Fr. Pawel and Russell are back to reflect on how they are preparing to welcome the Lord into their hearts this coming Advent season. They also continue to look forward to meet together in person during Russell's special guest appearance at St. Mary Immaculate. Christina joins us once again for News of the Church, with a fascinating story about a chance discovery of a secret room believed to be used as a refuge by the great Michelangelo that is now open to the public.

Materials discussed in this episode:

Jen Fulwiler Saint Name Generator - https://saintsnamegenerator.com/

For more information about the Annual Advent Recollection featuring special guests Russell and Sarah Hoyt visit smirh.com

Catholic Espresso is back as Fr Pawel and Russell are joined by Russell's wife Sarah to they discuss the couple's upcoming special visit to St. Mary Immaculate in December.

In this episode, Fr. Pawel and Russell check in with each other on how their Lent has been going. Both admit to having some struggles along the way but share how they've tried get back on track. As we look ahead to Holy Week, they also discuss what the events of the Holy Week mean to them and how they are planning to reflect on them this year.

Welcome back to another episode of Catholic Espresso! On this episode, Fr. Pawel and Russell prepare themselves for the spiritual journey of Lent. Following in Pope Francis' message that during this Lenten season we need to listen to Jesus; they discuss how important it is turn off the distractions around us and discover Jesus in the silence. They also look at how Lent is a time to re-evaluate spiritual life by turning away from sin and believe in the Gospel as well as the profound impact fasting has had on them.

Material discussed in this episode:

The Litany of Trust by Sr. Faustina Maria Pia

Trustful Surrender to Divine Providence: The Secret to Peace and Happiness by Father Jean Baptiste Saint-Jure and St. Claude de la Colombiere

Surrender Novena

As we approach the feast day of St. Padre Pio, Fr. Pawel and Russell reflect on the life he lived and his love for Jesus. They discuss the profound impact he's had on their personal and spiritual lives, highlighting some aspects of his humility that we can all use to enrich our own faith and love for God.

Have feedback or want to suggest a topic for future episode? Email the show at office@smirh.com.

Material discussed in this episode:

Novena of Surrender to Jesus Christ by Don Dolindo Ruotolo

Padre Pio: Stories and Memories of My Mentor and Friend by Fr. Gabriele Amorth

Saint Padre Pio: Man of Hope by Renzo Allegri

Recorded on the feast day of St. John Vianney; Fr. Pawel and Russell challenge each of us to take what they dub, a spiritual inventory. They reflect on what it means to be a disciple of Jesus and review the "5 Disciplines of Being a Joyful Disciple" sharing how they each include this in their spiritual lives. Our hosts also review Pope Francis' recent penitential pilgrimage to Canada and what they each took away from the Holy Father's visit. Christina is back with another edition of News of the Church with more highlights around the Pope's Canadian visit as well as other news from around the Catholic Church.

Materials discussed in this episode:

Laudate App for Prayer

The Fulfillment of All Desire by Ralph Martin

The Lighthouse by Michael D O'Brien

The Devil is Afraid of Me by Gabriele Amorth

With the beauty of summer in full swing, Fr. Pawel and Russell discuss the importance of taking time away from our busy schedules and to recharge our mind, body, and soul. They reflect on Gospel teachings about the significance of the Sabbath every week, where we should switch off and embrace the day as a day of devotion to our faith. During the summer months, it is an excellent time to take this philosophy to the next level and to take time for ourselves to recharge as well as connecting with friends and family. They stress that while taking time away is important, it is not a time to take a break from religion. Instead, they offer tips on how they use this time of rest and relaxation as a way to go deeper in faith and grow closer to God.

Materials discussed in this episode:

Apostolic Letter Dies Domini of the Holy Father John Paul II

Franciscan Friars of Renewal YouTube Video