He Leadeth Me

Jessica
  • 5.0 (26)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
He Leadeth Me

A spiritual formation podcast for FOCUS staff, students, and friends.

  1. JUL 1

    Tepid No More: The Sacred Heart and the Missionary Soul

    Why does Jesus make such bold promises to those devoted to His Sacred Heart—like turning “tepid souls” into “fervent” ones?  In this episode, Jess sits down with Fr. Joe Laramie, SJ, director of the Sacred Heart Retreat Center in Sedalia and former director of the Apostleship of Prayer, to explore how this centuries-old devotion speaks directly to the heart of the missionary. Whether you’re feeling spiritually dry, fervent, or somewhere in between, the Sacred Heart offers a deeply personal call to renewal. Jess and Fr. Joe discuss: The promise of transformation: what Jesus offers to lukewarm or weary soulsWhy consecration and reparation are more than devotional extras—they're missionary fuelThe power of the Sacred Heart in history, including the mysterious link between France and the French Revolution Fr. Joe Laramie has been a member of the Society of Jesus for 25 years and ordained a priest for 10 years. Fr. Laramie has served as the director of the Apostleship of Prayer, a 200 year-old prayer ministry dedicated to the Sacred Heart, and now serves as the director of Sacred Heart Retreat Center in Sedalia, Colorado.

    32 min

  2. JUN 19

    From Battlefield to Battlefield: A Naval Chaplain's Take on Spiritual Warfare

    What if spiritual warfare is more strategic than we think—and the battlefield is closer than we realize? In this episode, Jess sits down with Jesuit priest and Naval Chaplain Fr. Christopher Krall for a powerful conversation on spiritual warfare. Drawing from his experience as a naval chaplain and spiritual director, Fr. Krall offers insight into how we can recognize and resist the subtle tactics of the enemy—especially after moments of grace or spiritual growth. In this episode, Fr. Krall and Jess discuss: How military life shaped Fr. Krall’s understanding of spiritual combat and the parallels between physical and spiritual warfareWhat St. Ignatius teaches about desolation, memory, and the enemy’s attempts to regain ground after a retreatPractical ways to "fortify" the soul’s weakest points and stay grounded when spiritual clarity begins to fadeWhether you're returning from a retreat, navigating temptation, or just looking to deepen your discernment, this episode offers encouragement and real tools for the spiritual battle. Fr. Christopher Krall has been a member of the Society of Jesus for over 20 years, ordained a priest for 10 years, and current serves as a chaplain to the United States Navy.

    44 min

  3. JUN 6

    Confirmation: Your Personal Pentecost

    What really happens when you're confirmed?  In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens takes us into the heart of the Sacrament of Confirmation—far beyond the idea of a “graduation ceremony.” We explore how this sacrament completes what began at Baptism, and how it becomes a personal Pentecost—a moment when the Holy Spirit is poured out for strength, mission, and spiritual battle. Chris walks us through the rich symbols of the rite, from the laying on of hands to the anointing with sacred chrism, and unpacks what they reveal about God’s action in our lives. If you've already been confirmed but find yourself weary in the fight—facing temptation, discouragement, or fear—this conversation will remind you of the spiritual power you've been given and the call to live as a mature disciple. Christopher Carstens directs the Office for Sacred Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, Wisconsin; coordinates the Institute for Liturgical Studies at Christendom College; and edits the Adoremus Bulletin. He serves as a consultant to the USCCB’s Committee on Divine Worship, and he is author of A Devotional Journey into the Mass and A Devotional Journey into the Easter Mystery (Sophia), as well as Principles of Sacred Liturgy: Forming a Sacramental Vision (Hillenbrand Books). He and his family live in Soldiers Grove, Wisconsin.

    41 min

  4. MAY 29

    What if Your Faults are the Key to Your Holiness?

    In this deeply encouraging episode, Fr. John Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about one of the most misunderstood aspects of the spiritual life: how to view our faults through the lens of faith.  Drawing on decades of experience as a spiritual director and confessor, Fr. John shares wisdom that combats perfectionism and opens a new way of seeing failure — not as defeat, but as an invitation to deeper intimacy with God. In this episode, Fr. John and Jess discuss: Why becoming more aware of your faults is actually a sign of progress in the spiritual lifeHow to avoid perfectionism and scrupulosity while still striving for holinessPractical steps for turning your faults into fuel for growthWhether you’re feeling discouraged by your imperfections or wondering how to make real progress in your interior life, this conversation will leave you with hope, clarity, and concrete tools for the journey. Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.    If you would like to listen to Fr. Ezratty's talks at SEEK, you can find them here: seekreplay.com

    32 min

  5. MAY 22

    Movie Review: Triumph of the Heart

    This September, "Triumph of the Heart", a movie about St. Maximilian Kolbe, will hit theaters. In this episode, Fr. Gabriel Gillen joins Jess to review the film. Fr. Gabriel and Jess discuss: Their overall impressions, including acting, pacing, and cinematographyThe director's approach to storytelling as a spiritual meditationThe amount of violence in the film and whether it serves or distracts from the deeper message Whether you're a fan of Catholic cinema or simply inspired by the life of St. Maximilian Kolbe, this episode offers a thoughtful take on a saint brought to life on screen.  Fr. Gabriel Gillen, O.P.- Dominican Friar in the Province of St. Joseph. He was ordained in the year 2000 in Subiaco, Italy. Fr. Gabriel resides at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington D.C. along with Fr. Gregory Pine and the Hillbilly Thomists. In 2022, Fr. Gabriel became a National Chaplain for FOCUS.

    34 min

  6. MAY 15

    He Chose Her: The Marriage Liturgy for a Consecrated Virgin

    What happens at the Rite of Consecration of a Virgin? In this episode, host Jessica is joined by liturgical expert Chris Carstens and Elizabeth Black, a Consecrated Virgin, to explore the ancient rite of Consecrated Virginity. Together, they unpack: What makes the vocation of a Consecrated Virgin distinct from religious lifeThe beauty and symbolism of the Rite of Consecration, including the veil, ring, and prayer of consecrationWhat it’s like to live out this vocation in daily life, rooted in both solitude and service to the ChurchWhether you’ve never heard of this vocation or have attended a consecration yourself, this conversation will deepen your appreciation for one of the Church’s most hidden treasures. Elizabeth Black has worked in Catholic liberal education for seventeen years, most recently as principal of Saint Stephen School in East Grand Rapids. As Dean of Faculty and Curriculum at Oakcrest School, she developed the school’s liberal arts educational vision. Elizabeth is trained in the Ward Method of Music Instruction, holds a B.A. in Classical and Early Christian Studies from Christendom College and a M.A. from the University of St. Mary of the Lake. Elizabeth is a consecrated virgin living in the world. Christopher Carstens directs the Office for Sacred Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, Wisconsin; coordinates the Institute for Liturgical Studies at Christendom College; and edits the Adoremus Bulletin. He serves as a consultant to the USCCB’s Committee on Divine Worship, and he is author of A Devotional Journey into the Mass and A Devotional Journey into the Easter Mystery (Sophia), as well as Principles of Sacred Liturgy: Forming a Sacramental Vision (Hillenbrand Books). He and his family live in Soldiers Grove, Wisconsin.

    47 min

  7. MAY 8

    Being There: How to Support a Friend Seeking an Annulment

    In this episode, Jess sits down with Cheryl Hansen, a Tribunal Advocate, to talk about what it looks like to walk closely with someone going through the painful and often confusing journey of divorce and annulment.  Jess and Cheryl discuss: How to support someone considering divorce while still encouraging hope for healing in their marriage.Why people often seek validation from faithful friends—and how to respond with both clarity and love.What words and attitudes are most helpful (and unhelpful) when someone is navigating the annulment process. Cheryl Hansen serves as a Tribunal Advocate in the Diocese of Bismarck, North Dakota. She is also the President of the Michelle Duppong Guild.

    31 min

  8. MAY 1

    How the Jubilee Year Can Rekindle Your Hope

    The Church has declared this the Jubilee Year of Hope- but what does that mean for you?  In this episode, Fr. John Ezratty joins Jessica to explore how this special year invites you to delve deeper in the virtue of hope and increase your trust in God. Fr. John and Jess discuss: What makes hope different from mere optimismHow to navigate desires, dreams, and unanswered prayers with trust in God's willPractical ways to grow in the virtue of hope in your everyday life Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.    If you would like to listen to Fr. Ezratty's talks at SEEK, you can find them here: seekreplay.com

    31 min
See All (137)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

A spiritual formation podcast for FOCUS staff, students, and friends.

Information

  • Creator
    Jessica
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    137
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 He Leadeth Me
  • Show Website
    He Leadeth Me

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