes the journey to visit Elizabeth and how Elizabeth creates space for Mary as the mystery of the incarnation unfolds. We also ponder Elizabeth's years of longing for a child, how God fulfills our desires in ways different than we expect, and why we should hold onto hope instead of disappointment. Finally, we talk about cultivating a deeper sensitivity to God's presence, trusting that even when His work is hidden, beauty is unfolding within our lives. Heather's One Thing - High King of Heaven / Jesus We Love You by Bethel Music Sister Miriam's Half Thing - As part of the Sacred Anchor Marketplace, any Religious Order/ Clergy will have a free storefront with no charges to list or commission fees. (The only cost will be bank fees of about 3% of any sale). Sign up here! Sister Miriam's One Thing - Forgiving as Unity with Christ by Dr. Robert Enright Michelle's One Thing - Notre Dame Football…

In this episode, we journey to the house of Loreto, a simple home where the Annunciation took place. We reflect on how God meets us in the quiet, ordinary places of our own lives and how He meets us where we are, no matter how isolated we may feel. We also explore Mary's free and wholehearted yes, given without a request for details, and consider where the Holy Spirit may be inviting us to trust and surrender in our own hidden spaces. As Advent is a time to rest in stillness, we talk about making room for God in our schedules, noticing His gentle invitations in the everyday, and allowing His Word to take root in us even when the fruits of our yes are not yet visible. Heather's One Thing - Registration for Glory: Women's Gathering is open! Michelle and I would love to see you there! Sister Miriam's One Thing - Live Dialogue with Pope Leo XIV and Teens at NCYC Michelle's One Thing - Trader Joe's winter peonies Next, we come to the House of Loreto, a humble home, walls worn by daily life, where the eternal…

In this episode, we begin our Advent journey in Eden, a place of freedom, communion, and life without shame. Eden is not only a moment in history, but also an interior garden within each of our hearts. We talk about the deep ache we all feel for union, rest, and peace, and how this longing reveals our original design for communion with God. We also reflect on the shame that often accompanies this desire for communion with others, especially when our desires are left unmet, and how bringing these places of poverty to Jesus opens us up to real, lived communion with Him. Heather's One Thing - The Renew Conference in Toronto Heather's Other One Thing - Her Advent Worship Playlist Sister Miriam's One Thing - Sacred Anchor Artisans (Catholic Etsy!) founded by Tim and Molly Olsen Michelle's One Thing - The Inspired Living and this Chrism Candle Michelle's Other One Thing - Fr. Innocent Montgomery, CFR Welcome, dear friends… to this Advent journey, a pilgrimage of the heart, through four sacred spaces where heaven…

In this episode, we reflect on the importance of giving thanks to the Lord for all He has done in both the beautiful and difficult moments of life. We talk about how practicing gratitude can change our perspective of reality and helps us recognize where God has been present even in moments we do not understand. We also name the fears that can sometimes keep us from giving thanks and discuss how gratitude becomes an act of surrender that opens us to God's steady, faithful presence. As a gift to you, we end today's episode by doing Lectio Divina with Psalm 34 and invite you into a time of prayer with us. Heather's One Thing - Jalapeno, Pepper Jack, and Bacon Corn Pudding Recipe Heather's Other One Thing - Hell or High Water and Edens by Amanda Cook Sister Miriam's One Thing - Her SOLT Community Michelle's One Thing - College Football Other Resources Mentioned: Life Transitions Part One and Part Two with Chris Benzinger One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are by Ann Voskamp Journal…

In this episode, we conclude our series on the garden of our hearts and explore what it means to cultivate unity—which is especially important as we enter the busy and often stressful holiday season. We talk about the difference between anger and contempt and how contempt can not only fracture relationships but also plant seeds of division in our hearts. We also reflect on how we can respond to discord with humility, a holy curiosity, and a genuine desire to understand. Ultimately, unity begins with love, bears good fruit, and reflects the presence of Christ within us. Heather's One Thing - The Cheesecloth Turkey Basting Method (Example Here) Sister Miriam's One Thing - College Volleyball Playoffs (especially Nebraska) Michelle's One Thing - Twinkling Trees from Walmart Announcement: Our Advent Study begins December 1st, 2025! Journal Questions: Where in my heart am I harboring contempt? What groups of people or individuals do I see as worthless? When was the last time that someone treated you with contempt?…

In this episode, we continue our series on the Garden of Our Hearts and talk about the cultivation of beauty. Beauty has the power to transform, heal, and lift us into communion with God, but it must be cultivated with care and intention. We discuss what it means to co-create with God, slow down and savor little moments, and rediscover beauty in the people closest to us. Even when the world around us feels barren or artificial, the Lord invites us to see beauty with new eyes and let the Holy Spirit reveal His presence in unexpected ways. Heather's One Thing - The Catechism of the Catholic Church designed by Every Sacred Sunday Heather's Other One Thing - I Am Held by Pat Barrett Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Carmelite Monks' New Monastery in Wyoming Michelle's One Thing - Word on Fire's Evangelization and Culture Journal - Issue 25 on Beauty Michelle's Other One Thing - The Story of All Stories: A Story Bible for Young Catholics by Emily Stimpson Chapman Other Resources Mentioned: Passion and Purpose…

In this episode, we begin a series on cultivating the garden of our hearts and reflect on what it means to cultivate peace–as a fruit that grows from communion with God. The cultivation of peace is not something we control. It comes from learning to rest in God's presence, even amid life's storms. We talk practically about how to tend the soil of our hearts, so that peace can take root and grow into a fruit that becomes a visible witness to others. We also discuss how Jesus, the Prince of Peace, invites us to make room for His presence, allowing His breath to bring healing where fear and sin have disrupted our peace. Heather's One Thing - Triumph of the Heart is now streaming! Sister Miriam's One Thing - Healed by Love: Contemplation as a Path of Healing according to St. John of the Cross by Daniel Chowning, OCD Michelle's One Thing - Feast: A Men's Devotional for Advent by Paul George Journal Questions: What places of my heart are filled with anxiety or despair? Where am I seeking to be fixed instead of…

In this episode, we talk about what it means to weather the storms of life well. Everyone experiences difficult moments throughout their lives and these storms come in all shapes and sizes. In each one, we have the opportunity to respond from a place of truth and peace instead of fear. We share practical ways we've learned to weather the storms in our own lives, from simplifying life to immersing ourselves in Scripture. We also explore how pain, though difficult, can lead us into deeper healing and communion with God. No matter what you're facing, you are not alone—He is near, and so are we. Heather's One Thing - Strengthen Yourself in the Lord by Bill Johnson Heather's Other One Thing - Same God (feat Jonsal Barriente) from Elevation Worship Sister Miriam's One Thing - Pints with Aquinas | What to Do When Marriage Gets Hard (Jason and Crystalina Evert) Michelle's One Thing - Healed and Restored Nonprofit Other Resources Mentioned: Carmelite Sisters of The Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles Searching for and…

In this episode, Dr. Shane Owens, a scholar of St. Augustine, joins us to discuss the power of memory. Together, we explore how memory is a place to where we withdraw to understand our identity, shape our whole self, and begin to see God working in our lives. Memory exists for the purpose of hope and we not only talk about how the Scriptures and Eucharist bear the memories of the Church, but also how our sorrowful memories can become sources of hope. Heather's One Thing - Pope Leo XIV: Son of St. Augustine (A conversation with Fr. Dave Pivonka and Dr. Shane Owens) Heather's Other One Thing - Franciscan University's Festival of Praise Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Archdiocese of Sydney, Australia Michelle's One Thing - Return to the Heart: The Biblical Spirituality of St. Augustine's Confessions by Dr. Shane Owens Michelle's Other One Thing - Heaven for Me! by St. Thérèse of Lisieux Dr. Shane Owens' One Thing - Bible Across America from the St. Paul Center Other Resources Mentioned: Return to the Heart: The…

In this episode, we talk about what it means to bring God's Presence into our relationships with others. Through His life, Jesus shows us how to live at the pace of the Holy Spirit and create space for authentic connection. We explore how easy it is to overlook the significance of ordinary moments and how, through slowing the pace of our lives, we have powerful opportunities to love, listen, and become more attuned to those around us. We also discuss the importance of healthy boundaries, the freedom that comes from not needing to fix others, and how it's God's love that shapes how we show up for the people in our lives. Heather's One Thing - This Wild at Heart Podcast series with Jon Tyson (Part 1) (Part 2) Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Lila Rose Show with Msgr Rossetti Michelle's One Thing - Raise a Hallelujah by Bethel Music, Jonathan Helser, and Melissa Helser Journal Questions: How can I show up for people in my life in this season? How do I need others to show up for me? In what ways do I lose myself…

In this episode, we explore the gift of tears and the importance of allowing ourselves to cry. We reflect on our experiences with crying and talk about how tears, especially in painful moments, can be a powerful expression of surrender, lament, and hope when offered to God. With the help of the Holy Spirit, our sensitivity and capacity to cry reflect the way we were beautifully created to respond to what breaks God's heart. We discuss the vulnerability of crying, the pain of resisting it, and how Jesus crying out on the cross reveals the value of our own cries. Whether you're too tired to cry, afraid to show need, or already feel safe expressing emotion, we invite you to see crying as an act of worship and intercession. In our sorrow, God meets us with love, truth, and the hope that He can actually do something with our pain. Heather's One Thing - Spirit Breathe by Sarah Kroger and Echo Harbor Worship Sister Miriam's One Thing - Beloved Son by Carrie Daunt Michelle's One Thing - Her new back porch! Other…

In this episode we discuss the power of community, the circles of community, the call to build one wherever you are and practical tips on how to do so! (Introverts-there is hope!) "We have all known the long loneliness and we have learned that the only solution is love and that love comes with community." Dorothy Day, The Long Loneliness: The Autobiography of the Legendary Catholic Social Activist One Thing We Love: Sr. Miriam's one thing: End Time Sins Are In The Church 2017 by Francis Chan Michelle's one thing : Reshma Saujani's Ted Talk - Teach Girls bravery, not perfection Heather's one thing : Blessed Is She Pentecost Journal

In this episode we recap the beautiful retreat we were blessed to lead March 31-April 2 in British Columbia. We were joined by 200 women from Canada and the US who journeyed with us into the deep realities of God's unfailing love, healing from shame, fixing our gaze on Jesus and being equipped (and sometimes uncomfortable!) by the Holy Spirit. One Thing We Love: Michelle's one thing: "Walking on Water - Reflections on Faith and Art" - Madeline L'Engle Sr. Miriam's one thing: Raising Great Girls by Dr. Meg Meeker and guest Dr. Leonard Sax *warning: mature content* Heathers one thing: The Crown on Netflix

In this episode we discuss maternity as part 4 of 4 in our series on the Feminine Genius. We talk about the incredible gift of being life-bearers in both spirit and body, the role of being a shelter for one another and the challenges of spiritual and physical motherhood. "The woman's soul is fashioned as a shelter in which other souls may unfold." - St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) One Thing We Love: Sr. Miriam's one thing: Less Than a Minute to Go: The Secret to World-Class Performance in Sport, Business and Everyday Life Michelle's one thing: A Mountain Between Us - Charles Martin Heather's One thing: Scone Recipe

In this episode we discuss generosity as part 3 of 4 in our series on the Feminine Genius. We talk about the power of God's love which gives us the ability for generosity, our potential fears in being generous and a woman's amazing capacity to give the gift of love to the world. "The level of any civilization is the level of its womanhood. The reason is to be found in the difference between knowing and loving. When we know something, we bring it down to the level of our intelligence. Examples of abstract subjects must be given to children to suit the level of their minds. But when we love something, we always have to go up to meet it. For example, if we want to master music, we must obey its laws and meet its demands. Since a woman is loved, it follows that the nobler a woman is, the nobler man will have to be to be deserving of that love. That is why the level of any civilization is always the level of its womanhood." - Venerable Fulton Sheen One Thing We Love: Beauty and the Beast (2017) Scatter and Sow

In this episode we continue out 4 part series on the Feminine Genius as we discuss the topic of "Sensitivity". We reference the Apostolic Letter Mulieris Dignitatem on the Dignity and Vocation of Women One Thing We Love: Poets and Saints by All Sons and Daughters The Young Catholic Woman - web instagram

In this episode we begin a 4 part series on the Feminine Genius as we discuss the topic of "Receptivity". We reference the Apostolic Letter Mulieris Dignitatem on the Dignity and Vocation of Women One thing we love: "Something Just Like This" by Coldplay "Fall Afresh" by Jeremy Riddle The Privilege of Being a Woman by Alice Von Hildebrand Sr. Miriam's favorite greek yogurt

This week we talk about "Talitha koum" aka "Little girl arise" Mark 5:32-45 (nab) And he looked around to see who had done it. The woman, realizing what had happened to her, approached in fear and trembling. She fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth. He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction." While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official's house arrived and said, "Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?" Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, "Do not be afraid; just have faith." He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, "Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep." And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took…

On this episode we discuss Pope Francis's Lenten Letter and share our thoughts on how to make our Lenten commitments. Download here The One Thing We Love You Are Free Be Who You Already Are - Rebekah Lyons She Reads Truth - Isaiah Lenten Bible Study Stations of the Cross cards - by Blessed is She Examination of Conscience App - Reimagine

We each reveal our word for 2017 and how God is deeply speaking into our lives in this area, we also discuss how to listen to God's voice and how you can choose your word for the year. The One Thing That Is Bringing Me Joy Even When It Hurts by Hillsong Behold (Then Sings My Soul) by Hillsong Letter to my Daughters by Mayou Angelou Grit by Angela Duckworth Novena to Our Lady Untier of Knots LAST TESTAMENT POPE BENEDICT Last Testament: In His Own Words by Pope Benedict XVI (Author), Peter Seewald (Author)