Say Yes to Holiness
By Christina Semmens
Say Yes to HolinessMay 26, 2023
Episode #173--"Holy Moments to Change the World"--Say Yes to Holiness Podcast
Jack Beers is Vice President of Ministry at Dynamic Catholic, responsible for creating a world-class experience for everyone who encounters the ministry. Through his dedication to Dynamic Catholic’s mission, Jack has been privileged to be part of many life-changing projects that have impacted the faith of millions. A die-hard New York Mets fan, Jack resides in the Cincinnati metro area with his wife and children. Dynamic Catholic and Flocknote are partnering this Lent to deliver its Best Lent Ever experience to over 9,000 parishes nationwide—for free. Parishes that use Flocknote will now have unlimited access to the program, which delivers two daily videos designed to inspire participants to grow closer to God one moment at a time. Both organizations see this as an unprecedented opportunity to reach parishioners directly and create a daily community-wide conversation.
Day 90--Ch 12--The Hour of Death
Day 90--Ch 12--The Hour of Death
"SMILE with Mary"--Bonus Say Yes to Holiness Podcast
This is a talk I did for the St Raymond Nonnatus Foundation's Marian Summit. It is designed to help you grow closer to Jesus through a relationship with Mary.
S = Say Yes to being healed, comforted, consoled, encouraged and inspired
M = Make Mary a part of your life
I = Invite Mary to lead you to Jesus
L = Live the Consecration
E = Evangelize with a smile
Day 89--Ch 12--Spiritual Aridity
Day 89--Ch 12--Spiritual Aridity
Episode #172--"Finding Joy In The Midst Of Sadness"
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina shares Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help you see signs of God's love for you and hear sounds of joy--even in the midst of sadness...
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why anxiety doesn't help us at all What striving for purity each day can help us achieve in our daily life How the Eucharist is the supreme sign of God's love for usMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Day 88--Ch 12--A Source of Merit
Day 88--Ch 12--A Source of Merit
Day 87--Ch 12--To Suffer Is To Pray
Day 87--Ch 12--To Suffer Is To Pray
Day 86--Ch 12--A Proof of Love
Day 86--Ch 12--A Proof of Love
Day 85--Ch 12--Value of Suffering
Day 85--Ch 12--Value of Suffering
Day 84--Ch 12--Peace of Heart
Day 84--Ch 12--Peace of Heart
Day 83--Ch 12--Self Denial and Love of the Cross
Day 83--Ch 12--Self Denial and Love of the Cross
Day 82--Ch 11--The Method of St Alphonsus
Day 82--Ch 11--The Method of St Alphonsus
Episode #171--"Every Moment Can Be A Prayer"--1:1 with Debbie Cowden, Author, The Prayer Book for Tired Parents
In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation, Christina sits down with Debbie Cowden, Catholic Author of the book, The Prayer Book for Tired Parents: Practical Ways to Grow in Love of God and Get Your Family to Heaven.
Our conversation touched upon Debbie's faith journey and how she and her husband, David, came to write about parenthood and prayer. Specifically, to provide assistance to parents in embarking upon their greatest task--their family’s spiritual well-being.
Debbie currently is the Senior Digital-Media Specialist for EWTN Global Catholic Network. She’s recognized for her co-hosting of EWTN Religious Catalogue and is the former producer of several EWTN series and live shows. She lives in Ohio with her husband, David—an active member of the Knights of Columbus—who works in health-care, and their three children.
The Prayer Book for Tired Parents meets parents wherever they are on their faith journey, and help them take practical steps to create a fresh mindset for embracing the vocation of parenthood along with discovering godly purpose in the midst of family life. This is a book that will help you develop a home brimming with love, peace, and faith that will help your family get to Heaven.
The most important part of our conversation though was be able to dive into the practical tips shared in the book. Each of them will help facilitate family prayer and the practice of the Faith in your home so that together you can become a "domestic church" that helps every family member become a saint.
I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with Debbie and found it both inspiring and encouraging, and I know that you will as well if you take a listen.
To learn more about the book, go to: The Prayer Book for Tired Parents
Day 81--Ch 11--Necessity of Mental Prayer
Day 81--Ch 11--Necessity of Mental Prayer
Day 80--Ch 11--Mental Prayer or Meditation
Day 80--Ch 11--Mental Prayer or Meditation
Day 79--Ch 11--The Holy Names
Day 79--Ch 11--The Holy Names
Day 78--Ch 11--Ejaculations
Day 78--Ch 11--Ejaculations
Day 77--Ch 11--Distractions
Day 77--Ch 11--Distractions
Day 76--Ch 11--Qualities of Vocal Prayer
Day 76--Ch 11--Qualities of Vocal Prayer
Day 75--Ch 11--Prayer
Day 75--Ch 11--Prayer
Episode #170--"Embracing Easter Joy and Hope In The Midst Of Worldly Sadness and Despair"
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina shares Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help you strive to enter ever more deeply into the joy and hope of this Easter season, even in the midst of sadness and despair... In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why expressing gratitude is the key to remaining rooted in joy What we can do to immerse ourselves in beauty and spend time with God in the secret place of our soul How Mary can help us become better able to love JesusMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Day 74--Ch 10--How To Walk in Gods Presence
Day 74--Ch 10--How To Walk in Gods Presence
Day 73--Ch 10--A Great Incentive
Day 73--Ch 10--A Great Incentive
Day 72--Ch 10--The Presence of God
Day 72--Ch 10--The Presence of God
Day 71--Ch 10--The Value of Silence
Day 71--Ch 10--The Value of Silence
Day 70--Ch 10--Silence
Day 70--Ch 10--Silence
Day 69--Ch 10--How to Find God
Day 69--Ch 10--How to Find God
Day 68--Ch 10--Solitude of the Spirit
Day 68--Ch 10--Solitude of the Spirit
Episode #169--"Parents Speaking to Parents"-1:1 Conversation w/ Paul and Kay Halfmann, D6 Ministries
In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation, Christina sits down with Paul & Kay Halfmann of D:6 Ministries.
Our conversation revolved around the origin of D:6 Ministries, how Paul and Kay Halfmann came to be involved in this work; and why the work of helping parents become the primary educators of their children is absolutely vital for the future of the Church...
Paul and Kay have been married for 33 years. They have seven children ranging from 15-30 years old. Paul worked as a youth minister for more than 15 years. He also ran a small business and also led Catholic Pilgrimages. Kay was a stay at home parent until all the children were in school. She worked six years as an office manager for Birthright Counseling, St. Louis and currently is the Front Office Manager at St. Pius X Catholic High School.
Together they have developed, led, and participated in hundreds of retreats including Teens Encounter Christ (TEC) Sacramental retreats, REAP Team, Life Teen, family retreats, healing retreats, chastity retreats, Luke 18 retreats and Life in the Spirit Seminars in order to help parents fulfill their God-given responsibilities as the first educators of their children.
I was inspired and highly encouraged by my conversation with Paul & Kay, and I know that you will be, too as you listen (or watch) the conversation.
To learn more about D:6 Ministries, go to: https://d6ministries.org/
Day 67--Ch 10--The Thought of God
Day 67--Ch 10--The Thought of God
Day 66--Ch 10--Recollection
Day 66--Ch 10--Recollection
Day 65--Ch 9--Self Will
Day 65--Ch 9--Self Will
Day 64--Ch 9--Self Conquest
Day 64--Ch 9--Self Conquest
Day 63--Ch 9--Interior Mortification
Day 63--Ch 9--Interior Mortification
Day 62--Ch 9--It Elevates the Soul
Day 62--Ch 9--It Elevates the Soul
Day 61--Ch 9--Advantages of Mortification
Day 61--Ch 9--Advantages of Mortification
Episode #168--"Celebrating Easter to the Full"--Say Yes to Holiness Podcast
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina shares Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help you celebrate Easter to the full each and every day of this 50 day Easter season... In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why we need to keep the joy of God's love in our heart What the Divine Heart is like How being immersed in spiritual things causes us to perceive more around usMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Day 60--Ch 9--Self Denial
Day 60--Ch 9--Self Denial
Day 59--Ch 9--We Ourselves Are Our Own Worst Enemy
Day 59--Ch 9--We Ourselves Are Our Own Worst Enemy
Day 58--Ch 9--Mortification
Day 58--Ch 9--Mortification
Day 57--Ch 8--Meekness Toward Oneself
Day 57--Ch 8--Meekness Toward Oneself
Day 56--Ch 8--Our Savior's Meekness
Day 56--Ch 8--Our Savior's Meekness
Day 55--Ch 8--Meek Correction
Day 55--Ch 8--Meek Correction
Day 54--Ch 8--Meekness
Day 54--Ch 8--Meekness
Episode #167--"Telling Stories Worth Telling" 1:1 Conversation with Melissa Dee, Saints Alive
In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation, Christina sits down with Melissa Dee, Producer and Writer for the Saints Alive podcast.
Our conversation touched upon how the Saints Alive podcast came into being and how that journey was impacted as a result of participation in the OSV Challenge. But our entire conversation revolved around how we can tell stories that are worth telling--especially to our children...
Melissa is a wife, pediatric nurse, and mom to the most exhausting and incredible two year old you’ll ever meet. Creating this podcast has been a labor of love, and Melissa has cherished the long hours of hard work with the saints by her side. She has been the primary script writer and producer for Saints Alive. When she isn’t creating Google docs, writing lists, and sending emails you can find her loving the joy of being a mom.
This conversation brought me great joy and hope, particularly in light of the absolutely wonderful work that is being done to help tell stories worth telling.
To learn more and listen to the the Saints Alive podcast, go to: https://www.saintsalivepodcast.com/
Day 53--Ch 8--Humility of Will
Day 53--Ch 8--Humility of Will
Day 52--Ch 8--Humility of Intellect
Day 52--Ch 8--Humility of Intellect
Day 51--Ch 8--A Source of Blessings
Day 51--Ch 8--A Source of Blessings
Day 50--Ch 8--Pride an Abomination to the Lord
Day 50--Ch 8--Pride an Abomination to the Lord
Day 49--Ch 8--Meekness and Humility
Day 49--Ch 8--Meekness and Humility
Day 48--Ch 7--Observance of the Rule
Day 48--Ch 7--Observance of the Rule
Day 47--Ch 7--The Vow of Obedience
Day 47--Ch 7--The Vow of Obedience
Day 46--Ch 7--Obedience to our Spiritual Director
Day 46--Ch 7--Obedience to our Spiritual Director
Day 45--Ch 7--Obedience to Parents
Day 45--Ch 7--Obedience to Parents
Day 44--Ch 7--Qualities of Obedience
Day 44--Ch 7--Qualities of Obedience
Day 43--Ch 7--A Source of Merit
Day 43--Ch 7--A Source of Merit
Episode #166 "How To Make Holy Week Truly Holy in Our Own Life, Too"--Say Yes to Holiness Podcast
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina shares Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help you live a truly beautiful and deeply moving Holy Week so that it is truly holy in your own life, too... In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why Holy Week is the holiest of weeks What are three ways that you can make Holy Week holy in your own life How silence is the key to a beautiful Holy WeekMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Day 42--Ch 7--A Great Reward
Day 42--Ch 7--A Great Reward
Day 41--Ch 7--Obedience
Day 41--Ch 7--Obedience
Day 40--Ch 6--Acceptable to God
Day 40--Ch 6--Acceptable to God
Episode #165 "Giving Jesus First Shot at Your Life"--1:1 Conversation with Santonio Hill, Vagabond Missions
In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation, Christina sits down with Santonio Hill, Assistant Director for Recruitment of Vagabond Missions.
During our conversation, Santonio shared his own faith journey, and how giving Jesus first shot at his life led him to exactly where he was supposed to be..
Santonio was working in ministry in Philadelphia when he started applying and preparing for nursing school during quarantine. After the death of George Floyd, howver, he was very inspired to be a boots on the ground missionary making a difference in at least one teen’s life who is living in the shadows of America. As he was growing up black in America, his parents often told him how to survive here, but Santonio wants to put an end to that and instead help teach teens how to thrive, and that's exactly what he gets to do through inviting others into the work of Vagabond Missions.
Vagabond Missions is passionate about introduc inner city youth to Jesus and a loving community by mobilizing missionaries to be that face of Jesus in the world. The goal of Vagabond Missions is to reach every inner-city teen so that they can be known, loved and experience hope for their lives.
My conversation with Santonio truly inspired me while also giving me great hope for the future of our youth, and I am thinking that it will do the same for you.
To learn more about Vagabond Missions, go to: https://vagabondmissions.com/
Day 39--Ch 6--A Precious Treasure
Day 39--Ch 6--A Precious Treasure
Day 38--Ch 6--Virginity
Day 38--Ch 6--Virginity
Day 37--Ch 6--A Means to Edification
Day 37--Ch 6--A Means to Edification
Episode #164--"Sin + Conversion + Mercy = Joy"
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina shares Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet that proposes an equation that helps to inspire, encourage and perhaps, explain, the Lenten journey...
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why conversion opens up the floodgates of God's mercy What we can do to identify sin in our lives How surrender leads to joyMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Day 36--Ch 6--Means to Overcome Temptation
Day 36--Ch 6--Means to Overcome Temptation
Day 35--Ch 6--Great Vigilance Necessary
Day 35--Ch 6--Great Vigilance Necessary
Day 34--Ch 6--Chastity
Day 34--Ch 6--Chastity
Episode #163--"Beauty at the Service of God"--1:1 Conversation with Monica Skrzypczak, Sacred Artist, Outpouring of Trust
In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation, Christina sits down with Monica Skrzypczak a Sacred Artist, and founder of Outpouring of Trust.
Our conversation was a rich and in-depth one that shared about many topics as we also spoke about Monica's efforts to ensure that there is more beauty in the world...
One of the most enjoyable aspects of our conversation was experiencing of Monica's passion to help fill the world with beauty. Not only in our churches, but also throughout our daily lives as well, and this is one of the main reasons she established her online store, Outpuring of Trust.
For me, I was inspired by our conversation to become more intentional about seeking out and immersing myself in beauty, and I am sure you will be touched by our conversation as well.
To learn more about Monica's work, go to: https://outpouringoftrust.com/
Day 33--Ch 5--Resignation to God's WIll
Day 33--Ch 5--Resignation to God's WIll
Day 32--Ch 5--True Detachment cont
Day 32--Ch 5--True Detachment cont
Day 31--Ch 5--A Hidden Life
Day 31--Ch 5--A Hidden Life
Day 30--Ch 5--The Poverty of Christ
Day 30--Ch 5--The Poverty of Christ
Day 29--Ch 5--True Detachment
Day 29--Ch 5--True Detachment--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 28--Ch 5--The Poor in Spirit
Day 28--Ch 5--The Poor in Spirit--Lent and Easter Online Series
Day 27--Ch 5--Poverty & Detachment--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 27--Ch 5--Poverty & Detachment--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 26--Ch 4--Love Your Enemies--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 26--Ch 4--Love Your Enemies--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 25--Ch 4--Almsgiving--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 25--Ch 4--Almsgiving--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 24--Ch 4--Calumny and Slander--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 24--Ch 4--Calumny and Slander--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 23--Ch 4 Rash Judgment--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 23--Ch 4 Rash Judgment--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 22--Ch 4--Love for Our Neighbor--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 22--Ch 4--Love for Our Neighbor--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 21--Chapter 3--The Passion of Christ--Lent and Easter Online Series
Day 21--Chapter 3--The Passion of Christ--Lent and Easter Online Series
Day 20--Chapter 3--Self-Denial--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 20--Chapter 3--Self-Denial--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 19-Chapter 3--Means of Advancing in God's Love--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 19-Chapter 3--Means of Advancing in God's Love--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 18--Chapter 3--The Sufferings of Christ A Proof of Love--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 18--Chapter 3--The Sufferings of Christ A Proof of Love--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Episode #162--"Lenten Practices as the Key to an Abundant Life?"
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina shares Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet that speaks to how our Lenten practices can become the key to our living an abundant life ...
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why the disciplines of Lent help us on the journey towards holiness What the 4 R's are How to make Lent the stepping stone to an abundant lifeMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Day 17--Chapter 3--Nature Bids Us Love God--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 17--Chapter 3--Nature Bids Us Love God--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 16--Chapter 3--The Love of God--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 16--Chapter 3--The Love of God--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 15--Chapter 2--Qualities of Hope--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 15--Chapter 2--Qualities of Hope--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 14--Chapter 2--The Intercession of the Blessed Mother--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 14--Chapter 2--The Intercession of the Blessed Mother--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 13 Chapter 2--Christ's Intercession--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 13 Chapter 2--Christ's Intercession--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 12--Chapter 2--Motives of Our Hope--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Episode 12--Chapter 2--Motives of Our Hope--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Episode #161--"Redefining What Hope Looks Like"--1:1 Conversation with Emily Whiting & Ashlyn Thompson, Charlotte's Hope Foundation
In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation, Christina sits down with Emily Whiting and Ashlyn Thompson, founders of the Charlotte's Hope Foundation.
This was a reunion of sorts as Emily and I had originally met a couple of years ago, and she had been a prior guest where she shared about her speaking work. This time, we were joined by her friend, Ashlyn Thompson, for what became a beautiful conversation about love, hope and faith in the midst of difficult circumstances.
As we talked, Emily, Ashlyn and I shared our stories about how having a sick child can be emotionally, physically and spiritually draining, and how important support and encouragement is, and it was this realization that became the genesis of Charlotte's Hope Foundation.
Charlotte's Hope Foundation was born out of circumstances faced by two moms who met before their children received unforeseen diagnoses, and the shared realization that other parents needed a community of support, encouragement, education and resources in order to be equipped in navigating medical complexities with hope and confidence.
Our conversation revolved around the beginnings of the the foundation and also about their efforts to spread that hope and encouragement through their Empowered by Hope podcast, and the recent publication of Emily book, She is Charlotte: A Mother's Physical, Emotional and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities.
This conversation touched my heart, comforted my soul and inspired me to live each day the best that I can--trusting that God will be able to bring about good in the midst of all things.
To learn more about Charlotte's Hope Foundation, go to: https://charlotteshopefoundation.org/
Day 11--Chapter 2--A Happy Death--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 11--Chapter 2--A Happy Death--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 10--Chapter 2--Victory Over Temptation--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 10--Chapter 2--Victory Over Temptation--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 9--Chapter 2--The Pardon of Our Sins--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 9--Chapter 2--The Pardon of Our Sins--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 8--Chapter 2--Hope--Lent and Easter Online Retreat
This is Day 8--Chapter 2--Hope--Lent and Easter Online Retreat.
Day 7--Lent and Easter Online Retreat--Chapter 1--A Living Faith
In this episode, Christina reads from Chapter 1--A Living Faith from The 12 Steps to Holiness and Salvation.
Day 6--Lent and Easter Online Retreat--Chapter 1--Proofs of Faith
In this episode, Christina reads Proofs of Faith from Chapter 1 from The 12 Steps to Holiness and Salvation.
Day 5--Lent and Easter Online Retreat--Faith Not Opposed to Reason
In this episode, Christina reads from Chapter 1, Faith Not Opposed to Reason from The 12 Steps to Holiness and Salvation, shares a brief reflection and a resolution.
Day 4--Lent and Easter Online Retreat--An Offering of the Intellect
In this episode, Christina reads from Chapter 1--An Offering of the Intellect in The 12 Steps to Holiness & Salvation, shares a brief reflection and a resolution.
Episode #160--"Being Salt & Light in a World Without Taste and Shrouded in Darkness"
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina shares Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet that gives us practical steps to help us become both salt and light in the a world that desperately needs both ...
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why we need to drean of important projects of good What love truly looks like How silence can open the door to hearing God's voice in your heartMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Click here if you want to participate in the Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 3--Lent and Easter Online Retreat--Our Shield and Protection
In this episode, Christina reads Our Shield and Protection section from Chapter 1 in the 12 Steps to Holiness & Salvation, shares a brief reflection and a resolution.
Day 2 Lent and Easter Online Retreat--Chapter 1--Faith
In this episode, Christina reads and excerpt from Chapter 1--"Faith"--from 12 Steps to Holiness & Salvation, shares a brief reflection and a resolution.
Day 1 Lent and Easter Online Retreat--Preface
In this episode, Christina reads the Preface from 12 Steps to Holiness & Salvation, shares a brief reflection and a resolution.
Introduction Day to Lent and Easter Online Retreat
In this episode, Christina speaks about the book, 12 Steps to Holiness and Salvation, as well as briefly speaks about the saint with whom we will be journeying and learning from throughout Lent and Easter, Saint Alphonsus Liguori.
Episode #159--"The Flourishing of the Feminine Genius"--1:1 Conversation with Cynthia Psencik, GIVEN Institute
In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation, Christina sits down with Cynthia Psencik, Mentor and Program Director for the GIVEN Institute.
Cynthia and I crossed paths through my own involvement as a mentor for the GIVEN Institute, and from my first involvement, I knew that I just had to share the work of the GIVEN Institute with others, and then started looking for a time for us to connect--which we finally did!
Cynthia and I spoke about her own journey, especially her own awakening as a part of the first Encuentro, and then her subsequent work in young adult and youth ministry and numerous national organizations designed to help foster an integrated life of faith, especially for Hispanic families, youth and young adults. This eventually led her to GIVEN where she now serves as the director of Mentors and Programs.
The GIVEN Institute (GIVEN) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to activating the gifts of young adult women for the Catholic Church and the world.
GIVEN inspires and equips the next generation of female leaders to “receive the gift that they are; realize the gifts they’ve been given; and respond with the gift that only they can give.”
This is accomplished through leadership training, faith formation, and dedicated mentoring. The goal being to form women for mission and for life.
As this goal is similar to what I do within the Say Yes to Holiness apostolate, it has been a privilege for me to be able to support GIVEN, but the conversation I had with Cynthia here just emphasizes the great joy that results when each of us does our part to help one another fully become who God created us to be.
To learn more about the GIVEN Institute, go to: https://giveninstitute.com/
Episode #158--"Will Being A Better Person Make Me A Happier One?"
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina focuses upon sharing Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet that focuses upon the question of whether becoming better will help you become happier..
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why we need to look to God for our worth rather than others What to do when confronted by temptation How a simple choice to not grumble can lead to rejoicingMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Day 13--Chapter 2--Christ's Intercession-Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Day 13--Chapter 2--Christ's Intercession-Lent and Easter Online Retreat
Episode #157--"You Are Loved"--1:1 Conversation with Bobby Kenney & Adam Nicholson, You Are Loved Mission
In this podcast, Christina sits down with Bobby Kenney and Adam Nicholson of the You Are Loved Mission.
I met Bobby and Adam at the SEEK Conference in St Louis earlier this year, and when I heard their story, I knew that it was one that the Say Yes to Holiness community needed to hear.
The You Are Loved Mission brings love to the homeless, to people in correctional/rehabilitation facilities, to the youth, and to all others who read the You Are Loved message.
There is a lot of brokenness in the world. Though physical poverty is addressed by many wonderful foundations, the emotional and spiritual poverty of our brothers and sisters is often overlooked, especially those who are experiencing homelessness, those in correctional facilities/rehabs, and the youth.
The You Are Loved Mission aims to meet that need with a message that invites people into living in identity, dignity, mercy, and purpose. The message is the good news of the Gospel: You Are Loved.
We believe that as people encounter the Lord and begin to follow Him, He will guide them and provide for all their needs, as Matthew 6:33 tells us “Seek first the Kingdom of God and all else will be added."
The You Are Loved Mission brings love to the homeless, to people in correctional/rehabilitation facilities, to the youth, and to all others who read the You Are Loved message.
There is a lot of brokenness in the world. Though physical poverty is addressed by many wonderful foundations, the emotional and spiritual poverty of our brothers and sisters is often overlooked, especially those who are experiencing homelessness, those in correctional facilities/rehabs, and the youth.
The You Are Loved Mission aims to meet that need with a message that invites people into living in identity, dignity, mercy, and purpose. The message is the good news of the Gospel: You Are Loved.
You Are Loved believes that as people encounter the Lord and begin to follow Him, He will guide them and provide for all their needs, as Matthew 6:33 tells us “Seek first the Kingdom of God and all else will be added."
To learn more about You Are Love Mission, go to: https://www.youarelovedmission.com
Episode #156--"Will You Say Yes And Follow?"
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina shares Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help you discern whether you have the capacity to SAY YES to Jesus' invitation to follow Him...
In this episode, Christina specifically speaks about:
Why we do not attend Mass as mere spectators What virtues we can cultivate to grow in our capacity to follow Jesus How we can defend the Church from assaults of errorMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Episode #155--Being A Protaganist Of Change"--1:1 with Darnell Miller, Max Studios
This Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation is with Darnell Miller, Creative Director at MAX Studios. In this episode, Christina and Darnell focus upon Max Studios latest offering, the Protagonists of Change podcast.
“Protagonists of Change” strives to showcase how although each guest is striving for holiness, the journey there can look totally different. In the same way, Protaganists of Change does the same thing for the podcast listening experience through its structure, music and the integrated use of stories from saints both ancient and striving to be new .
As we spoke about the podcast itself, Darnell shared how the series came about, its unique immersive experience for the listener, and why story has a front and center role throughout.
In addition to the podcast, Darnell and I shared about the power of story in our own lives, and the reality that by being a "reverse missionary"--someone who seeks to find Christ in others--actually causes each of us to become more receptive and open to the ways that we are being called to love and serve the Lord.
“‘Protagonists of Change’ showcases how diverse the journey to heaven (hopefully) can look, and give you hope on your own journey,” Darnell shared.
“Protagonists of Change” is available to download at Spokestreet Media, a podcast production partner with MAX Studios, USTMAXStudios.com.
To learn more about MAX Studios, go to: https://ustmaxstudios.com/
Episode #154--"Change and Seeking a Life of Purpose, Peace and Abundance"
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina shares Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help us strive for chance and seek a life of purpose, peace and abundance.
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why putting first things first in our lives sets up for successful change What is the most essential habit that we can begin (or get better at) this year How trusting God's plan helps us achieve our plansMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Episode #153--"The Power of Data In Helping Us Become Better Disciples" --1:1 Conversation with Dave Plisky, DeSales Media
This Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation is with Dave Plisky, Director of Product Innovation & Head of DeSales Tech.
Our conversation was focused upon breaking open and diving down into the work that Dave has been involved with during the last year--a study with Vinea Research that surveyed Catholics who consider themselves "intentional disciples."
Our discussion took an in-depth look at the study itself; discussed how the term "intentional disciples" was determined; probed the barriers to evangelization; and why even intentional disciples aren't receiving spiritual direction. We also discussed the value of assessment in general and how data can be used as insight into what needs to be addressed and/or done next in our life.
Hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did, and also that it helps to inspire, encourage and accompany you in getting a little closer to holiness.
Click here to assess the free Spiritual Wellness Assessment on the Say Yes to Holiness website
To check out the results of the study, go to: https://desalesmedia.org/press/
To learn more about the work of DeSales Media, go to: https://desalesmedia.org/
Looking to Transform Your Spiritual Life in 2023?
Then check out the newly revised and updated First Things First Online Course!
This is a self-paced video course with resolutions for each of the 12 modules and downloadable resources to help you take whatever actions you need to put first things first and properly order your life to experience the life of purpose, peace and abundance God created you for!
Even better, this resource is Pay What You Want! Get started here
Also make sure to check out this...
Christina designed this initiative to help you become the Christian leader you were created to be, by providing you the tools and knowledge you need in order to help others do the same...
Episode #152--"Finding Jesus at Christmas"
In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina focuses upon sharing Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help us find Jesus more fully at Christmas ...
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why working in peace helps to bring Christ's light into the world What the Word of God can bring about when He is welcomed fully into our hearts and minds and souls How giving honor to Mary is actually giving glory to GodMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Episode #151--"Lions and Lambs and Ducklings, Oh, My!"--1:1 Podcast with Jessica Thornton, Catholic Ventures
The latest Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation is with Jessica Thornton, Content Manager at Catholic Ventures.
I had an absolutely wonderful conversation with Jessica as she shared a bit of her story and how she found her "perfect job" in doing what she is doing right now with Catholic Ventures; the power of story; stories that were instrumental in our growing up; and how a good story is a key ingredient in helping people become who God created them to be.
We also spoke about her role as Content Manager for Lion & Lamb, a new Catholic children’s book subscription box that helps families pass down the faith through good stories and character-forming bedtime conversations.
A signature offering from Catholic Ventures, Lion & Lamb seasonal subscription boxes are curated for three different age ranges and contain stickers, discussion questions, and three to five books that have been vetted by Catholic moms to help parents make age-appropriate connections to the Liturgical Calendar, Catholic teachings, and virtues.
The primary goal of Lion & Lamb is to fill Catholics’ homes with quality books for children that uplift and emphasize the Catholic faith.
To subscribe to Lion and Lamb, go to: https://catholic.store/pages/lion-lamb
To learn more about Catholic Ventures, go to: https://www.catholic.ventures/
Episode #150--"Gratitude As The Gateway To Greatness"
In celebration of the 150th episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina focuses upon the theme of gratitude in the midst of sharing Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet...
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why we must continuously thank God for all things What is the best way to show gratitude to God and others How living moment to moment and thanking God is the secret to happinessMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Episode #149--"Our Lives Are Never Meaningless"--1:1 Conversation with Caroline Brennan, ReCatholic
The latest Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation is with Caroline Brennan of ReCatholic.
My conversation with Caroline was an absolutely fascinating conversation that focuses upon how it is that ReCatholic is going about trying to help people rediscover the Catholic faith, rekindle a passionate love for it, and allow it to renew our lives.
During our conversation, Caroline and I shared about how amazing it is that our lives all have meaning, and that the best thing that we can do is to help others come to know that reality, but especially the reality of God's love for them personally.
To that end, ReCatholic just launched a recent initiative, Confession Cards, that are designed to help individuals more effectively open their hearts and minds and souls to the healing graces that are found in the sacrament of Confession.
Confession cards are designed as a tool to be used by priests in the confessional to give to penitent as an aid to help them continue to grow and develop the sacramental graces they receive in the sacrament of Reconciliation.
These cards are available in English and Spanish and will help point each person towards the deeper wisdom and tools to help them enter into deeper reflection and prayer to help them grow in holiness.
You can learn more about the project at:
https://recatholic.org/confession-cards/
I pray that this conversation helps to inspire you on your own journey towards sanctity, and also encorages you to go and support this important initiative.
To learn more about ReCatholic and its other efforts to bring about renewal in the Church, go to: https://recatholic.org/
Episode #148--"Finding Peace And Clarity In A World Of Chaos"
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why silence is the key to gaining clarity What happens when you are "not concerned about things outside your control" How the habit of entrusting your prayers to God results causes deep peace and trustMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Episode #147--"Changing Your Heart To Change Your Life"--Say Yes to Holiness Podcast
In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast episode, Christina shares Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help you change your heart in order to change your life.
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why faith is not as big a leap as the world tells us it is What we need aim for in order to find the target of our lives How we can find the narrow path and walk it all the way to eternityMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Episode #146--"Formation That Truly Transforms"--1:1 Podcast with Matt & Erin Ingold, Metanoia Catholic
The latest Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation is with Matt and Erin Ingold of Metanoia Catholic.
My conversation with Matt and Erin was wonderfully inspiring and encouraging one as we spoke about their faith journey and what their work at Metanoia Catholic is all about.
Erin and Matt Ingold combine their individual experiences in life coaching with their shared deep Catholic faith to form a unique program focused on the whole person. Each aspect of Metanoia Catholic seeks to transform individuals so they can enjoy greater faith, professional goals and personal experiences. Erin and Matt believe in helping each person discover and choose their greatest calling in life.
They accomplish this through a myriad of opportunities and resources--a journal, blog, podcast, online community and coaching, and a growing coaching community.In fact, we spoke about an upcoming initiative, Catholic Coaching Week, where people can "try out" coaching during the week of November 7th. You can sign up here
I pray that this conversation truly inspires you to continue doing WHATEVER IT TAKES on your journey towards holiness.
To learn more about Matt & Erin Ingold and Metanoia Catholic, go to: https://metanoiacatholic.com/
HAVE YOU HEARD??
Christina is one of the speakers for a FREE online Eucharistic Summit, being held December 6-8, entitled, "Sewing Hope into Broken Hearts." Click here to register!
Also, check out the new initiative being organized that is designed to help you become the Christian leader you were created to be, while giving you the tools and knowledge to help others do the same...
Episode #145--"The Unmeasurable Mercy of God"
In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast episode, Christina talks about God's mercy and the process that you can use to grow in your capacity to trust that same mercy...
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why we should not be afraid of God's will for us What we can do in order to increase our trust in God's mercy How growing in virtue becomes the key to overcoming gossip, intrigue and conspiracyMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Click here to register for the FREE upcoming Eucharistic Summit in which Christina is a speaker!
Episode #144--"You Are Precious To God"--1:1 Conversation with Jackie Stubblefield, Christian Blogger
The latest Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation is a beautiful conversation with Jackie Stubblefield, a Christian blogger who I connected with through a mutual friend, Sophia Lebano, who I had on the podcast last year (you can check out that episode here).
My conversation with Jackie focused upon her faith journey, but also her passion to try and help others deal with difficulties and tragedy in their lives through the sharing of Scripture.
Jackie's blog site was created to help women who are seeking hope, joy and a community that is ready to comfort by God’s Word.
Jackie wants people to know that you are not alone in your loss, and that God’s Word is so effective because it addresses the needs of each person at that particular moment.
Her family has gone through several losses in the last few years, but she shared how with God’s help it is still possible to have joy and feel God’s blessings.
Accompanying people wherever they are on the journey is a key part of walking together in union with our brothers and sisters in Christ, so I pray that my conversation with Jackie helps to inspire and encourage you to continue doing WHATEVER IT TAKES to do your part so that together we may tell the Master of Death, "Not today!"
To learn more about Jackie and her work, go to: https://jackiestubblefield.com/
Click here to register for the upcoming "Eucharistic Summit: Sewing Hope into Broken Hearts"
Episode #143--"Staying Faithful to the Path of Holiness"
The latest Say Yes to Holiness podcast episode has Christina sharing about her recent travels to Canada, Our Lady of the Rosary and the value of friendship along the path to holiness...
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why the rosary can help us grow in friendship What the works of mercy are designed to help us do How prayer can give us clarity about the priorities in our livesMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Click here to register for the FREE upcoming Eucharistic Summit in which Christina is a speaker!
Episode #142–“Seeking the Cross and Not Glory”
Episode #141--"Finding the Grace and Strength to Endure"--Say Yes to Holiness Podcast
The latest Say Yes to Holiness podcast episode focuses upon how we might go about finding the grace and strength to endure the daily ups and downs of life so we can experience a life of purpose, peace and abundance...
In this episode, Christina speaks about:
Why we must only wish for Christ What happens when you are faithful in small things How to learn to love the crosses in your life rather than be overwhelmed by themMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
Click here to get more information about the upcoming Personal Vocation and Leadership Mastermind.
Episode #140--"Striving for Peace and Justice, One Day at a Time"--1:1 Conversation with Brenda Noriega
This week’s Say Yes to Holiness podcast 1:1 Conversation is with Brenda Noriega, a speaker who I crossed paths with at the Given Institute Young Women's Catholic Leaders Forum held in Philadelphia.
I had first encountered Brenda in the midst of the Vth National Encuentro that was held in 2018 in Dallas, Texas. At the time, I was impressed with her passion to evangelize, but especially in her willingness to truly walk alongside and accompany those with whom she was sharing the Good News.
Brenda Noriega is a young minister committed to accompaniment and evangelization. She has been serving God’s people and influencing her community from an early age at the parish, diocesan, regional and national level.
Brenda earned a Master’s Degree in Pastoral Ministries from the University of Santa Clara. She collaborates in multiple national and international committees representing young people, including the International Youth Consultative Body for the Dicastery of Laity and Family Life.
She is passionate about holistic and transformational ministry including life, dignity, justice, and mission. Brenda is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Theology and Education at the School of Theology and Ministry in Boston College.
I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with Brenda, as so much of what she shared about is near and dear to my heart, too, especially holistic formation, justice, dignity and the mission of all lay people to help bring about the transformation of the world. She inspires me, ad I hope our conversation will inspire you as well!