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 now?
• What am I carrying that I need to let go?

Discussion Questions:

• Where do you take your disappointment?
• Where are you experiencing agitation?
• How are you tempted to manage the Lord's revelations in your life?
• What might be an appropriate prayer prescription for your current agitations?
• How is God inviting you into the safety of the Holy Family this Lent?

Quotes to Ponder:

"This work of restoring trust in our hearts is an essential aspect of the spiritual life. Wounded by original sin, our hearts are riddled with fears and doubts. It takes time to be cured of them. Maybe that will never happen completely in this life, but we can nevertheless make great strides in trusting more." (Father Jacques Philippe, The Way of Trust and Love, Page 69)

"Trust works miracles." (St. Thérèse of Lisieux)

Scripture for Lectio:

"But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness." (Psalm 86:15)

Sponsor - Rooted for Good:

Rooted For Good was born from a simple desire: to care for the skin God gave us—without compromising our values or our budget.

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Each product is crafted with simple, honest ingredients—made to nourish the skin God gave you—simply & honestly.

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When you choose Rooted, you're choosing skincare that aligns with your faith—free from inflated "clean beauty" prices or passing trends—& makes an impact beyond yourself.

We're grateful to partner with the Abiding Together community & the many women seeking beauty that reflects truth, simplicity & goodness.

Explore the collection at rootedforgood.com & enjoy 10% off with code ABIDE10.

Timestamps: 00:00 Rooted for Good

01:22 Intro

02:08 Welcome

03:03 Scripture Verse and Quote to Ponder

03:42 What to do with Our Disappointments

08:16 Honesty is Not Something to Fear

10:36 Nourishing Trust

12:56 Developing a Rhythm of Prayer

16:40 The Tender Touch of a Mother

19:32 Heaven is a Family

23:14 One Things

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 others?
• Do I truly desire conversion? What parts of me are resistant to conversion?
• Where am I looking at the weaknesses of others instead of examining myself?
• When do I speak to myself with words of self-condemnation?

Discussion Questions:

• What weaknesses or defects are you wrestling with right now? How is God inviting you into deeper communion with Him in this weakness?
• How is the Lord inviting you to embrace littleness this Lent?
• Where is the Lord calling you to forgo constant management of your life and to embrace the mystery & trust of a life with Christ?
• How have you slowed down this Lent? How has this slower pace impacted your spiritual life?

Quotes to Ponder:

"If we accept ourselves as we are, we also accept God's love for us. But if we reject ourselves, if we despise ourselves, we shut ourselves off from the love God has for us, we deny that love. If we accept ourselves in our weakness, our limitations, it will also be easier for us to accept other people. Often, quite simply, we can't get along with other people because we can't get along with ourselves." (Father Jacques Philippe, The Way of Trust and Love, Page 48-49)

"I am no longer surprised by anything, I am not sorry to see that I am weakness itself. On the contrary, I glory in it, and I expect to discover new imperfections in myself every day. (St. Thérèse of Lisieux)

Scripture for Lectio:

"God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble." (James 4:6)

Timestamps: 00:00 Morning Star Studio

00:56 Intro

01:42 Welcome

03:58 Scripture Verse and Guiding Quote

04:45 Embracing Our Weaknesses First

9:00 Having a Real Desire for Conversion

13:55 Fearing Our Weakness

15:54 Desiring to be a Saint

18:55 Familial Living vs Transactional Living

22:21 One Things

Sponsor - Morning Star Studio:

Morning Star Studio creates works that inspire prayer, deepen faith, and reflect the divine beauty that calls all hearts to the Sacred Heart of Jesus — through paintings, prints, and even billboard art on your local freeway.

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Instagram: @morningstar_studioart

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 made agreements that I have to rely on myself and fix everything?
• Where am I living out a pattern of childhood wounds and identities?

Discussion Questions:

• How have you experienced failure this Lent?
• When do I grasp, kick, and flail like a child in my spiritual life?
• When did God last remind you that you are not God? How did your heart respond to it?
• Where is God inviting you to embrace your littleness rather than run from it?

Quote to Ponder:

"Being little means not attributing to ourselves the virtues we practice, or believing ourselves capable of anything, but recognizing that God places this treasure in the hands of His little child so that she can use it when she needs it; but the treasure is still God's." (St. Thérèse of Lisieux)

Scripture for Lectio:

"All you who labor, who are bent under the weight of your burden, who find the demands of the Law too heavy, come to me, for I am gentle and humble of heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28)

Sponsor - The JPII Healing Center:

Jesus longs to heal every hidden hurt in your heart—Do you want to be healed?

For the past 20 years, the John Paul II Healing Center, founded by Dr. Bob Schuchts, has offered healing retreats, trainings, and workshops to help people experience deeper intimacy and communion with the Blessed Trinity.

And now, you can experience our transformational teaching, Healing the Whole Person, right at home.

This 8-part video series expands on the teaching offered by Dr. Bob Schuchts and Sr. Miriam James Heidland at our Healing the Whole Person weekend retreats. For the past two years, this series has blessed thousands of groups and individuals across the world by drawing the brokenhearted close to the abiding love of the Blessed Trinity.

Through in-depth teachings, prayerful meditations, reflective journaling, and pre-recorded Q&A sessions, you are gently guided through your sorrowful mysteries into joyful restoration.

The Abiding Together Community can use code Abiding25 to receive 25% off individual and group leader subscriptions. This offer ends April 13th.

To learn more and begin your journey, visit www.jpiihealingcenter.org

Healing The Whole Person Series Link: https://virtual.jpiihealingcenter.org/start

Timestamps: 00:00 The JPII Healing Center

01:31 Intro

02:18 Guiding Quote

04:39 Discouragement is the Downfall of Souls

08:27 Subtle Agreements We Make Throughout Our Days

10:50 Surrender is Not Laziness

13:26 Illumination is Spiritual Progress

15:55 Being Curious About Our Own Heart

18:34 Becoming Little is Maturation

20:47 Suffering in Communion with the Father

23:53 The Father Cannot Resist His Children's Trust

27:14 Am I Still Lovable if I am Little and have Needs?

29:44 One Things

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 to smile upon me?
• How have I turned to self-reliance this Lent?
• Where is God inviting me to become more adult and free?
• What is the new song the Lord wants to put in my heart?

Discussion Questions:

• When do you notice orphanhood in your heart?
• What are you learning from St. Therese this Lent?
• When have you experienced the healing delight of a mother?
• Is it difficult for you to name your desires? What is one desire God has placed on your heart this Lent?
• What is the "yes" God is asking you to make today?

Quotes to Ponder:

"You know, Mother, that I have always desired to be a saint, but alas, I have always realized, when I compared myself to the saints, that there is between them and me the same difference as exists between a mountain whose summit is lost in the skies, and the obscure grain of sand trodden underfoot by passers-by. Instead of getting discouraged, I said to myself: "God could not" "inspire us with desires that were unrealizable, so despite my littleness I can aspire to holiness. It is impossible for me to grow up, I must put up with myself as I am, with all my imperfections; but I want to find how to get to Heaven by a little way that is quite straight, quite short: a completely new little way." (St. Thérèse of Lisieux)

"Each of us has an absolute need for an inner transformation that makes us "as little as a child." What that means and how to put it into practice are exactly what Thérèse teaches in a simple, luminous way. That is why she was proclaimed a Doctor—that is, a teacher—of the Church." (Father Jacques Philippe, The Way of Trust and Love, Page 6)

"The heart of Christian life is to receive and welcome God's tenderness and goodness, the revelation of his merciful love, and to let oneself be transformed interiorly by that love." (Father Jacques Philippe, The Way of Trust and Love, Page 7)

Scripture for Lectio:

"But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Sponsor - Healed and Restored:

Healed and Restored is a non-profit organization located in the Charlotte, NC area that was created in 2020 to fill a void and respond to a need that has been long overlooked in our society. A program that is 100% dedicated to helping women heal in the aftermath of abuse, assault, and other traumatic experiences.

According to the United Nations, one in three girls and women around the world has been subjected to sexual and/or physical abuse at least once in their lives. Studies show that women who have been through abuse (of all types) have higher levels of fear, are more isolated, and face greater mental health problems.

In the aftermath of any of these traumatic events, women will sometimes resort to hurting themselves through cutting, eating disorders, and addictions. Without proper care and healing, these dark cycles can persist for years.

We help women and girls realize that God desires to heal every single one of His beloved children. We teach them that the enemy is a master manipulator. As soon as a person gets hurt, the devil begins to plant all kinds of lies in our hurting souls. Some of these lies are: God doesn't love you, everything that happened is your fault, you should be forever ashamed, and you will never find healing and peace.

The Mission

The Healed and Restored mission is to help women and girls who are survivors of abuse, assault, domestic violence, trafficking, and all other forms of trauma find healing and restoration. Grounded in Catholic teachings and through a combination of counseling, life coaching, intimate workshops, practical tools, spiritual mentoring, and community support we help women and girls transform pain into purpose— empowering them to not only survive, but thrive.

Since 2020, Healed and Restored has helped over 500 women and girls on their journey to process their unhealed wounds. Never could we have predicted how much God would bless our mission in such a short period of time.

All of this has us convinced that there are times when God uses our deepest pain to propel us on the path to our greatest calling!

If you or someone you know could use the assistance of our trained and compassionate Catholic Therapists/Counselors and money is an issue, please do not hesitate to reach out to us by emailing [email protected] for more information and guidance.

Or if you feel called to be part of this mission by volunteering your time, we would love to hear from you. Together and guided by the Holy Spirit, we can make a difference in the life of those around us who are suffering.

Timestamps:

00:00 Healed and Restored

01:31 Intro

02:17 Welcome

04:26 Scripture Verse and Quote to Ponder

05:35 Trusting in Our Creator

09:49 The Path of Spiritual Childhood

12:53 Healed by Delight

16:27 What is the "Little Way"?

19:36 Childlike vs Childish

24:05 The Role of Holy Scripture

30:10 One Things

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 listening to God in prayer, what is the posture of my heart?

Discussion Questions:

• How is God calling you into deeper love this Lent?
• Where do you notice weariness or poverty in your life?
• How can you serve the poor this Lent?
• What holds you back from listening to the Lord in prayer?
• How do you want to be transformed this Lent?

Quote to Ponder:

"I feel that I am going to my rest … but above all, I feel that my mission is about to begin, my mission of making God loved as I love him, of giving my little way to other souls. If God grants my request, my Heaven will be spent on earth, until the end of the world. Yes, I wish to spend my Heaven in doing good on earth." (St. Thérèse of Lisieux)

Scripture for Lectio:

"Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 18:3-4)

Sponsor - SacredSpark:

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Timestamps: 00:00 SacredSpark

01:37 Intro

02:23 Welcome

03:08 Scripture Verse and Guiding Quote

03:53 Seeing Lent as an Invitation of Love

06:26 Breaking Strongholds

09:18 The Little Way

12:44 Feeling Weary and Poor

14:54 Pope Leo's Lenten Letter

19:33 Listening to Grow Deeper in Intimacy

23:04 A Call to Holiness

26:52 One Things

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 also offer an ebook version as well. We will announce more information about the study in the coming weeks!

Journal Questions:

• Where is the Holy Spirit inviting me this Lent?
• In the past, how have I turned to self-reliance throughout Lent?
• Where is my heart not rooted in my true identity?
• Is there something in the way of me drawing close to the Lord?
• Where am I performing instead of depending?
• Where am I controlling instead of trusting?
• Where am I grasping for love instead of securely attached?
• Where am I prideful instead of obedient?

Discussion Questions:

• Where do you need springtime in your personal life?
• How will you respond to your own shortcomings and self-reliance this Lent?
• How does the Lord want to bring you deeper into your identity?
• How is the Lord inviting you to live into your Word of the Year deeper this Lent?

Quote to Ponder:

"Lent is a time of going very deeply into ourselves… What is it that stands between us and God? Between us and our brothers and sisters? Between us and life, the life of the Spirit? Whatever it is, let us relentlessly tear it out, without a moment's hesitation." (Catherine Doherty)

Scripture for Lectio:

"Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where for forty days he was tested by the devil." (Luke 4:1-2)

Sponsor - COR Expeditions:

Are you experiencing the Lord's invitation to draw closer to Him? We encourage you to consider a life-changing course with COR Expeditions this summer.

COR Expeditions exists to transform the hearts of Catholics of all ages. COR - short for Catholic Outdoor Renewal and meaning "heart" in Latin - offers an invitation not often heard in our modern world: step away from technology, noise, and constant distraction, and step forward with the Lord into the wilderness, just as so many prophets and saints have done before us.

By choosing a course with COR, you are saying yes to being physically, emotionally, and spiritually challenged - in the best possible ways. Our culture often tells women to seek comfort, avoid risk, and doubt their own strength. At the same time, the voice of the enemy quietly whispers that we are not enough. COR offers something radically different: a place of freedom, encouragement, and truth. In the wilderness, you are reminded of your identity as a beloved daughter of God, created with courage, resilience, and deep capacity for joy.

COR courses take place in some of the most breathtaking locations of the Rocky Mountain West. Participants carry backpacks, hike miles into the backcountry, and live simply for the duration of the course. While this may sound intimidating at first, you are never on the journey alone. Our experienced instructors provide guidance, training, and support every step of the way. You do not need to be an elite athlete or an experienced backpacker—only willing to show up, try, and trust the Lord to meet you where you are.

In the silence of the mountains, away from screens and schedules, many women encounter God in a new and personal way. The physical challenge opens space for prayer. The simplicity brings clarity. The shared experience fosters deep community. What remains is peace, confidence, and a renewed ability to hear the Lord's voice.

If you're longing for deeper faith, meaningful challenge, and an experience that will stay with you long after summer ends, COR Expeditions may be the invitation your heart has been waiting for.

Learn more and take the next step at corexpeditions.org. Listeners of Abiding Together, use code ABIDE10 to get 10% off any one US-based open enrollment course this summer!

Timestamps: 00:00 COR Expeditions

01:31 Intro

02:17 Welcome

04:42 Guiding Quote and Scripture Verse

05:24 Where is the Holy Spirit Inviting Us Into Deeper Union

10:49 Testing Our Identity

15:41 God Speaks Tenderly to Us in the Desert

18:48 How to Discern What We Should do for Lent

25:16 One Things

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 App
• John Eldredge's Website "Wild at Heart"
• Waking the Dead by John Eldredge
• The Sacred Romance by John Eldredge
• Experience Jesus. Really. by John Eldredge

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 the study in the coming weeks!

Journal Questions:

• How am I living like a "practical atheist"?
• Where are you experiencing chaos in your domain?
• When in your day can you turn toward the Lord with a simple prayer?
• How have I experienced the friendship and communion of the Kingdom of Heaven in my life?
• Where in my life am I believing I am too much and not enough?

Discussion Questions:

• How would you define your domain? What has God entrusted to you?
• When have you experienced God's beauty and order in the midst of chaos and hatred?
• How have simple prayers led to transformation in your life?
• How is God inviting you to be a healing remedy to the world right now?

Quote to Ponder:

"The story of your life is the story of the long and brutal assault on your heart by the one who knows what you could be and fears it." (John Eldredge, Waking the Dead)

Scripture for Lectio:

"The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing." (Zephaniah 3:17)

Sponsor - Fully Alive Coaching Program:

Fully Alive Coaching Program is a trauma-informed Catholic coaching program for women and men who desire deep healing without compromising their faith. Created by licensed marriage and family therapist Brya Hanan, Fully Alive integrates Catholic Inner Child Work and somatic awareness in a gentle, Spirit-led journey—honoring the body, protecting the soul, and restoring wholeness.

For women and men who pray sincerely but still feel guarded, overwhelmed, or fragmented, Fully Alive offers a safe and structured path toward integration and life abundant. Learn more at catholicinnerchildwork.com/fully-alive and follow @catholicinnerchildwork for more trauma-informed and integrative resources to support your healing.

Use the code "abiding" or reference it during a consultation to get 10% off!

Timestamps: 00:00 - Fully Alive Coaching Program

01:16 - Intro

02:02 - Welcome

04:18 - Scripture Verse and Quote to Ponder

06:11 - Where is the Holy Spirit Moving the Church Now?

10:54 - Balancing the Love Story within a World at War

14:08 - Learning to Pray Against the Chaos

19:10 - How to Pray Together as A Couple

21:39 - Being in Union with God

26:13 - How Does God Use Fatherhood to Repair His Children?

29:30 - The Pause App

33:45 - We Are Created for Intimacy with Christ

37:48 - Women are Part of God's Healing Remedy to the World

40:22 - One Last Message from John

44:20 - A "Pause" Meditation

48:30 - One Things

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

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 the study in the coming weeks!

Journal Questions:

• How has the Lord encountered me through Holy Scripture?
• How has the Lord surprised me in prayer and study of the Scriptures?
• What obstacles prevent me from engaging with the Bible intentionally?
• What book of the Bible is the Lord inviting me to pray with this year?

Discussion Questions:

• What does your relationship with Scripture look like today?
• How have you been healed, convicted, or converted by Holy Scripture?
• Have you ever felt the Lord intimately and personally encounter you while reading Scripture?
• What would it look like for you to encounter the Lord in Holy Scripture daily?
• How do you want your relationship with the Word of God to be transformed?

Quote to Ponder:

"In order to reveal himself to men, in the condescension of his goodness God speaks to them in human words: "Indeed the words of God, expressed in the words of men, are in every way like human language, just as the Word of the eternal Father, when he took on himself the flesh of human weakness, became like men." Through all the words of Sacred Scripture, God speaks only one single Word, his one Utterance in whom he expresses himself completely…" (CCC Paragraphs 101-102)

Scripture for Lectio:

"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:16)

Sponsor - Nazareth Organics:

Nazareth Organics is a Catholic family-owned natural skincare company.

Unlike many skincare companies that use lab-made chemical ingredients in their products, Nazareth Organics uses high quality, wild-crafted, and organic ingredients from nature and strives to support local farms and businesses whenever possible.

From nourishing facial serums and cleansers to diaper creams and sun screens, Nazareth Organics carries natural products for a wide array of skin conditions. They use grass-fed tallow as a base for many of their balms, because it is rich in fat-soluble vitamins and fatty acids that can increase collagen production, strengthen the skin, and calm inflammation. With all these nutrients working in tandem to heal and nourish the skin, tallow is a powerhouse topical ointment for every skin type.

The best thing about this business, though, is that it's dedicated to the Holy Family of Nazareth. From website to packaging, every sustainably sourced product points back to the faith and the ultimate source of creation. They also donate a portion of all proceeds to Catholic charitable organizations.

If you want to honor and care for your body using pure and natural ingredients straight from God's hands, then check out Nazareth Organics.

You can find them at nazareth-organics.com and use code ABIDE10 at checkout for a 10% discount. Follow them on social media at: @nazarethorganics.

Timestamps: 00:00 Nazareth Organics

01:26 Intro

02:12 Welcome

03:45 Scripture Verse and Quote to Ponder

04:44 The Power of Scripture

08:28 Scripture Never Gets Old

14:56 How Scripture Can Heal Wounds

19:04 It's Personal to You

24:32 Going Deeper into the Word of God

27:02 One Things

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 Thing - The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

Other Resources Mentioned:

• Forgiving as Unity with Christ: A Journey for Healing Resentment and Relationships by Dr. Robert Enright

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 the study in the coming weeks!

Journal Questions:

• What are the unhealed places of your heart?
• Are you angry, sad, or frustrated at the wrong you've endured?
• How have I experienced shame about the wrongs I've endured or my own unforgiveness?
• How has this affected my health, wellbeing, or energy?
• How do I replay or obsess over the conflict I experienced?
• How have I given into constant comparison in my unforgiveness?
• What major changes have occurred in my life because of the injustice I've experienced and how have they affected me?
• Has this experience led to a more negative worldview?
• How has my sense of self changed? Am I seeing myself as worthless?

Discussion Questions:

• How have you been sweeping things under the rug and calling it forgiveness?
• What deeper feelings lie beneath your resentment?
• Where in your life do you need to repent and take personal responsibility?
• Who has modeled repentance and forgiveness well in your life?
• How does your heart react to conflict and wrongdoing in relationships?

Quotes to Ponder:

"Ultimately, we can really forgive people only because Christ rose from the dead; his Resurrection is the guarantee that God can cure every wrong and every hurt." (Fr. Jacques Philippe, Interior Freedom)

Resentment attacks our vital forces and does us much harm. When someone has made us suffer, our tendency is to keep the memory of the wrong alive in our minds, like a "bill" we will produce in due time to demand settlement. Those accumulated bills end up poisoning our lives. It is wiser to cancel every debt, as the Gospel invites us to. In return, we will be forgiven everything, and our hearts will be set free, whereas nurturing resentment toward others closes us to the positive things they could contribute to us." (Fr. Jacques Philippe, Interior Freedom)

Scripture for Lectio:

"Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother who sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered, "I tell you, not just seven times, but seventy-seven times!"" (Matthew 18:21-22)

Sponsor - Blessed is She:

"Who do you say that I am?"

Jesus didn't ask this because He was uncertain of His identity. He asked because we often are.

The disciples had walked with Him. They had seen the miracles. They had heard the teaching. And still, when the question was asked, many hesitated. Because proximity to Jesus does not automatically mean intimacy.

So often, our understanding of God is shaped by what we've absorbed over time—what we were taught, what we experienced, what others modeled for us. And without noticing, we begin to believe stories that aren't true.That God is distant. That He is easily disappointed. That love must be earned. That holiness requires perfection.

But Jesus does not leave us guessing. He tells us who He is: I am the Light of the World. I am the Bread of Life. I am the Good Shepherd. I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life...

Join Blessed is She this Lent to journey with Jesus to Jerusalem in Who Do You Say That I Am? by Debra Herbeck.

This Lenten devotional walks through the "I AM" statements of Jesus in the Gospel of John and is written to lead you out of assumptions and into encounter.

This Lent, let Jesus speak for Himself. And let that truth reshape the way you live.

Whether you've been walking with Jesus for years or you just met Him, drink even more deeply of the truths of who Jesus says He is in Who Do You Say That I Am? Get your women's and kid's devotionals at blessedisshe.net/lent.

Blessed is She is a Catholic women's community for any woman who wants to radically follow Jesus through a vibrantly Catholic life every single day.

We create beautiful and accessible resources (like this year's Lent devotional), products, and experiences to deepen prayer and foster community, both online and in person.

We invite you into this community, no matter where you are on your walk with Christ.

You belong here.

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Timestamps: 00:00 Blessed is She

01:30 Intro

02:16 Welcome

03:25 Scripture Verse and Quotes to Ponder

06:13 Repentance Leads to Freedom

07:53 Forgiveness is Hard

09:41 How Do I Forgive When I Don't Have the Capacity?

13:27 Modeling Repentance in Our Lives

17:35 Being Honest with Ourselves Can Be Painful

24:28 Sitting in the Pain and Setting Boundaries

29:34 Reflection Questions on Forgiveness

38:03 One Things

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 the study in the coming weeks!

Journal Questions:

• What was my word for 2025? How did the Lord work in and through me with that word?
• What is my word for 2026?
• How does my heart sit with the word revealed to me?
• How is the Lord inviting me into deeper love & intimacy in this new year?
• What is the Lord asking me to delight in?
• Has the Lord entrusted a particular saint to journey with you this year?

Discussion Questions:

• Reflect on and share about your word for 2025 and the graces you encountered through that word.
• What images, phrases, artwork, or Scripture verses have been on your mind when praying about your word of the year?
• What is your word for 2026? How did the Lord reveal it to you?
• Do you feel surprised, apprehensive, or delighted by your word for 2026? How can you hold onto hope this year?
• What is the Lord asking you to grow in?

Quotes to Ponder:

"For last year's words belong to last year's language, and next year's words await another voice." (T.S. Eliot, "Little Gidding")

"Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love." (St. Elizabeth of the Trinity)

Scripture for Lectio:

"Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary." (Isaiah 40:31)

Sponsor - CORDA:

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Timestamps: 00:00 CORDA

01:38 Intro

02:25 Lent Announcement

03:10 Welcome

06:43 Scripture Verse and Quote to Ponder

08:24 Sister Miriam's Word of the Year

12:28 Heather's Word of the Year

17:16 Michelle's Word of the Year

25:13 Being Honest with Ourselves and with God

29:20 Our Saints of the Year

33:18 What if I don't have a Word of the Year?

34:26 One Things

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 Catholic Church

Sister Miriam's One Thing - Our listeners and Patreon supporters. Thank you!

Sister Miriam's Other One Thing - Philosophy and Healing (with Fr. Matthew Rolling) from the Restore the Glory Podcast

Michelle's One Thing - The beauty of the different religious orders!

Finally, we arrive at the Stable — the poorest of places, and yet, the holiest of all.

Here, in straw and silence, the Infinite takes on skin. The cry of a newborn splits the night open, and suddenly, everything is sacred again

The invitation into the mess

Into our own poverty…

The cry of our humanity …

Worship is not what we think it will look like.

Other Resources Mentioned:

• The Nativity Painting by Caravaggio
• Living from the Heart Jesus Gave You by Dr. James Friesen

Journal Questions:

• Where do I find myself in "unsatisfactory condition"?
• What are the scandalous places within me that I want to keep away from the Lord?
• How am I managing my own creativity rather than welcoming the Holy Spirit into my creativity?
• What beliefs am I carrying deeply about God? How does God want to heal these beliefs?
• Where am I afraid?
• How can I make space for Jesus and spend time with Him in this Christmas season?

Discussion Questions:

• How are you tempted to sanitize the Mystery of the Incarnation in your own life?
• Where in my life do I need a new perspective?
• When have you experienced God coming to you in a way you weren't expecting Him to?
• How am I seeking control in this season? How can I surrender that control?
• What are the stables of my life that God is inviting me into deeper surrender?

Quote to Ponder:

"I am so glad Jesus was born in a stable, because my soul is so much like a stable. It's poor and in unsatisfactory condition - Yet, I believe that if Jesus can be born in a stable, maybe he can be born in me." (Dorothy Day)

Scripture for Lectio:

"In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn." (Luke 2:1-7)

Sponsor - Fully Mediterranean:

Our sponsor today is Fully Mediterranean, a company dedicated to helping people discover the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle, a way of eating and living that is both deeply nourishing and beautifully simple. At Fully Mediterranean, they believe that good health and good food go hand in hand—and that both of these begin in the same place: around the table, where we slow down, gather, connect, and are reminded of God's goodness in the everyday moments of life. It's where we feed not only our bodies, but also our relationships. And it's often where we rediscover joy, connection, and presence.

Fully Mediterranean was built on a mission to help people discover a simple, nourishing way of eating and living—a way that brings peace, beauty, and balance into everyday. Their approach is not about pressure or perfection. It's about gently integrating habits that help you live fully, with a sense of gratitude and mindfulness that aligns beautifully with our Catholic faith.

What makes the Mediterranean lifestyle so special is that it's not just a way of eating; it's a way of living. It's a lifestyle shaped by mindfulness, by community, and by gratitude. It's about slowing down, savoring what God provides, and sharing meals with the people He places in our lives. It's about choosing foods that nourish the body He entrusted to us—vibrant vegetables, wholesome grains, fresh herbs, lean proteins, and healthy fats—while also embracing the joy and connection that come from preparing and enjoying meals with others.

Fully Mediterranean provides practical, realistic tools, guidance, and inspiration to help you bring these values into your kitchen and everyday life. Through recipes, programs, workshops, and practical nutrition guidance, we help women simplify healthy eating, feel confident in the kitchen, and rediscover the joy that comes from preparing meals that are both good for the body and soul-satisfying.

In a world filled with noise, pressure, and quick fixes, the Mediterranean lifestyle offers something gentler and more grounded—an invitation to live intentionally, joyfully, and wholeheartedly. It encourages us to choose foods that honor the bodies God created, to gather more often with the people we love, and to find celebration in simple, nourishing routines.

Whether you're looking to support your long-term health, gain energy for your daily responsibilities, or create more meaningful rhythms in your home, Fully Mediterranean is here to guide you every step of the way. We want to help you build a lifestyle that supports your well-being and draws you closer to living the full, abundant life God desires for you.

Because at Fully Mediterranean, we believe that when you nourish your body well, you nourish every part of your life. And when you gather at the table with gratitude, intention, and love, you reflect God's goodness in the most natural, beautiful way.

If you're ready to bring more peace, health, and joy into your kitchen—and your life—we invite you to explore all that Fully Mediterranean offers. Discover delicious recipes, practical tips, and inspiring resources designed to help you integrate the Mediterranean way of living into your daily routine with ease and grace.

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Chapters:

00:00 Fully Mediterranean

01:37 Intro

02:30 Welcome to the Stable

05:56 Guiding Quote and Scripture Verse

07:12 The Poverty of Our Hearts

11:26 Surrendering the Messy Parts of Our Lives

15:30 Healing Our Image of God

19:31 What it Means to Ponder

21:37 Making Space in the Midst of a Busy Season

28:27 Season 18 Announcement!

28:58 One Things

Music used under license i94Cr0