Say Yes to Holiness--Catholic Saints in Training

Christina Semmens
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Religion & Spirituality
  • Weekly

Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to inspire, encourage and nourish future saints on the journey to holiness while finding purpose, peace and abundance in the midst of daily life.

  1. 13h ago

    Episode #269--"Made For Eternity: Forming the Soul of a Disciple"--Conversation with Allan Smith

    We were made for eternity, and our daily lives offer opportunities to prepare for that everlasting friendship with God. Christina Semmens welcomes author Allan Smith to discuss The Soul of a Disciple: Fulton Sheen’s Meditations on the Cross, the Eucharist, and the Christian Life. Allan shares how a box of free books introduced him to Sheen and helped turn a Canadian plumber and radio volunteer into an evangelist and publisher. Key Takeaways - God can work through an ordinary yes. Allan’s story illustrates how family habits, daily work, and small opportunities to serve can become the foundations of a wider mission. - Give the interior life priority. Allan identifies quiet, personal time with Jesus as the heart of Sheen’s example and the source of fruitful discipleship. - Let Christ form you. Gazing on Jesus, remaining with Mary, and practicing the Beatitudes help turn reflection into a way of life. - The Cross teaches us how to love. The retreat on Christ’s seven last words invites readers to contemplate forgiveness, surrender, and love at the foot of the Cross. - Eucharistic adoration prepares us to abide with God. Spending time with Jesus now helps us grow in the relationship we hope to enjoy forever. - Remember eternity with joy. Drawing on St. Thérèse and Fulton Sheen, Allan closes with an invitation to live our earthly responsibilities within the larger hope of everlasting life with God. Suggested Resolutions Choose one of the following to practice intentionally this week: 1. Accept the 30-minute challenge. Visit a church, put away your phone, and spend 30 quiet minutes with Jesus present in the tabernacle. Give yourself permission simply to be with Him. 2. Begin one retreat. Choose a ten-day retreat from *The Soul of a Disciple* and set aside a few minutes daily for its reflection, Scripture, prayer, and practical response. 3. Practice one Beatitude. Choose meekness, mercy, peacemaking, or another Beatitude, and identify one concrete way to live it in a relationship today. 4. Bring a difficulty to the Cross. Pray before a crucifix about a resentment or daily frustration. Ask Jesus to teach you how to respond with forgiveness and love. 5. Say yes to one opportunity to serve. Share a helpful reflection, encourage someone, or offer a practical act of service. Ask God to use the gifts and circumstances already present in your life. Chapters 00:00 — Welcome and introduction to Allan Smith 01:22 — Catholic family life, daily Mass, and a plumber’s faith journey 03:45 — Discovering Fulton Sheen through *Peace of Soul* 05:46 — *Victory Over Vice* and lessons from Christ’s words on the Cross 07:19 — Sharing Sheen through radio, seminaries, and publishing 10:11 — Saying yes to God’s call in ordinary life 12:12 — The origins and purpose of *The Soul of a Disciple* 15:19 — Sheen’s Carmelite spirituality and the daily Holy Hour 17:20 — Learning to gaze: the Holy Face of Jesus 19:38 — Learning to remain: formation with the Blessed Virgin Mary 21:44 — Learning to become: living the Beatitudes 23:13 — Learning to love: the Cross and the seven last words 23:30 — Learning to abide: the Eucharist and preparation for eternity 24:05 — A bonus Holy Week retreat and a flexible daily format 26:16 — Allan’s strongest lesson from Sheen: the interior life 29:28 — The 30-minute challenge: simply being with Jesus 30:43 — Shortened attention spans and making room for deeper prayer 35:14 — Websites, books, recordings, Holy Face ministry, and a discount code 38:43 — St. Thérèse, joy, and being made for eternity 41:01 — Closing encouragement Books and Resources The Soul of a Disciple — Sophia Institute Press Bishop Sheen Today — Allan’s books, recordings, videos, and resources Holy Face Miracle — Allan’s Holy Face devotion ministry Peace of Soul — the book that first introduced Allan to Sheen Victory Over Vice — Fulton Sheen Allan Smith’s Sophia Institute Press book catalog Use **SHEEN25** for 25% off at Sophia Institute Press

  2. Oct 29

    Episode #268--Angel of God: Growing in Friendship with Your Guardian Angel--Patrick O'Hearn, Author

    How often do we remember the heavenly companion God has given us? On this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens welcomes author Patrick O’Hearn to discuss Angel of God: Devotion to the Guardian Angels for Children. Patrick shares his faith journey and the family prayer that inspired this beautifully illustrated devotional. Together, they explore how guardian angels help us resist temptation, grow in virtue, prepare for the sacraments, and turn toward God in suffering. They also discuss Valerie Delgado’s illustrations, four original prayers by Fr. Ambrose Criste, and why this children’s book can nourish adults’ prayer lives too. The conversation offers simple ways for families to grow in gratitude, prayer, and awareness of God’s loving care. Key takeaways - Angelic protection points toward holiness. Patrick emphasizes that guardian angels’ care extends beyond physical safety to helping us turn away from sin and journey toward heaven. - Begin with a simple, faithful practice. The familiar “Angel of God” prayer and brief conversations can help us remember our guardian angel throughout the day. - Bring this devotion into sacramental life. Ask for help preparing for Confession, bring your intentions to Mass, and grow in gratitude for the gift of the Eucharist. - Receive God’s love before striving for perfection. Patrick reflects on learning to believe that God loves us now, and responding to that love rather than waiting until we feel worthy. - Beauty can help families pray. Scripture, accounts from saints, illustrations, and accessible prayers offer children—and adults—ways to reflect on spiritual realities. - Make room to listen. Patrick’s practice of Scripture meditation reminds us that prayer includes quiet attention to God, even during seasons of dryness. Suggested Resolutions Choose one of the following to practice intentionally this week: 1. Restore a family prayer habit. Pray “Angel of God” each morning or evening, thanking God for His loving care. 2. Ask for help with one virtue. When a familiar temptation appears, pause and ask your guardian angel’s assistance in choosing patience, humility, purity, or another needed virtue. 3. Prepare for the sacraments with intention. Before your next Mass or Confession, ask for help with attention, gratitude, and an honest examination of conscience. 4. Let an image lead to conversation. Share one illustration from the book with a child or grandchild and discuss what it reveals about God’s care. 5. Listen for five quiet minutes. Read a short Scripture passage, put away distractions, and spend a few minutes listening rather than doing all the talking in prayer. Chapters 00:00 — Welcome 01:05 — Patrick’s faith journey 03:49 — The purpose of the book 04:54 — A family prayer tradition and gratitude for angelic protection 06:53 — Guardian angels’ roles and our relationship with them 09:58 — Spiritual protection, resisting temptation 11:49 — Gratitude for Holy Communion 14:02 — A children’s book that can also speak to adults 14:27 — Where to begin: daily prayer and simple conversation 17:08 — Scripture, saints’ experiences, and receiving God’s love 20:27 — Valerie Delgado’s illustrations 23:14 — Four original prayers by Fr. Ambrose Criste 24:44 — Patrick’s hope for children and families 26:59— The challenge of writing faithfully and honestly for children 29:07 — How writing the book deepened Patrick’s own devotion 30:43 — Scripture meditation, perseverance, and listening in prayer 33:40 — Patrick’s website Books and resources Angel of God: Devotion to the Guardian Angels for Children — Sophia Institute Press Patrick O’Hearn’s website — books and speaking Did I Meet My Son’s Guardian Angel? — Patrick’s article mentioned in the conversation Stewardship: A Mission of Faith — ministry resources A Tale of the Sanctuary Lamp — Ave Lamb Prayer to Your Guardian Angel — USCCB Chaplet of St. Michael the Archangel — EWTN

  3. Oct 6

    Episode #267--Where Wonder Leads: Finding God Through Story and Imagination--1:1 Conversation with Author Eric Clayton

    What if the stories we love could become invitations to prayer? In this episode, Christina Semmens welcomes author Eric A. Clayton to discuss this question in the context of Eric’s sharing about his latest book, Where Wonder Leads: Finding God Through Fairy Tales, Myth, and Contemplative Prayer. Drawing on Ignatian spirituality and his love of fantasy and science fiction, Eric explores how wonder, curiosity, and imagination help us recognize God at work in our lives. From Middle-earth and Star Wars to a minotaur and an ordinary onion, this conversation will help you connect storytelling with discernment, self-awareness, and everyday holiness. Eric also shares how to pray with the book’s 35 meditations and why even a few quiet minutes of daily prayer matter. Key Takeaways - Wonder makes room for surprise.** Approach prayer with curiosity and openness rather than a fixed agenda about what God should reveal. - Imagination can help us respond to God’s call.** Eric points to St. Ignatius’s story to show how imagining a different life can help us move beyond familiar patterns. - Stories can reveal our interior lives.** Unfamiliar worlds and exaggerated characters help us notice desires, fears, resistance, and habits we might otherwise overlook. - Bring the imagined scene into conversation with real life.** Enter the scene with your senses, pause to reflect on your everyday experience, then return to the scene with what you have discovered. - Discern storytelling by what it awakens in you.** Eric suggests noticing whether a story deepens curiosity, empathy, and openness to God and others when distinguishing fruitful imagination from escapism. - Holiness grows through ordinary attention and faithful prayer.** Finding God in all things includes mundane moments, uncomfortable invitations, and showing up to pray even when it feels quiet or unrewarding. My conversation with Eric was an uplifting and wonderful one, full of hope, and like his book, sure to help you find God through stories and imagination! Suggested Resolutions from This Conversation and Your Invitation for the Week Set aside a few quiet minutes. Bring a story, character, or ordinary moment into prayer and ask: *What is stirring within me? Where am I clinging to comfort? Where might God be inviting me to take the next step? Chapters and Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome and introduction to Where Wonder Leads 01:17 — Eric’s journey: creative writing, international development, and the Jesuits 04:35 — The book’s inspiration: moving from analyzing stories to praying with them 07:22 — Wonder, curiosity, and openness to God’s surprises 09:37 — Imagination in prayer and St. Ignatius’s invitation to a different life 13:26 — Why fantasy worlds help us see ourselves differently; a Star Trek example 17:02 — Why 35 meditations? Editing the book and the bonus mermaid chapter 19:42 — How the meditations work: entering a scene and returning to ordinary life 21:35 — The minotaur: reflecting on embodiment and how we see ourselves 23:40 — Christina’s experience: magic stones, hope, and interior movements 24:49 — Prayerful imagination versus escapism 26:25 — Finding God in all things—even while chopping an onion 28:53 — The challenge of letting go and writing to serve the reader 31:06 — Living the message: comfort, trust, and crossing into the unknown 33:12 — A simple practice: daily prayer, silence, and showing up 34:19 — Eric’s favorite fictional worlds: Star Wars and The Lord of the Rings 36:31 — Where to find Eric’s books and work; closing encouragement Books and Resources Where Wonder Leads — Loyola Press Eric A. Clayton’s website Bonus chapter: Sample Chapter! Discernment & Mermaids Now Discern This — weekly Ignatian reflections and newsletter signup My Life with the Jedi: The Spirituality of Star Wars Cannonball Moments: Telling Your Story, Deepening Your Faith Eric’s bookshelf, including Finding Peace Here and Now

  4. Sep 12

    Episode #266--“9/11, Fulton Sheen, Faith, Freedom and Liberty”

    Freedom is not about doing whatever you want. It is the moral power to do what you ought—and that changes everything about virtue, character, and how you love others. In this episode, Christina Semmens unpacks Fulton Sheen’s vision of holiness in a conversation that moves from daily self-denial and responsibility to the deeper meaning of freedom as a grace-shaped capacity for good. If you have ever wondered why discipline, law, and moral clarity actually protect freedom instead of limiting it, this episode gives you a compelling answer. Christina shares how virtue forms character, why the law is not a cage but a safeguard, and how surrendering to the Lord builds the inner strength needed to choose the good even when it costs something. She also connects holiness to mission, pointing to Jesus with outstretched arms on the cross as the model for embracing others without abandoning truth. In this episode, you'll discover: Why Fulton Sheen describes freedom as a moral power, not a licenseHow self-denial becomes “daily bread” for a life ordered toward holinessWhy responsibility and virtue are essential to true human freedomHow love of God opens us to love others without losing our moral footingWhat 9/11 and national unity reveal about the danger of fear, division, and discouragement Finally, Christina reflects on the way fear can shape whole societies, how division takes root when we abandon moral clarity, and why the call to holiness is inseparable from the call to witness. If you need a reminder that real freedom is forged through virtue, dependence on God, and courage in the face of division, this is essential listening. Key topics Why Fulton Sheen’s quotes are serving as “food for the head, heart, hands, and feet” ahead of his upcoming beatification. Freedom is not license — She emphasizes Sheen’s point that freedom is the power to do what we ought, not just what we please. Virtue forms true character — She explains that moral power grows through grace, self-denial, and cooperation with the Lord. Law as protection, not restriction — She frames the law as a safeguard that keeps people on the right path rather than a burden that limits goodness. Responsibility matters — She underscores accountability for our deeds and the need to act for the good of all, not selfish ends. Holiness and mission belong together — She contrasts the way of sanctity with the way of mission, pointing to Jesus on the cross with arms outstretched as the model of universal love. Love requires moral clarity — Christina says encountering God opens us to others, but not at the cost of surrendering virtue or good character. Dependence on the Lord is essential — She argues that growth in love and capacity to serve others only happens through reliance on God. 9/11 as an example of unity — She recalls how the nation came together after 9/11, setting aside differences after the 2000 election turmoil. Division has spiritual roots — She warns that deceit, discouragement, and division remain active forces in the world and names Satan, Lucifer, as the source of that influence.

  5. Aug 4

    Episode # 265--America's Saint: Venerable Fulton Sheen

    In this episode, Christina Semmens speaks with Dr. Peter Howard, founder and president of the Fulton Sheen Institute and the Fulton Sheen movement, about why Venerable Fulton J. Sheen’s life and message are especially urgent today. During this conversation, Dr. Peter Howard shares his inspiring faith journey, his deep admiration for Venerable Fulton J. Sheen, and details about the upcoming Fulton Sheen conference and beatification. Listen now to discover how Sheen’s teachings can transform your spiritual life and inspire a renewed evangelization effort in America. Key Topics Fulton Sheen’s impact on American Catholicism The importance of the daily holy hour Sheen’s approach to evangelization in the modern world The significance of Sheen’s beatification in 2026 Takeaways Fulton Sheen emphasized the importance of the daily holy hour for spiritual growth. Sheen’s teachings focus on meeting people where they are to evangelize effectively. The upcoming conference and beatification are opportunities to rediscover Sheen’s wisdom. Sheen’s approach to evangelization involves addressing the wounds of the modern person. The movement around Sheen’s legacy aims to inspire a renaissance in faith and family. Sheen’s message is not a finish line; it is a launch pad. Sheen’s life offers a blueprint for meeting the challenges of the modern world. Sound Bites “We are just now beginning to rediscover why God has given us him.” “Support the Vicar of Christ through prayer and defense.” “Make your daily holy hour and ask the Lord.” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Peter Howard and Fulton Sheen 01:32 Dr. Howard’s Faith Journey and Discovery of Sheen 05:02 The Transformative Power of Fulton Sheen’s Recordings 07:52 Sheen’s Call for the Holy Hour During WWII 11:15 The Significance of Sheen’s Beatification in 2026 14:36 Key Themes in Sheen’s Teachings for Today 19:45 Sheen’s Anthropological Approach to Modern Disordered Man 23:09 Vatican II, Sheen, and the Battle for the Church 27:19 Details of the Fulton Sheen Conference and Pilgrimage 33:33 Speakers and Highlights of the Conference 41:55 Mary, Sheen, and the Mission of Evangelization Resources Fulton Sheen Conference Treasure in Clay Fulton Sheen - Official YouTube Channel EWTN - Fulton Sheen Collection Pope John Paul II on Sheen Links for Dr. Peter Howard Website Twitter Beatification Pilgrimage: Begins September 19 in Peoria, and is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate “America’s Saint” and encounter Sheen’s legacy through speakers, pilgrimage sites, and liturgical events. America’s Conference on September 23rd. Featured Speakers: Bishop Joseph Coffey Monsignor Landry Jason Jones Father Thomas Loya Father Jason Sharon Tammy Peterson John Yep Dale Alquist Sherry Ballinger Sister Dede Byrne Terry Barber Arthur Brooks

  6. Jul 21

    Episode #264--"Healing and Hope through Faith: A Conversation on Anxiety, Trauma, and Spiritual Wellness with Catherine DiNuzzo"

    Join us for an inspiring episode where Christina Semmens welcomes Catherine DiNuzzo, author of The Catholic Guide Through Anxiety. They explore how faith, prayer, and the sacraments serve as powerful tools in managing anxiety and trauma, emphasizing the importance of integrating Catholic teachings into mental health wellness. Discover how saints and Scripture provide models of healing and resilience, offering comfort and strength on your faith journey. Share Catherine’s transformative journey from aspiring teacher to Catholic mental health advocate The profound connection between faith, body, and mental health Why Catholic principles offer unique strategies for coping with anxiety The importance of integrating Scripture, prayer, and sacraments into healing Understanding trauma versus traumatic events with saints’ examples The significance of working through holes and wounds in our spiritual and emotional lives Practical resources: the companion workbook and its role in personal healing The power of surrender and trust in God’s plan, inspired by the Sacred Heart devotion The role of saints like Mary Magdalene and Ignatius of Loyola as guides in recovery How to combat stigma around mental health with faith-based approaches Personal stories of overcoming grief, trauma, and anxiety through prayer and community The importance of communication and understanding in supporting loved ones with anxiety 00:00 - Introduction: Faith and mental health in today’s world01:16 - Catherine’s journey from teacher to Catholic mental health advocate02:19 - The biology of anxiety and faith’s role in healing03:40 - Faith and counseling: intertwined paths for wellness04:41 - How Catholic mass incorporates sensory grounding strategies05:48 - Why secular counseling lacks what the Church provides06:45 - The pervasive falsehoods about mental health and faith08:18 - Saints as models for overcoming trauma and shame09:17 - The analogy of swimming through life’s waves with God’s help10:03 - Addressing shame around mental health struggles11:57 - Filling holes with sand: understanding wounds and such filling with faith13:48 - Building a strong spiritual basement for resilience15:10 - Differentiating trauma and traumatic events16:39 - Saints as companions in healing: Ignatius, Josephine Bakhita, Paul, and Mary Magdalene18:26 - The empowering example of Mary Magdalene’s love and redemption19:54 - Prayer, Scripture, and sacraments as anchors for mental wellness22:35 - Using the companion workbook for personal growth and community24:14 - The importance of resources in Spanish for broader outreach25:31 - Challenges in reducing stigma and spreading faith-based mental health support30:53 - God’s use of our vulnerabilities for greater purpose32:29 - The practice of surrender and trusting in Sacred Heart devotion34:48 - Inspiration from Philip Neri’s story and surrendering one’s desires37:06 - Advice to younger self: “It’s gonna be okay”37:59 - Resources and where to find Catherine’s work39:04 - Final thoughts: You are not alone; faith and community are your strength Sacred Heart Mental Wellness Book: The Catholic Guide Through Anxiety Workbook Companion - Available in Spanish here Saint Ignatius of Loyola Saint Josephine Bakhita Saint Paul Mary Magdalene Instagram Facebook May this episode inspire you to embrace your healing journey with faith, hope, and love.

  7. Jun 30

    Episode #263--"Freedom for Faith, Love and Service"

    Christina Semmens reflects on the 250th anniversary of the United States, drawing inspiration from saints to explore themes of faith, love, and service. She emphasizes the importance of sanctity, trust in God’s plan, and the power of love in building a better nation. Topics The significance of the 250th anniversary of the United States Lessons from Saints Kateri Tekakwitha, Damien of Molokai, Rose Philippine Duchesne, and Junipero Serra The importance of faith, love, and service in personal and national growth Trusting God’s plan during challenging times The role of saints in inspiring patriotism and unity Sound Bites “Transforming union with God is our true goal” “God knows how to proportion Himself to all His creatures” “Every act of mercy matters because God makes it matter” Chapters 00:00 Honoring a Legacy: Personal Reflections 02:30 Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom 05:27 The Call to Holiness: Lessons from Saints 10:51 Love and Service: The Greatest Gifts 16:34 Perseverance in Faith: Trusting God’s Plan 21:46 Unity in Diversity: Embracing Our Shared Humanity

  8. May 14

    Episode #262--"Hope Springs Eternal"--1:1 with Paul McCusker, Senior Director of Creative Content, Augustine Institute

    In this engaging 1:1 interview, Christina Semmens sit down with Paul McCusker, Senior Director of Creative Content for the Augustine Institute, a seasoned storyteller and Catholic convert. Paul shares his journey from evangelical roots to Catholicism, as well as his creative process and the inspiration behind his latest series 'Welcome to Hope Springs.' In this Say Yes to Holiness episode, we discover how storytelling can deepen our faith, help us explore spiritual themes, and also inspire the next generation. Conversation Themes: Paul's spiritual journey from Baptist to CatholicThe role of storytelling and audio dramas in faith The development, purpose, and impact of 'Hope Springs' series Sound Bites: "The Catholic imagination is so much bigger.""Saints obeyed even when they felt crazy.""Music and history inspire my storytelling.""There's a million reasons to become Catholic""God knows me and loves me in spite of myself"Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Paul McCusker and His Journey 02:37 The Intersection of Writing and Spirituality 05:11 Transitioning to Catholicism and Its Impact on Creativity 07:55 The Genesis of Hope Springs 10:39 Exploring the Themes of Hope Springs 13:25 The Resurgence of Audio Dramas 16:20 The Future of Hope Springs and Its Impact 18:51 Personal Reflections on Storytelling and Faith

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Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to inspire, encourage and nourish future saints on the journey to holiness while finding purpose, peace and abundance in the midst of daily life.

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