Tripping Over the Saints

Emily Simpson Chapman is one of my absolute favorite writers. Her writing is challenging yet effortless. Does that make sense? You know those authors who give you something to ponder and reevaluate, but your eyes fly over the page? You don’t stumble and have to reread pages at a time? (ahem, Saint Thomas Aquinas….) When presented with the opportunity to sit down and chat with her, I may have scared Brian with my yell excitement. Emily is a fellow adoptive mama, a lover of the Church and food (yes, those go together in my book), and travel. Please join us as we talk about the Saint that has journeyed with her – Saint Anne, Mother of Mary, Grandmother of Jesus! And please support her newest book, Joseph, Keeper of the King. Resources: Emily’s Website: https://www.emilystimpsonchapman.com/ – books, recipes, pilgrimages, and so much more! Emily’s newest book: Joseph, Keeper of the King The Story of All Stories: A Story Bible for Young Catholics Emily’s Substack: https://substack.com/@emilystimpsonchapman Free Printable:    

Meg was my very first podcast guest three years ago! Talking with her on that very first episode confirmed in my heart that this podcast and the stories of the Saints deserved a place on the airwaves. Meg has just released her newest work – Eyes Fixed on Jesus, Volume 1: A Journey Into the Gospels. I hope you listen and hear all about her passion for reminding people how fiercely and tenderly they are loved by God! Get to know Meg’s friends and support her amazing mission by purchasing her books here: Eyes Fixed on Jesus, Volume 1: A Journey Into the Gospels Saints Around the World Pray for Us: 75 Saints Who Sinned, Suffered, and Struggled on Their Way to Holiness

I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Maura Roan McKeegan about her newest addition in the series of children’s picture books about biblical typology! The series is called The Old and the New. Maura’s passion to teach children about the connections between the Old Testament and the New Testament is the driving force behind these books. The stories, the connections, and the illustrations fascinate my younger children, ages 8 and 10! We spoke about Servant of God Fr. Don Dolindo Ruotolo and the influence the Surrender Novena has had on her life and on her writing. When you see someone truly embrace this submission to God’s will, there is an unmistakable peace that they have. As I spoke with Maura about future projects and dreams, I could hear how she truly gives everything to Jesus in surrender. This interview was an encouraging reminder that something as simple as the line below an email signature might just be the thing God uses to spark someone’s heart into an overflow of creativity, wisdom, and grace! My time with her was delightful. Her knowledge of scripture and excitement for instilling a love of reading scripture in children is thrilling! I hope you order copies of The Old and the New series for your family to enjoy! Resources: The Old and The New Series Maura’s article about the Surrender Novena Maura’s Substack – Stories of Don Dolindo Free Printable:

“Love and sacrifice are as intimately connected as sun and light. We cannot love without suffering or suffer without loving.” St. Gianna Molla I had the privilege of speaking with Jenna and Kevin Bauer about the birth of their beautiful daughter, Mary Elizabeth. This is a story of faith and perseverance, of a mother and father who fell at the feet of Jesus and surrendered everything to Him. From Spirit Juice: A fetal diagnosis of Down Syndrome and heart conditions. A family’s fervent prayers answered. A mother’s divine vision in a hospital waiting room. A miraculous story of life and healing. Believe: Bauer Miracle Story is a new short film premiering online October 1 that tells the incredible true story of Mary Elizabeth Bauer, a baby prenatally diagnosed with Down Syndrome and serious heart defects and almost no chance of survival. After an outpouring of prayer from her family and local community, Mary was born and soon underwent a high risk heart surgery that put her on life support. Her mother Jennifer experienced a divine vision of St. Michael, Mary, and Jesus while praying in the hospital waiting room at the same time that her daughter was successfully taken off life support and her condition stabilized. “Mary is a constant reminder of just how beautiful life is,” said Jennifer Bauer, “We want to share our story because we think it will move others to know that Christ is real and that he will hear you and answer your prayers according to his will.” About Spirit Juice Studios Spirit Juice Studios is an award-winning, Chicago-based creative production firm specializing in the transformative power of high-quality visual media merged with the ever ancient, ever new beauty of Catholicism. Learn more at www.spiritjuicestudios.com. Follow more of the story on Instagram : @marys_mission_ Lily, Mary Elizabeth’s older sister, runs Mary’s Mission instagram page devoted to Mary. Lily made a vow to Mary Elizabeth when she was on life support that she would always be her biggest advocate and make sure she had a voice in this world. Lily has made good on that promise.   https://www.spiritjuice.org/shortfilms/believe/ Free Printable:

Cecilia Stevenson, producer, joins me to talk about Saint Maximillian Kolbe and the new movie, Triumph of the Heart! Most stories about St. Maximilian Kolbe’s biography end when he steps forward to take the place of a condemned man in Auschwitz. “Triumph of the Heart,” however, begins there. In the harrowing confines of a starvation cell at the infamous concentration camp, Kolbe joins nine other condemned men and fights to forge a brotherhood of hope despite their suffering and desperation. As despair and fear grip the group, the pressures of starvation and internal ideological divisions mount. Yet, Kolbe’s appeal to their shared humanity and Polish identity forges a brotherhood that culminates in a poignant act of sacrifice, illuminating hope in one of history’s darkest moments. Kolbe’s story arguably saved the director’s life Director Anthony D’Ambrosio was at the darkest moment of his life. A chronic illness overtook him. It destroyed his life. He couldn’t sleep. His relationship ended. He could barely hold down his job. Worse, there was no cure in sight. He lost his faith and wanted to die. And then he remembered St. Maximilian Kolbe’s story of courage and sacrifice and how this already heroic man built a brotherhood of light in the darkness of an Auschwitz starvation bunker. This movie was partially filmed in the historically significant Łódź, Poland Before its Nazi occupation, Łódź (pro. “Wooch”) had Poland’s second largest Jewish population. The Nazis established a ghetto there in 1940. It was enclosed by fences and barbed wire, with strict guarding by German police. Life within the ghetto was characterized by horrific conditions, including extreme overcrowding, starvation and a lack of basic necessities such as running water and sanitation. Beginning in January 1942, deportations from the Łódź ghetto to the Chelmno extermination camp began. Jewish residents were murdered in gas vans upon arrival at Chelmno. In September 1942, the Germans specifically targeted children, the elderly and the sick for deportation to Chelmno during what became known as “The Sperre” or “Children’s Aktion.” In 1944, the Łódź Ghetto was the last remaining ghetto in German-occupied Poland. The Germans liquidated it, deporting the remaining approximately 75,000 Jews to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Chelmno, where most were murdered. When Soviet forces liberated Łódź in January 1945, only a small number of Jews remained, either in hiding or in forced-labor units, highlighting the devastating impact of the Holocaust on this community. The film tells the story of St. Maximilian’s final two weeks on earth through the eyes of the nine men with whom he was condemned. Director Anthony D’Ambrosio’s most important decision was to tell the story largely from the perspective of Kolbe’s fellow doomed men, a group the film imagines as a representative mix of Auschwitz prisoners: young and old, of varying levels of education; Catholic, Jewish, non- religious. This film is a record setter for Catholic movies. As a project of D’Ambrosio’s Sherwood Fellows, “Triumph of the Heart” has already made a significant impact in the Catholic film community, becoming the most successful Catholic Film Kickstarter of all time, raising $160,000 in Kickstarter funds alone. Cecilia Stevenson (Producer) Cecilia Stevenson is a film producer with a background in live media, narrative film and television, and corporate video production. She has a passion for stories that explore faith, purpose and sacrifice, and she specializes in producing faith-based and mission-oriented projects. After graduation from Texas A&M University, she pursued a career in video production. However, she eventually found herself falling in love with the world of narrative filmmaking and has worked on large production sets, including those of “The Chosen” and “Washington’s Armor.” In 2016, she met Anthony D’Ambrosio (writer/director of “Triumph of the Heart”), and the duo quickly discovered the complementarity of their strengths and shared values to produce faith-based films. Cecilia enjoys downhill mountain biking, creating spreadsheets and playing board games. She is a devoted Catholic who calls producing “Triumph of the Heart” the most challenging — and most meaningful — experience of her life. You can watch the trailer for “Triumph of the Heart” HERE. Or you can have the amazing opportunity to host a community screening HERE. Free Printable:

On this episode of Tripping over the Saints, I’m joined by my friend DeeDee. You guys – this the sweetest story! Pull up a chair and listen to DeeDee and I talk about the beautiful twists and turns of life that led her closer to Jesus, through her friend Saint Martin de Porres. A very special thank you to Father McDaniel for introducing DeeDee and me. Free Printable:

After taking a break over Lent, Patrick joined me to share about his newest book, Saints Come in all Shapes and Sizes! This was the perfect book to kick off the next season of Tripping Over the Saints! About Patrick: Patrick O’Hearn is a devout Catholic, husband, and father. He is an author of seven books and counting, literary consultant, speaker, and a freelance editor, previously serving as TAN Books’ acquisitions editor for two years.He grew up in the Midwest and spent close to three years in a Benedictine Monastery before discerning the call to marriage. He graduated with a master’s in education from Franciscan University of Steubenville and a bachelor’s in marketing from St. Ambrose University.  You can visit his website at patrickrohearn.com. Resources: Website – patrickrohearn.com   Free Printable:

Katherine (Katie) Bogner joins us again! You guys – she has a new book out – All About Lent! This is the perfect book to teach your children about the Biblical roots of Lent and Holy Week. About Katie: Katie Bogner is a Catholic school teacher from Central Illinois who is passionate about equipping parents, catechists, and teachers to share the beauty and truth of Christ and His Church with children. She is the author of the books Through the Year with Jesus and Through the Year with Mary, as well as All about Advent & Christmas and We Have a Pope. Visit her website, LookToHimAndBeRadiant.com, for free lesson plans, printables, and other resources for teaching the faith.     Connect with Katie here: @katherine.bogner LookToHimAndBeRadiant.com Resources: All About Lent Through the Year with Jesus Through the Year with Mary All about Advent & Christmas We Have a Pope https://stpaulcenter.co/saints-lent @stpaulcenter @emmausroadpublishing  Free Printable:

Kristine and I met through Praise Writers! She is one of my co-authors in The Cloud of Witnesses. It was a joy to talk with her and learn more about Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne, who I had never heard of before. She has a story that will leave you counting how many times she truly tripped over her! She also has a beautiful apostolate and has a passion for praying for our prodigals. Join us as she shares her story! About Kristine Bruce: Kristine Bruce is a cradle Catholic born and raised near St. Louis, MO. She had the amazing privilege of attending middle school at the Academy of the Sacred Heart founded in 1818 by St. Rose Philippine Duchesne. Kristine has been called to support, encourage, and pray with Catholics whose loved ones have left the Church. Every Friday, she shares messages of guidance, prayer, and hope to uplift and strengthen Catholics amid the trials of wayward loved ones. For a touch of comfort and connection (and even her all-time favorite cookie recipe!), visit PrayingForOurProdigals.com             Resources: https://www.prayingforourprodigals.com/ Visit the Shrine of St Philippine – https://rscj.org/shrine Learn more about her in Cloud of Witnesses or this link: https://rscj.org/shrine/her-life Free Printable:

I was introduced to Megan by my dear friend, Claire Dwyer. Claire texted and shared that Megan had a Saint story that needed to be heard. This work of sharing stories of encounters with the Saints is a privilege and gift! The Lord in His goodness overflows with stories of His friends at every turn. Join me as I speak with Megan Hjelmstad about St. Jude. About Megan Hjelmstad: Megan met her hockey-loving husband while attending the United States Military Academy at West Point. They have both served for over fifteen years in the Army and Army Reserve. They are blessed with three beautiful children, all of whom play hockey (like dad) and love talking about Jesus (like mom). Resources: Offer it Up: Discovering the Power and Purpose of Redemptive Suffering Free Printable:

Katie McGrady is one of my all time favorite people to learn about the faith from. It was an absolute joy to speak with her about soon-to-be Saint Carlo Acutis! Join us and learn more about this millennial young man that continues to change the world! About Katie McGrady: Katie Prejean McGrady is a wife, mom, award-winning author, international speaker, podcaster & daily radio show host. After working in youth ministry and high school education for a number of years, Katie began speaking full time in 2017, averaging over 100,000 miles a year traveling to speak at events for young people, parishes, parent groups, fundraisers, retreats, religious education conferences, and more. Katie is the author of four books with Ave Maria Press. She began working with Ave Maria Press in 2019 to help create digital and audio content for Ave Explores, a multi-media project digging into various Catholic topics relevant to people who want to learn more and live their faith in a real, practical way. She hosts the Ave Explores podcast, a long-form interview style podcast that topics relevant topics each season. Katie also hosts Like a Mother, a podcast about the joys, struggles, and ins and outs of motherhood. Like a Mother is an OSV podcast production. Katie and her husband, Tommy, are the hosts of Family Mass Prep on Hallow, a weekly podcast for families to get ready to hear and pray with the Sunday Mass readings. Katie regularly writes for Blessed is She, Our Sunday Visitor, Aleteia, and the Grotto Network. She appears as a Catholic commentator on CNN, and is a consultant for the USCCB working group on youth and young adult ministry. Katie is an op-ed columnist with La Croix International, a French Catholic newspaper distributed daily in print and online. In March of 2021, Katie began hosting The Katie McGrady Show, a daily radio program on The Catholic Channel on Sirius XM 129 that talks about pop culture, current events, Catholic news, how to live a life of abundant joy, and introduces listeners to a variety of engaging, dynamic, and profoundly inspiring guests. Katie makes her home in Lake Charles, LA with her husband, Tommy, and daughters, Rose and Clare. Resources: Books with Ave Maria Press Free Printable:

Join me as I talk with Rob Kaczmark, CEO at Spirit Juice Studios, about Saint Joseph! Rob had so many mic drop moments during this interview. I know you will feel encouraged and inspired! About Rob Kaczmark: As the co-founder and CEO of Spirit Juice Studios, an internationally recognized, Emmy award-winning video production house, I have been passionately creating and delivering high-quality and authentically Catholic content for over 16 years. I am a self-taught camera operator and editor, with a keen eye for cinematography, direction, and style. I have worked with clients from 15 countries, amassed over 20 million online views, and completed hundreds of projects every year, ranging from documentaries and music videos to podcasts and commercials. I also serve as the president of Behold, a new media company that leverages the infrastructure and resources of Spirit Juice Studios to produce and distribute original and engaging Catholic content for a global audience. Additionally, I am the executive director of Spirit Juice Entertainment Group, the non-profit arm of Spirit Juice Studios that provides free online access to inspiring and informative Catholic media, with the support of our generous donors. My mission is to evangelize the culture through the power of visual arts and the ever ancient, ever new beauty of the Catholic faith. Resources: Short Film – The Veil Removed Film – The Heart of a Servant Connect with Rob: YouTube – Spirit Juice YouTube – Spirit Juice Kids *let’s get them to 1 million subscribers!* Free Printable:

Oh friends – it is an honor to talk with Margaret Bereit. We have known each other for years – she was Brian and my marriage mentor at Saint Mary’s in College Station, Texas. Anyone who attended Saint Mary’s in the 90’s could tell you about her smile and her loyal encouragement! Join me as we have a beautiful talk about joy and Saint Philip Neri. About Margaret: Margaret Bereit is a seasoned educator with over two decades of experience in homeschooling, classroom teaching, and tutoring. She mentors mothers and children at Mary’s Shelter, a nationally recognized maternity ministry, and is actively involved in her church and local community. Through her passion for education and mentorship, Margaret has empowered women to embrace the blessings and navigate the challenges of faith, relationships, motherhood, and family life. She has been married for 32 years to her husband, David—the founder and former CEO of 40 Days for Life—and together, they co-lead marriage preparation retreats, relationship courses, and marriage enrichment programs. They speak on topics of faith, life, and family to audiences across the U.S. and internationally. The Bereits reside in the Washington, DC area and are the parents of two adult children: Sr. Gloria Christi, a Nashville Dominican, and Patrick, who teaches English and serves the Church in Fez, Morocco. You can connect with her on Facebook to see her wonderful book recommendations for children! Resources: Children’s Book – Saint Philip of the Joyous Heart Children’s Podcast – Saint’s Alive Saint Philip Neri Preparing for Advent: A Guide for Catholic Moms   Free Printable:

Have you heard of Boys Town? Maybe you have seen the award winning 1938 Spencer Tracy movie about Boys Town and Father Edward J. Flanagan? On this episode of Tripping over the Saints, I am joined by Heart of a Servant producer Victoria McEachern! Heart of a Servant is a feature length documentary, narrated by Jonathan Roumie, about Father Edward J. Flanagan and the story of Boys Town. This movie will be released on October 8th, 2024 for one day only. I hope you jump at the opportunity to learn more about Father Flanagan’s great love for all orphans. Buy Tickets Here: Tickets for October 8th, 2024, Heart of a Servant Free Printable:

Patrick was a joy to speak with! His love for the Saints and his passion for knowing about them is a gift! I am in the process of reading Parents of the Saints: The Hidden Heroes Behind Our Favorite Saints and it is packed full of so many stories of the Saints. As I speak with him on this podcast, you can hear the love and knowledge he has of so many of Jesus’s friends in heaven! About Patrick: Patrick O’Hearn is a devout Catholic, husband, and father. He is an author of seven books and counting, literary consultant, speaker, and a freelance editor, previously serving as TAN Books’ acquisitions editor for two years. He grew up in the Midwest and spent close to three years in a Benedictine Monastery before discerning the call to marriage. He graduated with a master’s in education from Franciscan University of Steubenville and a bachelor’s in marketing from St. Ambrose University.  You can visit his website at patrickrohearn.com. Resources: Website – patrickrohearn.com   Free Printable:

Please join me as I speak with the joyful Katie Bogner! I was so encouraged by her personal recount of a miracle. Yes, a miracle! Venerable Fulton Sheen, pray for us! About Katie: Katie Bogner is a Catholic school teacher from Central Illinois who is passionate about equipping parents, catechists, and teachers to share the beauty and truth of Christ and His Church with children. She is the author of the books Through the Year with Jesus and Through the Year with Mary, as well as All about Advent & Christmas and We Have a Pope. Visit her website, LookToHimAndBeRadiant.com, for free lesson plans, printables, and other resources for teaching the faith. Resources: Through the Year with Jesus Through the Year with Mary All about Advent & Christmas We Have a Pope Free Printable:

After a summer break, I am thrilled to be back with a new episode of Tripping over the Saints! This podcast all began with Saint Dymphna. And now, I’ve had the privilege of interviewing Father Benjamin, another very special friend of Saint Dymphna! I felt as if Saint Dymphna sent this interview as a special gift to remind me to get back to my favorite job of spreading stories of the Saints! What a joy to meet someone else and hear the similarities of our journey and her persistent friendship with us. Fr. Benjamin Roberts is a priest of the Diocese of Charlotte and pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Monroe, NC (OurLadyMonroe.org). He holds a DMin in Preaching and is the author of The Voice of the Bridegroom: Preaching as an Expression of Spousal Love. He regularly posts his Sunday homilies on FatherBhomilies.podbean.com and he leads an annual pilgrimage to the National Shrine of St. Dymphna in Massillon, OH. (I have to recommend his sermon series on his podcast that begins in June of 2024. It is phenomenal!) Free Printable: The beautiful St. Dymphna window at Fr. Benjamin’s parish:    

Please join me in listening to this episode with Carolyn Lauman. It was a sincere joy to listen to her story. It is not often that people share their pain and vulnerability so that others may thrive and heal, but this podcast has become a special place of bravery for people to open up about the Lord’s healing in their lives. Praise God! About Carolyn: ​Carolyn Courtney Lauman is a wife, mother, and grandmother who loves Jesus and the Catholic Church. Born in Akron, Ohio, the fourth of Pat and Barbara Courtney’s nine children, she was baptized as an infant and went on to attend thirteen years of Catholic school before graduating from Shippensburg State University in Pennsylvania. While in college, Carolyn walked away from the Church. In the decades that followed, she pursued careers in international business and interior design before trying her hand at writing fiction. Carolyn’s first novel, Against Their Will, was inspired by an actual event that took place as she and her sister, Debbie, were driving from Pennsylvania to Florida. Despite the story’s grit and profanity, the book’s dedication testifies to Carolyn’s enduring faith in a power far greater than herself. While she may have abandoned God, he never abandoned her. During the writing of her third novel in the midst of the COVID pandemic, Carolyn joyfully reconciled with the Catholic Church. Not long afterward, as she struggled with her fourth work of fiction, she sensed God’s prodding her to use her talents for His purpose and glory. His Resurrection Fern is the result of her response to that call. Today, Carolyn lives with her husband on the coast of Maryland. She is available for appearances at book club meetings and book signings, and for both in-person and podcast interviews. Resources: Nothing Short of a Miracle by Patricia Treece PraiseWriters ( a membership community of writers who seek support, inspiration, and formation in both the craft of writing and the business of publishing and marketing.) Free Printable:

Join me as I speak with Dr. Christopher Reed about Saint Ignatius of Loyola! About Chris: DR. CHRISTOPHER REED, is author of best-selling, Future-Ready Leadership: Strategies for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He is a sought-after speaker, consultant, and coach. Through his writing and engaging Catholic ministry, Chris seeks to inspire, educate, and help people discover and use their God-given talents to make the world a better place. Chris has served as a leadership and organizational consultant and coach with Gallup, the University of Michigan, Trinity Health, and numerous other organizations around the world. He holds a doctorate in Human Communication Processes from the University of Georgia and serves his profession and community through the International Coach Federation, the Society of Catholic Social Scientists, the Knights of Columbus, and the Bald Mountain Family of Parishes in the Archdiocese of Detroit. Chris and his wife Robin live, worship, and serve in Lake Orion, MI. Resources: Book website & downloadable resources: https://oursacredconversations.com Book purchase link: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/sacred-conversations/ Free Printable:

Join me as we celebrate a lovely book of poetry releasing today by Belinda! It is a true joy to listen to her speak about her poetry. Her friendship with the Saints is woven into her life in the most beautiful way! About Belinda: I love to serve by writing, teaching, training, and speaking at conferences. I’ve had experience as an adjunct professor in human services or social work at three different colleges (Georgia State University, Oglethorpe, and Lone Star College Montgomery). I’ve helped develop an addictions course at Belmont Abbey College. I have been a licensed professional social worker and addictions counselor for over 15 years, having worked in educational, hospital, and clinical environments. My specialized clinical experience is in addictions, group therapy, and case management. I owned my own business training other professionals in addictions, self-care, and ethics and speaking at local, state, regional, and national conferences. I have been blessed to be able to home educate my seven children over the last 28 years and to write articles and speak at Home Education conferences. I have taught human services classes at Lone Star College Montgomery. My workbook to help plan self care and prevent burnout. My Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes Workbook: Creating a Comprehensive Plan for a Calm, Ordered Life can be seen on my website: www.tlcwellnessinstitute.com I am writing a Catholic edition of the workbook. Praying with the Saints on their Feast Days (tentative title) to be published by OSV. more books to be published soon. I love my faith and hope that all I have done will give glory to God. Resources: A Look at Life: A Book of Poetry by Belinda Terro Mooney | En Route Books and Media  

It was an honor and a joy to speak with Mary on this episode. She shares a beautiful story about St. Therese of Lisieux and the sweet friendship they have. It is an honor to help people share the friendships they have with our friends in heaven! As I was reviewing the recording, I wanted to share something with you about how my journey progressed in understanding Saints and the sweet gifts they give us. I believe in the power of prayer. Saints in heaven can intercede for us. (This took me a long time to study and unravel what I had been taught before becoming Catholic. I believe I am still learning every day!) Some Saints also send gifts (or favors) to us! (This is a very new concept for me.) From Saint Therese: She explained: “After my death, I will let fall a shower of roses. I will spend my heaven doing good upon earth. I will raise up a mighty host of little saints. My mission is to make God loved…” A rose is like her signature on a letter to a friend. So, when St. Therese has been praying for you, keep your eyes out – sometimes she likes to leave you roses! Mary Thissen is a St. Louis native living in East Central Illinois with her husband and children. She is blessed with twin boys Earthside and four children now living in Heaven. When she is not working as a healthcare data analyst or caring for her boys, she enjoys studying and writing about the Catholic faith and ministering to women who are suffering through miscarriage or infertility. You can connect with Mary at marythissen.com on Instagram @waitingonmiracles. Resources: Connect with Mary on Instagram at @waitingonmiracles Free Printable:

I am so excited to share Saint Peter Eymard with you today! Join me as Joe Valentic shares his journey with this Saint and the story of his beautiful apostolate. About Joe: Joe Valentic is a Catholic entrepreneur, author, and apostolate leader. He has a passion for sharing the Catholic faith and for helping people to integrate their faith into all areas of their life to achieve their full God given potential. Joe has over 30 years of business experience and over 19 years of Catholic apostolate experience.  He has served in the community in multiple board and executive roles for Catholic and pro-life organizations. He currently serves as the volunteer Chairman of Alliance Catholic Credit Union and the President of the board of Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament Apostolate. Joe is blessed to be married for 32 years. He and his wife have 7 children with us and 2 with the Lord. They also have 4 grandchildren. Joe lives in metro Detroit and has been blessed to be engaged with multiple parishes. Website: Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament Apostolate Resources: Blessed Sacrament Chaplet Free Printable:

You may remember Nicole from our episode on St. Francis de Sales. After we finished recording that episode, we had a beautiful chat about Our Lady of Guadalupe and I knew she just had to come back to tell us all about it! Join me as I talk with Nicole about her special experience with Our Lady of Guadalupe! About Nicole: Website: www.nicoleberlucchi.com Instagram: @berlucchiwriting ( Nicole Berlucchi (@berlucchiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos) Resources: Guadalupe Mysteries: Deciphering the Code – The book I handed out in the drive thru (LOL) Free Printable:

  I had the privilege of speaking to Belinda Terro Mooney this past week! As soon as we started talking, her calming presence and sincere love for Jesus touched my heart in a profound way. This episode is a little longer than the usual podcast episode, so be sure and carve out a little special time for you to really enjoy her love and teaching of the church. We talk about St. Gertrude the Great and so many more wonderful saints! In true tripping over the saints’ fashion, listen in as another Saint is trying to get our attention! Have a wonderful day friends! May you come to know the Saints who are praying for you on your journey. About Belinda: I love to serve by writing, teaching, training, and speaking at conferences. I’ve had experience as an adjunct professor in human services or social work at three different colleges (Georgia State University, Oglethorpe, and Lone Star College Montgomery). I’ve helped develop an addictions course at Belmont Abbey College. I have been a licensed professional social worker and addictions counselor for over 15 years, having worked in educational, hospital, and clinical environments. My specialized clinical experience is in addictions, group therapy, and case management. I owned my own business training other professionals in addictions, self-care, and ethics and speaking at local, state, regional, and national conferences. I have been blessed to be able to home educate my seven children over the last 28 years and to write articles and speak at Home Education conferences. I have taught human services classes at Lone Star College Montgomery. My workbook to help plan self care and prevent burnout. My Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes Workbook: Creating a Comprehensive Plan for a Calm, Ordered Life can be seen on my website: www.tlcwellnessinstitute.com I am writing a Catholic edition of the workbook. Praying with the Saints on their Feast Days (tentative title) to be published by OSV. more books to be published soon. I love my faith and hope that all I have done will give glory to God.   Free Printable: Belinda’s Website:   TLC Wellness Institute Belinda’s books:  

I recently had the absolute joy of speaking with Daniel McInerny! Join me as he shares the beautiful way that St. John Henry Cardinal Newman asked to be his friend. About Daniel: Daniel McInerny is a novelist and dramatist as well as associate professor and chair of the philosophy department at Christendom College in Front Royal, Virginia.  In March 2023 Chrism Press published his novel, The Good Death of Kate Montclair, which his fellow Catholic novelist Maya Sinha has called “an instant classic of 21st-century Catholic fiction.”  The Good Death of Kate Montclair depicts a brave woman in midlife struggling to come to terms with a terminal diagnosis by joining an apparently innocent death discussion group (loosely modeled after the contemporary phenomenon of The Death Café). It is a suspenseful, heartbreaking, topical, and often humorous story set in Washington, D.C./Northern Virginia during COVID Year 2020, with flashbacks to the Italy of the 1980s, told from Kate Montclair’s present tense POV. The book deals with one of our culture’s most hotly contested issues, euthanasia, as well as with the themes of conscience as an argument for God’s existence, and bespoke spirituality and ritual in our contemporary world. Acclaimed Catholic poet James Matthew Wilson has said the following of the novel: “Daniel McInerny brings us a novel of characters flirting with the temptation to be their own author only to discover the plot of their lives is not up to them. This is a book of and for our dreary moment but one which reminds us that a good story brings serious pleasure and joyful wisdom to transform even the darkest of ages.” As a scholar Daniel is foremost interested in retrieving an Aristotelian understanding of mimetic art, long out of favor among philosophers. In June 2024 Word on Fire Academic will bring out his scholarly monograph, The Way of Beauty: A Philosophical Reflection on the Arts. Early reviews of the book have said the following:  “This is literally the best book on beauty that I have ever read: the most convincing, clear, and comprehensive; the most eye-opening and satisfying; the most insightful and delightful. It is a masterpiece. I do not use that word lightly, but there is no other word for it.”  –Dr. Peter Kreeft, Professor of Philosophy, Boston College, and author of Socrates’ Children (Word on Fire 2023) “Daniel McInerny’s book clarifies why we enjoy works of art—pictures, music, drama and movies, poetry and novels—and it also shows why we revere such works: not as ends in themselves, but because they place us in the truthful presence of what they depict. The book reactivates Aristotle’s understanding of mimesis and Aquinas’s enhancement of it. It shows how art elevates what it displays as well as the community that experiences it. It is a metaphysical and theological reflection on the arts, written in the style and spirit of C. S. Lewis: limpid prose, abundant citations, colorful examples. A book to study and learn from, then to browse in and enjoy.” —Msgr. Robert Sokolowski, Elizabeth Breckenridge Caldwell Professor of Philosophy, The Catholic University of America At Christendom College Daniel teaches courses on the Philosophy of Art & Beauty, the Philosophy of Technology, the Philosophy of Culture, and Ethics & Imagination.  He received his BA in English from the University of Notre Dame (1986) and his PhD in philosophy from The Catholic University of America (1994). He has taught and worked at various universities in the United States, including a stint as associate director of the Notre Dame Center for Ethics & Culture, now called the DeNicola Center for Ethics and Culture, at the University of Notre Dame (2003-09). He has taught at Christendom College since the fall of 2019.  Daniel is also the author of three books in the humorous Kingdom of Patria series for middle grade readers, as well as a play, The Actor, on the early life and wartime dramatic activities of Karol Wojtyla, the man who would become Saint John Paul II, which will premiere at Christendom College in the fall of 2024.  He also writes the Substack newsletter, The Comic Muse, where he shares weekly reflections on philosophy, the arts, technology, and culture.  Daniel is a native of South Bend, Indiana. He is the youngest child of the late Ralph McInerny, revered philosopher at the University of Notre Dame for over fifty years, and best known by many as the author of the beloved Father Dowling series of mystery novels.  Daniel and his wife Amy have three grown children and one preternaturally adorable grandchild, and they live in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Daniel’s book: The Good Death of Kate Montclair Substack – The Comic Muse Free Printable:  

On this podcast, Jennie shares with us her love for Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton! As always, God’s timing is perfect in what Jennie shares with me! Jennie is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio, and founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her “to step out of the boat” to serve in a new way. In her new ministry as a Catholic Life Coach, she now equips and encourages middle-life moms to reconnect with who they are and their unique God-given purpose so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world. About Jennie: Website: Catholic Moms in the Middle Instagram: @jennie_m_guinn Free Printables:

A dear friend, Claire, invited me to join Praise Writers about a year ago. I have met some of the most beautiful encouragers, devout, Jesus loving friends through this group! Nicole has been such an inspiration to me! After a journey of letting go of the distractions of social media and focusing on discerning God’s will for her writing, she is on fire to spread the love of Christ! She has an incredible testimony about Saint Francis de Sales. Please join us as she shares how she has tripped over him in her life! About Nicole: Website: www.nicoleberlucchi.com Instagram: @berlucchiwriting ( Nicole Berlucchi (@berlucchiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos) Resources: Philothea or Introduction to the Devout Life – St. Francis de Sales  Finding God’s Will For You – St. Francis de Sales  Live Today Well, St. Francis de Sales’s Simply Approach to Holiness – Fr. Thomas Dailey  Francis de Sales, Jane de Chantal, Letters of Spiritual Direction  Lift Up Your Heart, 10 Day Personal Retreat with St. Francis de Sales – John Burns Free Printables:  

My dearest friends, it is with the greatest joy that I share this episode with you! I met Father Louis Mersone in July 2014 in Tucson, Arizona at a Steubenville conference. Father Louis was the priest during Adoration when I experienced miraculous healing by our Savior, Jesus Christ. AMDG! If you have not heard the story, I’d love to share it with you! https://youtu.be/o2sUEVjPUFc Father Louis Merosne is madly in love with the Trinity, the Blessed Mother, and the Catholic Church. Born in Haiti, he moved to Boston in 1993. He studied at the Franciscan University (undergraduate French, philosophy, and theology from 2002 to 2005 and graduate theology and Christian ministry from 2005 to 2007). Ordained in 2011, he now serves in Haiti in the Diocese of Anse-à-Veau and Miragoâne under Bishop Pierre-André Dumas. Preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ is both a duty and passion for him. His perpetual prayer intention is to be a saintly priest. I pray that you are blessed by Father Louis and Venerable Pierre Toussaint! How to bless Father Louis and his ministry: Father Louis student loans Mission To The Beloved Resources: Memoir of Pierre Toussaint: Slave, Hairdresser, Candidate for Saint Pierre Toussaint: Apostle of Old New York Free Printable:

In this episode, I sit down with one of the most delightful couples ever! My son, Nate, had the privilege of having Mr. Riecker as a theology teacher when we lived in Arizona. Mr. Riecker and his wonderful wife, Jessica, joined me to share about the Blessed Mother and Saint Joseph! Come listen and hear why these Saints are special to them and how their intercession has already been a huge blessing in their marriage. Resources: Cameron Riecker’s YouTube channel Real Life Catholic: Holy Dirt The Blessing with Kari Jobe & Cody Carnes | Live From Elevation Ballantyne | Elevation Worship Pilgrimage to Chimayo The stairs of Saint Joseph – Chapel of Loretto **Also – in the episode I mention an actress that converted – I had Barbara Hershey confused with Dolores Hart. I apologize for that mistake** Free Printable:

Philip Kosloski founder and CEO of Voyage Comics, is a writer well known for his accessible articles on topics of spirituality and Church history at Aleteia.org. In this episode, Philip shares with us Blessed Carlo Acutis! Did you know Bl. Carlo Acutis was born in 1991? I love how the Church gives us Saints in every age and time. Bl. Carlo had a deep love for the Eucharistic and created a website that lists all the Eucharistic miracles, reminding us that miracles happen all around us! I first was introduced to Philip through his Saint comic books. My children immediately fell in love with the stories of Saints told in the style of popular comic book heroes. As I learned more about Philip, I found his website and his incredible contributions as an author. When you have time, please be sure to check out his articles. Bl. Carlo Acutis used technology to spread the Gospel and hope. Pray for us, Bl. Carlo! Thank you for your incredible example of holiness! Resources: Voyage Comics Bl. Carlo Acutis: His life, his miracles and his legacy Christus Vivit (paragraphs 104-106) Free Printable: “everyone is born as an original, but many people end up dying as photocopies” – Bl. Carlo Acutis

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. John Cuddeback! Join me as we learn how Saint Dominic played a vital role in Dr. Cuddeback’s sincere and powerful passion for crafting a life well loved. John A. Cuddeback, PhD, is professor of Philosophy at Christendom College, where he has taught for over twenty-five years. He lectures widely on topics including virtue, fatherhood, friendship, and household, and his professional writings appear in various academic journals and books. His book True Friendship was republished by Ignatius Press. His blogging and free courses at LifeCraft are renowned for applying an ancient wisdom to life today. Resources: LifeCraft – Dr. Cuddeback’s blog, dedicated to the Philosophy of the Household True Friendship: Where Virtue Becomes Happiness (Ignatius Press, 2021) Free Printable:    

Join me as I talk to Melissa Dee from Saints Alive Podcast (my kids favorite podcast)! We talk about Venerable Father Patrick Peyton. I know you will enjoy listening her talk about Venerable Father Patrick Peyton and how much he has meant to their marriage and their podcast! In true tripping over the Saints fashion, be sure and listen to I had been introduced to Venerable Father Patrick Peyton a few years ago through a project her husband worked on! (what?!!!) Melissa is the executive producer of Saints Alive Podcast. She is married to Co-Founder of Saints Alive, Alex and Mom to James (3) and Mia (6 months). Creating this podcast has been a labor of love, and Melissa has cherished the long hours of hard work with the saints by her side. When she isn’t creating Google docs, writing lists, and sending emails you can find her loving the joy of being a mom! “How monotonously alike all the great tyrants and conquerors have been; how gloriously different are the saints.” ― C.S. Lewis About Saints Alive Podcast: https://www.saintsalivepodcast.com/ Resources: Father Patrick Peyton website Pray: The story of Patrick Peyton Family Rosary Facebook Page The Tale of Patrick Peyton – Voyage Comic Book Free Printable: Become a Patron!

In this episode, Kristin and I sit down and talk about Saint Mother Teresa. As I was listening for any edits needed, I realized we focused on the obedience of Saint Mother Teresa. We would rabbit trail to different topics and what the Lord was teaching us, but over and over again, we spoke of her beautiful obedience to what The Lord asked her to do. Kristin and I are two mothers of five, both with the occupation of encouraging other moms, struck by a Saint whose obedience rocked the entire world. I think sometimes we can go throughout life, quoting a Saint whose words are beautiful and strong, but forgetting the unrelenting obedience and love for our Savior. Will you sit with us and remember Saint Mother Teresa who shows us that becoming a Saint is not only possible but necessary for the sake of all of His beautiful children?   About Kristin: Kristin’s Website Resources: Mother Teresa: Come Be My Light: The Private Writings of the ‘Saint of Calcutta’ No Greater Love Printable:   Become a Patron!

In this episode, I was joined by by Sr. Mary Mediatrix of Grace from SOLT. I have a very special place in my heart for the SOLT community. Their motherhouse is in Corpus Christi, Texas. Corpus Christi is where my parents met and were married. As a child, holidays were spent traveling down to Corpus Christi to be with both sets of grandparents. I felt a very special connection to Sr. Mary Mediatrix of Grace and I’m sure you will, too! It was an absolute joy to speak with Sr. Mary Mediatrix of Grace and learn more about Our Mother. Personal note: For many years, I have wrestled with the concept of the word Mediatrix. I pray that this answer helps you as it has helped me: Mary’s title of mediatrix arises from her cooperation in the Incarnation and in the Redemption of mankind. Through her “yes” (Lk 1:38), she became the Theotokos(God-bearer), and, as the “New Eve,” she is “the Mother of all living.” Irenaeus (A.D. 120–200) wrote, “As by a virgin the human race had been bound to death, by a virgin it is saved, the balance being preserved, a virgin’s disobedience by a virgin’s obedience” (Against Heresies, 3, 22, 19). Eve made the Fall possible, but Adam effected it; Mary made our Redemption possible (by consenting to bring the Savior into the world), but Jesus effected it. God permitted the Redemption of mankind to depend on the free-will decision of a human being. Whether or not we would have a mediator was dependent on Mary’s “yes.” Had there been no “yes” from Mary, there would have been no mediator. Thus the graces that come through Jesus may be said to come to us, in a secondary way, via Mary—not as the origin of the graces, but as a conduit. The Catholic Church always has taught that Jesus Christ alone redeemed mankind (neither Mary nor any other creature had the power to do so), and ultimately only through him are salvation and grace obtained. Even we are mediators, in a lesser sense. The word mediator means someone who is a go-between. In 1 Timothy 2:5, which refers to Jesus as the “one mediator,” the Greek word for “one” is heis, which means “first” or “primary” and does not denote something exclusive. In fact, we are all mediators when we pray for one another. As members of the Mystical Body of Christ, we all share in Christ’s role as mediator, but our efforts at being go-betweens “work” only because of what he has done. Our mediating in no way diminishes the role of Christ as mediator; in fact, it glorifies the Father, because it is through Jesus that we can approach with confidence the throne of grace (Heb 4:14-16). How much more does Jesus give his mother Mary the privilege to be a participant in the distribution of grace! Source: https://www.catholic.com/qa/isnt-calling-mary-the-mediatrix-of-all-graces-contrary-to-the-doctrine-that-jesus-is-the-sole     Learn more about SOLT here. Books: Fulton Sheen: The World’s First Love 33 Days to Morning Glory : A Do-It-Yourself Retreat in Preparation for Marian Consecration Additional Information: Dr. Mark Miravalle Mary, Mediatrix of All Graces – Mariology Without Apology #31 – Dr. Mark Miravalle Co-Redemptrix and Mediatrix of All Graces Printable:   Become a Patron!

Andrea Boring joins us to share about Blessed Concepción Cabrera de Armida in this episode of Tripping Over the Saints. Andrea is a wife and mom of five kiddos, including two sets of twins. She is a Media Relations & Communications Specialist with a deep love for the Church and a special heart of prayer for our Priests. Andrea has found a friend and mentor in Blessed Concepción Cabrera de Armida – in marriage, in motherhood, and in our journey to holiness. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Conchita from Andrea! What a blessing it is to learn of those who love Jesus so very much and want to share their love and prayers with us! “Mary was always the mirror in which My Heart was reflected with all its torments, while in her soul re-echoed something of My interior sufferings. She was aware of the bitterness of the chalice, which I drank for the sake of man, and she suffered in union with Me for the salvation of souls, thus honoring My beloved Father. During My external passion Mary suffered for some hours, but during My entire life she suffered the other passion, that only she could see, and which was the martyrdom of both of us. My life came to an end on Calvary, but My interior passion continued in Mary up to her death in order to complete My sacrifice and to leave the seed on earth that would take root in other souls.” – Jesus to Blessed Concepción Cabrera de Armida, from the book Priests of Christ (St. Pauls). We invite you to learn more about Blessed Concepción Cabrera de Armida! Beautiful Holiness: A Spiritual Journey With Blessed Conchita to the Heart of Jesus by Kathleen Beckman A Mother’s Letters: A Vision of Faith in Everyday Life I Am: Eucharistic Meditations on the Gospel (Venerable Concepcion Cabrera De Armida) Holy Hours {Click here for a free print of the above image and quote}

Today I had the absolute joy of speaking with Cecilia (@missionaryofbeauty on Instagram) about which Saints she has tripped over! Cecilia is a flute and piano teacher, freelance performer, and composer residing in central Pennsylvania. While studying flute performance at The Catholic University of America, she felt a call to give her desire of becoming an orchestral flutist over to the Lord, and her life has never been the same since. God used her last two years of collegiate studies to broaden her focus to teaching privately, composing music, studying body mapping and Alexander technique, and adding a minor in theology and religious studies. She recently earned her masters in flute performance at Penn State University, and used her time during her masters to focus on pedagogical studies. When she is not teaching, composing, collaborating with other musicians, or working for The Hildegard Collective, she can be found baking allergen-free treats, reading a good book, or spending time with friends and family. In this show, we joked about a quote, not remembering the source – so with a little internet research, it was Saint Frances de Sales! “Half an hour’s meditation each day is essential, except when you are busy. Then a full hour is needed.” -Saint Francis de Sales Printables:                      

Today I had the honor of speaking with my friend, Jason Evert. Jason shares his love of Saint John Paul II. Join us as Jason talks about Saint John Paul’s interior life of prayer and how that has inspired his own life. Jason Evert has spoken to more than one million people about the virtue of chastity. He is a best-selling author of more than ten books, including “Theology of the Body for Teens,” and “How to Find Your Soulmate without Losing Your Soul.” Jason earned a master’s degree in theology, as well as undergraduate degrees in counseling and theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville. He is a frequent guest on radio programs and his television appearances include Fox News, the BBC, MSNBC, and EWTN. For more information, go to The Chastity Project. Be sure to check out Jason’s book on Saint John Paul the Great! (Click the link below to order a copy).                                         Printable:

Oh friends, today I had the honor of sitting down with Heather Khym to talk about saints. Heather Khym is the cohost of the internationally popular Abiding Together Podcast. She and her husband, Jake, are the cofounders of Life Restoration Ministries, where she serves as director of vision and ministry of the British Columbia-based apostolate. She has more than twenty-five years of experience as a speaker and retreat leader, offering workshops and conferences in the United States and Canada. She attended Franciscan University of Steubenville, studying theology and catechetics. Heather is passionate about evangelization, discipleship, and creating an environment for people to have a personal encounter with God. She lives with her husband and three teenage children in British Columbia, Canada.   Join us as we talk about her favorite saint, St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Heather’s gentle wisdom makes me want to sit and listen to her talk about Saint Therese forever. Please join us and enjoy learning about another saint! You can get to know Heather as one of the three co-hosts of the Abiding Together Podcast. Her book, Abide: A Pathway to Transformative Healing and Intimacy With Jesus can be found at Ave Maria Press by clicking the prior link. I am so excited to share a small glimpse into Heather Khym’s beautiful heart with you today. It was a privilege to speak with her. “That’s the kind of Christian I want to be, the one that never leaves.” – Heather Khym Printable:  

Have you ever wondered why certain people in The Church are called ‘Saint’? I have! Until recently, I did not understand the process of how someone is given the official title of ‘Saint’. After Jennifer and I spoke last time, she had the wonderful idea to share the process of how you become a saint (with a capital ‘S’). Jennifer is a middle school theology teacher and adult faith formation teacher. In this podcast, Jennifer walks us through the formal process of how The Church recognizes a person as a Saint. By canonizing some of the faithful, i.e., by solemnly proclaiming that they practiced heroic virtue and lived in fidelity to God’s grace, the Church recognizes the power of the Spirit of holiness within her and sustains the hope of believers by proposing the saints to them as models and intercessors. “The saints have always been the source and origin of renewal in the most difficult moments in the Church’s history.” Indeed, “holiness is the hidden source and infallible measure of her apostolic activity and missionary zeal.” CCC 828   Become a Patron!   https://youtu.be/Zju6P26c7AU

Join Kate as talks with her friend, Jennifer Cullen, about which Saint showed up in her life! Jennifer shares her precious story of St. Faustina Kowalska.  “My daughter, let nothing frighten or disconcert you. Remain deeply at peace. Everything is in My hands.” – Notebook 1, 219, St. Faustina Kowalska. This is just one of the beautiful quotes from St. Faustina’s diary. I was first introduced to her by the organ player at our Parish, Rollie Hudson. He had a beautiful devotion to her and would send out a nightly email with excerpts from her diary. Each night before bed, I would read the email. It was such a peaceful way to drift off to dream. St. Faustina saw beautiful visions of Christ. Her deep love of Christ created a fire within her to spread the message of the mercy and love of Jesus! I invite you to listen to this podcast and then, learn more about the Divine Mercy. Have you ever seen the beautiful painting of Christ with white and red rays coming out of His heart? This image is a representation of the vision St. Faustina had in 1931. She saw Jesus and He asked her to have a the image painted. At the request of her spiritual director, St. Faustina asked the Lord about the meaning of the rays in the image. She heard these words in reply: The two rays denote Blood and Water. The pale ray stands for the Water which makes souls righteous. The red ray stands for the Blood which is the life of souls. These two rays issued forth from the depths of My tender mercy when My agonized Heart was opened by a lance on the Cross. Happy is the one who will dwell in their shelter, for the just hand of God shall not lay hold of him (299). By means of this image I shall grant many graces to souls. It is to be a reminder of the demands of My mercy, because even the strongest faith is of no avail without works (742). St. Faustina Kowalska, pray for us! Printable:                         Become a Patron!

Join Kate as she interviews Meg Hunter-Kilmer, missionary, author, speaker, and Hobo for Christ. Meg shares her story of tripping over Saint Leopold Mandic. I knew Meg was the perfect person for the very first episode when I asked her about which saint she wanted to share and she said, “I have a thousand and I want to tell you about all of them!” Her joy for the Saints is contagious! I am so thankful for her time and expertise. Get to know Meg’s friends and support her amazing mission by purchasing her books here:       Saints Around the World (this is the book I purchased for my niece’s first communion!)                         Pray for Us: 75 Saints Who Sinned, Suffered, and Struggled on Their Way to Holiness               Printable:                         Become a Patron!

  Some say that Saints choose you. St. Dymphna, a saint I had never heard of, literally showed up in my home. I tripped over a prayer card on my bedroom floor. No one had been in our home. No one left it there for me to find. To this day, I do not know where the prayer card came from, but I know she has walked with me every single step of the way. As I shared this story with close friends, I learned that this isn’t completely uncommon. Friends had their own stories of saints that had chosen them. I called this phenomenon “tripping over the saints”. As I sat at my sister in laws’ home in Houston, we were water coloring with our daughters and I wondered aloud about starting a podcast where people could share their personal experiences of times they have tripped over a Saint. Years later, this desire to tell the world about our heavenly friends is still a flame inside me. I would love for you to join me on this journey of meeting more of our friends. I am not a Saint expert, by any means. I look forward to learning more about them with you. Become a Patron!

My favorite photo shoot ever. Julia and her dear friend Julia headed with me for an afternoon of silly giggles, running over hills, and serious flower placement. Julia’s sisters Claire and Lily came. It was epic. They were so much fun to shoot together and they were up for trying everything! Yes, there are a lot of pictures ahead. I can’t pick a favorite. See?! I can’t pick one. Oh Julia, thank you for such a fun afternoon. Capturing your beauty is so easy to do. I’m so thankful that I am your mom. You make my days so incredibly special. https://songskatesang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/30-17098-post/Julias-Senior-Pictures.mp4  

This conversation is sponsored by Zuru. It is my honor to share news with you from a company that I enjoy and support!  A list of the perfect stocking stuffers for little hands on Christmas morning! It’s here,  it’s here and I can’t stop smiling! Julia is 17, Nate is 14, Riley is 5, Mary is 2, and this will be Sebastian’s first Christmas! December is here and I think it’s gonna be a really good one. I haven’t started decorating, but I’m okay with that. I’m just excited to see family and to have everyone together over the holiday! One of the most common questions I get is around what stocking stuffers to get the little ones. It can be overwhelming when you are standing in the toy section trying to figure out what little hands would love. I’ve put together a short list of what I know my little ones would love to find in their stocking! amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "sonkatsan02-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_title = "My Amazon Picks"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "43b96e781199ad7601d300a98681d844"; amzn_assoc_asins = "B0034EKP8Q,B075Y2MV3N,B071GXCGTQ,B01N8Q3YPN"; Riley opened the Tangle last week and hasn’t put it down yet! He loves it. Tangle is a puzzle to play with, a means to relieve stress, and a tool for creativity that you can combine endlessly. He did a little FB Live video of opening it for the first time, so feel free to take a peek! Of course, he mentions that he wants the gold one, so I’ll have to find that before Christmas!   https://songskatesang.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/23994396_163643224381313_197349280485212160_n.mp4 What are you top stocking stuffer choices?! I’d love to hear in the comments!

This was recorded live at Mass a few weeks ago. When I sing it, I think about the room being empty – and really, really singing just to Him. And then, I let the room slowly fill back up – and I hope that people realize that we are on Holy Ground. https://songskatesang.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Doves-Eyes-1.mp3

This is one of my favorite songs. To me, this song is about me humbly sitting at the feet of Christ. I want to lift my eyes and thank Him. I want to look up into His wonderful face and gaze into His glory. When I sit in His beautiful presence in Mass, I find myself staring at my hands, too shy and too amazed to truly look up. I find myself distracted by so many things. This song, by Misty Edwards, captures the devotion that I long to have to Him. Thank you, Kent, for introducing me to Misty Edwards. Thank you, Antonio, for allowing me to sing with you. Hope you enjoy it! https://songskatesang.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Dove_s-Eyes-Duet-Version.mp3

Antonio, thank you for recording today. I can’t believe we did this in one take! This is a dream come true for me! Friends I hope you like this! (Just click on the gray bar below to listen) Happy Monday, Kate Arms of Love – Kate Eschbach & Antonio Cook  

So, you know that I like to sing and you know that I put the word ‘Song’ in my blog name… Have you wondered why? No? Oh, that’s cool. I’ll tell you anyways 🙂 i LOVE to sing. I met Mr. B in a jazz choir in high school (I know, right?!). I wanted the word ‘Song’ in my blog name to be my ‘Psalms’. And my brother put a ‘mix’ of my latest songs from Sunday mornings. Happy Sunday dear friends! Kate KatieMedley_02

When my friend, Sara, invited me to join her on a fashionably late start to Project 365, I was so excited relieved that I was not the only one who was tardy to 2011. On January 1st, I was somewhere between Houston, Texas and Scottsdale, Arizona. I had no makeup on and 23 hours to go. Welcoming the New Year was absolutely the last thing on my mind. Then, about a week later, I realized that I hadn’t rung in the new year at all! I hadn’t chosen a Word for 2011. I hadn’t made one list of goals. And I hadn’t started my own Project 365. Ugh. FailSauce. Then, one twitterly evening, I saw Sara mention something about a new camera and maybe starting her Project 365 on February, 1st. I immediately replied and told her that if she would do it, I would too! As this date approached, I was more and more excited! It would become my New Year! I am happy to tell you that I started my Project 365 today. I will be taking at least one picture a day for the next year. I have a new tab (a thingy up top on the blog titled ‘Kate’s 2011 365’) that will display all of the pictures. Feel free to click over there anytime! And, I have chosen my word for 2011. It is Grace. I prayed and prayed about this word. Grace? Really? That’s it? But today when I looked up the definition:     grace (grs) n.     1. Seemingly effortless beauty or charm of movement, form, or proportion.     2. A characteristic or quality pleasing for its charm or refinement.     3. A sense of fitness or propriety.     4.         a. A disposition to be generous or helpful; goodwill.         b. Mercy; clemency.     5. A favor rendered by one who need not do so; indulgence.     6. A temporary immunity or exemption; a reprieve.     7. Graces Greek & Roman Mythology Three sister goddesses, known in Greek mythology as     Aglaia, Euphrosyne, and Thalia, who dispense charm and beauty.     8.         a. Divine love and protection bestowed freely on people.         b. The state of being protected or sanctified by the favor of God.         c. An excellence or power granted by God.     9. A short prayer of blessing or thanksgiving said before or after a meal.     10. Grace Used with His, Her, or Your as a title and form of address for a duke, duchess, or     archbishop.     11. Music An appoggiatura, trill, or other musical ornanment in the music of 16th and 17th     century England. http://www.thefreedictionary.com/grace Ok. Yup. That should keep me busy for at least a year. Just reading number 8 stops me in my tracks. If you are tardy to 2011, let me know! I’d love to hold your hand and walk into the party together! Thank you for stopping by, Happy New Year! Kate

{Photo by Chris Gossen – Kate and Mallary Hope} For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to sing backup for someone. Anyone… Amy Grant has always been my dream. Have you heard the Dido song ‘Look no Further‘? If you haven’t, go ahead…. I don’t mind, I’ll wait right here… *** Part of the lyrics from Look No Further I might have been a singer Who sailed around the world I might have been a poet Who walked upon the moon But among your books Among your clothes Among the noise and fuss I’ve let it go I can’t stop and catch my breath And look no further for happiness And I will not turn again ‘Cause my heart has found it’s home *** I know, it is a strange dream ~ backup singer ~ but I love harmony with all of my being. Harmony for me is where it is at. I am an alto through and through ~ no high beautiful, soaring notes ~ just rich, lovely harmony please. Becoming a famous singer is one of those dreams that I have chalked up to childhood fantasies or daydreaming. Last Sunday, our Music Minister called and let me know that an up and coming Country Artist was singing at our church for a wedding that Saturday. He mentioned our band to him and she agreed to come back and sing! {For about ten seconds, I assumed that he was going to tell me that she would be singing the whole Mass, so the singers wouldn’t be needed ~ but THEN ~ he said that we could sing WITH her!} What?! Really?! Um, Ok! So, Sunday I was beside myself. On Sunday mornings, you can find me up with the choir, worshiping and praising my Sweet Savior. Music is my favorite way to praise. It is the only time when I can really close out the world and sing, just for Him… just to Him. This past Sunday, I’m sure I was halfway to heaven. I’ve uploaded the songs, just press the gray bar to play 🙂 It Is Well {Lead ~ Mallary Hope, Alto ~ Kate, Tenor ~ Kent} Amazing Grace, My Chains are Gone {Lead ~ Mallary Hope, Backup Vocals ~ Veritas124} How Great Thou Art {Get your tissues out ~ this one is all Mallary!} *** Mallary was so lovely. She was kind, gracious, beautiful and so, so very talented. Feel free to look her up: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mallary_Hope http://www.mallaryhope.com/ *** So, maybe it’s not just a childhood fantasy or daydream… Maybe singing backup it is something I should stay open to. Maybe 🙂 Lots of hugs to you, Keep dreaming, Kate