Episode 6 – Holiness Through Sacrifice – St. Thérèse and Marie: The Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s spiritual guidance and her role in her cousin Marie’s journey to Carmel. Marie’s long-awaited entrance into religious life in 1895 was marked by emotional struggles and familial sacrifices, but Thérèse’s compassionate yet firm support helped her embrace detachment and trust in God.

Through moments like humorously diffusing a tense exchange with Marie or encouraging her to surrender attachments, Thérèse exemplified her deep understanding of human nature and her ability to lead others closer to Christ. On Marie’s entrance day, Thérèse wrote her a heartfelt poem, Canticle of a Soul Having Found the Place of Its Rest, capturing Marie’s spiritual “homecoming” and longing for heaven, and adorned Marie’s room with flowers and a copy of her poem Living on Love to provide comfort and inspiration.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Understanding Detachment Through Love
   How can you cultivate a spirit of detachment while deepening your love and service for others?
2. Sacrifice as a Path to Holiness
   What areas of your life might God be inviting you to surrender for the sake of spiritual growth and the good of others?
3. The Role of Spiritual Companionship
   How can you support others in their spiritual journey while remaining attentive to your own need for grace and balance?
4. Longing for Heaven in Daily Life
   How does reflecting on heaven influence your choices and attitudes in your daily responsibilities and relationships?
5. Balancing Emotion and Trust in God
   In what ways can you entrust your emotional struggles and attachments to God, as Thérèse encouraged Marie to do?
6. The Power of Small Gestures in Holiness
   How can small, intentional acts of love bring comfort and reflect Christ to those around you?

About this Series

Fr. Timothy Gallagher reflects upon the enduring legacy of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, exploring how her life and spirituality, deeply influenced by her family and how it offers profound insights into everyday holiness. He examines the role of family and spiritual friendships in nurturing faith, the importance of compassionate care for others, and how Thérèse’s example can inspire listeners to seek sanctity in their daily lives. He also brings forth more details of the spiritual bond between the Martin and Guérin families, offering a model for fostering deeper connections within one’s own family and community.

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

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

The post TM6 – Holiness Through Sacrifice – St. Therese and Marie: The Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Episode 5 – Path of Grace and Weakness – St. Thérèse and Marie: The Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor explore the depth of spiritual encouragement on the correspondence between St. Thérèse of Lisieux and her cousin Marie during the summer of 1890; during a period when Marie was grappling with spiritual desolation and doubt.

At the heart of the letters is St. Thérèse’s response to Marie’s feelings of inadequacy, spiritual dryness, and failure in her attempts to live a fervent religious life. Thérèse reassures Marie, reminding her that human weakness is not a barrier to God’s love. Instead, it is through recognizing our nothingness that we can abandon ourselves to the infinite love and grace of Jesus. Thérèse likens Marie’s situation to a poor country girl being courted by a king, where the girl’s weakness is not a deterrent because the king (Christ) already knows and accepts it.

While Marie feels she is not seeing any fruit from her spiritual efforts, God still treasures these “little nothings” that console His heart. This also touches on sacrificial love, where Thérèse encourages Marie to give her heart fully to Jesus, reminding her of Christ’s own humility in becoming “poor” to love and unite with humanity, particularly in the Eucharist.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Acknowledging God’s Grace in Our Lives
   How often do I recognize and thank God for the graces He gives me, even amidst my struggles?
2. Embracing Weakness as a Path to Holiness
   Am I willing to acknowledge my weakness and entrust it to God, believing that He can work through it for my sanctification?
3. Surrendering Self-Reliance for Divine Strength
   Do I, like Thérèse, abandon my self-concerns and surrender fully to Jesus, trusting in His infinite strength to guide me?
4. Finding Consolation in Small Acts of Love
   Am I aware that even my smallest efforts to love God and others bring joy to His heart, even when I don’t see immediate fruit?
5. Uniting in Prayer through the Eucharist
   How can I deepen my love for Jesus in the Eucharist and let that love strengthen my union with Him and others in my life?
6. Fostering Joy and Lightheartedness Amidst Trials
   Do I allow the joy of Christ to shine through me, even when I am burdened by personal struggles, to uplift those around me?
7. Trusting in God’s Plan Beyond Appearances
   How can I deepen my trust in God’s plan, especially when my outward circumstances or inner struggles make it hard to see His work?

About this Series

Fr. Timothy Gallagher reflects upon the enduring legacy of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, exploring how her life and spirituality, deeply influenced by her family and how it offers profound insights into everyday holiness. He examines the role of family and spiritual friendships in nurturing faith, the importance of compassionate care for others, and how Thérèse’s example can inspire listeners to seek sanctity in their daily lives. He also brings forth more details of the spiritual bond between the Martin and Guérin families, offering a model for fostering deeper connections within one’s own family and community.

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

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

The post TM5 – Path of Grace and Weakness – St. Therese and Marie: The Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Episode 4 – Overcoming Scruples – St. Thérèse and Marie: The Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor continue their discussion on St. Thérèse of Lisieux and her close relationship with her cousin, Marie, through their letters. They explore a particular letter from Marie to St. Thérèse, written during a challenging period in Marie’s life wherein she is debating whether or not to join the Carmelite order.

Marie confides in St. Thérèse about her scruples, inner torments, and spiritual struggles, particularly around purity and her desire to enter the Carmelite order. This letter reflects Marie’s vulnerable spiritual state and her need for guidance and consolation. Thérèse responds with both empathy and wisdom, affirming Marie’s heartfelt struggles while gently guiding her to trust in God’s love and mercy, even in her moments of doubt.

A recurring theme is that of of spiritual direction, the importance of wise counsel, and the struggles inherent in spiritual growth. Fr. Gallagher connects these personal stories to the broader spiritual teachings of St. Thérèse, particularly her “Little Way”—a path that finds strength in weakness and trusts fully in God’s grace. Many of us may identify with Marie’s feelings of inadequacy and desire for reassurance, illustrating how timeless and relatable these spiritual struggles are. Together, they explore the value of seeking counsel from spiritually mature and experienced individuals who can offer clarity and encouragement on the journey of faith.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Trusting Spiritual Authority – How do I discern and trust spiritual guidance from those with experience and wisdom in the faith?
2. Struggles with Scrupulosity – When I am overly burdened by feelings of inadequacy or guilt, do I seek support and clarity, or do I allow these feelings to isolate me?
3. Transforming Weakness into Strength – Can I embrace my weaknesses as chances for growth, allowing God’s strength to work through them?
4. Seeking Consolation in God – In times of inner turmoil, do I turn to God for comfort, or do I seek distractions elsewhere?
5. Value of Spiritual Friendships – Are my closest relationships helping me grow spiritually, and am I willing to share my faith journey with them?
6. Handling Spiritual Dryness – How do I approach prayer and the sacraments when they feel dry or arid, and do I trust God is still present in these moments?
7. Living Out the Little Way – In what practical ways can I imitate St. Thérèse’s Little Way by offering small acts of love and sacrifice throughout my day?

About this Series

Fr. Timothy Gallagher reflects upon the enduring legacy of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, exploring how her life and spirituality, deeply influenced by her family and how it offers profound insights into everyday holiness. He examines the role of family and spiritual friendships in nurturing faith, the importance of compassionate care for others, and how Thérèse’s example can inspire listeners to seek sanctity in their daily lives. He also brings forth more details of the spiritual bond between the Martin and Guérin families, offering a model for fostering deeper connections within one’s own family and community.

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

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

The post TM4 – Overcoming Scruples – St. Therese and Marie: The Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Episode 3 – Facing Temptations with Grace – St. Thérèse and Marie: A Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor explore the depth and relatability of St. Thérèse of Lisieux through her family dynamics and her correspondence with her cousin, Marie Guérin. These correspondences exhibit Thérèse’s profound spiritual wisdom, even at a young age, and how she comforted Marie during a period of spiritual struggle, particularly with scrupulosity. Fr. Gallagher reflects on Thérèse’s ability to bring divine consolation to Marie, especially in the context of modern struggles, like those related to purity, temptations, and scruples.

The conversation focuses on a particular letter exchange in which Marie expresses distress over her experiences in Paris during the 1889 Exposition. She describes feeling overwhelmed by the temptations and nudity she encounters, fearing that she has sinned by being curious. Marie worries that she cannot receive Communion, as she feels complicit in her thoughts.

Thérèse responds with reassurance, expressing that Marie has committed no sin and encouraging her to continue receiving Communion. Thérèse shares her own experience with scrupulosity, offering spiritual advice and urging Marie to trust in God’s mercy and to not let the devil’s discouragement keep her from Christ in the Eucharist.

This exchange shows Thérèse’s deep understanding of the human heart and her unwavering focus on encouraging love for Jesus, especially through frequent reception of Communion. Through this exchange, Thérèse’s spiritual wisdom shines, and her letters become a source of hope, not just for Marie, but for all who struggle with similar concerns today.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. How do we respond to spiritual struggles?
   Reflect on how you handle moments of spiritual discouragement or scruples in your own faith journey.
2. Do we seek God’s mercy and reassurance?
   Consider how often you trust in God’s mercy when feeling unworthy or distant from receiving the sacraments.
3. How do we relate to St. Thérèse’s example of love?
   Ponder how Thérèse’s compassionate and understanding love can inspire you to be more attentive and caring in your relationships.
4. What role does family play in our spiritual lives?
   Examine the influence of family dynamics on your spiritual development and how you express love within your family relationships.
5. Are we aware of Christ’s deep desire for communion with us?
   Reflect on how often you approach Communion with the awareness of Christ’s longing to be united with you.
6. How do we handle temptations in daily life?
   Think about how you face modern temptations and distractions and what spiritual practices help you remain focused on Christ.
7. Do we cultivate a strong devotion to the Eucharist?
   Consider how frequently you receive the Eucharist and how this devotion strengthens your spiritual life.

About this Series

Fr. Timothy Gallagher reflects upon the enduring legacy of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, exploring how her life and spirituality, deeply influenced by her family and how it offers profound insights into everyday holiness. He examines the role of family and spiritual friendships in nurturing faith, the importance of compassionate care for others, and how Thérèse’s example can inspire listeners to seek sanctity in their daily lives. He also brings forth more details of the spiritual bond between the Martin and Guérin families, offering a model for fostering deeper connections within one’s own family and community.

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

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

The post TM3 – Facing Temptations with Grace – St. Therese and Marie: A Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Episode 2 – An Audience with the Pope – St. Thérèse and Marie: A Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor continue their look at the childhood and family life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux and her cousin Marie. Exploring  the close relationship between Thérèse and Marie through their letters, including key moments in their early years and the significant influence they had on each other’s lives.

Starting with the young teenage years of Thérèse and Marie, Fr. Gallagher describes their shared experiences and the strong bond they developed while growing up. With Thérèse’s fervent desire to join the Carmelite convent at the age of 15, despite her young age, and the obstacles she faced in achieving this goal, Fr. Gallagher details her efforts to gain permission from her father, her uncle, and ultimately, Pope Leo XIII.

Marie plays a supportive role during this challenging time, expressing her love and concern for Thérèse in her letters. With Marie’s vibrant personality, her deep devotion to the Eucharist, and her own spiritual journey, they also touch on the family’s involvement in the Church and the importance of their faith in guiding their decisions and actions.

Using the pilgrimage to Rome, where Thérèse intended to ask the Pope for special permission to enter Carmel early, Fr. Gallagher recounts the exchanges between Thérèse and Marie during this journey. Despite being cousins, their letters reflect a sister-like relationship, filled with affection and shared aspirations, as well as the spiritual ties between Thérèse and Marie, the support and love they provided each other, and the pivotal events leading up to Thérèse’s entrance into the Carmelite convent.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Reflecting on the Support of Family in Vocational Discernment: How do the actions and encouragement of our family members influence our discernment and pursuit of God’s call in our lives?
2. Trusting God’s Timing and Providence: In what ways can we trust God’s timing and providence, especially when facing obstacles to following our vocation or spiritual goals?
3. Courage in the Face of Challenges: How can Thérèse’s determination to enter Carmel despite her young age inspire us to pursue our spiritual aspirations with courage and persistence?
4. Role of Spiritual Companionship: What impact do close relationships, like that of Thérèse and Marie, have on our spiritual growth and how can we foster these connections in our own lives?
5. Embracing Joy and Humor in Faith: How can we integrate joy and a sense of humor into our faith life, as seen in the playful and affectionate exchanges between Thérèse and Marie?

About this Series

Fr. Timothy Gallagher reflects upon the enduring legacy of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, exploring how her life and spirituality, deeply influenced by her family and how it offers profound insights into everyday holiness. He examines the role of family and spiritual friendships in nurturing faith, the importance of compassionate care for others, and how Thérèse’s example can inspire listeners to seek sanctity in their daily lives. He also brings forth more details of the spiritual bond between the Martin and Guérin families, offering a model for fostering deeper connections within one’s own family and community.

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

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

The post TM2 – An Audience with the Pope – St. Therese and Marie: A Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Episode 1 – Introduction – St. Thérèse and Marie: A Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor begin a discussion on the often overlooked relationships that shaped the life and spirituality of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Reflecting on the profound and enduring influence of Thérèse’s extended family, Fr. Gallagher takes a special focus on her cousin Marie Guérin, who was both a close friend and spiritual companion to Thérèse.

These familial bonds provided a strong foundation of faith and support, with the Guérin and Martin families deeply intertwined in both everyday life and spiritual formation. Marie Guérin, being Thérèse’s first cousin, shared a unique bond with her, spending much time together during their childhood and later entering the Carmel, where she became a novice under Thérèse’s guidance.

The spirituality within this extended family was significantly influenced by the teachings of St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal; through the visitation tradition embodied by Thérèse’s aunt, Sister Marie-Dosithée. This spiritual legacy, combined with the close-knit relationships and mutual support among family members, played a crucial role in the development of Thérèse’s own spirituality, which is characterized by its simplicity and deep love.

Fr. Gallagher also touches on the remarkable influence of Isidore and Céline Guérin, Marie’s parents, who were instrumental in supporting the Martin family after the death of Thérèse’s mother, Zélie, and during the later years of Louis Martin’s declining health. Their example of faith and charity profoundly impacted their children, particularly Marie, who carried forward the spiritual legacy of her family into her religious life.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Understanding Therese’s Legacy: How does St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s enduring influence challenge your understanding of spiritual depth and holiness?
2. The Role of Family in Faith: In what ways can your family life foster spiritual growth, similar to the Martin and Guérin families?
3. Value of Spiritual Friendship: How do your friendships reflect the spiritual bond and mutual support seen between Thérèse and her cousin Marie?
4. The Influence of Spiritual Tradition: How can the Salesian spirituality, as embraced by Thérèse’s family, inform your own approach to daily holiness?
5. Witnessing through Suffering: What can you learn from Marie’s compassionate care for Thérèse during her final illness about offering spiritual and physical support to others?
6. Everyday Holiness: How does the idea of sanctity in daily life, as practiced by Thérèse, inspire you to seek holiness in your ordinary activities?
7. Spiritual Legacy of Extended Family: Reflect on how staying close with extended family, as modeled by the Martins and Guérins, could enhance your spiritual journey.

About this Series

Fr. Timothy Gallagher reflects upon the enduring legacy of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, exploring how her life and spirituality, deeply influenced by her family and how it offers profound insights into everyday holiness. He examines the role of family and spiritual friendships in nurturing faith, the importance of compassionate care for others, and how Thérèse’s example can inspire listeners to seek sanctity in their daily lives. He also brings forth more details of the spiritual bond between the Martin and Guérin families, offering a model for fostering deeper connections within one’s own family and community.

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

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

The post TM1 – Introduction – St. Therese and Marie: A Story of Two Cousins with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Episodio 11 – La Novena Regla – Resistir a la desolación espiritual con la Regla 9

La Novena Regla:

Hay tres causas principales por las que nos encontramos desolados. La primera, porque somos tibios, perezosos o negligentes en nuestros ejercicios espirituales, y así por nuestras faltas se aleja de nosotros el consuelo espiritual. La segunda, para probarnos y ver cuánto somos y cuánto nos extendemos en su servicio y alabanza sin tanto pago de consuelos y gracias aumentadas. La tercera, darnos verdadero reconocimiento y entendimiento para que interiormente sintamos que no es nuestro alcanzar ni mantener la devoción aumentada, el amor intenso, las lágrimas o cualquier otro consuelo espiritual, sino que todo es don y gracia de Dios nuestro Señor, y para que no hagamos nido en cosa ajena, levantando nuestra mente en algún orgullo o vanagloria, atribuyéndonos la devoción o las demás partes del consuelo espiritual.

En este podcast, el P. Timothy Gallagher profundiza en la Novena Regla de San Ignacio, que aborda las razones por las que Dios puede permitir la desolación espiritual en las vidas de aquellos que le aman. El P. Gallagher explica que hay tres razones principales para esta experiencia.

Primero, la desolación puede ocurrir debido a nuestra negligencia en los ejercicios espirituales, sirviendo como una llamada de atención para realinearnos con Dios.

En segundo lugar, Dios puede permitir que la desolación ponga a prueba nuestra fe y profundice en nuestro crecimiento espiritual, ayudándonos a confiar más plenamente en su gracia.

En tercer lugar, la desolación nos enseña humildad, recordándonos que todo consuelo espiritual es un don de Dios y no algo que podamos alcanzar con nuestros propios esfuerzos.

A través de estas reflexiones, el P. Gallagher anima a los oyentes a comprender los beneficios espirituales de la desolación, incluso cuando se siente difícil, y a confiar en la guía amorosa de Dios a través de estas pruebas.

Preguntas de reflexión de Discerning Hearts para este episodio:

1. Experiencia personal de desolación: Reflexiona sobre si has experimentado tiempos de desolación espiritual en tu vida, considerando cómo respondiste a estos períodos y qué aprendiste sobre tu relación con Dios durante esos tiempos.
2. Descuido de los Ejercicios Espirituales: Considera si estás descuidando tus ejercicios espirituales y piensa cómo puedes volver a comprometerte con prácticas que profundicen tu conexión con Dios.
3. La desolación como camino de crecimiento: Contempla cómo entender la desolación espiritual como una prueba destinada al crecimiento podría cambiar tu perspectiva sobre los desafíos espirituales a los que te enfrentas.
4. El consuelo como don: Reflexiona sobre si reconoces la consolación espiritual como un don puro de Dios, y piensa en cómo puedes cultivar un sentido más profundo de humildad y gratitud en esos momentos.
5. El propósito de Dios en la desolación: Considera cómo Dios ha utilizado los períodos de desolación en tu propio camino espiritual para acercarte más a Él y fomentar el crecimiento espiritual.

Para ver más episodios de la serie, visite: El Discernimiento de los Espíritus: Liberar a los cautivos con el Padre Timothy Gallagher; Podcast de Discernimiento de Corazones

El Padre Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., fue ordenado en 1979 como miembro de los Oblatos de la Virgen María, una comunidad religiosa dedicada a los retiros y a la formación espiritual según los Ejercicios Espirituales de San Ignacio. El P. Gallagher aparece en la serie de EWTN “Living the Discerning Life: Las enseñanzas espirituales de San Ignacio de Loyola”.

Para más información sobre cómo obtener copias de los diversos libros y audios del P. Gallaghers que están disponibles para su compra, por favor visite su  website: www.frtimothygallagher.org

The post DOS11 – La Novena Regla – El propósito de la desolación espiritual espiritual con la Regla 9 – Discernimiento de Espíritus con el Padre Timothy Gallagher – Podcasts de Corazones Discernientes appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Episodio 10 – La Octava Regla – Confianza y paciencia con la Regla 8

La Octava Regla:

Que quien esté en desolación se esfuerce por ser paciente, lo cual es contrario a las vejaciones que le sobrevienen. Que piense que pronto será consolado, usando diligentemente los medios contra tal desolación, como se dice en la sexta regla.

El P. Timothy Gallagher y Kris McGregor se centran en la octava regla de discernimiento de San Ignacio de Loyola: la importancia de la paciencia en tiempos de desolación espiritual. El P. Gallagher explica que la paciencia, derivada del latín «patior» que significa sufrir o soportar, es esencial cuando uno se siente abatido o alejado de Dios. Comparte la historia de Elizabeth LeSuer, una Sierva de Dios, que ejemplificó la paciencia y la fe inquebrantable a pesar de experimentar un profundo sufrimiento espiritual y físico.

El P. Gallagher señala que la desolación espiritual es una experiencia común en la vida espiritual, en la que uno siente falta de energía para la oración y las actividades espirituales. En esos momentos, San Ignacio aconseja no sólo aguantar con paciencia, sino también recordarse a uno mismo que el consuelo volverá antes de lo previsto. Esta mentalidad ayuda a contrarrestar los pensamientos desalentadores que suele traer la desolación.

El P. Gallagher contrasta esta experiencia ordinaria de desolación espiritual con la noche oscura del alma, experimentada por santos como la Madre Teresa, y subraya que a la primera hay que resistirse activamente, pues no procede de Dios, sino que es una tentación del enemigo. Nos anima a mantenernos firmes en nuestras prácticas espirituales, sabiendo que la desolación es temporal y que la perseverancia en ella fortalece nuestra fe y nuestra vida espiritual.

Preguntas de reflexión de Discerning Hearts para este episodio:

1. Reconocer los signos de la desolación espiritual: ¿Cómo discernir cuándo se está experimentando desolación espiritual frente a un estado emocional temporal?
2. Reflexiona sobre tu respuesta inicial a la desolación: ¿Cómo reaccionas normalmente cuando te enfrentas a la sequedad espiritual o a la oscuridad en tu camino de fe?
3. Examina tus prácticas espirituales actuales: ¿Te ayudan tus prácticas espirituales a mantenerte cerca de Dios, o es necesario ajustarlas en tiempos de desolación?
4. Considera el papel de la humildad en la desolación: ¿Cómo la experiencia de la desolación espiritual te ayuda a crecer en humildad y confianza en Dios?
5. Explora los beneficios de la desolación espiritual: ¿Puedes identificar formas en las que experiencias pasadas de desolación han fortalecido finalmente tu fe y tu carácter?
6. Reflexiona sobre tu vida de oración durante la desolación: ¿Cómo mantienes tu vida de oración cuando se siente particularmente desafiante o infructuosa?
7. Evalúa la influencia de factores externos: ¿Qué circunstancias o relaciones externas pueden estar contribuyendo a tu estado espiritual actual?
8. Identifica el papel del apoyo comunitario: ¿Cómo puedes apoyarte en tu comunidad espiritual para obtener apoyo y orientación durante los períodos de desolación?
9. Contempla el propósito de la desolación en tu camino: ¿Qué puede estar enseñándote Dios a través de esta experiencia de desolación espiritual?
10. Planifica medidas proactivas para la desolación futura: ¿Qué acciones concretas puedes emprender ahora para prepararte espiritualmente para futuros períodos de desolación?

Para ver más episodios de la serie, visite: El Discernimiento de los Espíritus: Liberar a los cautivos con el Padre Timothy Gallagher; Podcast de Discernimiento de Corazones

El Padre Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., fue ordenado en 1979 como miembro de los Oblatos de la Virgen María, una comunidad religiosa dedicada a los retiros y a la formación espiritual según los Ejercicios Espirituales de San Ignacio. El P. Gallagher aparece en la serie de EWTN “Living the Discerning Life: Las enseñanzas espirituales de San Ignacio de Loyola”.

Para más información sobre cómo obtener copias de los diversos libros y audios del P. Gallaghers que están disponibles para su compra, por favor visite su  website: www.frtimothygallagher.org

The post DOS10 – La Octava Regla – Confianza y paciencia con la Regla 8 – Discernimiento de Espíritus con el Padre Timothy Gallagher – Podcasts de Corazones Discernientes appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Episodio 9 –La Séptima Regla – Resistir a la desolación espiritual con la Regla 7

La Séptima Regla:

Que aquel que está en desolación considere cómo el Señor le ha dejado en prueba con sus poderes naturales para que pueda resistir las diversas agitaciones y tentaciones del enemigo, ya que puede resistir con la ayuda divina, que siempre permanece con él, aunque no la sienta claramente. Pues el Señor le ha quitado su gran fervor, su abundante amor y su intensa gracia, dejándole, sin embargo, gracia suficiente para la salvación eterna.

En este episodio, Kris McGregor habla con el Padre Timothy Gallagher sobre la la Séptima Regla de San Ignacio de Loyola Ejercicios de San Ignacio de Loyola, que trata de la desolación espiritual. El Padre Gallagher subraya la importancia de reconocer la desolación espiritual como una prueba permitida por Dios para fortalecer nuestra capacidad de resistirla con ayuda divina divina. Se basa en la experiencia de la Beata Ángela de Foligno, que soportó intensa desolación espiritual, pero se mantuvo firme en su compromiso con Dios. El Padre. Gallagher explica que, al comprender el propósito de la desolación y y recordando la presencia de la gracia de Dios, podemos encontrar la fuerza para perseverar. El debate pone de relieve que la desolación espiritual, aunque difícil, es una oportunidad para el crecimiento espiritual, la profundización de la confianza y la resistencia en la fe.

Preguntas de reflexión de Discerning Hearts para este episodio:

1. Experiencia personal: ¿Has experimentado alguna vez un período de desolación espiritual? ¿Cómo reaccionaste y qué aprendiste de esa experiencia?
2. Reconocer la gracia de Dios: En momentos de sequedad espiritual, ¿te resulta difícil creer que la gracia de Dios sigue estando presente en ti? ¿Cómo puede ayudarte en esos momentos recordar la Séptima Regla?
3. Perseverancia en la fe: Reflexiona sobre alguna ocasión en la que hayas perseverado en una prueba espiritual. ¿Cómo moldeó esa experiencia tu fe y tu confianza en Dios?
4. Prácticas espirituales: ¿Qué prácticas o pensamientos te ayudan a permanecer fiel durante los períodos en que la oración se siente árida o pesada?
5. Comprender la desolación: ¿De qué manera la comprensión de la desolación espiritual como una prueba permitida por Dios puede cambiar la forma en que abordes tales experiencias en el futuro?
6. Inspiración de los santos: ¿De qué manera el ejemplo de la Beata Ángela de Foligno puede inspirarte para permanecer comprometido con tu fe incluso cuando te sientes abandonado por Dios?
7. Cultivar la confianza: ¿Cómo puedes cultivar una confianza más profunda en la providencia de Dios, especialmente en los momentos en que te cuesta sentir su presencia?

Para ver más episodios de la serie, visite: El Discernimiento de los Espíritus: Liberar a los cautivos con el Padre Timothy Gallagher; Podcast de Discernimiento de Corazones

El Padre Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., fue ordenado en 1979 como miembro de los Oblatos de la Virgen María, una comunidad religiosa dedicada a los retiros y a la formación espiritual según los Ejercicios Espirituales de San Ignacio. El P. Gallagher aparece en la serie de EWTN “Living the Discerning Life: Las enseñanzas espirituales de San Ignacio de Loyola”.

Para más información sobre cómo obtener copias de los diversos libros y audios del P. Gallaghers que están disponibles para su compra, por favor visite su  website: www.frtimothygallagher.org

The post DOS9 – La Séptima Regla – Resistir a la desolación espiritual con la Regla 7 – Discernimiento de Espíritus con el Padre Timothy Gallagher – Podcasts de Corazones Discernientes appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Episodio 8 –La Sexta Regla – El camino de la desolación con la Regla 6

La Sexta Regla:

Aunque en la desolación no debemos cambiar nuestros primeros propósitos, es muy ventajoso cambiarnos intensamente contra la desolación misma, como insistiendo más en la oración, en la meditación, en el mucho examen y en extendernos en algún modo conveniente de hacer penitencia.

El Padre Timothy Gallagher y Kris McGregor se centran en la guía espiritual proporcionada por San Ignacio de Loyola en la sexta regla del Discernimiento de Espíritus. Esta regla trata de cómo responder cuando se experimenta desolación espiritual.

El Padre Gallagher explica que, mientras se está en desolación, uno no debe cambiar sus compromisos espirituales, sino más bien cambiar él mismo intensamente contra la desolación. La desolación no debe aceptarse pasivamente, ya que no es una cruz que hay que soportar, sino algo a lo que hay que resistir activamente.

Cuatro son las herramientas que San Ignacio recomienda para combatir la desolación: la oración (pedir la ayuda de Dios), la meditación (reflexionar sobre las verdades y el amor de Dios), mucho examen (analizar las causas profundas de la desolación) y la penitencia adecuada. El P. Gallagher ilustra estas prácticas con anécdotas personales, demostrando cómo acudir a Dios en momentos de desolación puede aliviar y ayudar a superar las luchas espirituales.

Preguntas de reflexión de Discerning Hearts para este episodio:

1. Comprender la desolación espiritual: ¿Qué nos enseña San Ignacio sobre la experiencia de la desolación espiritual y cómo afecta a nuestra relación con Dios?
2. Reaccionar ante la desolación: ¿Cómo podemos responder activamente a la desolación espiritual con esperanza y energía en lugar de aceptarla pasivamente?
3. El papel de la oración: ¿De qué manera sugiere Ignacio usar la oración como herramienta para resistir y superar la desolación espiritual?
4. Meditación en la oscuridad: ¿Cómo puede ayudarnos recordar las verdades de nuestra fe en momentos de desolación espiritual?
5. Examinar el origen: ¿Por qué es importante examinar las causas y la progresión de nuestra desolación espiritual para comprender su origen?
6. El poder de la penitencia: ¿Cómo puede ayudarnos la penitencia a romper el poder de la desolación espiritual?
7. Reflexión personal: ¿Qué escrituras específicas, oraciones o experiencias personales puedes preparar de antemano para ayudarte durante los momentos de desolación espiritual?

Para ver más episodios de la serie, visite: El Discernimiento de los Espíritus: Liberar a los cautivos con el Padre Timothy Gallagher; Podcast de Discernimiento de Corazones

El Padre Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., fue ordenado en 1979 como miembro de los Oblatos de la Virgen María, una comunidad religiosa dedicada a los retiros y a la formación espiritual según los Ejercicios Espirituales de San Ignacio. El P. Gallagher aparece en la serie de EWTN “Living the Discerning Life: Las enseñanzas espirituales de San Ignacio de Loyola”.

Para más información sobre cómo obtener copias de los diversos libros y audios del P. Gallaghers que están disponibles para su compra, por favor visite su  website: www.frtimothygallagher.org

The post DOS8- La Sexta Regla – El camino de la desolación con la Regla 6 – Discernimiento de Espíritus con el Padre Timothy Gallagher – Podcasts de Corazones Discernientes appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.



A Novena in honor of Ven. Bruno Lanteri, founder of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary

Day 5 – Honoring God by Joy

“Sometimes it may seem as though God does not react to evil, as if he is silent. And yet God has spoken. He has replied, and his answer is the cross of Christ: a word that is love, mercy, forgiveness.”

With spiritual joy, one gives greater honor and glory to God, manifesting with deeds that he thinks well of God and is content in His service and with His treatment. With persistent unhappiness, by contrast, one dishonors God, slights God by one’s deeds and manifests that he thinks poorly of God. …If it is such a horrible thing to demean one’s neighbor, what then will it be to demean God? A sad servant dishonors his master, but a joyful and content servant honors him. For that reason we want to give to others a great idea of God our Father in order to give Him the glory that is His due. We want to serve Him with joy and delight, and not with sadness and against our will. We esteem, we appreciate, we magnify His gifts. We pray by hoping in Him, and we glorify Him again, as a God absolutely good, merciful, generous, and faithful. Let those be sad who serve tyrants, such as the world, the flesh, and the devil.

”Speak about God with all, however, in a way that is worthy of Him. It is in accordance with the counsel of the Holy Spirit: Think of God in a spirit of goodness (Wisdom 1:1).”

Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you created me in your plan of love. You created all the things on the face of the earth to help me find true happiness. Fully aware of my weakness, I resolve this day to think of you as you really are: merciful, compassionate, loving, and determined to bring me happiness.

Daily Novena Prayer 

Venerable Bruno Lanteri, I come to you confident in the words of Jesus: Ask and you shall receive (Matthew 7:7). You said, “It is impossible to hope too much; the one who hopes for everything attains everything.” You taught that the greatest miracles are those that change the heart. Through your intercession, may the good God, whose infinite mercy surpasses all the malice of the world, console my heart and grant my request.

By your prayers keep my poor heart in peace, protect me from discouragement, and help me to serve God with a holy joy. Amen.

O Father, fountain of all life and holiness you gave Father Bruno Lanteri great faith in Christ, your Son, a lively hope, and an active love for the salvation of his brethren. You made him a prophet of your Word and a witness to your Mercy. He had a tender love for Mary and by his very life he taught fidelity to the Church. Father, hear the prayer of your family and, through the intercession of Fr. Lanteri, grant us the grace for which we now ask…. May he be glorified on earth that we may give you greater praise.

We ask this through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

For more teachings from Ven. Bruno Lanteri visit
Fr. Timothy Gallagher’s “Begin Again” Discerning Hearts series

The post A Novena in Honor of Ven. Bruno Lanteri – Day 5 – Discerning Hearts podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.