In this podcast, Christina Semmens reflects on the significance of the Advent season, emphasizing the importance of preparation, silence, and the role of Mary in guiding us towards Jesus.

She encourages listeners to embrace the waiting period of Advent, to be present in their lives, and to cultivate a deeper awareness of God’s presence. The discussion also highlights the need for silence in order to hear God’s voice and the importance of responding with kindness and love during the holiday season. Ultimately, Christina calls for a joyful and peaceful approach to Christmas, focusing on the true meaning of the season.

Takeaways

• Advent is a time of waiting and preparation for Christmas.

• Being present is essential to receiving God’s gifts.

• Silence allows us to hear God’s voice more clearly.

• Mary plays a crucial role in leading us to Jesus.

• We should focus on experiences rather than material gifts.

• Joy comes from a deep awareness of God’s presence.

• Responding with kindness can prevent misunderstandings.

• The rosary helps us connect with Jesus through Mary.

• We must open our hearts to receive the Lord.

• Christmas should be celebrated with peace and joy.

Sound Bites

• “We have to be present in order to receive.”

• “Take a beat before responding.”

• “Mary always points us to her Son.”

Chapters

00:00 Advent: A Time of Waiting and Preparation

02:32 The Importance of Presence and Silence

08:10 Joy in Advent: Embracing Silence and Awareness

12:36 The Power of Silence in Communication

17:39 Mary’s Role in Advent and Discipleship

In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens interviews Raquel Rose, founder of The Little Rose Shop. Raquel shares her transformative journey from a broken past to becoming a single mother and entrepreneur. She discusses the inspiration behind her faith-based products designed to help families integrate spirituality into everyday life. The conversation explores the challenges of running a growing business, the importance of community support, and the spiritual practices that guide Raquel in her work and personal life.

Takeaways

• Raquel’s journey illustrates how brokenness can lead to transformation.

• Faith can be integrated into daily life through creative expressions.

• The Little Rose Shop was born out of a desire to support her daughter and others.

• Community support is vital for personal and business growth.

• Creative outlets can help individuals connect with God.

• Raquel emphasizes the importance of visual reminders for prayer.

• The business aims to provide resources for families to celebrate their faith.

• Challenges in business often lead to personal growth and deeper faith.

• The Ignatian Examen is a powerful tool for spiritual reflection.

• Saying ‘yes’ to God can lead to unexpected and fulfilling paths.

Sound Bites

• “What would I need?”

• “Created to create.”

• “I can do this.”

Chapters

00:00 Raquel’s Journey of Transformation

09:04 The Birth of The Little Rose Shop

18:02 Creative Philosophy and Community Engagement

23:24 Vision for Impact and Growth

25:39 Challenges and Rewards on the Journey

30:00 Spiritual Practices and Daily Reflections

Introduction:

In the hustle and bustle of life, especially as we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, it is essential to pause and reflect on what it truly means to achieve greatness and holiness. In this episode, Christina Semmens invites us to rethink our values and consider the profound importance of gratitude, honesty, and kindness in our journey toward true fulfillment.

Main Content:

**The Foundation of Greatness**

Christina Semmens opens the podcast by sharing her recent experiences, including the challenges of home repairs that temporarily disrupted her recording schedule. This relatable scenario sets the stage for deeper reflections on life’s priorities. As we near Thanksgiving, she emphasizes that true greatness is not measured by worldly standards such as wealth or power, but rather through our spiritual growth and connection with God.

**Three Pillars to Holiness**

Through prayer and contemplation, Christina identifies three essential qualities that contribute to our journey toward greatness: gratitude, honesty, and kindness. Each of these traits serves as a stepping stone to deeper relationships with ourselves, others, and God.

1. **Gratitude:**

Thanksgiving often brings us back to our homes and families, stirring feelings of longing for connection and acceptance. Christina reminds us of St. Augustine’s words, urging us to be grateful for the love and presence of those around us, despite any past grievances. This holiday season, let’s appreciate the people at our table for who they are today rather than who they used to be.

2. **Honesty:**

Being honest about our experiences and feelings is crucial for fostering genuine connections. Christina highlights the importance of sharing our true selves with our loved ones, even when difficult conversations are necessary. By embracing honesty, we create an environment where deeper understanding can flourish, allowing for more meaningful interactions during family gatherings.

3. **Kindness:**

Kindness extends to ourselves as well as to others. Christina encourages us to be gentle with ourselves as we navigate the complexities of relationships and life. She shares insights from Dr. Ralph Martin’s book, "The Fulfillment of All Desire," emphasizing that just as personal relationships require care and attention, so does our relationship with God.

**Preparing for the Advent Season**

As we transition from Thanksgiving to the Advent season, Christina calls on us to reflect on our spiritual habits. Have we been neglecting our relationship with God? Now is the time to recommit to practices that nurture our faith, whether through attending Mass, reading scripture, or simply spending quiet time in prayer. Christina emphasizes that spending time with God is essential to recognizing His love and presence in our lives.

**Conclusion and Key Takeaways:**

In this enlightening episode, Christina Semmens reminds us that true greatness lies in our ability to cultivate gratitude, honesty, and kindness in our lives. As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving and prepare for Advent, let us embrace these virtues to foster deeper connections and a more profound relationship with God. Remember, it’s not about striving for perfection but about the journey toward holiness and love.

In this 1:1 episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, host Christina Semmens engages in a profound conversation with author Jenny Dubay. They explore Jenny's journey from a spiritual but not religious phase back to her Catholic faith, inspired by the life of St. Catherine of Siena. Jenny discusses her book, 'World Between Worlds,' which delves into the mystical experiences of Caterina and the challenges of living out God's will. The conversation also touches on the importance of community, trauma healing, and the intersection of faith and fiction in her writing.

Takeaways

• Jenny Dubay's journey reflects a return to faith through the life of St. Catherine of Siena.

• The title 'World Between Worlds' symbolizes Katerina's mystical experiences.
• Katerina's story serves as an inspiration for following God's will despite challenges.
• Healing from trauma requires a Christ-centered approach.
• Community plays a vital role in healing and support.
• Adoration is essential for spiritual growth and clarity.
• Doubt and questioning are part of the faith journey.
• Writing fiction can convey deep truths about faith and healing.
• Jenny's trauma coaching informs her writing and outreach.
• The Catholic perspective on domestic abuse is crucial for healing.

Sound Bites

• "I am she who is not."
• "There is no healing without Him."
• "God will multiply our time."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jenny Dubay and Her Journey

02:46 Faith Journey and Return to the Church

05:50 Exploring the World Between Worlds

09:09 The Significance of Katerina's Story

12:03 The Intersection of Faith and Fiction

14:59 Trauma Coaching and Its Influence

17:54 Writing Nonfiction and Addressing Domestic Abuse

20:56 Community and Support in Writing

23:47 Challenges in Writing About St. Catherine

26:53 Key Practices for Living Out God's Will

30:02 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this conversation, Christina Semmens explores the theme of responding to God's invitation to holiness and the importance of preparation for the spiritual journey. She emphasizes the significance of virtues, the Eucharist, and community in living a Christian life. The discussion also touches on the challenges of forgiveness and compassion, urging listeners to embrace these qualities as they prepare for the ultimate wedding feast with God.

Takeaways

• God has rolled out the red carpet for us to respond to His invitation.
• We must prepare ourselves for the wedding feast by embodying Christian virtues.
• The Eucharist is essential for spiritual nourishment and community.
• Responding to challenges with grace helps us grow spiritually.
• Forgiveness and compassion are crucial for our spiritual journey.
• We should treat those who challenge us with kindness and respect.
• Daily Mass can provide the intimate experience we need for spiritual growth.
• Our actions should reflect the virtues of Christ in our daily lives.
• We must be intentional about our spiritual preparation.
• Living in community enhances our relationship with God and each other.

Sound Bites

"How do we respond to God's invitation?"

"God has provided it for us."

"We need to forgive now."

Chapters

00:00 The Invitation to Holiness

07:51 Nourishment Through the Eucharist

13:06 Responding to Challenges with Virtue

20:41 Preparing for the Wedding Feast

In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens interviews Chance Olivas, who shares his journey of faith and the mission behind ActsSocial, a Christian social media platform. They discuss the challenges of traditional social media, the importance of community, and how ActsSocial aims to provide a positive, faith-centered alternative.

Chance reflects on his personal experiences, the significance of prayer, and the encouragement he finds in his work, emphasizing the need for believers to unite and support one another in their faith journeys.

Takeaways

• Chance's journey of faith began with family struggles and confusion about God.
• He found grace and mercy through his faith during challenging times.
• ActsSocial aims to create a positive, faith-based social media platform.
• The platform seeks to unite believers and non-believers around Christ.
• ActsSocial is designed to counteract the negativity of traditional social media.
• Users are encouraged to engage positively and support one another.
• Transitioning to a new platform can be challenging due to existing habits.
• Prayer and connection with God are vital for overcoming discouragement.
• The platform offers free services to churches and nonprofits.
• Chance emphasizes the importance of community and reaching out to others.

Sound Bites

• "What does God have in store?"
• "I realized there was more to life."
• "We want to unite around Christ."
• "We’re flipping social media on its head."
• "You’re not perfect and that’s okay."
• "Jesus loves you, accept that gift."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Act Social and Faith Journeys

03:11 Chance's Journey of Faith and Ministry

06:05 Understanding Act Social's Mission and Vision

09:10 The Functionality of Act Social

12:05 The Challenge of Transitioning to a New Platform

15:01 Overcoming Discouragement and Building Community

18:01 Engaging Churches and Nonprofits

21:08 Challenges and Rewards in the Journey

24:00 The Importance of Prayer and Connection

27:04 Advice to the Younger Self and Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens reflects on the importance of simplifying our lives, pursuing inner peace, and recognizing the role of guardian angels in our spiritual journey. She draws inspiration from various saints, emphasizing the need to trust in God's guidance and grace while living out our daily lives with love and intention.Takeaways

• Jesus helped me to simplify my life by learning what you want me to be.
• We have to simplify our lives to become who God created us to be.
• Pursuing peace is essential in a world filled with anger.
• Our guardian angels are eager to help us in our struggles.
• Trusting in God's love allows us to overcome our mistakes.
• Doing little things with great love leads us to heaven.
• We must carve out quiet time to hear God's voice.
• Filling our lives with noise can prevent us from receiving grace.
• Asking for our guardian angel's help is crucial in resisting temptation.
• God desires for us to receive all the graces He offers.

Sound bites

• "Pursue peace in our hearts."
• "Invoke your angel."
• "God loves us so much."

Chapters00:00 Introduction and Reflection on Saints02:03 Simplifying Life and Discovering Purpose07:25 Pursuing Inner Peace13:22 The Role of Guardian Angels18:07 Trusting in Divine Guidance and the Little Way

In this conversation, Christina Semmens reflects on the recent canonization of Saints Carlos Acutis and Piers Giorgio Frassati, emphasizing their exemplary lives of holiness and stewardship.

She discusses the importance of living a meaningful life, focusing on God's calling rather than worldly success. The conversation highlights the essence of true stewardship, which involves giving selflessly and co-creating with God to build the heavenly kingdom. Semmens encourages listeners to learn from the saints and become witnesses of greatness in their own lives.

Takeaways

• Saint Carlos Acutis and Piers Giorgio Frassati exemplified holiness and stewardship.
• The process of canonization involves verifying miracles and a life of holiness.
• Stewardship means using our gifts and talents for God's glory.
• We should focus on what God is calling us to do, not worldly success.
• True stewardship involves giving without expecting anything in return.
• Co-creating with God helps build the heavenly kingdom on earth.
• God's gifts are abundant and available to everyone.
• We often perceive life through a lens of scarcity rather than abundance.
• Living a meaningful life requires us to serve others selflessly.
• We can learn from the saints to become witnesses of greatness.

Sound Bites

• "We can't waste our lives."
• "We are called to co-create alongside God."
• "God's gifts are available to everyone."

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating New Saints: Carlos Acutus and Piers Giorgio Frassati

04:44 Stewardship of Holiness: Living a Meaningful Life

12:03 The Call to Serve: Following God's Will

19:08 Co-Creating with God: Building the Heavenly Kingdom

25:46 Witnesses of Greatness: Learning from the Saints

May this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”

In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, host Christina Semmens interviews author Maria Riley, who shares her journey as a Catholic author and the inspiration behind her children's book series, Adventures with the Saints. Maria discusses her motivations for writing, the importance of introducing children to the lives of saints, and the challenges she faces in her writing career.

The conversation emphasizes the significance of prayer, the role of family in nurturing faith, and how to provide encouragement for children to embrace their unique paths to sainthood.

Takeaways

• Maria Riley is a Catholic author focused on children's literature.
• Her series, Adventures with the Saints, aims to inspire children.
• St. Joseph was chosen as the first saint due to his role as a foster father.
• St. Therese's simplicity and message of love resonate with children.
• St. John Bosco's fun and engaging life is highlighted for kids.
• Joan of Arc teaches children about standing up for good.
• Maria emphasizes the importance of quality Catholic fiction for families.
• Prayer can be simple and spontaneous, fostering family connections.
• Challenges in writing include spiritual attacks and family adjustments.
• Maria encourages children to recognize their unique paths to sainthood.

Sound Bites

• "We are all adopted children of God."
• "Prayer can be really simple."
• "I didn't start this to make money."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Maria Riley and Her Journey

02:42 Inspiration Behind Adventures with the Saints

05:15 Choosing Saints: St. Joseph, St. Therese, St. John Bosco, and St. Joan of Arc

08:24 Lessons from the Saints for Children

10:59 The Importance of Quality Catholic Fiction

14:12 Challenges in Writing and Family Life

16:30 Spiritual Growth Through Writing

19:16 Key Practices for Living a Faithful Life

21:55 Inspiration from Secular and Catholic Media

24:59 Advice to My Younger Self

27:32 Conclusion and Resources for Further Learning

To learn more, go to: https://www.mariarileyauthor.com/

In this conversation, Christina Semmens discusses the importance of hope and honesty in spiritual growth. She emphasizes the need for self-honesty and honesty with God to foster a deeper relationship with Him. The discussion highlights the power of Christian hope, especially in chaotic times, and the significance of mastering our passions to lead a fulfilling life. Christina also touches on the simplicity of seeking God's mercy as a means to navigate life's challenges and maintain a hopeful outlook.

Takeaways

• Spiritual growth depends on honesty with ourselves.
• We must be honest with God to grow closer to Him.
• Christian hope is about believing in God's presence and intervention.
• Hope is essential in the midst of chaos and challenges.
• We impact others in ways we may not realize.
• Mastering our passions leads to a more fulfilling life.
• God's mercy is always available to us, no matter our struggles.
• Every life has inherent value and purpose.
• We should rule our passions rather than let them control us.
• Reflecting on daily moments of grace can strengthen our hope.

Sound Bites

• "We impact others more than we realize."
• "Hope changes everything in our lives."
• "God's mercy is always available to us."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast

01:10 Honesty with Ourselves and God

07:14 The Power of Christian Hope

12:27 Finding Hope Amidst Chaos

20:17 Mastering Our Passions for a Fulfilling Life

23:04 God's Mercy and Our Response

May this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!” 

In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, host Christina Semmens speaks with Chase Crouse, co-founder and CEO of Hypuro Fit, a Catholic-based personal training and nutrition coaching company.

They discuss the intersection of faith and fitness, the importance of self-mastery, and how physical health can enhance spiritual well-being.

Chase shares his journey from ministry to fitness, the founding of Hypuro Fit, and the unique approach they take to integrate Catholic values into fitness training. The conversation also highlights client success stories and offers practical advice for those looking to start their fitness journey.

Chase has a Master’s degree in biblical theology and a deep love of St. Pope John Paul II's Theology of the Body, Chase's mission is to invite all Catholics to view exercise and health as a means to grow in self-mastery for the sake of self-gift.

Chase lives in Austin, TX with his wife and three young children.

Hypuro Fit is a Catholic fitness and personal training apostolate rooted in Theology of the Body, and has launched a new app that helps users integrate wellness goals with their Catholic faith.

Hypuro Fit encourages Catholics to trade this earthly mindset for the eternal goal of living as a gift for others through self-discipline, self-mastery, and honoring the body God gave them. With its mission of combining technically excellent training with an authentically Catholic approach to fitness, Hypuro Fit offers the faithful a unique way to work out with a deeper purpose.

Takeaways

• Chase Crouse is the co-founder and CEO of Hypuro Fit.
• Hypuro Fit is the world's first Catholic-based personal training and nutrition coaching company.
• Self-mastery is essential for self-donation, as stated by John Paul II.
• Fitness can significantly impact one's spiritual life and overall well-being.
• The goal of fitness should be rooted in love and service to others.
• Clients of Hypuro Fit range from priests to families seeking to improve their health.
• Starting with small steps in fitness is crucial for long-term success.
• Grace should be included in the journey towards fitness and holiness.
• Physical fitness can enhance cognitive function and life satisfaction.
• The importance of community and support in achieving fitness goals.

His book, God of Endurance, co-written with Dan Burke of SpiritualDirection.com, releases on August 19th with Sophia Institute Press.

To order the book, go to: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/the-god-of-endurance/?utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9GJxc4hLud2RUOjnNUUAxcHpXkzt79yOvcJL5cuKqr-fde5fsEaG6sOf9_Vv7GiIQfzGFB

To learn more, go to: https://www.hypurofit.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chase Crouse and Hypuro Fit

06:31 The Connection Between Faith and Fitness

11:17 The Birth of Hypuro Fit

16:54 The Importance of an Authentically Catholic Approach

22:24 Client Experiences and Success Stories

27:55 Advice for Starting Your Fitness Journey