Among Women Podcast

October 30, 2014 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: St Umilta (St Humility) “Among Women” Guest: Leila Marie Lawler This week we look at a keeping good company with Jesus in marriage and family life. After passing my 32nd wedding anniversary recently, I hope you don’t mind if I opine at length on some of the wisdom I’ve gained from the graces found in the Sacrament of Matrimony. In keeping with the gift of the home and family life, I’m also thrilled to be sharing an extended conversation with author and blogger Leila Marie Lawler about the book she co-wrote with David Clayton, The Little Oratory: A Beginner’s Guide to Praying in the Home. We discuss making prayer the center of your daily family life by establishing a home altar, or little oratory, as a place to start celebrating the gift of the liturgical year in our families. This episode also introduces the inspirations from the little known mystic-saint, St Umilta (or St Humility). Links for this episode: Pat Gohn: “On Faith, Grace, Sex, Kids, and

October 6, 2014 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: St Anna Schaffer “Among Women” Guest: Mary Ellen Barrett This week we look at the difficult subject of losing a child to death. My guest, blogger and Long Island Catholic columnist Mary Ellen Barrett, reflects on the fifth anniversary since the death of Ryan, her 14 year old son who died during a camping trip. The search for Ryan, who at first was thought to be lost, went on for many hours. Many, including myself, were glued to the internet for news of him during that time. Listeners familiar with this event will be encouraged by the musings and memories of Mary Ellen, his mother. Those uninitiated will be blessed by the faith of this Long Island family. Mary Ellen and Ryan Barrett Since this is Respect Life Month, Mary Ellen and I celebrate the life of Ryan — his Christian devotion even as a young boy with special needs — as well as the ups and downs that he faced in family life and elsewhere. We discuss the outpouring of support from near and far f

September 26, 2014 This episode: “Blessed are They”: St Catherine of Siena “Among Women” Guest: Michelle Ducker This week, in our first segment, we look at a miraculous conversion story from the life of St Catherine of Siena wrought through the power of prayer. In a similar vein, in our second segment, we meet a modern woman with her own story of transformation. Life with Jesus Christ has the power to change every aspect of our lives. University of Miami Campus Minister Michelle Ducker candidly shares her life and work in this extended interview. Michelle’s story shows us that when we let Jesus do the heavy lifting, he’ll heal our hearts and minds and bring us joy, truth, and true beauty — the kind that shines from the inside out! Michelle reflects on several years of her life, including her walking away from a modeling career, dealing with illness, and wrestling with body and self-image issues. Today she shares what she has overcome in and through Christ, and how she walks with others so that they may exper

September 10, 2014 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity “Among Women” Guest: Nan Balfour Nan Balfour This week we look at at the gift of faith and what it means to fall in love with God. In our “Blessed are They” segment, we pray along with Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity — whose faith was wrapped up in love of the Holy Trinity. Then in our “Among Women” segment, I converse with Nan Balfour, a leader with the Pilgrim Center of Hope, and conference coordinator for the Catholic Women’s Conference in San Antonio. Nan shares pivotal conversion moments in her life — a life of on-going conversion — and how they led her to what she does now. Links for this episode: Pat Gohn’s upcoming events Morning Rose Prayer Gardens – a blog by Margaret Rose Realy Prayers of the Women Mystics by Ronda Chervin Catechism of the Catholic Church Youcat (Youth Catechism) – website for groups Catholic Digest magazine RTJ Creative Catechist magazine Catholic Women’s Conference in San Antonio –

August 27, 2014 This episode: Opening monologue:  On the unrest of this summer and the timeliness of Francis’ beatification of 149 Korean Christian Martyrs. “Blessed are They”: St Paula “Among Women” Guest: Genevieve Kineke This episode profiles the power of forgiveness as told through the life and pen of author Genevieve Kineke in a recent book, Set Free. This recording was made last year, and it comes with my humble apologies for taking way too long to bring it the listening audience. You may recognize Genevieve’s name from her writings about the feminine genius, and our previous interview. Together we unpack the need we all have to rise above our sometimes messed-up feelings and make an act of the will to forgive another, or to forgive ourselves. Such resolve brings freedom and healing, and Genevieve serves up some practical lessons on the subject. I’m also profiling St Paula, a 4th century saint from Rome who eventually traveled to Bethlehem and assisted the work of St Jerome. Plus you’ll hear where I’

July 16, 2014 This week’s episode:  “Blessed are They”: St Catherine of Bologna “Among Women” Guest: Jennifer Fitz I’m happy to be back after an unplanned hiatus due to family obligations and spiritual direction school. In this episode I unpack seven spiritual weapons found in the writings of St Catherine of Bologna… especially in the spiritual warfare that increased as her faith and love for Christ increased. Our Among Women guest segment finds me conversing with author-blogger Jennifer Fitz, vice-president of the Catholic Writers Guild. Jennifer shares her life as a blogger-catechist-author and the good work of the Guild, and she opens her heart describing how her past experience as a competitive cyclist enlightens her faith today as she powers through suffering when it comes. Links for this episode: Pope Benedict’s general audience catechesis on St Catherine of Bologna Holy Women – book with Pope Benedict’s catechesis on holy women How to pray the Rosary (.pdf) How to pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy How

May 30, 2014 This episode: “Blessed are They”: Saints devoted to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament “Among Women” Guest: Mary Wallace On this episode I welcome back Mary Wallace, PhD, from Louisiana State University. Together we discuss the feminine genius, and the particular leadership strengths of women in the world, and listen as Mary makes suggestions for strengthening the devotional life in working women. In this particular episode, rather than focus on one particular saint, I’m offering commentary on adoration of the Blessed Sacrament drawn from the quotes and writings of some women saints. We’ll explore the thoughts of St Jeanne Jugan, St Therese of Lisieux, St Elizabeth Seton, St Bernadette Soubirous, St Catherine Labore, and Blessed Teresa of Calcutta. Links for this episode: Saint quotes on Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Mary Wallace’s blog The Working Catholic Mom Mary Wallace at Integrated  Catholic Life Mary Wallace at Catholic Mom The Morning Offering The Pope’s Intentions How to Pray the Ro

May 6, 2014 This episode: “Blessed are They”: Mary as Mother to us all “Among Women” Guest: Danielle Bean This episode is dedicated to mothers — the physical and spiritual mothers in all of us. We celebrate the coming of Mother’s Day by exploring the idea of Mary as a mother to us all. Then in our conversation, I welcome author and editor of Catholic Digest, Danielle Bean, who discusses her new book and study: Momnipotent! The not-so perfect guide to Catholic Motherhood.  This great new book is for Moms who are busy raising families. Links for this episode: Relevant Radio, Drew Mariani Show, look for May 7, 2014 podcast The Good Catholic Life, on WQOM radio. Look for May 9, 2014 podcast Blessed, Beautiful, and Bodacious by Pat Gohn  The World’s First Love by Fulton Sheen Prayer to Mary, attributed to St John Paul II in Christifidelis Laici Momnipotent by Danielle Book (book) Momnipotent Study online (online discussion) Momnipotent Resources (group study materials – DVDs, workbooks and more) Webinar with

April 29, 2014 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: Mary and Mary Magdalene “Among Women” Guest: “TJ” This week we look at the joy of redemption — the gift of new life in Christ. As we pass into Eastertide we reflect on the “happy fault” that brings us such a great Redeemer. God’s plan is that all of us would know his love for us. In the Gospels we see sinners who repent readily and find new life in Christ. One such sinner is Mary Magdalene. In this episode, I read an excerpt from my book, Blessed, Beautiful, and Bodacious, in which I share thoughts about the two Mary’s standing side-by-side at the Cross — Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Mary Magdalene. In our conversation segment I have an animated discussion with “TJ” a young married working mom who shares her journey of transformation. TJ tells the story of how an unplanned pregnancy became the impetus to turn her life around from selfishness to love… leading to a faith that holds fast to the goodness of every day, and the promise of everlasting life. D

March 27, 2014 This week’s episode: This special edition of Among Women features the vocal gifts of Kitty Cleveland. This week I’m privileged to share in celebrating the debut of Kitty’s new jazz album, Blue Skies. This ninth album covers great jazz standards. This podcast features several tracks from the album as well as Kitty’s commentary. Kitty Cleveland is a popular Catholic artist and speaker. Many people have been blessed by her singing of the Divine Mercy chaplet as well powerful Catholic hymns and chants. Her life as a singer-songwriter has spanned many styles and genres and taken her many places to sing and share her Catholic faith. Links for this episode: KittyCleveland.com – find all of Kitty’s music here. Kitty Cleveland on iTunes, and on Amazon. Kitty Cleveland’s Divine Mercy and Testimony on Lighthouse Media Other shows of related interest: AW 134: Music with Sarah Hart AW 96: Music with the Daughters of St Paul Reminders: Send your comments to Pat Gohn at amongwomenpodcast@me.com, or to

March 13, 2014 Welcome to a  special edition “What We Love About Pope Francis” featuring comments from Among Women listeners and conversation with our special guest, Sr. Anne Joan Flanagan FSP, author of a new e-book about Pope Francis! This week we honor the first anniversary of the election of Pope Francis. In this episode your host asks the Among Women listenership: What do you love about Pope Francis? And, what have you learned from him? This show features the many and varied answers coming from the friends and listeners of Among Women. It also features a conversation with Sr Anne Joan Flanagan of the Daughters of St Paul, AKA the blogger at Nun Blog. Sr Anne has just released a new e-book 5 Keys to Understanding Pope Francis: What He Says and What He Does from Pauline Books and Media. Together we have a lively discussion about some of the big themes emerging in the Holy Father’s pontificate.  Listen now by clicking the play button above! Links for this episode: Lumen Fidei – The Light of Faith Pat’s an

March 4, 2014 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: St Mary Clopas “Among Women” Guest: Allison Gingras Allison Gingras This week, as the liturgical calendar brings us to the season of Lent, we talk about the centrality of having a relationship with Jesus. The Lenten practices of prayer, fasting, almsgiving are designed to draw our attention to growing in our faith in Christ. I’m delighted to introduce you to Allison Gingras, a speaker and writer who loves sharing her faith in Jesus with others.  This show profiles Allison’s story of conversion and growth in ministry. I also talk about Mary Clopas — one of the contemporaries of the Blessed Mother and Jesus — a first century convert who found herself both at the Cross and as a witness to the empty tomb on Easter morning. Links for this episode: Catechism of the Catholic Church, par 27. Upcoming speaking events. You might also enjoy my guest slot on this recent TV series on Women of Grace on EWTN. Leave a review and rating for on iTunes on Among Women Rec

February 19, 2014 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: St Mary of Cerevellon “Among Women” Guest: Angela Franks, PhD This week we look at the Catholic Church’s teaching on contraception in detail with a moral theologian, Angela Franks, PhD. Dr Franks is a wife, mother, author, and professor at the Theological Institute of the New Evangelization at St John’s Seminary in the Archdiocese of Boston. Dr Franks’ expertise and advice on this important subject is both pastoral and consoling. Her teaching is grounded in the truth that God really does want us to be happy, and that the moral life is always possible for us — with God’s grace! I’ll also be looking at the life of St Mary of Cerevellon, a 13th century native of Barcelona, Spain and her ministry among slaves and others, earning her the nickname, “Mary of Help.” Links for this episode: Pat Gohn’s events page Dr Franks blog Contraception and Catholicism by Angela Franks, PhD Theological Institute for the New Evangelization (TINE) at St John Seminary, Brigh

Feb 11, 2014 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: St Elizabeth of Portugal “Among Women” Guest: Lisa Hendey The 2013 Egan Journalism Fellows at the Media High Council in Kigali, Rwanda. Credit: Photo by Kim Pozniak/CRS This week we explore the reflections of author and CatholicMom.com founder Lisa Hendey as she talks about a troubling subject:  the 20th anniversary of the Rwandan Genocide. Although this conversation is challenging, in terms of the devastating horror of genocide, and its continued threat in the modern world,  it is also one of hope and the grace of forgiveness amid deep sorrow. Lisa explains the opportunity she had as a recipient of the Egan Fellowship  from Catholic Relief Services, to visit Rwanda last fall. She details the effect the mission had on her, and the seeming miraculous graces she found there amidst pain and heartbreak. Links for this episode: Pat Gohn’s speaking events  A Book of Saints for Catholic Moms by Lisa Hendey Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Egan Fellowship at CRS

January 28, 2014 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: St Hildegard of Bingen, Doctor of the Church “Among Women” Guest: Cheryl Amari  Grief and loss are a part of every woman’s life. This week Pat talks about her own recent struggles as we take a look at the process of grief with Cheryl Amari, of Grief Teach.com, a grief educator with an MA in Pastoral Ministry. Listen as we discuss areas of grief particular to women and learn about ways to grieve through them. Also, Pat shares the wisdom, poetry, and music of Christian mystic and doctor of the Church, St Hildegard of Bingen. Links for this episode: Pat Gohn’s Patheos Column: “Lean In, Into the Chaos” Benedict XVI’s Apostolic Letter elevating Hildegard of Bingen to Church Doctor Selections read from St Hildegard found in the following: Prayers of the Women Mystics by Rhonda Chervin Incandescence by Carmen Butcher Music: Veni Creator Spiritu, on YouTube, from recording The Origin of Fire by Anonymous 4. Veni Creator Spiritu (Latin and English translati

December 21, 2013 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: Our Lady of the Incarnation “Among Women” Guest: Sr Grace Remington OCSO This week we think about the coming of Christmas through the eyes of  Mary, as told by St Ephrem the Syrian, a 4th century Doctor of the Church. We examine some of his Nativity Hymns, in a departure from our usual saint segment that typically profiles women saints — after all, he is talking about Mary and he’s a Church Doctor! Our guest today is a cloistered contemplative nun — Sr Grace Remington OCSO, a Cistercian Sister of Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey, Dubuque, Iowa. Together we discuss the life of a Trappist nun and Sr Grace’s portrait of Mary and Eve (below)… as well as the abbey’s candy-making endeavors! Mary and Eve Pencil and Ink by Sr Grace Remington OCSO Copyright 2005 Links for this episode: Hymns of the Nativity, St Ephrem the Syrian Links for Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey, Home to Cistercian (Trappist) nuns: MississippiAbbey.org MonasteryCandy.com  Other s

November 20, 2013 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: St. Agatha Kim “Among Women” Guest: Emily Stimpson In this episode, as we roll through this month of saints and souls, we discuss the ordinary impact that theology of body can make on our everyday, with Emily Stimpson, author of the new book These Beautiful Bones. Of note, we discuss the goodness of spiritual fatherhood and motherhood, and the joy of food! Also in this episode, I cover the martyrdom of St Agatha Kim of Korea, thanksgiving prayers, and a reminder to read Pope Francis’ encyclical, Lumen Fidei.  Links for this episode:  Emily Stimpson’s website – look for her writing at Catholic Vote and elsewhere on the web! These Beautiful Bones by Emily Stimpson Pat Gohn’s series at Patheos on Francis’ Lumen Fidei: Intro, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4. American Catholic’s prayers of thanksgiving Other shows of related interest: AW 144: The Single Life Survival Guide with Emily Stimpson Reminders: “Like” the Among Women podcast

November 6, 2013 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: Mary as the Molder of Saints, with commentary by St Louis de Montfort and Edith Stein “Among Women” Guest: Melanie Rigney A “welcome back” show for Pat who chronicles her recent visit to EWTN to record TV shows with Johnette Benkovic of Women of Grace. (There’s also a radio interview that you can hear.) Pat also announces a book sale at her website for Blessed, Beautiful, and Bodacious through December 15. This week we feature a discussion about a brand new volume of women saints stories, Sisterhood of the Saints, compiled by author Melanie Rigney. This conversation was recorded seaside in Fort Lauderdale in September 28, 2013, during the National Council of Catholic Women’s annual convention. Listen for how you can win a copy of this keepsake-style book for yourself or someone you love. Since we hear saint stories from Melanie in this show, instead of our usual saint segment in “Blessed are They”, this episode profiles the holy influence Mary has in

In honor of World Missions Sunday, I’m happy to introduce Jonathan and Kristen Weiss, lay missionaries with Family Missions Company. Listen to this podcast featuring a behind-the-eyes visit with the Weiss family as they share their call to the mission field and the mission life. You may even feel the call to share the Jesus Christ and the treasures of the church on the mission field. Let us remember to pray for the worldwide missionary efforts of our church, and for missionaries in particular, as well as lending our financial support. To support Family Missions Company, go here.   

October 17, 2013 This week’s episode: “Blessed are They”: St Ulphia “Among Women” Guest: Genevieve Kineke This week we look at the 25th anniversary of Blessed John Paul II’s apostolic letter, Mulieris Dignitatem. My guest is author-blogger Genevieve Kineke who has long studied this document and who recently released a commemorative book edition of John Paul’s letter with commentary and ways you can study this ground-breaking document for women. Also of note, this past week the Pontifical Society for the Laity in Rome invited over 100 women from around the world to meet to study this document anew and discuss its ramifications today. We’ll also look at the life of a little-known 8th century hermit, St Ulphia of France. Links for this episode: Genevieve Kineke’s books: On the Dignity and Vocation of Women, 25th Anniversary Edition, with reflections and commentary by Genevieve Kineke The Authentic Catholic Women Set Free: The Authentic Catholic Woman’s Guide to Forgiveness The Feminine Genius blog by Genevieve