24. St. Josemaría: Can My Ordinary Life Really Be a Path to God?

In this heartfelt and lively conversation, Fr. Phil and Fr. Paul dive into the life and message of St. Josemaria Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei, to explore what it truly means to become a saint in everyday life. With wit, honesty, and real-life examples, they dismantle the myth of the saint as a "spiritual superhero" and propose something far more attainable—and transformative: holiness through ordinary life. 

This episode touches on why sanctity isn’t about doing something extraordinary, but about allowing God to work in us, especially through our work, our relationships, and even our study habits. Whether you're a student stressed about exams or a parent guiding your child’s formation, this episode offers clarity and hope rooted in the deep message of divine filiation: you are a beloved child of God. 

 

Discussion Points:  

 

• How the vision of Opus Dei reframes daily work and study as pathways to holiness. 

• The connection between childlike trust and spiritual growth. 

• The concept of gift-mentality and rediscovering wonder in ordinary life. 

• Study as prayer and service: practical tips for students. 

• What schools inspired by St. Josemaria try to cultivate: personal mentoring, deep friendship, and family involvement. 

• How one-on-one relationships reflect the Gospel pattern of encounter, and how Jesus models this personal, loving attention. 

 

Join the Conversation 

 

Do you sometimes feel like holiness is out of reach or only for a select few?  

How have you experienced God working through your ordinary, everyday responsibilities?  

If you're a parent or educator, how do you help children see their work and life as a path to holiness? 

We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts or questions by emailing us at [insert contact info], or join the discussion on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  

 

Other Resources: 

Who is St Josemaría Escriva? What is Opus Dei? 

The Heart of Work: St Josemaría’s vision 

 

You can:  

Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  

Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  

Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  

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