In this episode, we conclude our two part series on Pope Francis' recent Apostolic Exhortation about St. Thérèse of Lisieux entitled "C'est la Confiance: On Confidence in the Merciful Love of God". We discuss how we are all called to a bridal relationship with Jesus and how our desire to love and be loved is a call to Heaven. We also chat about our vocation to love and the importance of growing in this discipline of love even when it is not reciprocated.

Heather's One Thing - The song Hell or High Water by Amanda Cook

Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Way of Trust and Love by Fr. Jacques Philippe

Michelle's One Thing - Story of a Soul - study edition

Michelle's Other One Thing - The song Thank God I Do by Lauren Daigle

Other Resources Mentioned:

Reading Recommendations about St. Therese:

The Way of Trust and Love - by Fr. Jacques Philippe
The Story of a Soul - by St. Therese
I Believe in Love: A Personal Retreat Based on the Teaching of St. Therese of Lisieux - by Jean D'Elbee
33 days to Merciful Love - Fr. Micheal Gaitley
Shirts of Flame - A year with St. Therese of Lisieux - by Heather King

Announcement:

We are so excited to announce our Advent book study will be:

The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander

You can find it on Amazon, Ave Maria Press, and Kindle (for just $1.99!). Your local Catholic bookstore may also carry the book!

Click here to subscribe to the study on our website and be the first to receive updates!

Journal Questions:

What parts in me long to be right rather than loving?
What hinders me from loving?
What grudges and resentments am I holding today?
How am I tempted to criticize instead of taking action in love and kindness?

Discussion Questions:

In what ways do you notice a desire for romance and pursuit in your life? How does this speak to how God reveals Himself to us?
How are you called to choose love in your daily life?
How are you bringing love and light into the church?
Where do I notice division in my heart? How can I invite God in for unity and healing?

Quote to Ponder:

"I think that the Heart of my Spouse is mine alone, just as mine is his alone, and I speak to him then in the solitude of this delightful heart to heart, while waiting to contemplate him one day face to face." (St. Therese)

Scripture for Lectio:

"My beloved is mine, and I am his; he browses among the lilies." (Song of Songs 2:16)

Sponsor - The GIVEN Institute

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GIVEN's year-long program of faith formation, leadership development and dedicated mentoring includes attendance at the Catholic Young Women's Leadership Forum June 8-12, 2024 at the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC and 1-on-1 mentorship with an established Catholic female leader in the Art of Accompaniment Mentoring Program until May 2025.

If you are a woman between the ages 21-35 and are seeking leadership training, faith formation, community and support to better understand and pursue your particular mission and vocation, the program is designed just for you! You'll grow in relationship with Christ and understanding of your gifts as you implement a unique Action Plan that helps you follow God's call.

GIVEN is also accepting applications for lay and consecrated mentors and event volunteers.

For more info, visit www.giveninstitute.com/forum