Criticism of oneself or others is highly demoralizing.  As Catholic Christians we are called to inspire and encourage one another which includes ourselves as well. Yet, all too often it becomes an easy habit of finding fault instead of focusing on the positive.  Pointing out the negative aspects in people can be quite tempting.  In order for us to be the best version of ourselves and to help others do the same, we must make every effort to find the redeeming value rather than falling into the practice of being overly critical.  Let’s talk about this and see how it affects our spirituality.  Call in and share your take. 1-800-585-9396.

The history of our lives is a powerful force that can even invade our subconscious.  If we obsess on our history, then our destiny can never truly be celebrated.  God has a plan for each and every one of us.  Staying in our history, with regrets, shame and all, is like a slow death.  Learning from our past can be beneficial, but unfortunately it rarely stops there for most of us.  Focusing on the past can be quite paralyzing for our spiritual growth.  Negative thoughts and feelings tend to impede our forward movement.  Plus, looking back never really allows us to enjoy the present moment.  These are all things we come up against, so let’s learn together from our experiences.  Call in to 1-800-585-9396.

Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.

Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

The word “peace” is used over 400 times in the Bible.  So what does that tell us?  Could it be that we must be instruments of peace in our homes and communities, just as we hear in the St. Francis Prayer? The home should be a safe haven for all who dwell in it.  The family is the domestic church, which means we must begin in the home.  Would you say that you work hard to keep peace in your home?  How do you think your children would describe their experience growing up in the home?  We live in a world, where it is very hard to truly find and maintain peace. This conversation on Thursday’s show will be about how we can bring back peace, joy and laughter into our dwelling places.  Call in and share some practical advice on how you keep a peaceful household. 1-800-585-9396

The word “peace” is used over 400 times in the Bible.  So what does that tell us?  Could it be that we must be instruments of peace in our homes and communities, just as we hear in the St. Francis Prayer? The home should be a safe haven for all who dwell in it.  The family is the domestic church, which means we must begin in the home.  Would you say that you work hard to keep peace in your home?  How do you think your children would describe their experience growing up in the home?  We live in a world, where it is very hard to truly find and maintain peace. This conversation on Thursday’s show will be about how we can bring back peace, joy and laughter into our dwelling places.  Call in and share some practical advice on how you keep a peaceful household. 1-800-585-9396

Everyone either knows a Catholic, was a practicing Catholic or wants to convert a Catholic. Isn’t is so incredibly frustrating when folks like that tell you what you believe rather than asking you?  For some reason, Catholics have become fair game to these types of people. It seems as though some want to validate their erroneous ideas about Catholicism by cornering a Catholic and basically leaving them unable to defend their faith.  If we want others to ask us what we believe, we really must know and understand the faith.  This is a big responsibility but that is why ongoing catechesis is a must for all of us in order to evangelize this world we live in.  Let’s talk about this scenario and more on Tuesday’s Take 2 with Jerry and Debbie. Here’s the number to call in and be on the show. 1-800-585-9396.

Let’s all start off 2018 with an attitude of gratitude.  Did you know that there are many benefits in life that are gained from having a grateful disposition?  On Monday, we will explore all the health and relationship advantages we can obtain by developing a grateful heart. Call in and share your practical techniques for maintaining a sense of gratitude for everything and anything in life.  This will be a great discussion with your participation.  Call in to 1-800-585-9396.

Every human being is in search of his or her identity. We are each created by an all-powerful, all-loving God for a particular purpose in His overall plan. Some people understand this on a conscious level. For others, it’s perhaps subconscious, but no less real. Maybe the most asked question of all time – again, either intentionally or not – is “Who am I?” How would you answer that question in a few short words? A beloved son or daughter of God? The husband or wife of…? A member of the (insert name here) family? A forgiven sinner? Someone with a particular vision or mission to accomplish in life? Share with us your personal statement that sums up your identity at this point in your life. Call us 1-800-585-9396.

There are myriad sources for news these days. Radio. TV. Internet. Social media. Fake news. Authentic news. Cable networks. Blogs. Most people, over time, sift through the various options and make decisions about where they are going to go to get their news. So the question we are asking is, how do you stay informed?  Everyone, to some degree, wants to stay up on current affairs.  So which news sources do you trust for your information? Call in and share at 1-800-585-9396.

Jerry is traveling for the holidays, but he still made time to share with us his personal favorite Christmas carol. So unless you want to hear an entire hour of Debbie humming all her favorite carols, let it be your chance to share with the world which songs you like best and why.  We will not put you on the spot and ask you to sing even a part of your favorite song, but we will ask how the song speaks to your heart and soul.  Call us at 1-800-585-9396.

Oh the small talk, the abundance of food and drink, seems like a fun time right?  Maybe not for some of us. Holiday gatherings can oftentimes be a drag on many of us.  From the politically correct conversations to the extravagant holiday attire, these parties in many instances, remain shallow with little mention of the real meaning for the occasion in the first place.  So are you like Debbie, that wants to scream the name of Jesus at holiday gatherings?  Or have you learned to go with the flow and not let it bother you?  Or maybe you love these parties and feel that they are all worth it.  Share your take on this topic by calling, 1-800-585-9396.

Is it possible that God created the plants not only for their beauty but also to heal us? It has been determined that many plants contain medicinal qualities.  Nature’s version of a pharmacy.  For centuries, the Native Americans have used various plants to heal, prevent disease, and improve overall health.  If this is all true, then God must have intended for us to use His creations to naturally help and heal us.  Why is it then that we are so resistant to the natural way of doing things but we jump at the synthetic alternative? Let’s talk about the pros and cons of herbal remedies on the next Take 2 with Jerry and Debbie. Call in and share your “take” on this topic, 1-800-585-9396.