Say Yes to Holiness--Catholic Saints in Training

Christina Semmens
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Religion & Spirituality
  • Updated 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. 3d ago

    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

  2. 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.

  3. 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

  4. 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.

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. May 8

    Episode #261--"Finding Purpose & Joy in the Easter Season"

    In this episode, Christina reflects on her recent projects, upcoming travels, and how the Easter season invites us to deepen our faith, love, and purpose. Listen now to discover practical spiritual practices, powerful stories, and biblical insights to transform your perspective and life. Main Topics: Christina’s recent book release, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time and reflections on other work associated with the Catholic Leadership Puzzle platform The spiritual significance of the Easter season and its call to loving God and neighbor How to navigate grief, fear, and darkness through faith and hope The importance of community, discernment, and relational listening in leadership Stories of faith and hope from history, including St. John Vianney, Midori Nagai, and Pope Leo XIV Practical tips for praying the Rosary and embracing the victory of Christ over death Encouragement to share your faith story and testify to God’s wondrous deeds Preparing for Pentecost and receiving Easter graces through open hands and hearts May this episode inspire you to embrace the joy, hope, and life that the risen Christ offers us this Easter season. Open your hands, trust in God’s goodness, and share your faith story with the world so that together, we can tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”Chapters and Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and recent updates on Christina’s projects01:01 - Celebrating the release of “Solving the Parish Puzzle”02:26 - The link between personal holiness and community mission03:23 - Baptismal leadership: priest, prophet, king roles04:21 - Christina’s upcoming travel and reflection plans05:17 - Reflection on the 250th anniversary of America’s independence06:14 - Conversation with Paul McCusker about storytelling and faith07:11 - Inspiration from the story of Midori Nagai and hope after tragedy08:11 - How spending life for God reveals beauty in the world09:10 - Grieving loss while trusting in Christ’s victory over death10:10 - The Easter message: death has been overcome11:10 - Embracing death as a friend, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi12:10 - Loving life and living fully through faith and joy13:07 - The example of Mary’s journey of loving and desiring God only14:25 - Small steps to prioritize God in our daily lives15:50 - The call to declare God’s deeds and share our testimony16:48 - The mission each of us is called for, inspired by St. Joan of Arc17:45 - The power of personal stories to bear witness to God’s love19:20 - The importance of prayer, especially the Rosary, for peace and joy20:16 - Practical advice for starting or deepening Rosary prayer21:15 - The spiritual significance of trusting in Mary’s intercession22:42 - Encouragement to keep praying and trusting in God’s goodness23:20 - The cycle of loving, receiving, and giving life in Christ24:17 - Preparing for Pentecost and receiving Easter grace24:44 - Closing prayers and encouragement to keep trusting in God’s plan Resources and Links: Christina Semmens Books Solving the Parish Puzzle Welcome to Hope Springs Series Pope Leo XIII St. Joan of Arc Fulton Sheen Rosary Resources Website Twitter Facebook Connect with Christina: Schedule a FREE 20 minute consultation here

  8. Feb 13

    Episode #260--"Helping Your Marriage Flourish"--1:1 with Katie Zulanas, Executive Director, Couple to Couple League

    In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, host Christina Semmens sits down to speak with Katie Zulanas, Executive Director of the Couple to Couple League (CCL) about ways to help your marriage flourish. To that end, we specifically focused upon the fertility awareness and the Peak Day app, a Catholic fertility and period tracking application. They discuss the risks associated with mainstream fertility apps, and how the Peak Day app empowers women and couples to take charge of their reproductive health. The conversation also highlights the significance of open communication between mothers and daughters regarding fertility, the role of Natural Family Planning (NFP) in strengthening marriages, and the resources available through the Fertility Science Institute. Katie shares her faith journey and the challenges and rewards of her work in promoting restorative reproductive medicine. Takeaways Fertility awareness improves communication and strengthens marriages. The Peak Day app is designed to empower women in tracking their fertility. Mainstream fertility apps often contain immoral content and hidden dangers. Open communication about fertility is crucial between mothers and daughters. Restorative reproductive medicine offers a natural alternative to IVF. The discipline of tracking fertility can lead to significant rewards. The Fertility Science Institute provides valuable resources for families. Women should be aware of the risks associated with using secular fertility apps. The Peak Day app integrates with wearable technology for better tracking. Everyone deserves access to accurate and supportive fertility resources. Sound Bites “A healthy cycle is a sign of health.” “Everyone needs to hear about this app.” “The discipline of NFP has huge rewards.” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Peak Day and Katie Zulanas’ Faith Journey 02:47 The Importance of Fertility Awareness 05:28 Risks of Mainstream Fertility Apps 07:59 Overview of Peak Day App Features 10:32 Empowering Conversations Between Mothers and Daughters 13:24 The Role of NFP in Strengthening Marriages 15:53 Resources and Support from Fertility Science Institute 18:24 The Need for Restorative Reproductive Medicine 21:04 Challenges and Rewards in the Work 23:10 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

    Episode #260--"Helping Your Marriage Flourish"--1:1 with Katie Zulanas, Executive Director, Couple to Couple League
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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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