What God is Not

This week Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about SEEK and their theme "Follow Me." They reflect on their experience at SEEK last year as well as the patron saint for SEEK25, St. Joan of Arc.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week we're joined by special guests Sandy and Therese. Sandy and Fr. Michael talk a little about Humanality, a group that Sandy helps run. Then Fr. Michael, Sandy, and Therese share about the forming of the outreach from the Proto-Cathedral, what brought them there, and what has kept them there. There's good discussion on community and family.References:Leaning In (the episode on fasting)HumanalityFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodread...

This week Mother Natalia uses this episode to prepare for a talk she's giving. She talks about accepting the state in which you find yourself. She uses some quotes from St. Faustina to help illustrate the point of keeping close to God in the midst of your struggles. Mother Natalia talks about accepting the will of God in the present moment, even when you don’t like the situation you find yourself in.We're joined this week by audience of one, Abigail! References:He Leadeth Me by Fr. Walter Cis...

This week Fr. Michael talks about some of the hidden sacrifices of parents. Fr. Michael talks about the hermeneutics of moms and dads with two separate stories of parents he knows who are living out their ordinary vocation.There's also a mini-topic this week talking about sainthood in the ordinary life.References:A Sacred Beginning: Nurturing Your Body, Mind, and Soul during Baby's First Forty Days by Sarah Brangwynne & Sasha Rose OxnardPray for Us: 75 Saints Who Sinned, Suffered, and Str...

This week we're joined by special guest Dr. Gerry Crete. Dr. Gerry and Mother Natalia talk about some of their favorite Star Trek episodes and how they relate to parts work.References:The Inmost Self with Dr. Gerry CreteLitanies of the Heart by Dr. Gerry CreteDr. Gerry’s Review of Inside OutDr. Gerry’s Review of Inside Out 2Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur Nonpro...

This week Mother Natalia reflects on two listener emails. One talks about welcoming people at church and the ways we can be stretched. Another talks about recognizing the humanity in Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia in the beginning episode banter. Mother Natalia also reflects on a passage in a book by Metropolitan Anthony Bloom.References:The Inmost Self with Dr. Gerry CreteLiving Prayer by Metropolitan Anthony BloomFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join...

This week Fr. Michael talks about the various aspects of Jesus we can encounter in confession. He highlights Jesus as healer, teacher, and judge. Fr. Michael talks about how we can naturally limit our understanding of Jesus to just those three components at a specific time, but how Jesus has many parts of His character that we can encounter all at once.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom M...

This week Mother Natalia reflects on self-worth despite no visible evidence of contribution to the greater good. This comes after she got COVID and struggled with fatigue, which impacted her day-to-day operations at the monastery.References:Useless but not WorthlessFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Fr. Michael takes inspiration from a parishioner who asked for grace from his family as he was going to have a difficult week. Fr. Michael talks about the need for patience and grace that we all should be giving to our family members, our monastic brothers and sisters, and our friends. He links this with Genesis 9 and the way Noah's son's treated him in his nakedness, recognizing his dignity and vulnerability.References:Gen 9: 18-29Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and Fa...

This week Mother Natalia takes a mini-topic suggestion from one of our Patreon supporters and talks about it for a full episode! She talks about attachments to people, including family and celebrities, and how those can be wrongly ordered. She talks about differentiating between relying fully on God and our need to have others in our lives since "it's not good for man to be alone." She talks about recognizing when we may be placing our reliance incorrectly and how to pivot back to God.Want to...

Today we're joined by special guest Ivy Gates. Ivy and Fr. Michael met each other on the #redbusbestbus during a Holy Land pilgrimage.Ivy talks about authenticity and it's importance in her life. Fr. Michael shares some examples of Ivy living out her authentic self during pilgrimage and how that impacted him.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a tex...

This week Fr. Michael talks about an encounter he had in Rome, and how that encounter led him to consider his weaknesses and other people's wisdom. He talks about how we sometimes weaponize other people's weaknesses instead of recognizing their dignity as a person.References:Stop It - Bob NewhartFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the ...

This week Mother Natalia continues her topic on discernment, talking about what not to do but also what to do. She also talks about ways that we see the resurrection in our lives, and the way that St. John saw it, not with the physical presence of Jesus (although he did see that too!) but with his initial viewing of the burial clothes. She talks about how important those signs are in our lives to help our belief and the beliefs of others.We also have a mini-topic this week, where Fr. Michael ...

This week Mother Natalia uses this episode to prep for a recording she's doing over at Pints! She talks about discernment and what not to do as you're discerning.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Fr. Michael responds to a correction from a listener, and uses that as inspiration for this week's topic. We talk about letting God work through us and using the gifts He's given us. We talk about how the authors of scripture were so in sync with the Holy Spirit that it showed in their inspired writings.Plus we have a mini-topic on charismatic renewal in the Byzantine Churches.References:Dei VerbumFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goo...

This week we're joined by special guest Fr. Boniface Hicks. Mother Natalia talks about the importance of repairing relationships which have suffered a rupture, regardless of the type of relationship. They give some examples of where ruptures have occurred in the past, and how a repair might come about.References:TED Talk from Becky KennedyTendernessBorn Only Once by Conrad BaarsFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's Twit...

This week Fr. Michael continues his discussion from several episodes ago on living out the gospel as a mom. Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia respond to some reflections that listeners passed along about life as a mom and creative almsgiving.References:Heroic Act of CharityTherapy of Spiritual Illnesses by Jean-Claude LarchetFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur Nonprofi...

This week we're joined by special guest Dr. Gerry Crete. We talk about some of the concepts from his book, Litanies of the Heart. We talk about the studies and prayer he's had over the years which led throughout his work. We talk about the inner self, the different parts that make up ourselves, and how the parts can interact with each other and our inner self.References:Litanies of the Heart by Dr. Gerry CreteFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our G...

This week Fr. Michael walks through some of the prayers of the church which can be incorporated into your daily prayer life. These are everything from prayers before and after meals to a daily examination of conscience.A special shoutout to Antonette who took this picture of Fr. Michael!References:Publicans Prayer Book from Sophia PressCarsoslov (The Book of Hours) from Eastern Christian PublicationsPrayer Rule of St. PachomiusFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on ...

This week Fr. Michael talks about scripture readings in Acts and John, and links them together to talk about division and having an undivided heart. He talks about the need for full attention to be given to God, and how it's hard to live this out sometimes.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Mother Natalia talks about self-reflection on sin, recognizing where we've stumbled, how that has impacted others, and where we've grown. She uses a recent example of something that happened in community life to show us how this works practically.References:Green Dolphin Street by Elizabeth GoudgeLitanies of the Heart by Dr. Gerry CreteFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom Monaster...

This week Fr. Michael unpacks a theme he sees in the post-Pascha Sunday readings around people saying yes to Jesus immediately vs qualifying the yes or asking follow-up questions before saying yes. He talks about the reasons why we might not say yes right away, and how our human experience can get in the way of our desire to say yes. Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur Website...

This week Mother Natalia talks about her recent poustinia, where she reflected on rest. Mother Natalia talks about taking to-do lists to pray while also trying to remember that prayer is relational and not something to fulfill check-boxes.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week we’re joined by special guest Brother Simeon Miriam from the CFRs. Brother Simeon was imminently about to start an 8-day poustinia, so in this episode we talk a bit about poustinia, the nights of poustinia he helped start in NYC, a bit about how he became Roman Catholic, and the love of breathing with both lungs.References:The Way of a PilgrimThe PhilokaliaFranciscan Friars of the RenewalFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads Gro...

This week Mother Natalia talks about imperfection and recognizing that we will always be imperfect, following a retreat she gave at Wyoming Catholic College. She and Fr. Michael talk about the externals of our prayer practice, both personal prayer and prayer during Diving Liturgy or Mass. They talk about how our relationship with Christ should grow and develop over time.References:From Christendom to Apostolic Mission by University of MaryScrupulosity and the SacramentsThe Reed of God by Cary...

This week Mother Natalia talks about attacks of the devil that lead to despair. She vulnerably shares some personal examples, and talks about people in her life who encouraged her during these moments of despair. Mother Natalia shares some writings from St. John Chrysostom related to despair as a way to encourage and strengthen us.Want to be a backstage listener? Become a patron on Patreon!References:On Repentance and Defeating Despair: Letters to Theodore by St. John ChrysostomFollow and Con...

This week Fr. Michael reflects on the names of Adam and Noah, how they're linked, and how they reflect the new Adam. Fr. Michael talks about becoming an altar and how we can live that out in our day-to-day lives.Want to be a backstage listener? Become a patron on Patreon!References:The Beginning of Desire: Reflections on Genesis by Avivah Gottlieb ZornbergFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bri...

This week Mother Natalia comes to us with some hot takes fresh off her poustinia. She talks about fear, love, vulnerability, and weakness. She talks about each of those in our relationship with God as well as our relationship with others. This episode is deep!Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Fr. Michael talks about how to pray and providing suggestions to friends who ask for help in praying. He talks about how prayer methods (rote prayer, contemplative prayer, etc.) work differently for each person, but ultimately how important prayer is to our daily lives and relationship with God. References:The Art of Prayer by Kallistos Ware.The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother LawrenceOur Thoughts Determine Our Lives by Elder Thaddeus of Vitovnica Follow and Contact Us!Fo...

This week’s episode was recorded live at SEEK24. Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia are joined by Fr. Boniface Hicks. They talk about how our lives would change if we inherently knew that Jesus loved us. They talk about ways this is exhibited in daily life, in prayer, in the confessional. They also talk about a sticker that premiered at SEEK and how it came to be.Thanks to SEEK for having us and to Spoke Street Media for recording this episode.References:Fawn and Flight with Kristin MolitorFollow...

Today we conclude our series of the liturgies for Great and Holy Week. This week’s episode covers Great and Holy Friday, Great and Holy Saturday, and Pascha Sunday.This is our 200th episode. We're so grateful to our listeners for your prayers and support!Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week we continue our series of the liturgies for Holy Week. Today's episode covers Presanctified Liturgy on Holy Wednesday, matins for Holy Thursday, and Divine Liturgy on Holy Thursday.References:The Year of Grace of the Lord by A Monk of the Eastern ChurchIsaiah 61:1-3 Therapy of Spiritual Illnesses by Jean-Claude LarchetFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur No...

This week we're kicking off a three part series where we walk through the liturgies for Holy Week. Today's episode covers Holy Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.References:The Year of Grace of the Lord by A Monk of the Eastern ChurchGreat Lent by Fr. Alexander SchmemannBehold the BridegroomUseless but not WorthlessMonday Readings: Matt 21:18-43, Ezekiel 1:1-20, Exodus 1: 1-20, Job 1:1-12, Matt 24:3-35Tuesday Readings: Matt 22:15-23:39, Ezekiel 1:21 - 28, Exodus 2:5-10, Job 1:13-22, Matt 24:36 - ...

This week Fr. Michael reflects on the encounter of Simeon and Anna with the child Jesus when Jesus was presented in the Temple. Fr. Michael also shares some creative ideas for almsgiving that you can incorporate during the Great Fast and even throughout the year.Episode 200!We're celebrating our upcoming episode 200 by hearing from you! Record a 20-30 second video (or audio only) clip talking about how the podcast has impacted your life. Upload to your Google drive and then share with dbratni...

This week Mother Natalia continues her discussion from a few episodes about the ache and longing we have in our hearts for eternity. She talks about the exodus and pilgrimage through this life, the goods that we can ache and long for, and how ultimately earth is not our home.References:Into Great SilenceKristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid UndsetThe Ache Speaks with Mother PetraThe Ladder of Divine Ascent by John ClimacusPsalm 137Episode 200!We're celebrating our upcoming episode 200 by hearing fr...

On this week's episode, Fr. Michael works through some ideas he has for a homily he's giving later that day. He talks about the need to be cognizant of the work God is doing in our lives, our heads, and our hearts. References:Kristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid UndsetThe Ladder of Divine Ascent by John ClimacusEpisode 200!We're celebrating our upcoming episode 200 by hearing from you! Record a 20-30 second video (or audio only) clip talking about how the podcast has impacted your life. Upload to ...

This week Mother Natalia takes a mini-topic request on recent Byzantine saints and also talks about fasting. Her discussion on fasting covers some of the reasons she likes fasting, the ways she can grow, and then some general practicalities on fasting.References:Father Vasyl LonchynaWhat Suffering is Not with Mother IlianaThe Ladder of Divine Ascent by John ClimacusFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the...

This week Fr. Michael uses the story of Zacchaeus as inspiration for this week's episode. He talks about the childlikeness found in Zacchaeus as well as his curiosity. Fr. Michael talks about all the ways that Zacchaeus' sin is pointed out to us in the Gospel, yet we see his quick repentance and conversion.References:Luke 19: 1-10Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur ...

This week Mother Natalia shares about a recent experience rock climbing. She talks about healthy and unhealthy fear, recognizing the help that others around us provide, and ultimately how rock climbing relates to the spiritual life.References:Scruples and the SacramentsThe Four Loves by C.S. LewisFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the...

This week we're joined by Kristin Molitor from the Institute for Ministry Formation. Kristin talks about the fawn response to danger, perceived danger, and trauma. We talk about where the fawn response can show up in our relationships well after trauma or danger has passed. We talk about the concept of spiritual bypassing or spiritual platitudes and how those can be a way of us ignoring our deeper feelings and emotions.References:Institute for Ministry FormationTheosis and Tribulations by Ste...

This week Mother Natalia uses a scripture passage from 2 Peter as inspiration for her episode. She talks about being patient while waiting but also hastening towards our call, or whatever we're waiting for. We give some practical advice on waiting while simultaneously hastening, and also give an example of not pursuing the next step that God is calling us to.References:2 Peter 3:11-12Italy Tour with Chris StefanikFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join o...

This week Fr. Michael talks about the ordinariness lived out in a mother's vocation and her hiddenness in that ordinariness. He talks about three women who have given reflections on specific Gospel passages, and how those passages have convicted the moms in their vocation. We also talk about sacrifices that parents make as they raise their children.References:Matthew 6:5-6John 3:30Matthew 8:16 - 20Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads Gro...

This week we're joined by special guest Fr. Boniface Hicks. Mother Natalia and Fr. Boniface talk about sensitivity. They talk about being a person who is perceived as "too sensitive" and interacting with people who are more sensitive than ourselves.References:What Humility is Not with Fr. Boniface HicksInstitute for Ministry FormationGrief to GraceTendernessFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegr...

This week Mother Natalia talks about being open and vulnerable, receiving healing the Lord provides, and the general brokenness which both of them have. We talk about online personalities and how the personalities should not become our end-all be-all in terms of knowing Jesus and following Him.References:All Rise for Judge NataliaFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur ...

This week Fr. Michael expands on a mini-topic request on the death of infants. We talk about death and mourning, the various hymns of farewell used, why limbo came to be a concept, and the reality of evil and death.References:The Hope of Salvation for Infants who Die without being BaptizedScruples and the SacramentsThe Reed of GodFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur ...

This week Mother Natalia reflects on two different encounters she recently had. The encounters led her to reflect on being Jesus to others and gently evangelizing others.References:Evil Thoughts Five through Eight (the one about anger)The Philokalia Volume 2Father Michael and Mother Natalia Out and AboutChris Stefanik - Nobody Wants to Talk about ThisFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom Mon...

We're in person this week! This week Father Michael walks through the prayers that are said as a bishop is vested at a hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Plus we've got a minitopic on confession.References:CSYSK Episode on Priestly Vesting PrayersLord of the World by Robert Hugh BensonFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week we're joined by Alex from Voice of Reason! We recorded this episode live at the Metropolitan Assembly in New Jersey. Fr. Michael and Alex talk about living a life of service and holiness, imitating the holy people around us, and bringing others to the faith.References:God With UsVoice of Reason (YouTube)The Forgotten: Catholics of the Soviet Empire from Lenin through StalinFinding a Hidden ChurchFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodr...

This week Mother Natalia and Fr. Michael talk about places in scripture where we see the theme of light as they reflect on SEEK24’s theme of Be the Light. References:Romans 13:121 John 1:5-7John 4:7-42Hymns for the feast of the Theophany of the LordSEEK24Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week we're joined by special guest, Mother Petra! Mother Petra and Mother Natalia talk about experiencing an ache for beauty and how that ache can be given to us by God. We talk a lot about C.S. Lewis, a favorite of both Mother Petra and Mother Natalia.Plus we've got a mini-topic on praying with religious art.References:Mother Petra on The Journey HomeThe Weight of Glory by C.S. LewisThe Four Loves by C.S. LewisMere Christianity by C.S. LewisTill We Have Faces by C.S. LewisReflections on...

This week we're joined by special guest Kyle Washut, president of Wyoming Catholic College. We talk about how our relationships across all areas of life impact each other, the founding of Wyoming Catholic College, and what it's like to intentionally create a college that "breathes with both lungs."References:Poustinia by Catherine DohertyErin PlannedFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom Mona...

We've got a crossover episode! Fr. Michael records this week with Fr. Mike Rapp from Catholic Stuff You Should Know. Fr. Mike asks Fr. Michael all the questions about Byzantine tradition and practices.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Fr. Michael reflects on the feast of the Exaltation of the Cross. In this feast, we shower the cross in the church with flowers to show the significance and importance of the feast. Fr. Michael talks about the need for us to look at our personal crosses with this same sort of significance and reverence.Plus we've got a mini-topic this week on dating.References:Ministering to MonstersMother Iliana on Pints with AquinasFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on ...

This week Mother Natalia talks about usefulness vs worthlessness. Our worth is not found in what we do but who we are. This is certainly a hard topic for us to process and we need reminded of this regularly.We also have a mini-topic on holiness.References:A Sign of UselessnessDeath in the Shadows by Paul McCuskerFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a...

This week Fr. Michael talks about the parable of the wedding banquet found in Matthew, another scripture passage that has confused both him and Mother Natalia. We talk about inspiration we've had from the passage, linking it back to the Garden of Eden and Adam and Eve's nakedness. We talk about our need to give up our attachments in order to accept the glorious garment given to us at the resurrection.Plus we've got a mini-topic from a Patron. Thanks to everyone who supports us on Patreon! Ref...

This week Mother Natalia talks about the Protoevangelion of James and walks through some of the tradition found within it. We talk about traditions jointly shared between the Eastern and Western churches, and some of the traditions that are believed in the East.References:Protoevangelion of JamesFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the ...

Today's episode is inspired by an episode from The Symbolic World. Fr. Michael uses the Pentecost for the Zombie Apocalypse episode to talk about ministering to those in the world and meeting people where they're at in their lives.References:Pentecost for the Zombie ApocalypseFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week we're joined by special guest Rachel Schmitt who is our Operations Manager. Rachel and Mother Natalia talk about saying yes in generosity and no in prudence when we're asked to do something. They talk about aligning your will with the Father's so you can know if your yes or no is the right decision, and they give some practical examples of this in action.Bonus, Rachel's infant daughter joins us on this episode too!References:PDF Link - How to Discern the Elements of Your Vocat...

This week Fr. Michael talks about St. Ephrem, or St. Ephraim depending on your spelling preference. He highlights some key facts that we should all know about this great saint.References:Cereal and the Prayer of St. EphraimSerial (2 of 2) and the Prayer of St. EphraimFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Mother Natalia talks about tenderness and ways we experience the tender heart of the Father and Our Lady. She talks about the ways she's experienced tenderness from Fr. Michael and Fr. Boniface, tenderness in spiritual direction, and tenderness in interactions with others.References:Our Lady of TendernessFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitS...

This week Fr. Michael continues his topic from last week on fear of the Lord. We talk about what the fear of the Lord is, what it is not, and how it's misunderstood.References:Episode 1 - Be Not AfraidFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week's episode is part one of two on Fear of the Lord. Fr. Michael talks about self-reliance, relying on God, and not being afraid to ask for help. Tune in next week for part two!References:Lord of the Spirits PodcastBridegroom's BanquetOur Lady of Perpetual Help PilgrimageFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week we're joined by Mother Iliana who has released a new book, The Light of His Eyes. We talk about how the book came to be, some concepts from the book, and ways Mother Iliana has seen the Lord working in her life.References:The Light of His Eyes by Mother IlianaTaare Zameen Par (Every Child is Special movie)The Soul of Shame by Dr. Curt ThompsonFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Brideg...

This week Fr. Michael talks about Alive in Christ, an aesthetical boot camp for Byzantine Catholic young men. He talks about the idea for the camp, the structure, and the ways that he sees the boys grow as leaders. Fr. Michael also gives an overview of the chastity talk he gave to the dads, and Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about invitations to chastity and unchastity.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterC...

This week Mother Natalia reflects on God's extravagance with us, our extravagance with Him, and our extravagance with each other. She gives examples of extravagance from Scripture and we have a mini-topic at the end of the episode.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about Marian apparitions, the Catholic belief surrounding Mary, and their interactions and experiences with the Mother of God. Thank you to our patrons on Patreon for suggesting the topic!References:PrelestFor Little Eyes by Rebecca O'LoughlinFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Mother Natalia talks about her recent poustinia camping experience with Sister Onuphria. We hear about the general humanness of the experience, but then Mother Natalia is able to relate it to the spiritual life and scrupulosity.References:The Spiritual Life and How to be Attuned to it by St. Theophan the RecluseBeyond Checking BoxesThe Reed of God by Caryll HouselanderFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's Twit...

This week we're joined by Sean and Rebecca O'Loughlin, brother and sister-in-law of Father Michael. We talk about their early friendship and dating, realizing love for each other, and family life. We also talk about pregnancies and births, both easier and difficult, miscarriages, fostering, and adoption.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupp...

This week Mother Natalia reflects on her recent retreat which used some of the steps from AA as inspiration. She talks about discovering ways in which she bargains with God on giving up certain sins, and talks about the hurt and healing that comes in the process of giving up sins.References:Eustace Scrubb by Sarah SparksFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitS...

On today's episode, Fr. Michael reflects on his recent trip to the Holy Land. He talks about community found in our faith and seeking the truth. Fr. Michael talks about the different ways we can be led to the faith, and how God uses those different ways to help us see the good, true, and beautiful.If you're in the Colorado area, don't skip the banter!Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom Mon...

On today's episode Fr. Michael talks about seeing good in the midst of negative interactions with people. He talks about how God created everything good and how when we sin we're still seeking the good.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

Today Mother Natalia reflects on Pentecost, the return of praying the Heavenly King prayer, and kneeling and penance that is reintroduced after the celebration of Pentecost. Plus we’ve got a mini-topic on angels!Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about prayer. Mother Natalia talks a little bit about what the term "spousal prayer" means at her monastery. We talk about the "outcome" of prayer and advancing in prayer.References:Beginning to Pray by Metropolitan Anthony BloomFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Mother Natalia talks about healing, living in the present moment, and allowing Our Lord to work in the present reality. Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Father Michael links the story of the loaves and the fishes to the story of the Samaritan woman. He talks about how we can see God working in our lives and differentiating that from the "work that we're doing."We've also got a special announcement for our Photina patrons!Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

Today we're joined by special guest, Barry Alvord, father of Beth from our media team. Barry talks about a time in his life when he experienced three big crises, how he realized he was struggling with negative thoughts, and how he sought to counteract them.References:Our Thoughts Determine Our Lives by Elder ThaddeusThe Monks of Tibhirine by John W. KiserWounded by Love by Elder PorphyriusFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Mic...

Today's episode was inspired by a talk on Fellowship that Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia gave for God with Us Online. Fr. Michael uses today's episode to talk about all the stuff they didn't have time for in that talk. Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about the importance of fellowship, serving others, and foot washing.References:Fellowship, the talk for God With Us OnlineSetting the Table by Danny MeyerFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Good...

Today's episode is a recording of the talk Mother Natalia gave at the SoCal Byzantine Retreat Day in March. Mother Natalia talks about the promises God makes to us and that He fulfills His promises. She uses the scripture of the day for the feast of the Annunciation to link the promises in the Annunciation to the promises made in the Old Testament, and then talks about ways we can see God's promises to us in our lives.References:Luke 1:26-38The Year of Grace of the Lord Follow and Conta...

Today Fr. Michael talks about shame, the causes of it and what we can do to prevent it. We talk about how Jesus approaches us in our sin, looking to cover our shame but not hide our sin, and how we can use that same approach with ourselves and others we encounter. We have practical discussion about "shaming" others, and how that can be problematic when we do not know the entire story.References:How to Profit From Your Faults by Joseph TissotTalk by Fr. Stephen FreemanFollow and Contact Us!Fol...

This week Fr. Michael talks about how we're all called to live authentic Catholic lives, striving for salvation of souls and not necessarily "checking the Catholic boxes". He specifically talks about how parish priests and monastics can help the laity in this regard, and how the needs of parishes differ from one parish to the next.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur...

Father Michael and Mother Natalia recorded this episode live in California! On today’s episode they talk about the longing Israel had for God to fulfill His promises, and how we also have desires God longs to fulfill. Our aches and His promises are gifts. References:Watch it Live!Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Mother Natalia continues with her topic of goodness from her last episode, and uses a homily as a jumping off point to talk about gifts. The homily followed the reading about Noah and the flood, and talked about how Noah and the people in the Ark were waiting for the gift of land to be able to live. Mother Natalia also talks about the difference between gifts and the giver, and how we can have attachments to the gifts instead of the giver. We also have a listener suggested mini topi...

This week Fr. Michael is joined by special guest, Fr. Nathan Symeon. Fr. Nathan and Fr. Michael walk through the readings for that Sunday and talk about the themes they're hearing in the readings which they use for a homily. References:Married PriesthoodLeaning In (episode on fasting)Hebrews 11: 24-26, 32-40, 12:1-2John 1: 43-51Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur No...

This week Mother Natalia reflects on goodness and our inherit goodness given to us from God. She talks about the ways in which we are less than human when we do not choose the good and the ways that our free will is supposed to help us choose the good.References:Therapy of Spiritual Illnesses by Dr. Jean-Claude LarchetEyes to SeeThe Four Loves by C.S. LewisChristy by Catherine MarshallLive Recording Details:When: March 26th, 4 PM PSTWhere: Proto-Cathedral of St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church...

Today we're joined by special guest Pauline Meert. Pauline is the co-founder of Sophia Montessori Academy in Denver, Colorado. Pauline gives some practical suggestions of engaging kids in church, how our expectations should change for the children based on their age, and why we should bring our kids to church. References:Mass Chaos - previous episode on Catholic Stuff You Should KnowThe Giver by Lois LowryContact Pauline: info@sophiamontessori.com Follow and Contact Us!Follow us o...

This week Mother Natalia talks about ways she's encountered God and His joy, despite going through a very hard time in her life. She talks about her grandmother's funeral and how that impacted her and her family, and she vulnerably talks about her prayer life and her candid prayers.References:SoCal Byzantine Catholic Day RetreatNatalia - Movie about Mother Natalia's Life ProfessionFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's T...

In today's episode Father Michael reflects on homilies for our pre-Lenten gospels, Zacchaeus Sunday and the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee. The homilies are ones he's given as well as homilies given by other priests.References:Byzantine Gospel ReflectionsSearching for the Searcher - previous episode on ZacchaeusFr. John Kachuba's Last Homily for Meatfare SundayFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist...

Today we're joined by special guest, Hannah Crane. Hannah is one of Mother Natalia's spiritual daughters. Hannah talks with honesty about the reality of living a holy marriage and what it's like to raise children.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

Today's episode was recorded at SEEK23. This week we're joined by special guest, Cameron Fradd, from the Among the Lilies podcast. Fr. Michael and Cameron discuss how Cameron continues to learn what it means to be “child-like” through the raising of her children, as well as sharing some heart-wrenchingly beautiful stories of God’s goodness in the midst of fear and suffering.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterC...

On today's episode Mother Natalia takes a listener question on Ecumenism. We talk about some practicalities around ecumenism and the good desire for unity with others outside the Catholic faith. Mother Natalia also talks about the need for compassion as we interact with others, not just with those who are visibly suffering, but also with those whose pain and struggle are hidden.References:Christ the Eternal Tao by Hieromonk DamasceneMother Natalia and Father Michael Out and About:Part two of ...

In today's episode Mother Natalia walks through two questions she's been reflecting on and challenges us to think about these same questions. At the very end she gives us homework - a third question to consider!References:John 1:34John 4:1-42 (the woman at the well)John 4: 39-42Matt 3:17John 5:6Mother Natalia and Father Michael Out and AboutMother Natalia was recently on the Being Human podcast. She recorded two episodes with Dr. Greg, and the first episode dropped yesterday. Be sure to check...

This week we’re back with another episode recorded at SEEK23! This week Fr. Michael is joined by special guests Joseph and Cesca O’Loughlin. They talk about truth and beauty found in the church and Jesus, and how it is our job to show that truth and beauty to those seeking Jesus. Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week we're joined by special guest, Fr. Travis Crotty. Fr. Travis was recently named vocational director for the Diocese of Sioux City, as well as the chaplain of Bishop Heelan Catholic High School in Sioux City.Fr. Travis joined Fr. Michael at SEEK23 to talk about vocations and how to handle a "no" in the discernment process. It's a short episode this week! ReferencesSpiritual Friendship with Fr. TravisOutcast CatholicCollege Friendships with Shaylee O'Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on...

This week Mother Natalia talks about neediness and how it's necessary to be needy in our relationship with God. Mother Natalia talks about areas we can be needy, imitating children in their neediness, and how our need for fulfillment is ultimately fulfilled in heaven.ReferencesMatt 25 with James ParisiMere Christianity by C.S. LewisFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOu...

This week Fr. Michael talks about miracles, and the daily miracles that happen in our lives. He talks about the ways in which we should seek out miracles, how we can ask for them, and then how to surrender even as we’re asking for a miracle. He talks about St. Nicholas the Wonderworker and how we can ask for miracles through his name.References:Darr Mine DisasterThe Trisagion Prayers (starts at the usual beginning prayers)Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on...

This week we're joined by special guest, James Parisi. James is a seminarian in the diocese of Cleveland. He offers a personal reflection he's had on Matthew 25, which includes how do we see and love Jesus in the people next to us. References:Matt 25: 31-46Father Michael and Mother Natalia Out and AboutMother Natalia wrote a poem reflecting on loveFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom Monast...

This week we're joined by special guest Shaylee O'Loughlin, Fr. Michael's niece! Shaylee talks about her experience as a new college student, the importance of making friends and getting a bit outside of your comfort zone, her love of music, and the importance of music within the liturgy.References:Childlikeness - Episode from Catholic StuffFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur ...

This week we're joined by special guest Sister Onuphria, then Olivia. She talks about one of her favorite topics, naked saints! More specifically she talks about how their nakedness can remind us of the interior stripping we should do with God, to give him everything and allow him to guide us and care for us.ReferencesServant of God Michelle Duppong My Elder Joseph the Hesychast by Elder EphraimFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupF...

This week Mother Natalia talks about surrender and surrendering to God's will. She talks about the need for direct surrender instead of passive surrender, and the reality of how hard it is to surrender to His will.ReferencesArise O God: The Gospel of Christ's Defeat of Demons, Sin, and Death by Fr. Andrew DamickHe Leadeth Me by Fr. Walter CiszekSweet Surrender by John DenverMan of God (IMDB Link)Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads Group...