It’s great to be surrounded by people of like mind, especially those who share our Catholic Christian faith. Our walk with the Lord is strengthened by the faith of family members, friends, co-workers, fellow parishioners, etc. And it can make a big difference when the area where we live is overall more Catholic. Of course, a higher percentage of Catholics in an area doesn’t necessarily equate to a more fervent faith in that area. On Wednesday, let’s talk about where you live, how Catholic it is, how fervent it is, and how much difference that makes for you in your personal faith journey.

The prayer by Fr. Pedro Arrupe that many listeners have requested (it was mentioned by one of our callers today):

Have you ever participated in character assassination? If so, were you aware that the sin of detraction is a serious matter?  Intentionally exposing one’s real faults may seem like it is harmless because in fact it is true, but when that occurs a slow chipping away at one’s reputation transpires. The bible warns us against this scenario and yet the world treats this as a standard operating procedure.  This topic was suggested by one of our loyal listeners in light of the priest scandal. This is what she asked… When can we mention names when discussing priestly abuse?  What about credible accusations although not convicted?  These issues are getting close to home for many of us. The CCC 2477 when mentioning the sin of detraction includes,”without objectively valid reason”. What constitutes a valid objective reason? How does a person commit the sin of detraction and I’m speaking of a catholic that is faithfully trying to live out their faith and not one that frequently gossips? So, let’s address the sin of detraction and see if we can come away with a better understanding of what to avoid.  Call us, 1-833-288-3986

The Bible is very clear that discipline is required for each of us, including and especially when we are young and being trained in the ways of life. Without appropriate discipline, children become adults with a greatly diminished capacity for leading healthy lives. But discipline can cross a line and become abuse if it’s not administered in the right ways. And philosophies and methods of child discipline fluctuate greatly and are prone to change over time. What are some of the ways that you do and don’t like to discipline your kids? Do you ever use corporal discipline? Time outs? Making your children do extra chores? Do you ground them? Take away their privileges or tech gadgets? We always learn from you, so let’s have a vibrant discussion about this on Monday.

Debbie will be off on Friday, so call and talk with Jerry about something in your life you believe might be tough to let go of if you had to. This isn’t just a topic he came up with because it’s Lent. Rather, because life brings us to moments when we realize that something that’s been part of our routine has to go. Maybe it’s a friendship that is no longer healthy for you. Perhaps it’s a favorite activity that your body will no longer allow you to engage in. Or it could be a food or beverage item that your doctor tells you it’s time to let go of. This all gets at the heart of one of the most important aspects of the spiritual life – detachment. Let’s have a great conversation about this on Friday’s show!

The Bible warns us against sowing seeds of discord.  To instill anger, bitterness and division amongst believers is hated by God, stated in Proverbs 6:16-19.  To create conflict that does not exist is not of God and of the flesh.  In today’s world, we see many hoaxes and created stories that do just what God warned us against.  We live in a time when people are choosing sides rather than coming together in peace and harmony to support one another in true Christian spirit.  Why is this happening to us?  Let’s talk about this on Thursday’s show.  We will be on location together in Chandler, Arizona at The Forum.  If you are in the area, feel free to come on by and meet us.  This topic is very important so we need your wisdom on this, call in 1-833-288-3986.

What One-Time Lenten Practice Became a Regular Part of Your Life?  You were committed to doing something or giving something up for Lent.  Then, this practice became part of your daily life, probably because you realized it served a spiritual benefit.  Can you share with us exactly what that “something” was and now has become essential in your faith journey?  Call us so we can begin Lent together with some fresh ideas that can help us all grow in holiness. 1-833-288-3986.

It might just be human nature. Prior to entering into a season of penance and mortification, we like to “live it up” one last time. Of course, as Catholic Christians, we want to feast when the Church feasts, and fast when the Church fasts. Not that Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, is a day specifically set aside by the Church for “feasting” in any particular sense. On Tuesday, we want to talk about what you do – or don’t do – on the day before Ash Wednesday, perhaps to enjoy something you love one final time for at least forty days. Or, do you spend Fat Tuesday spiritually preparing to get your Lent started the next day? Should be in interesting and enlightening discussion.

A gospel hymn, a country love song, an instrumental classical arrangement?  Music definitely touches our hearts and even our souls.  Share with us how music is a part of your life and how it has enhanced your life journey…Call us at 1-833-288-EWTN.

The Monks of Norcia — Benedicta– Marian Chant from Norcia

On Friday, we’ll have our monthly show where you can call in and share with the world the important intentions you are praying for. We also lift up the intentions you share on social media, as well as via text and e-mail. We always save a couple minutes at the end of the show to gather up all the intentions and offer them to the Lord. Let’s pray for one another again on Friday.

We are all faced with hard decisions in life.  Can you share with us on Thursday the tough decisions you had to make and what the outcome turned out to be?  Remember, we learn from one another.  Your discernment process on the hard decisions of life can be of great benefit to those that hear your story.  So, as we often say, please say yes to the Spirit when prompted and call in to the show. 1-833-288-3986.