The Springs in the Desert Podcast: Catholic Accompaniment Through Infertility

In this Desert Reflection, Jillian and Christina sit down to discuss the importance of keeping our focus on Christ as we travel the path of infertility. They discuss the idea of hope and how—even through ups and downs, and when the desires and dreams in life don't turn out the way we envisioned—we have the certainty of our "Great Hope" in Christ. Let's anchor our hope in Him today as we continue to walk this path together! Resources: Benedict XVI, Spe Salvi  

With the Solemnity of St. Joseph occurring during the month of March, we ponder the life of this holy man and what he teaches us about being a holy spouse. He has much to show us during a season of infertility, given the unique ways men and women were created and their unique ways of grieving and problem solving. We also discuss some of the history of St. Joseph and ways to celebrate and venerate him. St. Joseph, Comfort of the Sorrowing, pray for us! A Man's Take: St. Joseph w/Fr. Paul West Matthew, Chapter 1 & Chapter 2 Luke, Chapter 2 Book recommendation: Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father by: Fr. Donald H. Calloway, MIC Litany of St. Joseph Visit our website to learn more about Springs in the Desert, and make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram so that you don't miss a thing! We are walking with you on the path of infertility through our retreats and events, blog, podcast, resources, and more. Also, feel free to check out our sister ministry, Springs of Love, which encourages, educates, and equips Catholics to discern and live out the call to foster and adopt. God bless you!

In the third of a three-part Lenten miniseries, Jillian and Ann discuss the third pillar of Lent, almsgiving. Many people give money or material goods to the poor.  Jillian and Ann discuss other ways of doing justice pleasing to God.  Some examples include gifts of our time, skills, kind words, or prayers.  Tune in as they dig deeper into each one with concrete examples you may want to try! Resources:  Stepping into Lent: A Focus on Fasting Preparing for Lent: A Focus on Prayer Visit our website to learn more about Springs in the Desert, and make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram so that you don't miss a thing! We are walking with you on the path of infertility through our retreats and events, blog, podcast, resources, and more. Also, feel free to check out our sister ministry, Springs of Love, which encourages, educates, and equips Catholics to discern and live out the call to foster and adopt. God bless you! It is our honor to walk with you!

This podcast episode features practical ideas on how to help ease the burden of those suffering from infertility.  Ann, Jillian, and Christina share personal stories of people ministering to them and how they've helped others who are struggling.   This is a great episode for any family members or friends of someone carrying the burden of infertility who want some concrete advice on how they can help.  Or, if you are in a place where you feel called and able to lend a helping hand, please listen in and let us know what you think! Resources: Navigating Infertility Treatment with Your Healthcare Provider The Gift of Suffering  Bridget  Visit our website to learn more about Springs in the Desert, and make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram so that you don't miss a thing! We are walking with you on the path of infertility through our retreats and events, blog, podcast, resources, and more. Also, feel free to check out our sister ministry, Springs of Love, which encourages, educates, and equips Catholics to discern and live out the call to foster and adopt. God bless you!

In the second of a three part Lenten miniseries, Jillian and Ann discuss the second pillar of Lent, fasting.  Besides fasting from food, there are additional things you may want to try fasting from.  Some examples include fasting from negative thoughts, television, or social media.  Again, let's first come to the Lord and hear what His beautiful Lenten plan is for us!Resources: Link to the first Lenten minisode: https://anchor.fm/springsinthedesert/episodes/Desert-Reflections-03-Preparing-for-Lent-A-Focus-on-Prayer-e1v0l4e

It's Ash Wednesday and Lent has begun!  Do you every ask yourself why we do what we do during Lent?  Father Paul speaks with Ann and Jillian and explains where some of our Lenten penitential practices come from and the reason behind why we partake of them during this season.  This episode will surely give you a great start to these next 40 days! Resources: Invitation to Encounter (Lenten Virtual Retreat) https://springsinthedesert.org/encounter/ https://springsinthedesert.org/thoughts-on-embers-a-lenten-reflection/

In the first of a three part Lenten miniseries, Jillian and Ann sit down and discuss their prayer preparations for this penitential season. Sometimes the most fruitful prayer plans aren't complicated, rather simple, heartfelt and deeply sincere. But the first and most important step is to ask God what He desires of our prayer life this Lent.  Let us know what your prayer plans are! Resources:Catholic Apostolate Center https://www.catholicapostolatecenter.org/lent-and-easter-resources.html

This week's episode deals with pregnancy after a long period of infertility, and we know how sensitive this topic may be for some of you. Please listen with care, and know that we're here to walk with and support you. Team member, Stacey, talks with Ann and Cassandra about the range of emotions she faced when finding out she was pregnant after years of trying to conceive.  With great vulnerability and honesty the three friends discuss what it's like when a friend is blessed with a pregnancy, while you continue struggling with infertility. They get honest about how the friendship dynamic changes, and how to navigate it with sensitivity, compassion, and love. Resources:  https://springsinthedesert.org/holding-gabriel/ https://springsinthedesert.org/keeping-vigil-with-the-mother/ https://springsinthedesert.org/waiting-on-god/

Moving into a new home or apartment can be very exciting. Team members Jillian and Cassandra recently moved into new homes, and they discuss the blessings and challenges that come with the territory. Deliberating about what color to paint the walls or what couch to buy, at its worst can leave us frustrated with our new home or in an argument with our spouse, but at its best, shows our careful intentions and strong desire for hominess and hospitality, as well as the desire to open our home to family and friends for gatherings. Jillian and Cassandra also touch on the importance of a house blessing and how you can tie it into a housewarming party!

Dr. Marie Meaney is back again this week with Ann and Cassandra to focus the conversation around the sensitive topic of artificial reproductive technologies (ART) and what the Church teaches in this area. They dig into the reasoning behind these teachings, recognizing that God's law is not always easy to follow but that it's there for our ultimate good as well as our health and happiness. Resources:  When Expecting Doesn't Happen: Turning Infertility into a Journey of Hope by: Dr. Marie Meany https://stpaulcenter.com/product/when-expecting-doesnt-happen-turning-infertility-into-a-journey-of-hope/ Official Website of Chiara Corbella Petrillo https://www.chiaracorbellapetrillo.org/en/

In this Desert Reflection, Ann and Cassandra have a little fun talking about two words that came out of the Word of the Year generator, the words "witness" and "ask," and how those words can be applied in their personal lives and in this ministry. For example, are our words and actions a good "witness" to our faith in Him? Are we humble enough to "ask" people to pray for us?  Try the Word of the Year generator, and see what word can challenge you to live as a closer disciple of Jesus. Resources: Word of the Year generator: https://www.wordoftheyear.me/ Saint of the Year generator: https://saintsnamegenerator.com/

It seems like everyone has made a New Year's resolution at some point.  Some people succeed at keeping them through the year, but for the majority of us, they tend to fizzle out.  In this week's episode, Jillian, Ann and Cassandra discuss reasons humans are wired to make resolutions and the emotions that come when we don't meet our own expectations.  They draw similarities between this and the adventure of the spiritual life as well as the 'goals' we set in our unique fertility journeys. Resources: The Monk Manual - https://monkmanual.com/

Our very special guest this week is Dr. Marie Meaney, a philosopher, academic -  and a wife who knows well the isolation and suffering of infertility.  She joins Ann and Cassandra to discuss her book, "When Expecting Doesn't Happen: Turning Infertility into a Journey of Hope."  Dr. Meaney speaks with the eloquent and thoughtful words of a highly experienced and respected academic but with such sincerity and tenderness it'll feel as if she's speaking just to you.  Please don't miss out! Resources: When Expecting Doesn't Happen: Turning Infertility into a Journey of Hope by: Dr. Marie Meany https://stpaulcenter.com/product/when-expecting-doesnt-happen-turning-infertility-into-a-journey-of-hope/ Saint Pope John Paul II's Apostolic Letter titled, 'Salvifici Doloris: On the Christian Meaning of Human Suffering' https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/1984/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_11021984_salvifici-doloris.html

Allie and Cassandra chat with special guest Sydnee Blackburn about different ways spouses can prepare during Advent and celebrate during Christmas the joys and blessings of the season, even when this time of year may look different than anticipated. During this podcast, we hear about practical tips and traditions we can start with our own families no matter how big or small the size. Journeying through infertility during the quiet of Advent can help us better prepare for Christmas Day as we refocus on the most important gift of all, Jesus Christ. Please leave a comment below and let us know some Advent/Christmas traditions you have! Resources: How Far Is It To Bethlehem: The Plays and Poetry of Frances Chesterton by Frances Chesterton | Goodreads

Infertility comes up often in movies and TV shows.  For this week's podcast, Allie and Cassandra chat with Sydnee Blackburn about some of these specific movies and shows.  They discuss the good, the bad and the ugly of how infertility and loss are portrayed and dealt with.  If there's anything you've watched that you think does a great job in portraying infertility or maybe doesn't do a good job of it, we'd love to hear from you, so please drop a comment in the chat or on our social media page. Resources:    this clip from Julia and Julia and this link for Up.  this article from Catholic Stand that talks about the power of story, even in secular films.

In this episode, Allie and Cassandra welcome back Natalie Blackford to discuss Safe Families, a beautiful Christian program where you can volunteer to open your home to children in need of a temporary place to stay ranging anywhere from one day to three months. Natalie shares her family's joyous experience welcoming vulnerable children into their home and the impact it's had on herself, her husband, and her daughter. A very different type of program from foster care, Safe Families is all about living out the Gospel through loving God and others through serving the most vulnerable. Resources:  Safe Families Website: https://safe-families.org/  Reflection from the blog, titled, "Trusting God's Plan":https://springsinthedesert.org/trusting-gods-plan/

We invite you to listen this week to a very powerful interview between Ann, Jillian and Kelly Breaux, cofounder of Red Bird Ministries. Kelly shares a moving personal story of child and pregnancy loss, infertility, and the grief, anger and depression that followed in their wake. She opens up about how this experience deeply affected and challenged her relationships with God and her husband; but, it was navigating this suffering that ultimately brought her closer to both. Kelly will inspire you to become docile like the Blessed Mother and to carry your cross with the strength of Christ. Resources: Red Bird Ministries Website: https://www.redbird.love/

Our podcast this week features a conversation between Ann, Cassandra and NaPRO trained nurse practitioner, Caroline Gindhart. Caroline addresses common experiences and emotions that patients most often live through as they are seeking help. She offers advice on how to have a relationship with your medical care provider in which you feel heard and treated with dignity.  Caroline also offers some ideas for husbands to exhibit solidarity with their wives during the treatment process as well as discerning when it might be time to step back from some parts or all of treatment for a short time.  Whether you are seeing or have seen a practitioner regarding infertility issues or are considering seeking help for the first time, listening to this talk with Caroline will help you in your journey! Resources: Finding a NaPRO medical consultant in your area:  https://fertilitycare.org/find-a-mc Finding a Catholic doctor/practitioner in your area: https://mycatholicdoctor.com/                                                                                                                                                                                                             Caroline Gindhart's page on Divine Mercy Health: https://providers.upmc.com/provider/Caroline+Gindhart/1369089?_ga=2.64416422.826281554.1664362689-700830093.1664362689

This week, Stacey talks with longtime friend and mentor Father Jacob Meyer regarding pastoral care for those struggling with infertility.  What should priests do and say when a parishioner comes to them with this struggle?  Father Jacob speaks candidly about what he has learned  journeying with these couples and can offer practical advice for any priest unsure how to respond.  You'll surely want to share this with your parish priests! Resources for Your Pastor: https://springsinthedesert.org/resources/#Pastor Contact Us to Request Brochures or other resources to share with your pastor: https://springsinthedesert.org/contact-us/

This month, we welcome back Kim Colby to chat with Cassandra and Allie about her recent pilgrimage to Lourdes with the Archdiocese for the Military Services. We talk about prayer and healing in Lourdes, the intercession of Our Blessed Mother, and the blessings of making a pilgrimage while experiencing infertility, regardless of whether you travel locally, regionally, or abroad. Listen in and be uplifted in your walk with Christ! Resources: Vlog: Healing in Lourdes - https://springsinthedesert.org/healing-in-lourdes/ Blog: On Hope and Miracles - https://springsinthedesert.org/on-hope-and-miracles/ Podcast: Beyond Conception: Re-conceiving Healing in Infertility - https://open.spotify.com/episode/78Q1pyn9LtWSvg9bvUWfQ1 Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org. Attachments area

In this episode, we welcome Springs in the Desert contributor Kim Colby to the podcast along with returning guest Natalie Blackford. Each of these women has experienced  infertility while being a member of the military community - Kim and her husband both served on active duty and Natalie's husband currently serves. We talk about the culture of family life in the armed forces as well as the challenges that come with deployments and temporary duty travel (TDY) that form a part of military life. Listen in for advice on how to approach long periods of separation from your spouse and ideas for how to be fruitful in the waiting! Resources: Military Council of Catholic Women Catholic Military Life Podcast: "Kimberly Colby on Infertility in the Military"

In this episode, we welcome Christina Valenzuela from Pearl and Thistle back to the podcast to chat with Kimberly and Allie about her work as an NFP instructor using the Boston Cross Check method. We address many of the difficulties that couples with infertility experience while using NFP (how to include your spouse in the process, giving yourself permission to take a break, being honest with your practitioner, etc.). We discuss that while NFP can definitely lead to freedom in marriage, it's OK if NFP doesn't become a major part of your life, and it's even OK to let it go. Resources: Pearl and Thistle (https://www.pearlandthistle.com/#/) Boston Cross Check method of NFP (https://www.bostoncrosscheck.com/) Blog Post: Me and NFP, It's Complicated (https://springsinthedesert.org/me-and-nfp-its-complicated/)

In this episode, we welcome Christina Valenzuela from Pearl and Thistle to the podcast to chat with Kimberly and Allie about how our cycles/bodies as women are good, regardless of their "fertility status"! We talk about some of the lies that can crop up around this topic, and how to deal with them. Listen in and be reminded of the truth that your creation is a gift from God, even when life (and fertility) looks different than expected. Resources: Pearl and Thistle (https://www.pearlandthistle.com/#/) Mark 5:21-43 (https://bible.usccb.org/bible/mark/5) Blog Post: Maybe (https://springsinthedesert.org/maybe/)

In this episode, Stacey, Allie, and Abby discuss the temptation many of us feel to achieve fertility "at all costs" - from the pressure to take every last pill and undergo every procedure to believing the lie that God will withhold a baby if we choose to take a break from treatment. We share honestly about these temptations to make fertility an idol and speak the truth about our relationship with the Lord and our identity as His daughters. We also discuss how we are learning to trust and listen to Him above all the other voices, and to rest in His love. Listen in and know that you're not alone! Resources: Vlog: Am I doing enough? (https://springsinthedesert.org/am-i-doing-enough/) Article: The Charism of Infertility, by Tim O’Malley (https://churchlifejournal.nd.edu/articles/editorial-musings-the-charism-of-infertility/) Article: The Gift of Infertility by Dr. Jameson and Jennifer Taylor (https://catholicexchange.com/the-gift-of-infertility-part-4/) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

In this month’s episode of A Man’s Take, James welcomes Deacon Amarante, a good friend of Springs in the Desert. They discuss the experience of secondary infertility, seeking healing beyond just the physical means, the importance of turning toward your spouse through difficulties in marriage, and the call to greater love that exists within every marital vocation. Come along with us to have your spirit lifted in your walk as a son or daughter of God! Resources: Blog: Love in Infertility (https://springsinthedesert.org/love-in-infertility/) Blog: Infertility and Healing (https://springsinthedesert.org/infertility-and-healing/) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

In this month’s episode of A Man’s Take, James welcomes his good friend Fr. Paolo Puccini, CSP to the podcast to talk about vocation and the call to live for others. They discuss discernment, living out their respective vocations without biological children, and how both the sacraments of Matrimony and Holy Orders point us to Heaven. Come along with us to have your spirit lifted in your walk as a son or daughter of God! Resources: Blog: What’s In A Name (https://springsinthedesert.org/whats-in-a-name/) Blog: Finding Fatherhood in Infertility (https://springsinthedesert.org/finding-fatherhood-in-infertility/) Paulist Fathers (https://paulist.org/) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

In today’s episode, Cassandra, Allie and Ann talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to social media use as Catholic women experiencing infertility. They chat about everything from receiving support from others online to struggling with pregnancy announcements and gender reveal photos, and share practical ways they are learning to use social media intentionally. Listen in and know you're not alone! Resources: Podcast: Comfort and Joy: Surviving "Announcement" Season w/ Natalie Blackford https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/comfort-and-joy-surviving-announcement-season-w/id1519015883?i=1000541308366

Made For Greatness (www.madeforgreatness.co) Blog Post: The Heart of a Mother is Built into Me (https://springsinthedesert.org/the-heart-of-a-mother-is-built-into-me/) Blog Post: The Vocation Idol (https://springsinthedesert.org/the-vocation-idol/) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

In today’s episode Ann welcomes Jillian and Alissa, who both work in ministry, to talk about how pastors and fellow parishioners can offer encouragement and understanding to those in a season of infertility. They discuss how priests and parish staff can support women and couples and help them to feel welcome and part of the parish family. And, they give some practical tips on how to approach pastors for support. Resources: Blog Post: Mother’s Day is Hard, and Father Should Know - Alissa West Blog Post: Prayer in a Season of Infertility - Cayce Farina Resource: 5 Things I Wish My Pastor Knew About Infertility Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook!

In this episode, Allie welcomes new guests Michele Chronister and Danielle Abril, who both work in the Office of Natural Family Planning within the Archdiocese of St. Louis. We share personal stories of infertility and loss and discuss how the Archdiocese of St. Louis is currently reaching out to couples experiencing these crosses. If you are looking for support locally within your own church or Diocese, Michele and Danielle give some wonderful suggestions and thoughts for you to consider! Please join us and know that you are not alone. Resources: Blog Post: Everything Is Yours: Surrendering to God’s Plan by Danielle Abril (https://springsinthedesert.org/everything-is-yours-surrendering-to-gods-plan/) Video: Archdiocese of St. Louis Monthly Enkindle Rosary w/ Cassandra Taylor: (https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=560115188592194) Blog: Unrepeatable Blessings by Danielle Dyann Abril (https://unrepeatableblessings.com/) Blog: My Domestic Monastery by Michele Chronister (https://www.mydomesticmonastery.com/) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

In this episode, Allie and Cassandra welcome new guest and Springs in the Desert team member Jillian Kubik to share her story of how the Lord is helping her grow in her vocation as a wife, through her adventures as a “roamin' ” Catholic, and through the experiences of infertility and loss. In our discussion, we recall the importance of rest: from the Spanish siesta to God the Father Himself resting on the seventh day to the words of Our Lord, “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). The Lord wants us to give Him all of our burdens, including infertility. Join us for an encouraging conversation as we together seek to allow this Lenten season to be a time of truly resting in and growing closer to the Lord. Resources: Scripture: Matthew, Chapter 11 (https://bible.usccb.org/bible/matthew/11) Scripture: Genesis, Chapter 2 (https://bible.usccb.org/bible/genesis/2) Blog Post: I believe, help my unbelief - Prayer in a Season of Infertility (https://springsinthedesert.org/i-believe-help-my-unbelief-prayer-in-a-season-of-infertility/) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

Lent has arrived and we are reminded that we must begin all things with rest in the Lord! In this episode, Allie, Stacey and Abby discuss the importance of physical, spiritual, and emotional rest and the lies we sometimes believe about rest, especially around the experience of infertility. We also talk about simple ways that we’re learning to rest more fully in the Lord through both prayer and play. Come listen in to feel encouraged as a daughter of God! Resources: Blog Post: Mother Theresa and the Struggle with Infertility (https://springsinthedesert.org/mother-teresa-and-the-struggle-with-infertility/) Book: Do Something Beautiful for God, The Essential Teachings of Mother Theresa (https://www.amazon.com/Something-Beautiful-God-Essential-Reflections/dp/1635821207) Book: Abide by Heather Khym (https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/abide-heather-khym/1140461370) Podcast: Fit Body, Happy Joints (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fit-body-happy-joints/id1561242280?i=1000545130473) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This month, we welcome new guest Sterling Jaquith to discuss how her work as a Catholic life coach can help those of us struggling with infertility, particularly when it comes to our thoughts. We explore the idea of “managing your mind”, which is not the same thing as non-Catholic practices such as “mindfulness”, but instead encourages us to see ourselves the way God sees us, so that we can rest more fully in Him. Join us for this uplifting and thought-provoking conversation! Resources: Made For Greatness (www.madeforgreatness.co) Made for Greatness Podcast, “Being Judgmental” (https://www.madeforgreatness.co/65-2/) The Discernment of Spirits, Podcast from Dan Burke (https://spiritualdirection.com/2016/04/22/introduction-to-discernment-of-spirits) The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence (https://www.amazon.com/Practice-Presence-God-Brother-Lawrence/dp/0883681056) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This month, Ann, Allie, and Cassandra talk about the one event that brings some of the most intense feelings for those of us women who experience infertility: the baby shower. Whether you’ve struggled with the decision to attend, felt guilty for declining to attend when you’ve needed space to grieve, or failed to make it through without crying, this episode is for you. We share honestly about the challenges, the real feelings of grief, and the opportunities for living out the virtue of generosity that come with invitations to baby showers. Listen in and know that you’re not alone! Resources: Blog post: "Reimagining Generosity" https://springsinthedesert.org/reimagining-generosity/ Blog post: "The Unspoken, Invisible Suffering of Infertility: A Counselor’s Take" https://springsinthedesert.org/the-unspoken-invisible-suffering-of-infertility-a-counselors-take/ Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This month, we warmly welcome new guest Sydnee to the podcast to discuss some of our expectations going into marriage, particularly around our visions for our jobs and careers when it came to our hoped-for children. We talk about how we’re working through some of those unmet expectations and challenges, and finding fruitfulness in our work now, whatever it looks like, even though it might be different than what we hoped. We also discuss the beauty of our primary vocation of being a wife, and how we’re learning and growing in this area to better care for our home and our husbands. Resources: The Monk Manual – A Daily System for Being and Doing (https://monkmanual.com/) Essays on Woman by Edith Stein (https://www.icspublications.org/products/essays-on-woman-the-collected-works-of-edith-stein-vol-2) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This month, we welcome back Abby Kyle to chat with Stacey and Allie about the blessings and spiritual fruitfulness that can come through our jobs and careers. We also talk honestly about some of the unique challenges around working, especially in ministry, when struggling with infertility. If you love your job or career, or if you sometimes feel pressure to “work more hours” when you don’t have children, or if you struggle to find balance between work and rest, then this episode is for you! We share from the heart about these unique challenges and talk about how the Lord is constantly inviting us to intimacy with Him above all else. We also discuss the importance of prioritizing our primary vocations as spouses to our husbands, even as we feel the demanding pull of our jobs. Listen in for this honest chat and know that you’re not alone! Resources: Life of the Beloved by Henri Nouwen (https://www.amazon.com/Life-Beloved-Spiritual-Living-Secular/dp/0824519868) A Psalter for Couples (https://bookstore.magnificat.net/a-psalter-for-couples.html) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

In our last episode for 2021, Ann is joined by Springs in the Desert team members Cassi and Ian for an open conversation about Advent and Christmas in a season of infertility. Waiting for Jesus can be hard when accompanied by waiting for a gift (a biological child) that we may never receive. Cassi and Ian share their infertility story, including the moments of emptiness that can still challenge their ability to enter fully into the season. They speak candidly about how difficult it can be to “see miracles” in the midst of infertility, and the necessity of looking to the Holy Family not as an unattainable ideal, but to find solace and encouragement in the great hardships and struggles they faced. Christmas is the season of “God with us,” and even when we can’t quite perceive Him, He is travelling this path with us every step of the way. Resources: The Reed of God, by Caryll Houselander. This is a spiritual classic that is perfect for reading during Advent and Christmas, or anytime we need encouragement that God is with us. Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram

In today’s episode Ann welcomes two special guests, Stacy and Todd Stephenson, who are members of our Springs in the Desert community. Stacy and Todd share their story of love, marriage, and infertility, and we chat about experiencing the holidays during a season of infertility. Though the holidays are a time of joy and celebration, they can be difficult to navigate and elicit sadness for many of us; for example, when we are separated from family, have lost a loved one, or while we are struggling with infertility. In this conversation, we explore the many ways we can find joy as families of two during Advent and Christmas, by seeking to build up our marriages and strengthen our own domestic churches. Listen in to find accompaniment and encouragement for the season ahead! Resources: Praying together helps us grow closer, and be open to receiving the peace of our Savior. Stacy and Todd pray the Novena to Christ the King. We also suggest praying the Saint Andrew’s Christmas Novena during Advent. Read Stacy and Todd’s post on the Springs in the Desert blog: We Are a Family Quick Tips: Pray together! Bring any sadness or other emotions to the Lord. Be vulnerable as He came into this world so small and vulnerable. Deck the halls! Incorporate ornaments, music and food from your families of origin, and put your unique spin on them to create new holiday traditions. Share your favorite holiday memories with each other. It’s a great way to learn more about each other and strengthen your bond. Open your home to others in hospitality and share the Christmas cheer! But take time with each other, too, to listen to Christmas music, watch a movie or just sit quietly in the glow of Christmas lights.

This month, we warmly welcome new guest Jen to the podcast. Jen and Kimberly share from the heart about their experiences of adoption and how they discerned this calling from God. Please join us for this uplifting conversation as we explore how we can trust in the Lord, even it times of great uncertainty and through the grief of infertility, that He has a good plan for each of us. You’ll hear about the beauty of adoption, some encouragement if you’re considering it, and practical tips for how to begin discerning this possible calling in your marriage. Resources: Found Documentary (Netflix) Wait No More by Kelly & John Rosati Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This month, we warmly welcome new guest Natalie to the podcast to hear her story of unexplained secondary infertility. We talk about the upcoming holiday season and how pregnancy announcements can be especially difficult during this time. We share how God is helping us hold onto joy amidst the sorrow and pain we feel, and how He has a good plan for each of us and for everyone who struggles with infertility. We end with some practical tips, prayers, and ideas for navigating difficult moments of grief during this season of joy and announcements. Resources: You can follow Natalie on Instagram at: @natalie_m_blackford or on Facebook: Natalie Blackford. St Andrew Christmas Novena: https://www.praymorenovenas.com/st-andrew-christmas-novena. Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This month, James welcomes Ian back to the podcast for a fun chat about the importance of pursuing hobbies as men, especially when dealing with infertility. Join us for this light-hearted discussion about how infertility has presented us with new opportunities for growth with the Lord and for creativity as sons of God. The Lord continues to stretch us and draw us to Him in so many ways, and our hobbies are an important part of that. Come along with us to have your spirit lifted in your walk as a son of God! Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

Today, we talk honestly about healing and infertility. For some of us, healing in a season of infertility may mean eventually conceiving and giving birth to a child. But many of us are trying to conceive and becoming exhausted and discouraged. Some have received a definitive diagnosis that makes the possibility nearly, or absolutely, impossible. Others are entering menopause or are now past childbearing age, yet still feeling the pangs of pain from a desire that will not be fulfilled. For all of us, the questions remain: Can I be healed? What does healing look like for me? How has God been working in my life to heal me already? Kimberly, Ann and Cassandra discuss the pain of infertility feels like and how it can be described, and think together about what healing in our infertility even looks like outside of conceiving and giving birth. They reflect on how God has touched their lives so far and acknowledge that grief and healing can be a lifelong process. Finally, they share some practical ways that we can cooperate with God’s grace in order to invite Him into our pain, as we place our hope of being healed in Him alone. Resources for this episode: More on Cassandra’s experience at Lourdes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOdTv9PdndU Lourdes grotto webcam: https://www.lourdes-france.org/en/tv-lourdes/ How to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet: https://www.thedivinemercy.org/message/devotions/pray-the-chaplet If you enjoy this podcast, please rate and review it so that we can reach more people with this message of hope. And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, please email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This month Allie and Stacey welcome new guest Abby to discuss femininity in infertility. They share from the heart about their own struggles and the easily believed lie that equates womanhood with bearing children. They chat about the truth that God calls each of us to a deeper understanding of our femininity, and the many ways we can live it out. We hope you’ll join us to be blessed and uplifted by this conversation! Resources: My Sisters the Saints by Colleen Carroll Campbell (https://www.ignatius.com/My-Sisters-the-Saints-P1779.aspx) The Wild Goose Series (https://thewildgooseisloose.com/wild-goose-main-page) Podcast Series on Servant of God Elisabeth Leseur (https://open.spotify.com/episode/0fIlYh7cEC2gIEDbURRc0n) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

Although we may not think of it in this way, infertility is often as much a spiritual battle as it is a physical and emotional one. Even as we are told to “relax” and “just enjoy ourselves,” we do all the things to try and conceive, which puts pressure on us, causes stress, and perhaps leads to lack of faith in the God who loves us and wants what is good for us. In this episode Ann, Cassandra and Kimberly get real about the negative thoughts that can destroy our peace, and how the Evil One tries to “push our buttons” to make us believe God is punishing us, withholding His gifts, and even that He doesn’t really love us. They share their personal experiences of battling negativity and offer practical suggestions for turning negative thoughts into opportunities to see God’s grace in abundance. Finally, they share the truth that every woman, regardless of her struggle with infertility, is a beloved daughter of God! Resources for this episode: Searching for and Maintaining Peace, by Fr. Jaques Philippe https://spiritualdirection.com/ has abundant resources on prayer, spiritual direction and battling the lies Satan throws in our path to make us stumble If negative feelings are adversely affecting your mental health and/or your marital relationship, counseling and therapy are amazing ways that God uses to bring about healing and peace. Check out https://wellcatholic.com/ or https://www.catholictherapists.com/ to find help that is in accord with your faith and values If you enjoy this podcast, please rate and review it so that we can reach more people with this message of hope. And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, please email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

Stacey is joined by Katie and Anna for Natural Family Planning Awareness Week 2021. We discuss the good, bad, and the ugly when it comes to using NFP when you're having difficulty conceiving.  Language matters and we discuss the different NFP lingo (including the term Natural Family Planning itself) and the connotations we have with them.  Finally, we talk about the importance of allowing for a break, whether it's for your mental health or the health of your marriage.  You are under No Obligation to do Everything At All Times to increase your chances of pregnancy, and sometimes the best thing to do is to take a big step away from the chart/app/medications. Prayer we mentioned: https://pintswithaquinas.libsyn.com/122-how-to-order-your-life-with-fr-ryan-mann Website for NFP Method comparisons: https://www.managingyourfertility.com/ Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram

James welcomes Ian to this “A Man’s Take” podcast episode to discuss Father’s Day and marriage as men experiencing infertility. They share insights into how infertility has impacted their marriages: some of the challenges and opportunities it has presented, how it’s provided a unique path to holiness, and with their wives, they’re moving forward with the Lord into new life after infertility. Please listen in! Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This month Cassi and Allie continue our discussion on spiritual motherhood with two very special guests: Sister Anna Rose and Sister Mary Gemma, Franciscan Sisters Third Order Regular of Penance of the Sorrowful Mother! They share from the heart about their experiences of spiritual maternity and the very real desire for physical motherhood, and they provide encouragement for women walking the difficult path of infertility to embrace their own call to spiritually mother – that is, to love, nurture and raise others up to God in a way that is uniquely feminine. We hope you’ll join us to be blessed and uplifted by these beautiful sisters! Resources: Nuns and Babies: Part One, Blog Post from Cassi (https://www.springsinthedesert.org/nuns-and-babies-part-1/) Franciscan Sisters TOR of Penance of the Sorrowful Mother (https://www.franciscansisterstor.org/) Franciscan Sisters TOR of Penance of the Sorrowful Mother, Life of Intercessory Prayer: Spiritual Motherhood (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwLTNxeplUg) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

It’s National Infertility Awareness Week, and we warmly welcome Katie and Alissa to the podcast to chat with Allie about times we’ve felt supported by others through the experience of primary or secondary infertility. We share examples of how family, friends, clergy, and others have prayed, loved, and cared for us through the difficulties and grief we’ve faced. Through this support, we’ve received the tremendous gifts of increased intimacy, growth in prayer, and an expanded understanding of fruitfulness. Resources: Blog Post from Sydnee for NIAW (https://www.springsinthedesert.org/how-to-overcome-the-isolation-of-infertility-part-one/) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This month, James welcomes Fr. Paul Varchola West to the podcast to chat about the man of the year, St. Joseph! The life of St. Joseph is profoundly inspiring for those of us experiencing infertility and loss. Listen in as James and Fr. Paul discuss what we know about St. Joseph from the Bible, how we can relate to him through the experience of infertility, and how we can better devote ourselves to his intercession. St. Joseph, pray to God for us! Show Notes/Resources: “My Plans are Not Your Plans”: The Calling of St. Joseph by Michael Dominic Taylor (https://springsinthedesert.org/under-the-patronage-of-st-joseph/) Patris Corde, Apostolic Letter by Pope Francis (http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20201208_patris-corde.html) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This month we warmly welcome Cassi to the podcast to chat with Stacey and Allie about the truth that God made each and every woman – regardless of whether she bears biological children – to be a mother; that is, to love, nurture, and raise others up to God in a way that is uniquely feminine.  We call this “spiritual motherhood”. We chat about our own misconceptions about spiritual motherhood, what this motherhood looks like lived out in examples from our own lives, what we can learn from priests and religious, and how truly beautiful it is that all women, including those of us carrying the cross of infertility, are called to mother right now, just as we are. “The body, and it alone, is capable of making visible what is invisible, the spiritual and divine. It was created to transfer into the visible reality of the world, the invisible mystery hidden in God from time immemorial, and thus to be a sign of it.” (Pope St. John Paul II). Show Notes/Resources: Blog Post from Cassi (https://springsinthedesert.org/2021/01/28/living-in-holland/) Spiritual Motherhood: Every Woman’s Calling (Alice vonHildebrand) (https://www.plough.com/en/topics/life/parenting/spiritual-motherhood) Spiritual Maternity Sodality (https://spiritualmaternity.org/the-essence-of-spiritual-motherhood/) Undone by Carrie Schuchts Daunt (https://www.avemariapress.com/products/undone) Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

We begin the New Year welcoming Cassandra Taylor to the podcast to tell her story of romance, marriage, travel – and a cancer diagnosis that dashed her hopes of ever bearing a child. Allie, Ann and Cassandra talk about how our hopes and dreams for marriage and the expectations we bring into that relationship can be turned upside down, either breaking us or becoming an opportunity to build a stronger marriage that holds unexpected possibilities for fruitfulness. Read more about Cassandra’s story on our blog (https://springsinthedesert.org/author/cassandrataylor16/). We talked about St. Teresa of Calcutta – a superstar saint and intercessor who had “great expectations” in following the Lord, yet lived for decades in “spiritual darkness.” Nevertheless, she continually surrendered herself to Jesus’ mercy. We recommend a collection of her letters, Come Be My Light. Here’s the money quote assuring us that no matter how we feel, Jesus is suffering with us, transforming us, loving us: “In you today - He wants to relive His submission to His Father – allow Him to do so. Does not matter what you feel-as long as He feels alright in you. Take away your eyes from your self and rejoice that you have nothing - that you are nothing - that you can do nothing. Give Jesus a big smile – each time your nothingness frightens you.” Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! Join our community by following us on Facebook and Instagram.  And if you need prayers, someone to listen, or you want to tell your story on our blog, email us at info@springsinthedesert.org.

This special episode of the Springs in the Desert Podcast was recorded as part of our Advent virtual mini-retreat, "Praying Through Infertility." Several members of our team got together to talk about their experiences with prayer and their relationship with God as individuals, and in marriage. They shared struggles and challenges, as well as the good fruits of prayer for their marriages, and in carrying the burden of infertility. Special thanks for this episode to Andrea Mahoney, Phil and Stacey Huneck, Kimberly Henkel, Fr. Paul and Alissa West, and Keith and Ann Koshute. This podcast would not be possible without the skill and dedication of our Producer, Kathryn Wood. Like us on Facebook - and join our private group for discussion, inspiration and prayer requests. Follow us on Instagram @springs_if, subscribe to, rate and review the podcast, read the blog and find other resources at http://www.springsinthedesert.org. Email us with questions, prayer requests or if you want to get involved in our ministry: info@springsinthedesert.org. Thank you for listening and have a blessed and joy-filled Christmas Season and a Happy New Year!!

This book, Under the Laurel Tree: Grieving Infertility with Saints Joachim and Anna by Nicole M. Roccas, has so much wisdom to offer anyone suffering with infertility! Join Ann, Allie, and Stacey as they discuss thanksgiving in infertility: how we can actively choose to be grateful for God's blessings even in the midst of pain, uncertainty, and fear of the future. They share how the marriage of Saints Anna and Joachim provides hope that God's glory can be revealed in us, no matter how our infertility journey ends. Resources: Under the Laurel Tree book by Nicole M. Roccas https://store.ancientfaith.com/under-the-laurel-tree/ The Protoevangelium of James https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/0847.htm Remember Your Death: Memento Mori Journal by Sr. Theresa Aletheia Noble, FSP https://www.amazon.com/Remember-Your-Death-Journal-Memento/dp/0819865214 Connect with us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/SpringsintheDesert/) Or Instagram! (https://www.instagram.com/springs_if/)

This book, Under the Laurel Tree, Grieving Infertility with Saints Joachim and Anna by Nicole M. Roccas, has so much wisdom to offer anyone suffering with infertility! Join Ann, Allie, and Stacey as they discuss some of the "tough stuff" of infertility, including challenges in prayer and strong emotions like anger and despair. They share how wisdom from the book provides hope for moving from their personal experiences of the dark parts of infertility toward greater intimacy with God. Resources: Under the Laurel Tree book by Nicole M. Roccas https://store.ancientfaith.com/under-the-laurel-tree/ The Protoevangelium of James https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/0847.htm Grieving Together: A Couple's Journey Through Miscarriage https://www.amazon.com/Grieving-Together-Couples-Journey-Miscarriage/dp/1681921863 In God's Hands Miscarriage and Bereavement Ministry https://www.stthomasofvillanova.org/in-gods-hands.html Songs of Praise: A Psalter for Orthodox Women https://store.ancientfaith.com/songs-of-praise-a-psalter-devotional-for-orthodox-women/ Connect with us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/SpringsintheDesert/) Or Instagram! (https://www.instagram.com/springs_if/)

This book, Under the Laurel Tree, Grieving Infertility with Saints Joachim and Anna by Nicole M. Roccas, has so much wisdom to offer anyone suffering with infertility! Join Ann, Allie, and Stacey as they discuss the theme of grief and infertility. They share moving wisdom from the book and quotes that speak to and affirm the difficult experience of infertility grief, and they discuss insights and personal examples from their lives about how men and women grieve differently. Resources: Under the Laurel Tree book by Nicole M. Roccas https://store.ancientfaith.com/under-the-laurel-tree/ The Protoevangelium of James https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/0847.htm Springs in the Desert "A Man's Take" Episode on Grief and Counseling https://open.spotify.com/episode/0AaiktW7RJsM7wSwHdyJ2b The Traditional Stages of Grief (Kubler-Ross Model) https://www.healthline.com/health/stages-of-grief#denial Connect with us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/SpringsintheDesert/) Or Instagram! (https://www.instagram.com/springs_if/)

In this episode of A Man's Take, join James and special guest Edward Luersman, a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in supporting individuals and couples who experience the pain of infertility and miscarriage.  James and Edward discuss the grief of infertility from the man's perspective, the benefits of counseling, and how couples can best support each other through infertility and loss. Resources: Contact Information for Edward Luersman, LPC, Spirit of Peace Clinical Counseling http://www.spiritofpeaceclinicalcounseling.com/meet-our-team/edward-luersman/ Understanding the Way Men Grieve by J. Scott Janssen, MSW, LCSW https://www.socialworktoday.com/archive/exc_0816.shtml The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John M. Gottman and Nan Silver https://www.gottman.com/product/the-seven-principles-for-making-marriage-work/ The Infertility Companion for Catholics : Spiritual and Practical Support for Couples by Carmen Santamaría and Angelique Ruhi-López https://www.avemariapress.com/products/The-Infertility-Companion-for-Catholics Connect with us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/SpringsintheDesert/) Or Instagram! (https://www.instagram.com/springs_if/)

Spiritual, emotional, and physical self-care are essential as we seek to hold onto hope and joy in the midst of infertility and its roller coaster of emotions, challenges, and grief.  Self-care is so much more than a spa day! Join Ann, Cayce, Stacey, Phil, and Allie as they discuss the meaning of self-care as well as personal examples of implementing a self-care routine in the context of infertility. Resources: The 5 Love Languages (https://www.5lovelanguages.com/) Connect with us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/SpringsintheDesert/) Or Instagram! (https://www.instagram.com/springs_if/)

In this Women at the Well virtual book club episode on The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, Kimberly, Allie, and Stacey discuss the marriage of Servant of God Elisabeth Leseur and her atheist husband Felix.  They discuss how prayer is the foundation that allows Elisabeth to joyfully fulfill her role as loving wife to her husband, trusting God with the difficulties, longings, and disappointments.  They share how Elisabeth provides many hopeful examples of how to navigate infertility within their marriages. Resources The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur (https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/the-secret-diary-of-elisabeth-leseur) The Cause for Canonization of Elisabeth Leseur (www.elcause.org) Prayer asking for the Intercession of Elisabeth Leseur - Hannah's Tears (https://hannahstears.org/2011/10/16/elisabeth-leseur-servant-of-god/) The 5 Love Languages (https://www.5lovelanguages.com/) Connect with us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/SpringsintheDesert/) Or Instagram! (https://www.instagram.com/springs_if/)

In this Women at the Well virtual book club episode on The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, Kimberly, Allie, and Stacey discuss the interior life of Servant of God Elisabeth Leseur.  They share how Elisabeth's example of prayer life, especially her ability to trust God and to allow suffering to bring her closer to Him, brings hope to their personal experiences of infertility. Resources The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur (https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/the-secret-diary-of-elisabeth-leseur) The Cause for Canonization of Elisabeth Leseur (www.elcause.org) Prayer asking for the Intercession of Elisabeth Leseur - Hannah's Tears (https://hannahstears.org/2011/10/16/elisabeth-leseur-servant-of-god/) Connect with us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/SpringsintheDesert/) Or Instagram! (https://www.instagram.com/springs_if/)

In this Women at the Well virtual book club episode on The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, Kimberly, Allie and Stacey discuss the powerful examples of spiritual maternity in the life of Elisabeth Leseur, who spiritually mothered many people, from family members and godchildren to friends, and even her own atheist husband.  They share personal reflections on Elisabeth's life that relate to their experiences of infertility and they discuss how to live out the call to spiritual motherhood that is innate to the heart of every woman. Resources The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur The Cause for Canonization of Elisabeth Leseur www.elcause.org Prayer asking for the Intercession of Elisabeth Leseur - Hannah's Tears https://hannahstears.org/2011/10/16/elisabeth-leseur-servant-of-god/ Spiritual Motherhood: Every Woman's Calling by Alice von Hildebrand https://www.plough.com/en/topics/life/parenting/spiritual-motherhood Connect with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/SpringsintheDesert/ Or Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/springs_if/

Discerning treatment can be one of the most difficult aspects of the experience of infertility for some couples.  During a live event, members of the Springs in the Desert Team respond to questions and discuss their personal experiences of praying through decisions about infertility treatment, the impact of infertility treatment on their marriages, the need for self-care, and relating to others about their treatment decisions. Kimberly addresses the love and protection the Church provides through her teachings about approved, ethical treatments for infertility. Resources from this episode: The Infertility Companion for Catholics Discerning the Will of God and Discernment of Spirits by Fr. Timothy Gallagher, OMV What Does God Want? by Fr. Michael Scanlan Donum Vitae Recent Blog Post from Lynn on the Experience of Vaginismus

A relationship with God is essential for men to fulfill their mission of becoming saints and leading their wives to Heaven. In this debut episode of 'A Man's Take', a feature of the Springs in the Desert Podcast, James and Phil discuss the importance of prayer and discipline for walking together with their wives through the difficulties of infertility.  They share personal examples of how greater intimacy with Christ can strengthen marriage and draw men closer to their wives. Resources from this episode: Exodus 90, a 90-Day Catholic spiritual exercise for men https://exodus90.com/  The Daily Examen (St. Ignatius of Loyola)

Infertility often brings a particular kind of suffering that feels isolating and may negatively impact relationships. In our first episode of the Springs in the Desert Podcast, we address the unique challenges that infertility presents for productive communication with our spouse, family and friends, and others.  During a live event, members of the Springs in the Desert Team respond to questions and share personal experiences of learning to better communicate while carrying the burden of infertility in our marriages.  We also offer ideas for addressing intrusive questions and discuss communicating our pastoral needs within our church communities. Resources from this episode: Why Does God Let Bad Things Happen? Homily by Fr. Mike Schmitz Akathist to Jesus, Light to Those in Darkness, by Fr. Lawrence P. Farley The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, by Elisabeth Leseur Theme Music: Eternal Hope by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100238 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

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