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âEvery time I hear anyone speak of the Sacred Heart  of Jesus or of the Blessed Sacrament I feel an indescribable joy. It is as if a wave of precious memories, sweet affection and joyful hope swept over my poor person, making me tremble with happiness and filling my soul with tenderness. These are loving appeals from Jesus who wants me wholeheartedly there, at the source of all goodness, his Sacred Heart, throbbing mysteriously behind the Eucharistic veils⊠I love to repeat today âSweet Heart of my Jesus, make me love you more and more.ââ  –Pope Saint John XXIII
Tag: Catholic spirituality
Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony
Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony
“Blessed be God in His Angels and in His Saints”
O Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of Saints,
your love for God and Charity for His creatures,
made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers.
Encouraged by this thought,
I implore you to obtain for me (request).
O gentle and loving St. Anthony,
whose heart was ever full of human sympathy,
whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus,
who loved to be folded in your arms;
and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen.
Immaculate Heart of Mary
Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Virgin Mary, Mother of God and our Mother,
to your Immaculate Heart we consecrate ourselves,
in an act of total  to the Lord.
By You we will be led to Christ.
By Him and with Him we will be led to the Father.
We will walk in the light of faith, and we will do everything
so that the world may believe that Jesus Christ is the One sent by the Father.
With Him we wish to carry His Love and Salvation to the ends of the earth.
Under the protection of your Immaculate Heart,
we will be one People with Christ.
We will be witnesses of His Resurrection.
By Him we will be led to the Father,
for the glory of the Most Holy Trinity,
Whom we adore, praise and bless forever. Amen.
June 01, 2015 – The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus according to the revelations of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque
Act of Consecration to Jesus through Mary (St. Louis de Montfort)
I, ______________, a faithless sinner,
renew and ratify today in thy hands the vows of my Baptism;
I renounce forever Satan, his pomps and works;
and I give myself entirely to Jesus Christ,
the Incarnate Wisdom, to carry my cross after Him all the days of my life,
and to be more faithful to Him than I have ever been before.
In the presence of all the heavenly court I choose thee this day for my Mother
and Mistress. I deliver and consecrate to thee, as thy slave, my body and soul,
my goods, both interior and exterior, and even the value of all my good actions,
past, present and future, leaving to thee the entire and full right of disposing of me,
and all that belongs to me, without exception, according to thy good pleasure,
for the greater glory of God in time and in eternity. Amen.
(With Ecclesiastical Approval)
Live Children’s Rosary On The Second Saturday
We have a very special announcement to make. Starting on Saturday, February 14, 2015, at 3:00 p.m. Central/4:00 p.m. Eastern, we introduced our listening audience to The Childrenâs Rosary. The Childrenâs Rosary is a lay prayer movement that started in 2011, with the help of Dr. Blythe Kaufman and others, in their local parish in Connecticut. The rosary prayer groups are composed of children, and led by children. The target age of the children for these prayer groups is between 4 and 14 years old. Of special note are children with disabilities who may be older in age but have a special place in the childrenâs rosary. The movement has now grown, with numerous groups throughout the United States, and even reaching Australia, Canada, England, Kenya, and Nigeria. We invite you to hear The Childrenâs Rosary on the 2nd Saturday of each month, at 3:00 p.m. Central/4:00 p.m. Eastern, and visit their website at childrensrosary.blogspot.com . You will be abundantly blessed by these precious little voices as they pray.
Praying to Find Rest and Consolation
Even a cursory review of the daily news can lead one to a sense of anxiety or fear or even despair.  These are challenging times.  It is important to know how to respond in difficult circumstances.  The best models we have for this response are always the Saints. In the most difficult times of our lives it is very important for us to take some time and allow our prayer life to provide us rest and consolation.
This is what John the Beloved Apostle did even as he struggled to respond to the most difficult news he had ever heard. Â On the evening of the last supper, when our Lord told the Apostles what was about to happen, John could have chosen to react in a number of ways.
He could have fallen victim to fear and anxiety, he could have decided to run to the leaders of Israel and beg for them to spare our Lord, he could have stood on a street corner bearing a sign which described the injustice of it all – St. John the Beloved did none of these things.
He chose instead to simply rest in the Bosom of the Lord. “Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.” (John 13:23)
Of course, scripture tells us that this is also what our Lord does. “No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him” (John 1:18)
St. Mary Magdalene de Pazzi was an Italian Carmelite Mystic who lived from the mid 1500’s to the early 1600’s. Â She is reported to have had a number of conversations, while in ecstasy, with God the Father and the Lord Jesus.
During one of these conversations God the Father revealed to her the nature of the relationship between the Father and the Son. Â The Father shared that the Son actually rests within the Father’s bosom, and the Son Contemplates the Father. This might seem strange on first hearing it. Â It is helpful to have some sense of what this word Contemplation means:Â “to admire something and think about it.”
Of course it is not difficult to imagine admiring the image we may have created of God the Father, but do we spend enough time just thinking about God, about His beauty, His nature, His Blessings?
God the Father told Mary Magdalene de Pazzi that when Jesus, His Son contemplated the Father He looked at Him with an admiring contemplation.  He said that this was a “contemplation of admiration, of love, of God’s purity, of the Father’s generosity, of His mercy, of His justice, of His goodness, of His wisdom, of might, of truth of union and of eternity.”
Do we ever think about prayer this way, as a simple contemplation, a simple look, a simple resting in the Bosom of the Father. Â Any one of these attributes of God the Father would be worthy of a great deal of our admiration and worth thinking about for some time.
Of course these attributes were true of Jesus as well, but in order to pray effectively or rest in the Bosom of our Lord, we do not have to even think about these aspects of God’s nature.
The model of prayer John the Beloved provides us is the same one that our Lord Himself employed, simply to rest in the Bosom of the Father.
The next time you set aside time for prayer, see if you can just try resting in the Bosom of the Lord, or contemplating the Love which God the Father has for us. Â A good way to do this is to simply rest in the bosom of the Lord, try to practice silence, try to be so silent in fact that you can hear the Lord’s heartbeat. -Mark Danis
Host of Carmelite Conversations
Mondays  7-8pm Eastern
January 31, 2015 – Pope’s Intentions and World Day of Consecrated Life
Fr. Kubicki talks about the pope’s February prayer intentions and the World Day of Consecrated Life.
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January 10, 2015
During this program Deacon Bob discusses the tremendous emphasis Our Lady placed on praying the rosary every day, and our dependence on Our Lady of the Rosary for world peace.
In addition, he explains the âliturgical natureâ of the rosary and offers some considerations for those who have abandoned it because they find it monotonous.
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January 10, 2014 – Mike Wick
The Institute on Religious Life. Fr. Kubicki interviews the executive director of an organization that promotes vocations to consecrated life.
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Honoring Our Veterans
As we honor our veterans today, please join us at Radio Maria as we thank God for all who have served our country, living and deceased. Our prayers and grateful thoughts are especially with those who live with deep physical and emotional scars because of their generous service. To all the heroesâsung and unsungâof the USA military, we extend our heart-felt âThank youâ and âMay God bless, protect and reward you.â
November, 6, 2014 – Fr. John Bartunek
Ken talks with Fr John Bartunek author of âSeeking First the Kingdom: 30 Meditations on How to Love God with All Your Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strengthâ and âThe Better Part: A Christ-Centered Resource for Personal Prayerâ (both available from Catholic Word) âSeeking First the Kingdomâ was written to help those pursuing Christ to take the next step in spiritual maturity. By identifying four core areas of your relationship with God (heart, soul, mind, and strength) Fr. John Bartunek helps determine what areas you’re stuck in.
With âThe Better Partâ Fr. Bartunek has created an extensive, Christ-centered resource to serve as a daily meditation companion. If we desire to become saints, we must spend time daily in meditation. The resource is a Bible study on the four Gospels, a survey of saints’ writings, a guide to prayer that enables us to read, meditate, absorb and apply the Gospels to our lives, and it serves as a catalyst to personalize times of prayer, enabling us to follow the Holy Spirit’s lead along the path of holiness.
The books are available at: www.catholicword.com
To learn more about Fr John visit:
Do-It-Yourself Online Catholic Retreat Guides: www.RCSpirituality.org
Dependable Catholic Formation: www.RCSpiritualDirection.com
Daily Spiritual Vitamins from the Saints: uncleeddy.tumblr.com
On Facebook www.facebook.com/FatherJB
On Twitter twitter.com/FrBartune
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Happy Feast of All Saints
We wish all of you– Our Radio Maria Family of Saints — a most blessed and happy Feast of All Saints!
Let us pray for each other that we will share that title not only on earth but most of all in Heaven with Our Lady, Queen of Angels and Saints!
October 29, 2014 – FRANCESCA AND FRIENDS WED. OCT. 29: VOCATIONS HOLY HOUR NOV 5 LOCALES WAYNE TOPP, VOCATION OFFICE FR ED BURNS WRIGHT STATE U MARY PYPER GUEST
Francesca Franchina MS Ed. and Mary Pyper speak with Wayne Topp of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati Vocation Office and Fr. Ed. Burns of the Wright State University Campus Ministry about their ministries working with youth and the upcoming Archdiocese of Cincinnati Vocations Holy Hour and why it is being held at various parishes throughout the Archdiocese on Wednesday November 5th from 7:00-8:00 PM. Fr. Ed and Wayne discuss the state of religious vocations for men and women, reasons for the increase and what is being done to encourage strong, positive vocations of all kinds including marriage, the single life and the common vocation of all: the vocation of Holiness and Evangelization.
Learn what the Archdiocese of Cincinnati and the universal Church is doing to encourage vocations and what we all can do to encourage vocations. Fr. Ed discusses the range of campus ministry today and how college students explore their vocational call, honing in on the upcoming Year of Consecrated Life in 2015.
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October 22, 2014 – What are my gifts from the Holy Spirit? — Fr. Michael Fones, OP
Christine Watkins interviews Dominican priest, Fr. Michael Fones, formerly the co-Director of the Catherine of Siena Institute, www.siena.org, which helps disciples learn of the gifts given to them by the Holy Spirit. God has spread His charisms among His people, gifts such as spiritual discernment, administration, encouragement, etc., for the building up of the Kingdom. Listen and find out what your charisms might be! Knowing one’s charisms is a helpful tool for discerning God’s will in this life.
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October 22, 2014 – Fatima Prophecies: Heavenly Invitations
Prophecy has been a part of our spiritual heritage since Adam and Eve. Our Lady’s messages given at Fatima are no exception. In them, we are encouraged to draw strength from praying the rosary, making reparation for sins committed against the Immaculate Heart of Mary , and interceding for people who are in danger of not reaching heaven, the worst of all possible sufferings. The long-anticipated “Third Secret” of Fatima goes even further. It promotes penance as a means to grow in holiness. With even small sacrifices we can discern more clearly the many difficult choices that confront us each day.
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October 14, 2014 – Our Lady of the Rosary & Catholic Marriage (Part 1)
Joe provided a little background on the Feast Day of Our Lady of the Rosary and shared why it is so important and indispensable for us today. Joe also initiated Part 1 of a discussion highlighting Catholic Teaching and the detailed nature, beauty and glory of a Catholic Marriage.
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October 11, 2014
Deacon Bob describes the 3 apparitions of the Angel of Peace in 1916 which prepared the shepherd children for the apparitions of Our Lady which would follow the next year.
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October 04, 2014
Deacon Bob describes the actions of Pope Benedict XV during the immediate historical prelude to Our Ladyâs apparitions at Fatima and explains why her Fatima requests are uniquely and specifically directed towad the Catholic population of the world.
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August 28, 2014 – Patrick Madrid and Blythe Kaufman
Ken talks with Patrick Madrid author of Why Be Catholic? : Ten Answers to a Very Important Question (Image) Patrick Madrid learned a great deal about why people leave Catholicism and why others stay. His book offers a deeply personal, fact-based, rationale for why everyone should be Catholic or at least consider the Catholic Church. Patrickâs book is available at: www.imagecatholicbooks.com To learn more about Patrick visit: www.patrickmadrid.com The Childrenâs Rosary is a lay prayer movement for children. It is an effort to begin parish rosary prayer groups composed of children and led by children. The target age of the children for these prayer groups is between 4 and 14 years old. The children of Fatima and Bernadette of Lourdes were all within this age range. Through prayer of the Rosary Our Lady will guide our young people while at the same time sanctify families and Parishes. To learn more and to purchase booklets and CDs visit: www.childrensrosary.blogspot.com To learn more about Blythe watch this wonderful interview with Fr Apostoli : Click for video.
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July 14, 2014 – The Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
This week all Carmelite celebrate one of the most significant feasts in our calendar year, the Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. In this conversation Mark and Frances discuss briefly the history of this great feast, but then go on to discuss its relevance for the Church today. They discuss the importance of Mary’s Patronage to the Order of Carmel, and then they take their listeners through a full nine day novena in Honor of Our Lady of Mt.Carmel. The novena presents nine different titles by which Mary is known, and then offers specific reflections and prayers associated with those titles. This is a very important conversation for anyone who has a special devotion to the Blessed Mother.
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July 10, 2014 – Fr. Peter Cameron
Ken talks with Fr. Peter Cameron, author of “Novenas for the Church Year” (Our Sunday Visitor). The book provides readers with over 60 new novenas in preparation for milestones throughout the Catholic calendar. Each novena includes an explanation of the feast day’s significance, then the prayer, which is to be read and prayed during the nine days leading up to the feast or solemnity. “Novenas for the Church Year” is available at:
https://www.osv.com/Shop
Fr. Cameron is editor-in-chief of Magnificat. To learn more visit: www.magnificat.net
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June 30, 2014 – Elizabeth Kindelmann and the Flame of Love (#1 in the series)
Frances Harry interviews guest, Marika Zimmerman, on the Third Order Carmelite Elizabeth Kindelmann of Hungary about the âFlame of Love of the Immaculate Heart of Maryâ Movement. This program lays the foundation for the âFlame of Loveâ devotion that begins in Hungary. Who is Elizabeth Kindelmann? What kind of life did she live? What is the âFlame of Loveâ movement? How did it come about? Why is this worthy of our attention? We talk about the private revelations given thru interior locutions to Elizabeth Kindelmann. Cardinal Peter Erdo, the Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest, Primate of Hungary and President of the Council of Episcopal Conferences of Europe, gave his Imprimatur to the original Hungarian Diary on the âFlame of Love of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.â It also has the ânihil obstatâ to indicate there is nothing contrary to our faith or morals in the book. This new devotion is pertinent for today because the Blessed Mother wants to blind Satan and save souls. She asks our help in this work of Redemption.
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June 16, 2014 – feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
In the month of June the Church celebrates the wonderful feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This is a very special feast and a very powerful devotion. In this particular program, Mark and Frances build on a series they did previously on the Sacred Heart, but discussing the more practical aspects of practicing the devotion. They discuss how we can actually go about conforming our hearts to the Heart of Christ. Drawing from two historical and comprehensive texts on the devotion, they describe how the activities of prayer, detachment, the sacraments and even our trials can all assist us in entering into the many Blessings of the Sacred Heart. They also explore Christ’s own words on the need to enter by the Narrow Gate as an analogy for how we must allow Christ to increase His presence within us. Much like St. John the Baptist, we must decrease and we must allow Christ to increase within us. Drawing on numerous scripture verses, Mark and Frances describe just how we can apply ourselves to this most powerful devotion to the Sacred Heart.
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June 02, 2014 – the Indwelling Trinity
In this program Mark and Frances discuss one of the greatest mysteries of the Catholic faith, what is theologically described as the Indwelling Trinity, or the Dogmatic teaching on how the three persons of the Trinity truly reside in the hearts of the faithful. This great mystery was the entire spirituality of a well known Carmelite Nun who went by the name of Elizabeth of the Trinity, currently Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity, though her cause for Sainthood is being examined. Elizabeth is perhaps best known for a prayer she wrote to the Trinity that reflects both her belief in this great blessing, and her petition to each member of the Trinity for the unique gifts they each offer. This prayer is very powerful in providing believers consolation in the midst of trials, and it helps individuals conform their hearts and minds to the will of the Father. For those who pray it consistently, it allows Blessed Elizabeth to fulfill her mission: “I think that in Heaven my mission will be to draw souls by helping them to go out of themselves in order to cling to God by a wholly simple and loving movement, and to keep them in this great silence within which will allow God to communicate Himself to them and to transform them into Himself.”
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May 07, 2014 – Marika Zimmerman
Francesca Franchina MS Ed. talks with Marika Zimmerman about the attack on Christianity and what we can do about it personally and corporately. “When I return will I find anyone watching?” What did Jesus mean by this statement….and also in the Garden….”Could you not watch one hour with Me?” Jesus is calling on us to stay awake, to watch and respond In this time: THE TIME OF MERCY and This Time of Visitation. We have been given instruction from on high from The Blessed Trinity, God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and by Our Blessed Mother! IS ANYONE LISTENING AND DOING WHAT WE HAVE BEEN ASKED AND TOLD TO DO OR ARE WE ALL SLUMBERING THINKING WE CAN DO NOTHING OF IMPORT, WHILE THE WORLD IS CAVING IN TO EVIL AND THE DARKNESS through distraction, drugging of the physical, mental and spiritual parts of our beings? The Fatima Message of our Lady from May-October 1917 still stands and most Catholics do not even know about it. THE MESSAGE OF FATIMA is THE PEACE PLAN FROM HEAVEN! The MERCY MESSAGE given to St. Faustina by Jesus Himself in 1930’s still stands! Messages to St. Catherinee of Siena, St. Teresa of Avila, Sr. Josefa Menendez, Sr. Consolata Bertrone, Bl. Wm. Joseph Chaminade, St. Padre Pio, St. John Paul II, St. John XXIII in our own time cry out for souls to Repent, Repair, Renew and be counted among the saints personally and communally. Call in, ask a question, add a comment to be a part of this Spirit filled program of concern and compassion for the Hearts of Jesus and Mary which are so much ignored and set aside in neglect and abuse. Do you console the Heart of Jesus? Consoling the Heart of Jesus by Fr.Michael Gaitley, MIC (Marian Helper; Marians of The Immaculate Conception priest of The Divine Mercy Shrine in Stockbridge, MA will be discussed along with the works of St. Faustina and the others mentioned above and beyond.
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April 23, 2014 – Fr. Tom Alkire, OC
Francesca Franchina MS Ed. continues her riveting talks with Fr. Tom Alkire, OC from Los Angeles, California about his travels and seminars focusing on The Divine Mercy Message given to St. Faustina by Jesus concerning Mercy for all souls and the world today. Divine Mercy Sunday 2014 is April 27th and the Day of Canonization for two recent Popes: Bl. John Paul II (The Great) and Bl. John XXIII elevating them to sainthood by Pope Francis on this significant Mercy Sunday 2014! Why is the message given to St. Faustina Kowalsko of Poland in1938 so important for today? Read and pray The Diary of St. Faustina the approved teaching messages including the The Divine Mercy Novena and The Mercy Chaplet. Hear about the Importance of Divine Mercy and what the Mercy Message of Jesus to St. Faustina mean to us today. How are you collaborating in The Time of Mercy and The Harvest? Are we living in times of trial, travail and tribulation and what are we or should be doing about it? Fr. Tom Alkire, OC is a seasoned Carmelite priest and exorcist affiliated with the Marian Movement of Priests, The Association of The Precious Blood/Tallahassee, FL. Fr. Tom is Associate Pastor of St. Raphael’s Parish in Los Angeles, CA and has been a home missionary in Northern and Southern California for many years.
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April 21, 2014 – “The Church of Mercy”
“The Holy Father just released a book entitled “The Church of Mercy.” In this particular conversation, Mark and Frances begin a series of discussions on the importance of the message of Mercy in the Church today. They begin by focusing on the upcoming event of Divine Mercy Sunday, and then move forward in time to both Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul II and what they both had to say about the gift of Mercy that we receive from God. They then discuss our current Holy Father’s book about Mercy, and one of the sources of his inspiration for this book, a certain German Theologian and Cardinal named Walter Kasper, who himself wrote a book simply titled “Mercy.” It is a book that our Holy Father Francis strongly endorsed and from which he drew a great deal of insight for his own book. Mark and Frances go on to discuss a number of Saints, including St. Therese of Lisieux, and Saint Faustina, and what they had to say about God’s great Mercy. This is a message which is so important for us to hear today, especially in light of a world that so often struggles with the loss of Hope and the onslaught of despair. Mark and Frances will continue this important message through the Easter Season.”
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April 16, 2014 – Jack Davis
Francesca Franchina, MS Ed. continues discussion with Jack Davis, retired communications executive, focusing on The Passion, Crucifixion and Death of Jesus,The Seven Last Words Spoken by Him on the Cross and the Attendance of His Sorrowful Mother at His Suffering on Mount Calvary as recorded by Mary of Agreda. in Mystical City of God. The Blessed Mother Mary, Mother of Jesus, St. John the Evangelist and the three Marys were at the foot of the Cross on Good Friday. Chapter XXII is discussed found in THE TRANSFIXION Volume dictated by the Blessed Virgin Mary and communicated to and written by a Spanish nun, Sr. Mary of Agreda in The Mystical City of God: The Divine History and Life of The Virgin Mother of God. This classic four volumes of the Blessed Motherâs personal testimonyof her life and teaching received the Imprimatur and is translated from the original Spanish by Fiscar Marison (Rev. Geo J. Blatter). It is still in print, contact any Catholic Book Store like Veritas in Dayton, OH area or order on line. This is part of a continuing series on the four volumes of The Mystical City of God with Jack Davis. The several other programs that have been aired on The Blessed Motherâs life, conversations, and teachings can be found on the Radio Maria Program Archives, linked on the Home Page, scrolling down to Francesca and Friends to find the various years and program descriptions. If you have the book follow along with us, if not listen and learn so much; call in if you have questions or comments. We love to hear from you when we are airing live, and your letters are very much appreciated too.
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April 15, 2014
Our Blessed King spoke seven “words” from the altar of the Holy Cross. Since His every breath was an agony, these words must have been of great importance. On this episode of Shield of Faith Matthew reveals why they have been the source of fruitful meditation for generations of Catholic Saints.
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April 9, 2014 – Jack Davis
Francesca Franchina, MS Ed. Radio Maria Ohio Programming and program presenter, continues discussion with Jack Davis, retired expert communications executive, focusing on the happenings and remarks by the Council who decided to turn Jesus over to Pilate to die on the Cross by Crucifixion accusing Him of blasphemy. Hear the conversations and steps leading up to Jesus being condemned to death, and what the Blessed Mother Mary, Mother of Jesus, St. John the Evangelist and the three Marys were doing,seeing and saying at this time. Early on Good Friday Jesus was in a dungeon at Caiphas’ house being tortured and taunted by the soldiers. Jesus was pummeled and spat upon, fettered and roped, described and dictated by Jesusâ Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary and communicated to and written by a Spanish nun, Sr. Mary of Agreda in The Mystical City of God: The Divine History and Life of The Virgin Mother of God. This classic four volumes of the Blessed Motherâs personal testimonyof her life and teaching received the Imprimatur and is translated from the original Spanish by Fiscar Marison (Rev. Geo J. Blatter). It is still in print, contact any Catholic Book Store like Veritas in Dayton, OH area or order on line. This is part of a continuing series on the four volumes of The Mystical City of God with Jack Davis. The several other programs that have been aired on The Blessed Motherâs life, conversations, and teachings can be found on the Radio Maria Program Archives, linked on the Home Page, scrolling down to Francesca and Friends to find the various years and program descriptions. The fascinating conversation and discussion today highlights information from the Volume titled: âTHE TRANSFIXION.â If you have the book follow along with us, if not listen and learn so much; call in if you have questions or comments. We love to hear from you when we are airing live, and your letters are very much appreciated too.
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March 31, 2014 – Interview with Tim Bete
For this conversation Mark and Frances welcomed into the studio one of the new Aspirants in the local Carmelite Community in Dayton, Ohio, Tim Bete. Tim is actually married to one of the long time members of the Secular Carmelite Order, so Mark and Frances wanted to explore what it was like to have be a ‘couple in Carmel.’ They also asked Tim what it was that drew him personally to Carmelite Spirituality. In addition to their own journey in Carmel, Tim and his wife are also the parents of a daughter who is pursuing a vocation as a Dominican Sister. This led to an interesting discussion on what it takes to raise and keep our children Catholic in our modern culture. Not surprisingly the main points focused on prayer, witness and continued exposure to things spiritual.
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March 26, 2014 – Our Lady of Sorrows
The Church has honored Our Lady of Sorrows since the 13th century. What may we learn from this devotion? In short, not only may we come to understand that the Mother of God suffered during her life, but that our own suffering can have great merit. We become more like Christ and draw closer to his embrace when we “deny ourselves and take up our crosses” (Luke 9: 23). My guest, Deacon Dominic Peloso from the Archdiocese of San Francisco, shares the origin of this devotion, insights into Our Lady’s life, and the opportunities suffering can bring each of us. He also makes a connection with Our Lady’s apparitions in Kibeho, Rwanda in the 1980s. There, as in Fatima, Our Lady encourages us to pray the holy Rosary for the graces we need during our trials.
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March 18, 2014 – Dan Lynch
Our study of Marian apparitions continues with this week’s Guest, Dan Lynch, founder of Dan Lynch Apostolates, promoting devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe, Our Lady of America, Jesus King of All Nations, and Blessed John Paul II. Dan travels throughout the states presenting missions, promoting and conducting Image Visitations of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Our Lady of America. He and Sue live in Vermont; they have nine children and 20 grandchildren.
Today, we want primarily to learn more about Our Lady of America, the Immaculate Virgin. Dan’s book, Our Lady of America, Hope for the States is an excellent summary of information about Our Lady of America, the seer Sister Mary Ephrem (later Mildred Neuzil), Our Lady’s statue, medal, requests, and promises–including that more graces will be bestowed on the United States than all the graces from Lourdes and Fatima IF her wishes are granted!
Major ownership issues have slowed promotion of Our Lady of America. These legal issues have to do with copyright and trademarking of Our Lady of America devotional materials that resulted in an Indianapolis Federal Court trial from January 21st until the jury decision last week. The Final Judgment by Judge William T. Lawrence is expected any day. Kevin McCarthy is one of the plaintiffs (with Al Langsenkamp) in that case. Kevin was our Guest on January 7th (http://radiomaria.us/questforlife).
Please join us Tuesday the 18th at NOON ET to learn more about Our Lady of America–one of only two approved Marian apparitions in the United States: Our Lady of America in Ohio, and Our Lady of Good Help near Green Bay Wisconsin. You can listen on air or on line at radiomaria.us .
Blessings to you and your families as we are only one week away from the Solemnity of the Annunciation and Incarnation of Jesus on March 25th. Please plan special celebrations of this most awesome event in all human history–God becoming Man. Take the family to Mass and dinner. Take a day off from your usual activities to pray, do Eucharistic Adoration, participate in 40 Days for Life, and meditate on the significance of the divination of humanity and the humanizing of divinity.
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March 4, 2014 – Fr. Andrew Apostoli, C.F.R.
We are very blessed to have Fr. Andrew Apostoli, C.F.R., as our Guest on “The Quest for a Culture of Life in America” this Tuesday March 4th at NOON ET.
Fr Andrew is the author of Fatima For Today, The Urgent Marian Message of Hope. We will be mostly talking about this book. I must confess that I was really skeptical about what Our Lady of Fatima could say that might be relevant to today. But once I started reading Fatima for Today, I could not put it down. I certainly was familiar with much of the Fatima account of Mary appearing to three Portuguese young children, Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta in 1917, but Fr Apostoli puts it all together in one place and adds MANY details that I was not aware of. His introductory chapter contrasting Mary the New Eve with the original Eve is by itself worth the modest price of this book, which I downloaded from Ignatius Press and am reading on my computer.
Questions I have for Fr Andrew: Has the consecration of Russia to Mary’s Immaculate Heart been accomplished? Why has it taken so long? Is there evidence of Russia’s promised conversion? What about Crimea and the Ukraine? How did the children suffer? Why pray the Rosary?
Father Apostoli is a founding member of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, and he has been teaching and preaching retreats and parish missions for several decades. He is considered one of the world’s foremost experts on the apparitions at Fatima and he has authored numerous books, including Following Mary to Jesus and Walk Humbly With Your God. Fr. Apostoli is the vice-postulator for the cause for the canonization of Archbishop Fulton Sheen, and a frequent host on EWTN television, where he hosted the TV special “Our Lady of Fatima and the First Saturday Devotion”.
Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC, Author of No Turning Back: A Witness to Mercy says this: “Learn, live, and spread the message of Fatima! This is the express desire of Pope Benedict XVI. And Pope John Paul II once stated that the message of Fatima was more important now than in 1917!” That is why this wonderful book on Fatima is so important. Fr. Apostoli has recaptured this heavenly message of urgency and hope for a new generation. Our world needs the message of Fatima more than ever, and I pray that many people are brought back to Jesus, Mary, and the Church through these pages.
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February 27, 2014 – Fr. Dwight Longenecker and comments on three devotion books for Lent
Ken talks with Fr. Dwight Longenecker author of âThe Romance of Religion: Fighting for Goodness, Truth, and Beautyâ (Thomas Nelson) Former Anglican priest and now Catholic priest Fr. Dwight Longenecker argues that the Christian story is the greatest story ever told. Fr. Longenecker calls for the return of the romantic heroâthe hero who knows his frailty and can fight the good fight with panache, humor, and courage. You can purchase Fr. Longeneckerâs book at: www.thomasnelson.com If you would like an autographed copy of Fr. Longeneckerâs book: dwightlongenecker.com. They should make sure they add a note in the comments section so Father can sign it for them. Fr. Dwight Longenecker blogs at: www.patheos.com Ken also reviews three books for Lent: âBringing Lent Home with St. Therese of Lisieuxâ by Donna-Maria Cooper OâBoyle, âThe Living Gospelâ by Theresa Rickard, O.P. (both by Ave Maria Press), and âMeditations for Lentâ by Jacques-Benigne Bossuet (Sophia Institute Press)
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February 19, 2014 – CATHOLIC EVANGELIZATION IN OUR TIME Part VI
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ON A CATHOLIC CAMPUS
CATHOLIC EVANGELIZATION IN OUR TIME Part VI: How are International Students received on a Marian Catholic Campus? How should they be received? Francesca Franchina, MS Ed. talks with Sr. Celia Chua, MIC, STL; STD, (Missionary Sister of The Immaculate Conception who holds a Licentiate and Doctorate in Sacred Theology) a member of the faculty at the Pontifical International Marian Research Institute (IMRI) at the University of Dayton Marian Library, about helping and ministering to and with International Students on a Marian Catholic Campus. Sr. Celia travels extensively and teaches in Canada and China where she also ministers as a nurse. Sr. Celia addresses faculty members as well as Chinese students providing a familiar face and native language to students from China and other Asian countries. Call in. What would you like to ask Sister Celia about international students, students of different faiths who attend Catholic schools, not only on the university level but as students in elementary and secondary school? What does our Catholic Faith call forth in being a friend and a Christian? How do we talk with people at any age who are different, have different belief systems and ideologies? Are we threatened or encouraged to know people outside our milieu? What witness do we present as Christians and Catholics about Jesus, Mary and our beliefs? Do we offer a challenge or an invitation? What would Jesus and Mary do? Does Mary have any part in talking with international students and students who are not Catholic, or who have no religious or faith dimension or are of the New Age? What does Marian Spirituality have to offer an International Student.
Tune in EVERY WEDNESDAY NOON EST; 11:00 AM CT; 9:00 AM PT) for Francescaâs recipes for living life to the fullest and for filling hungry hearts and tummies with her delicious recipes.
Todayâs Recipes From Francescaâs Heart and Kitchen to Yours : PIZZA FRITTE! WRITE FOR THE RECIPES AND A FREE MIRACULOUS MEDAL OF OUR LADY AS GIVEN TO ST. CATHERINE LABOURE, IT TRULY IS MIRACULOUS! Send SASE TO: FRANCESCA; PO BOX 3238; DAYTON, OH 45401-3238; USA
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August 14, 2013 – Fr. Tom Alkire, O. CARM
Francesca Franchina MS Ed. continuous her talks with Fr. Tom Alkire, O. CARM of Los Angeles, CA about the Blessed Mother and her Assumption into Heaven; Crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth discussing the encyclicals of Pope Pius XII, “Munificentissimus Deus” (November 1, 1950 on the Assumption) and âAd Caelum Regnum” (l954) on Our Lady’s Queenship. How do we get in communion with her as Queen via the angels and the saints? How do we approach The Blessed Mother’s Queenship in our own lives? Mary’s Queenship is based on her Divine Motherhood, and he explains how The Queen Mother participates in our rebirth in The Holy Spirit on a daily basis. Mary’s Queenship (Part I) flows from the Motherhood of God. Hear how the Queen of Angels and her host of angels help us in our spiritual battles assuming our humility and simplicity in asking for their help. Why and how do we receive her armor of Protection via her Brown Scapular and the Holy Rosary. (Wisdom: 5:l7-20; Echo of Ephesians 6;13-16.) The Sword/ EPH:6: 17 depicts the Word of God used by the Spirit: Mary guarded that Word in her heart. St. Padre Pio and The October 13th Marian appearance at Fatima in 1917 gave deeper evidence and understanding of the need of the Brown Scapular and Rosary in our time.
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August 8, 2013 – Fr. Donald Calloway & Vinny Flynn
Ken talks with his guests Fr. Donald Calloway and Vinny Flynn. In his new book Under the Mantle â Marian Thoughts from a 21st Century Priest (Marian Press) Fr. Calloway, MIC, deftly shares his personal insights on topics including Divine Mercy, the Eucharist, the papacy, the Church, confession, prayer, the cross, masculinity, and femininity. The Blessed Virgin Mary is the central thread weaving a tapestry throughout with quotes about Our Lady from saints, blessed, and popes. Fr. Callowayâs book can be purchased at: www.catholicword.com Visit his website: www.fathercalloway.com In 7 Secrets of Confession (MercySong), best-selling author Vinny Flynn explores the “hidden” truths of this encounter with Jesus, presenting what to many will be a whole new way of going to confession, and inviting you to begin an exciting personal journey to healing and holiness. Mr. Flynnâs books is available at www.catholicword.com To learn more about Vinny Flynn visit: www.vinnyflynn.com
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July 22, 2013 – Joan and David Maroney, Mother of Mercy Messengers
Guest Host, Annie Karto, dialogues with Joan and David Maroney, Directors of “Mother of Mercy Messengers”, about “Divine Mercy for America”, an outreach program of the Marians of the Immaculate Conception wherein people of faith engage in praying for mercy upon our country as did St. Faustina for her country, Poland.
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July 11, 2013 – Al Kresta and Fr. Brian McMaster
Ken talks with his guests Al Kresta (Dangers to the Faith â Recognizing Catholicismâs 21st-Century Opponents) and Fr. Brian McMaster (Totus Tuus â A Consecration to Jesus through Mary with Blessed John Paul II) Both book are published by Our Sunday Visitor. No one is more qualified to pull back the curtain on the challenges the Catholic Church faces today than Al Kresta, popular Catholic author, speaker, and radio show host. Mr Kresta blogs at http://krestaintheafternoon.blogspot.com and his book is available at http://catalog.osv.com
Fr. Brian McMaster takes St de Montfortâs classic work and recasts it in a contemporary version using the writings and example of Pope John Paul II. Visit Fr McMasters Facebook page and his book is available at http://catalog.osv.com
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June 24, 2013 – Devotion to the Sacred Heart
“During this conversation Mark and Frances discuss the unique Devotion that Carmelites have to the Sacred Heart. They begin by reading and discussing comments made by the Holy Father, Francis, regarding the role of the heart in our journey to Christ. Pope Francis speaks about the need to conform our heart to the heart of Christ, and to be transformed by that very act. Mark and Frances then go on to explore St. Therese of Lisieux’s perspective on devotion to the Sacred Heart. For St. Therese, Christ’s heart is always a heart of love. She does not focus, as so many others do, on the suffering of the piercing thorns which wounded our Lord, for St. Therese the central idea of Christ’s heart is an all-purifying love. She understands that suffering is part of the process, but she emphasizes that this is not an end in itself. The only reason for this devotion, in the mind of Therese, is to help us conform our own hearts to the buring heart of love, which is the heart of Jesus.”
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June 19, 2013 – Sr. Leanne Jablonski, FMI
Francesca Franchina, MS Ed. converses with Sr. Leanne Jablonski, FMI (Daughters of Mary Immaculate) about THE MARIANIST ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER (MEEC) an educational ministry in the Catholic tradition, stewarding the 100 acre Mount St. John natural areas, committed to sharing and interpreting the gift of the land with others in Mary’s hope-filled spirit. MEEC advocates environmental justice as integral to sustainable living and achieves its mission through land restoration, ecological research, service, learning and educational programs. Mount St. John is a 150 acre property owned by the Society of Mary (Marianists) a Catholic community of Brothers and priests founded by Bl. Wm. Joseph Chaminade. The first people to care for this land were hunters, ancestors of the later Indian nations, for whom this was part of the sacred hunting grounds between the Miamis. Among the first Euro-Americans to arrive in this area were John Patterson, National Cash Register (NCR) Industrialist and Inventor of the cash register and the electric starter) and his family who provided the land on which The Watervliet Shaker Community was founded in 1806. The original 80 acres of Mount St. John formed part of the East Farm of the Shakers, and was purchased by the Marianists in 1910. Learn about The Wetlands, Prairie, Fields, Meadows; the more than 140 unique horticultural tree specimens including The Kentucky Coffee Tree, Japanese Pagoda Tree, Kousa Dogwood, GoldenTrain, Hardy Rubber Tree and Smoke Tree. A list of the arboretum trees is available from MEEC; also hear about the Sacred Embrace Earthwork designed by local artist Carrie Pate; Chaminade Park, The Native Plant Labyrinth with various trees and hundreds of native flowers and Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto modeled after the Lourdes Grotto in Massabielle, France constructed with 230 tons of tufa rock from the Great Lakes. Learn how you can experience the Field Education Areas and Programs available through and your family or group can experience this magnificent facility and beautiful landscape at Mount St. John in Dayton, Ohio. See the MEEC “TOUCHING EARTH” Art and Educational Exhibit at Gallery St. John on the property through June 30th. MEEC Headquarters is located in St. Joseph Hall at Mount St. John; 4435 E. Patterson Road, Dayton, OH 45430. For more information, learning & volunteering opportunities see: www.meec.udayton.edu.
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June 17, 2013 – Devotion to the Sacred Heart
In this particular program Mark and Frances discuss Devotion to the Sacred Heart, and the unique role this this devotion plays in Carmelite Spirituality. The Church is being called in a special way today to rededicate and consecrate herself to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, but what does this mean to us individually. This conversation will explore the history of the Devotion to the Sacred Heart, and then address how this powerful devotion can contribute to our personal growth in holiness. We will hear about how we, like St John the Beloved, can begin to get our own heart in rhythm with the heart beat of the Lord. This conversations explores the deeper and spiritual meaning of the ‘heart,’ and what it means to strive, as our Blessed Mother did, to become pure of heart.
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June 6, 2013 – Russell Shaw and David Calvillo
On June 6th Ken talks with guests Russell Shaw American Church â the Remarkable Rise, Meteoric Fall, and Uncertain Future of Catholicism in America (Ignatius Press) and David Calvillo Real Men Pray the Rosary â A Practical Guide to a Powerful Prayer (Ave Maria Press) Russell Shaw asks if the âAmericanizationâ of American Catholics-their cultural assimilation, has been a blessing or a curse for the Church in the United States? Or has it been a bit of both? Cultural assimilation has undoubtedly conferred many benefits on Catholics. Their absorption into the secular culture of America, however, now threatens the Catholic identity of millions of faithful and of their institutions, such as schools, universities, and hospitals. His book is available at: www.ignatius.com
Kenâs second guest David N. Calvillo says that the Rosary isnât just for âold ladies and funerals,â that itâs a powerful tool for men as well. Praying the Rosary âenables one to see our Lord and experience our Christian faith through Maryâs eyes.â Davidâs book is available at: www.avemariapress.com To find out more about his organization visit: http://realmenpraytherosary.org/
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June 5, 2013 – Fr.Tom Alkire, O.C.
Francesca Franchina converses with California Carmelite Priest and Exorcist, Fr. Tom Alkire, O. Carm about healing hearts, physically, emotionally and spiritually with Our Lady of the Holy Eucharist and the “French Connection.” Hear how saints of the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries were primed with information underpinning the devotion and theology of the Holy Eucharist and the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Learn how this info dove tails with the Fatima Apparitions and the connect with Pope Francis’ request for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on the Feast of Corpus Christi and the upcoming Eucharistic Procession at the Vatican. Hear what Jesus said to St. John Eudes, St. Margaret Mary, St. Catherine Laboure of the Miraculous Medal, St.Louis de Montfort and St. Peter Julian Eymard. THE THE SIGNS AND WONDERS FIT TOGETHER WITH THE HOLY EUCHARIST, THE TWO HEARTS; ST. THERESE, ST. JOSEPH AND THE CHILD JESUS…WHY DID THEY ALL APPEAR ON OCTOBER 13, 1917 DURING THE MIRACLE OF THE SUN? Don’t miss this one!
This program continues in the series archived on Radio Maria; First Wednesday of each month with Fr. Tom Alkire, O Carm. Learn how The Blessed Mother protects us and how we can help her fight her battle for The Triumph; Assist in The New Evangelization,and The Year of Faith in bringing souls to her Son Jesus. Fr. Tom is a seasoned Carmelite priest affiliated with the Marian Movement of Priests, The Association of The Precious Blood/Tallahassee, FL. Fr. Tom is Associate Pastor of St. Raphael’s Parish in Los Angeles, CA, a former member of ACT and has been a Home Missionary in Northern and Southern California for many years.
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June 5, 2013 – “Is Devotion to Our Lady Mis-placed or an Affront to Our Lord?”
“A brother in Christ and a concerned listener to Radio Maria, recently asked me whether devotion to Our Lady was an act of worship. He wanted to understand whether attention or prayers given to Mary was an affront to Our Lord. Many people share this question, arguing that Jesus alone intercedes on our behalf with the Father. Fortunately, we have many examples in Sacred Scripture, and from the saints, that a reveal a great precedent and merit in being devoted to Mary. This program looks at Our Lady’s role in bringing her Son to us and us to her Son. We also consider here the Church’s teaching and Scripture which inform us that Mary is sinless. The Joy of Discovery here suggests how “taking Mary into our own home” (John 19: 27-29) may be a beautiful boost to loving Our Lord ever more deeply.”
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June 03, 2013 – Fr. Daniel Chowing
In today’s conversation, Frances interviews Fr. Daniel Chowing, a Carmelite Friar from Wisconsin. Fr. Chowing has been a guest before, and is an internationally recognized speaker in the areas of Spiritual Theology, Carmelite Spirituality and specifically St. John of the Cross. During this conversation Fr. Chowing will use examples from the writings of St. John of the Cross to explain how this gifted mystic is relevent for us today. Fr. Choning will demonstrate how the works of St. John are ideally suited to dealing with some of the most difficult challenges faced by our modern society. He will also describe St. John of the Cross’ model for the journey of faith and how to make progress in the spiritual life.
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May 22, 2013 – Practical Considerations for The Question of Medjugorje
For those who have heard the reports about Our Lady appearing in Medjugorje, Bosnia-Hercegovina since 1981, they may wonder how to respond to this. After all, though the Church is currently investigating these reports, it has not yet made a judgment. We are therefore left to determine whether to read the messages or go there on pilgrimmage based on other criteria, not least of which is compliance with Church teachings. But what are these criteria? This program looks to Scripture for guidance. Matthew 7: 15-20 reminds us that “a good tree produces good fruit”. We also find encouragement in the same decisions faced by the Apostles when deciding whether to follow Jesus (John 1: 35 – 37). Many others as well have faced similar questions. For example, what did the people do when they first heard about the reported apparitions of Our Lady at Guadalupe, Rue de Bac, Lourdes, Fatima or elsewhere? The Church, in these cases, only makes a judgement after very careful examination, and this may take many years to complete.
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May 13, 2013
In this particualry program Mark invites Chris Cotter, a Secular Carmelite from the Community of Dayton Ohio, to discuss the Carmelite aspects of the Feast of Fatima. On 13 May 2013, Pope Francis consecrated his Papacy to Our Lady of Fatima. Mark and Chris explore both the significance of this event, and what Fatima means to each of us individually. Using both the Vatican Document, from The Congreagation for the Doctrine of the Faith, on the meaning of Fatima, and the writings of Sister Lucia, one of the Fatima visionaries and a Carmelite Nun, they discuss what the messages of Fatima are still communicating to all Christians today. This is a very interesting and very timely topic, and the Order of Carmel plays a significant role in helping to communicate the continual call from Our Lady of Fatima.
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May 08, 2013 – Fr.Tom Alkire, O.C.
Francesca Franchina, MS Ed.; OCDS, and Carmelite priest Fr.Tom Alkire, O.C. Associate Pastor of St. Raphaelâs Parish in Los Angeles CA discuss THE APPARITIONS AT FATIMA and the relevance for today and through the years. St.Padre Pio and Bl. Pope John Paul II and Our Lady of Fatima; Why the Rosary, Why the Brown Scapular and Five First Saturdays requested for the Triumph of Her Immaculate Heart? Why is it important for her Immaculate Heart to Triumph? Why did she request the Consecration of the world to Her Immaculate Heart and what was happening in the world in 1917 and continues to this day? What Is their a healing dimension of Fatima? Call in with your comments and questions.
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May 06, 2013
This particular program discusses the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker, which is celebrated each year on 1 May. Mark and Frances explore the history of this important devotion, and how it was designed to counter the negative affects of atheistic Communism. They draw from Pope John Paul II’s encyclical ‘On Human Work,’ in order to explain the inherent dignity of work and the way in which it allows us to both participate in our own salvation and participate in the act of creation along with God. They also discuss the details of our most important work, the work of prayer. Not only can our daily work, whether in home or factory, itself become prayer, but we must also do the work of prayer through, with and in God.
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April 29, 2013 – William Goldin
Host Kathleen Beckman dialogues with seminarian William Goldin regarding his conversion to Catholicism, subsequent call to the priesthood, and how the Holy Spirit guided him each step of the way. Part of Williamâs academic training took place as a lay graduate student at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC. On the Church’s liturgical feast of St. Catherine of Siena, Doctor of the Church, William offers insights into the Dominican tradition and the spirituality of Saint Catherine, a third order lay Dominican. They discuss “contemplatives in action”.
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April 29, 2013
During this program Mark and Frances conclude the series on the book entitled “Upon this Mountain.’ This particular book, written by a cloistered Carmelite Nun is the fruit of forty years of prayer and reflection. Mark and Frances explore some of the deeper meanings of our universal call to holiness, and how we are not called to this for ourselves but for the entire body of Christ. They discuss some of the more challenging aspects of the use of the imagination in prayer, and what is meant by our needing to empty ourselves of formal images. They also discuss the deeper meaning of silence in prayer.
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April 25, 2013 – Stephen Binz
Kenâs guest is Stephen Binz, author of the Lectio Divina Bible Study Series: Learning to Pray in Scripture, The Mass in Scripture, The Sacraments in Scripture, and the latest volume The Creed in Scripture (Series published by Our Sunday Visitor) Lectio Divina, the time-tested practice of scripture immersion, is at the heart of this series. Each chapter leads you through the five steps: Listening, Understanding, Reflecting, Praying, and Acting. For example in his latest volume on the Creed, the scriptural origins of each part of the Creed are examined in scripture so Catholics can understand and live it better. Visit Stephen Binzâs website : www.Bridge-B.com His books are available at: www.osv.com
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April 17, 2013 – Marika Zimmerman and Fr.Tom Alkire, OC.
Francesca Franchina, MS Ed.; OCDS, Marika Zimmerman and Carmelite priest Fr.Tom Alkire, OC. Associate Pastor of St. Raphaelâs Parish, Los Angeles CA ,discuss the Boston Bombing and other recent US and world tragedies and their relationship in spiritual warfare, warranting generational healing of nations and personal healing, through the Mercy of God the Father, Jesus of Mercy,The Precious Blood of Jesus;The Counsel and Intercession of the Blessed Mother,The messages of approved Marian Apparitions at Fatima, Akita, Rwanda and the message given by Mother Teresa when in Washington DC and the relationship of The Messages of Jesus of Mercy to St. Faustina in our own time. “JESUS I TRUST IN YOU!” Call in with your comments and questions. (www.healingfamilies.com, www.spiritdaily.com, www.actheals.org and www.preciousbloodinternational.com)
This program continues in the series archived on Radio Maria; First Wednesday of each month with Fr. Tom Alkire, O Carm. Learn how The Blessed Mother protects us and how we can help her fight her battle for The Triumph; Assist in The New Evangelization,and The Year of Faith in bringing souls to her Son Jesus. Fr. Tom is a seasoned Carmelite priest affiliated with the Marian Movement of Priests, The Association of The Precious Blood/Tallahassee, FL. Fr. Tom is Associate Pastor of St. Raphael’s Parish in Los Angeles, CA and has been a Home Missionary in Northern and Southern California for many years.
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April 15, 2013
During this program Mark and Frances review the Carmelite Promise. This is the promise made by all Carmelites, after a specific period of formation, and relates to their commitment to both the Order, their brothers and sisters in Carmel and the Blessed Mother.
Mark and Frances discuss how important the need for both commitment and fidelity are in our modern society. At a time when we are seeing an increasing rate of divorce, broken families, and even departures from the priesthood and religious life, it is very important to understand the significance of making a commitment to others, and then fulfilling those responsibilities. The Carmelite Promise is just such a commtiment.
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April 5, 2013 – Divine Mercy Sunday â St. Faustina
Joe talked about St. Faustina, Divine Mercy Sunday and the Plenary Indulgence that is attached to it.
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March 18, 2013
During this conversation Mark and Frances discuss the March 19 Feast of St. Joseph and the devotion to him, which has grown so much in the past 100 years in the Church. St. Joseph is a great role model for husbands, and this Feast in his honor has a special significance for Carmelites. A little known fact is that St. Teresa of Avila is credited a good deal with helping to spread devotion to this great Saint. In fact, St. Joseph is the Patron of the Discalced Carmelite Order formed by St. Teresa and St. John of the Cross. St. Teresa recommended in her writings that everyone should turn to St. Joseph, as she herself often did, to help them overcome the difficulties of our earthly life. Since St. Joseph was put at that head of the Holy Family, and provided for all their earthly needs, we should all feel comfortable turning to him to assist us in our daily needs. Just as importantly, as St. Joseph is also the Patron of the Universal Church, and we should feel comfortable turning to him for all of our spiritual needs as well.
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March 13, 2013 – Fr.Tom Alkire, O.C.
Francesca Franchina, MS Ed.; OCDS, and Carmelite priest Fr.Tom Alkire, O.C. Associate Pastor of St. Raphaelâs Parish in Los Angeles CA discuss The Precious Blood of Jesus and information given to Barnabbas a young Nigerian man for the Adorers of the Precious Blood and all who wish to know what to do to win souls, protect families and pray for the salvation of souls. This program continues in the series archived on Radio Maria; First Wednesday of each month with Fr. Tom Alkire, O Carm. and other Wednesdays. This program will focus on the Association of the Precious Blood International, and information given to Barnabbas from Nigeria, a young man who was given direction,prayers and instructions on teaching of the benefits, promises and help of Jesus and His Precious Blood now to prepare for times of great trial and tribulation happening now and to to come upon the world in the purification and chastisement as revealed to us in Scripture. (This is approved by his Bishop and has received the Nihil Obstat; Rev. Fr. Stephen Obiukwu, Archdiocese of Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria) Learn how The Precious Blood of Jesus and His promises and great words protect us and how we can help fight battle for souls with the Precious Blood of Jesus through Daily Mass, Prayers, Devotions, Eucharistic Adoration and Prayers and Consecration to the Precious Blood and the Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Fatima, The Triumph of the Immaculate Heart of Mary,St. Faustina, St.Margaret Mary and other great saints have received messages on how to win souls, increase Faith and be an evangelizer. Be a part of The New Evangelization ! Fr. Tom is a seasoned Carmelite priest affiliated with the Marian Movement of Priests, The Association of The Precious Blood/Tallahassee, FL. www.preciousbloodinternational.com Fr. Tom is Associate Pastor of St. Raphael’s Parish in Los Angeles, CA and has been a Home Missionary in Northern and Southern California for many years.
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March 6, 2013 – Fr.Tom Alkire, O.C.
Francesca Franchina, MS Ed.; OCDS, and Carmelite priest Fr.Tom Alkire, O.C. Associate Pastor of St. Raphaelâs Parish in Los Angeles CA discuss The Precious Blood of Jesus and Our Lady of The Precious Blood; The Spirituality of the Precious Blood; Healing and the Precious Blood of Jesus, Eucharistic Adoration; Experiences and Messages of Jesus and Mary to Saints and Mystics regarding the Precious Blood of Jesus, , e.g. St. Faustina, St. Gertrude the Great, Josefa Menendez and the relationship of the Precious Blood and The Two Hearts of Jesus and Mary.
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February 28, 2013 – Daniel Burke
Ken talks with his guest Daniel Burke, author of Navigating the Interior Life-Spiritual Direction and the Journey to God (published by Emmaus Road) What is spiritual direction? What are my “blind spots” and how can I uncover them? What keeps me from all the spiritual riches Christ has for me? How can I better understand where I am in my spiritual progress? Daniel Burke’s book will give you the tools you need to understand how and why we grow and die in the spiritual life and what we can do about it. Visit his popular spiritual direction website: www.RCSpiritualDirection.com All the funds raised through books purchased at www.NavigatingtheInteriorLife.com go towards providing spiritual resources to the faithful poor and those who have taken a vow of poverty.
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February 20, 2013 – Gordon Deery
Francesca Franchina MS Ed. talks with Gordon Deery of Montreal, Canada, about founding and directing The International Holy Face Association; The Shroud of Turin, The Devotion to The Holy Face of Jesus, and the meaning and importance of Pope Benedict XVI designating 2013 as The Year of Faith. Discussion focuses on how we need to continue to grow spiritually, living and sharing the meaning and importance of the Year of Faith, and The Holy Face Promises given to Bl. Maria Pierina de Micheli of The Daughters of the Immaculate Conception of Milan, Italy and Buenos Aires; the blessings being realized through devotion and wearing The Holy Face Medal and devotion of St. Therese of Lisieux to The Holy Face of Jesus. We are called upon in this time to share the knowledge, love and; increasing prayers of reparation and reconciliation as disciples of Jesus under the Mantle of Our Lady of The Holy Face equipping us with WISDOM and spiritual weapons of prayer and sacramentals in the Year of Faith and The New Evangelization. For more information, newsletter, books, etc, see www.holyface.com.
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February 13, 2013 – Fr. Tom Alkire, OC
Francesca Franchina MS Ed. talks with Fr. Tom Alkire, OC of Los Angeles, CA about Ash Wednesday,Lent 2013, The Blessed Mother: Seat of Wisdom and what believers of Jesus Christ are called to do about the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and other world situations. Discussion focuses on how we need to continue to grow spiritually, living and sharing their LOVE with discernment and prudence; increasing prayers of reparation and reconciliation as disciples of Jesus under the Mantle of our Blessed Mother who is equipping us with WISDOM and spiritual weapons as the Fatima Peace Plan From Heaven and the message of Medjugorje continue to unfold and become known in this the Year of Faith and The New Evangelization. Fr. Tom Alkire OC, is a seasoned Carmelite priest affiliated with the Marian Movement of Priests, The Association of The Precious Blood/Tallahassee, FL, is Associate Pastor of St. Raphael’s Parish in Los Angeles, CA and has been a Home Missionary in Northern and Southern California for many years.
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February 4, 2013 – Fr. Brian Gross
Guest Host Fr. Nick Schneider, Doctor and Director of Liturgy, Bismarck Diocese, ND, interviews guest Fr. Brian Gross of the Bismarck Diocese on the subject of “The Importance of Time Away With God”. The two priests discuss the importance of encountering God through retreats and daily prayer. They advise how to begin on the path of personal prayer and how to advance along the way of the interior life.
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January 21, 2013 – Fr. Quan Tran
Host Kathleen Beckman interviews Fr. Quan Tran about his journey from the District Attorneyâs office to Priesthood, how God used various people to awaken his vocation. They discuss the spirituality of diocesan priesthood including the priestâs personal bond to Christ, and how âthe sacrament of Holy Orders communicates a âsacred powerâ which is none other that that of Christ (CCC).â Father discusses prayer also.
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January 14, 2013
In this program Mark and Frances begin a series on the writings of Carmelite Priest and scholar Ernest Larkin. Father Larkin was a highly respected scholar in the field of contemplative prayer, the interior life, and most especially Carmelite spirituality. This particular conversation is a review of a very important article Fr. Larkin wrote about St. Teresa of Avila on prayer. The article loosely follows St. Teresa’s model of the Interior Castles, perhaps her greatest work. But here Fr. Larkin provides new insights and perspectives on how these various stages of development in prayer may be experienced, and what one can do to prepare themselves for this work that ultimately God must do in us.
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January 3, 2013 – Jason Evert
Ken talks with his guest Jason Evert, co-author with his wife Crystalina, of How to Find Your Soulmate without Losing your Soul â 21 Secrets for Women (published by Totus Tuus Publishing). Jason has spoken internationally to more than one million people about the virtue of chastity. He is a best-selling author of a dozen books, including Theology of the Body for Teens, If you Really Loved Me, Pure Love, and Raising Pure Teens. Visit Jasonâs website: www.jasonevert.com His books can be purchased at www.howtofindyoursoulmate.com
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December 28, 2012 – Christmas Season 2012
Joe talked about the real Catholic Christmas Season, one of celebration and joy but also one with a particular focus on our mission to become saints. He also read an excerpt entitled âDiscourse for Christmas Night â The Birth of Jesus Christ. Part V â from St. Alphonsus Liguori.
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December 10, 2012 – Mother of Mercy Messengers, Dave and Joan Maroney
Visiting Host Annie Karto interviews guests, Dave and Joan Maroney about the apostolate of the Mother of Mercy Messengers and their initiative called “Divine Mercy for America” an outreach of the Marian’s of the Immaculate Conception in Stockbridge, Mass. The discuss the urgent spiritual needs of America and how Divine Mercy for America can address those needs.
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December 7, 2012 – Advent 2012
Joe discussed the beauty of Advent and the opportunity it provides for us to grow in holiness. At the beginning of our Liturgical year, during this time of penance and mortification, now is the time to make our resolutions and elevate our spiritual game! We are called to be Saints, letâs get after it!
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December 5, 2012 – Fr. Tom Alkire, OC
Francesca Franchina MS Ed. continues her talks with Fr. Tom Alkire, OC from Los Angeles, CA about Jesus’ Queen Mother referencing quotes from St. Louis de Montfort and Venerable Mary of Agreda (Mystical City of God) concerning the Triumph of her Immaculate Heart based on the Second Coming of Christ which will be the Second Pentecost according to Father Gobbi of the Marian Movement of Priests. Discover the meaning of Her titles in the Litany of Loreto: Tower of David, Ark of the Covenant, Tower of Ivory, House of Gold which pertain to Our Lady and the New Advent and how she assists and equips us as prayer warriors in the light of devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe as well.
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December 3, 2012 – Fr. Raymond Skonezny, STL, SSL
Host Kathleen Beckman interviews Fr. Skonezny, a priest of the diocese of Orange, CA who spent 17 years of his life as a Trappist Monk at Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity Monastery and who served as the diocesan director of Cursillo for 26 years. Father Ray shares many personal stories about the power of prayer and how to grow in the interior life of union with God. They dialogue about various forms of prayer according to the CCC. Father offers prayers for all.
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October 28, 2012 – Discerning the Elements of One’s Personal Vocation/ The Year of Faith and the New Evangelization
Discerning the Elements of One’s Personal Vocation/ The Year of Faith and the New Evangelization
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October 21, 2012 – Can God’s Plan Include Failure (Part 3); The Year of Faith
This week we wrapped up our discussion, “Can God’s Plan Include Failure” and moved on to apply the truths we have been learning to the all-important mission of evangelization. We also discussed the Year of Faith and the New Evangelization, a chance for the Church to implement the wonderful teachings of Vatican II as the Council Fathers intended. We challenged our listeners to step out in faith by sharing the faith with people they meet this week. We also invited them to âcall inâ this Sunday to report back on how the Lord worked through them to reach people with the Good News! Today week we will conclude our discussion of âCan Godâs Plan Include Failureâ and dive into the Year of Faith and the New Evangelization!
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