Simply Holy with Marge Fenelon

If someone asked you to describe yourself, what would be on your list of characteristics and attributes? How far down on that list would you mention your Catholic faith? Current events have sparked countless terse discussions in person and on line about what it means to be a Catholic. Can we profess one set of beliefs and then act contrarily in the public sphere? A frank look at the precepts and four marks of the Church and how we’re obligated to follow them in both our private and public lives. Calling ourselves Catholic must be more than a designation; it must be a way of life.

As you move through Lent, there is only one essential question to ask yourself. This single query encompasses all you need for your spiritual striving and should be your main motivation. What is that question? How can it help you through Lent? You’ll find it in Chapter Six of the Gospel of Matthew. In this episode, Marge unpacks Matthew’s chapter and shows you how to apply it to your Lenten striving.

In a vision, Christ told John that he will spit from his mouth those who are lukewarm in their faith (see Rev 3:15-16). Its hard to be on fire for the faith when the Church is under persecution. We fear shame and retaliation from those who oppose our beliefs. Being lukewarm seems like the safer route to take. Take heart! There are more faithful out there than you think and when they see you on fire, their hearts will burn for Christ as well. This message of hope and encouragement will help you do exactly that.

Feeling discouraged? That’s not surprising given the current state of affairs in the world. Discouragement is a form of spiritual desolation and it’s during such times that people tend to back off on spiritual commitments and go easy on themselves. But, that’s exactly the time to step it up and increase your spiritual striving. In this episode, Marge explains why that is and how to effectively face discouragement and spiritual desolation.

Most people focus on the new calendar year as January 1 rolls around. But, there’s so much more to know about New Year’s Day. Here’s what you need to know to make it a holy, happy, celebration.

There’s so much to do during these last few days before Christmas! Your To-Do List is a mile long and you’ve only worked part way through it. But getting ready for Christmas actually has nothing to do with decorating, shopping, wrapping, baking, or anything else on your list. Here are the three most essential things to do before Christmas and how to tell if you’re really ready.

Christmas is under threat by officials seeking to limit our ability to attend Christmas Mass and gather with family and friends. Over social media and news outlets, there’s mention of efforts to “cancel” Christmas. The truth is, Christmas can’t be canceled and in this episode, Marge gives three concrete reasons why that’s true. Then she gives three things you can do to make a joy-filled Christmas happen for you and yours.