Suffering & The Love of God

Why would an all-powerful, all-loving God allow suffering and evil in the world? As Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J., Ph.D. explains, unsatisfying answers to this important question are the #1 reason for atheism today. But by answering this question with logic and love (as well as with scientific, peer-reviewed evidence for the existence of life after death), we can not only answer this question truthfully and satisfactorily, but also teach our fellow Christians how to suffer well, in preparation for the limitless love of God that awaits us in eternity.

This talk was recorded by FOCUS, at SEEK 2013. focus.org

The Crisis of Happiness: Hurting, Addicting, & Healing

When you hear the word “addiction”, what typically comes to mind? Needles? Alcohol? Pills? As Jim Owens, MA, LPC explains, addiction is much simpler, including everything from substances to technology, screen time, work, shopping, and even sugar. Addictions and distractions are used to manage pain—but in the process, end up damaging our brains, our relationships, and our ability to find lasting happiness. Jim gives scientific evidence and practical advice for overcoming wounds, to help hurt people become healed people.

At the conclusion of this talk, you will also be able to hear a bonus sample of the CD: Know Your Story: The Love God in the Narrative of Your Life by Sr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLT.

Spanish - Tu regalo divino: Genio femenino

En esta plática, Marcela López presenta el tema del Genio Femenino como lo describe el Santo Papa San Juan Pablo II y al mismo tiempo lo hace de una manera muy ligera y amena. Es una plática para todas las mujeres de cualquier edad invitándonos a reflexionar en nuestro invaluable valor como hijas de Dios. 

Marcela, actualmente lleva un ministerio con mujeres jóvenes difundiendo este mensaje y ayudándoles a vivir en mayor plenitud el amor de Dios.

English Translation: Your Divine Gift: Feminine Genius

In this talk, Marcela presents the theme of Feminine Genius as described by our Holy Pope, St. John Paul II and at the same time she does so in a very endearing and delightful way. It is a talk for all women of every age inviting us to reflect on our immeasurable value as daughters of God. 

Marcela currently leads a ministry with young women spreading this message and helping them to live more fully the love of God.

Letter to the Elderly

Narrated by Christopher O. Blum

In 1978, Pope John Paul II became one of the youngest popes ever elected. At the time of his death in 2005, he was also one of the longest serving popes, having lived into his early 80s. From his own experience of growing old, and only five and a half years before his death, John Paul wrote and shared this moving letter, addressed “To my elderly brothers and sisters.” His letter shares and cherishes the experiences, beauty, agony, and dignity of growing old and drawing closer to God. “The years pass quickly,” he writes, “and the gift of life, for all the effort and pain it involves, is too beautiful and precious for us to ever grow tired of it.”

The Virtue of Masculinity

Masculinity. In recent years, the use of this word has become controversial, and discussion about it unwelcome or silenced. Is all masculinity “toxic”? Dr. Tim Gray strongly asserts that while fallen masculinity does exist, authentic, God-given masculinity is a great virtue that is desperately needed in our world. Drawing on personal and cultural examples, Tim challenges men to face their fears about failing or "striking out," and encourages them to become the men they desire to be—loyal, dependable, and beloved friends, spouses, and fathers—in the image of Jesus Christ, the Perfect Man.

Know Your Story: The Love of God in the Narrative of Your Life

People love stories. But when we lose sight of where the story of our life is going, the “narrative” and meaning of our lives becomes confusing to us, and we can lose hope. In this dynamic talk, Sr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLT, renews our sense of hope and wonder (and humor), revealing that the reason we love stories is that we are part of a good story; one that answers the deepest desires and longings of our hearts. Whatever chapter our lives are in, God can transform our story, so that we can know and experience the beauty, adventure, and love for which we were created.

13 Reasons Why You Matter

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for youth and young adults. Yet despite the many TV shows, movies, and articles on this topic, suicide, depression, self-harm, and loneliness remain difficult subjects for adults of any age to discuss. Speaking with honesty, humor, and personal experience, Noelle Garcia tackles these issues head-on, encouraging those who are struggling (or know someone who is) that God's mercy and love are waiting for them; that you, and your life, truly matter.

Spanish - Padre Pío: Ora, confía y no te preocupes

Matthew Arnold nos relata la historia de la vida del milagroso Santo Pío de Pietrelcina, durante el siglo XX, mejor conocido en el mundo como Padre Pío.

Incluye además detalles fascinantes sobre el ministerio del Santo Padre Pío escuchando confesiones, su capacidad para leer almas, la multitud de milagros atribuidos a su intercesión y cómo llevó los estigmas en su cuerpo, es decir, las heridas de Cristo. Todos deberíamos aprender del consejo del Padre Pío, cuando decía con firmeza; “Ora, confía y no te preocupes”.

English Translation:

The Life of Padre Pio: Pray, Hope and Don't Worry

Matthew Arnold recounts the life story of St. Pio of Pietrelcina, a twentieth century saint and mystic who is known around the world as Padre Pio.

This presentation includes fascinating details about St. Pio’s ministry of hearing confessions, his ability to read souls, the multitude of miracles attributed to his intercession, and how he bore the stigmata, that is, the wounds of Christ. All are wise to learn from the advice of this holy man to “pray, hope, and don’t worry.”  This talk is also available in English.