Growing Hearts Podcast

In this episode of the Growing Hearts Podcast, we delve into the challenges and opportunities of nurturing faith during the teenage years. Our special guest, Seb James, shares his personal journey and insights from his extensive experience working with teenagers. Seb, a journalist and director of the Nairana Study Centre, discusses the importance of faith, the role of parents and mentors, and how to support teenagers in their spiritual and personal growth. Discussion Points: Challenges Teenagers Face Today: Identity and the need for unconditional love. Influence of social media, technology, and peer pressure. Helping young people understand their true identity and worth as children of God. Role of Parents and Mentors: Building loving and trusting relationships with teenagers. Setting boundaries and providing guidance. Importance of fathers spending quality time with their sons. Support Systems for Teenagers: Seb shares the activities and intentional programs offered at Nairana Study Centre, including: Optimal Work Sessions Study time Community Service trips and Local service initiatives Openness at the Study Centre Seb acknowledges that some parents may have concerns or questions—and that's a good thing: "It is okay to have worries and doubts—it is a very natural thing. We want parents to be very concerned; they need to know what we are doing." To foster this trust, Nairana organises regular events to engage with parents: "That's why in these places we have a lot of days or activities where we get parents to come and we try to explain what we are trying to do. For example, at the end of every school term, we have a night where we explain what Opus Dei is (…)" For families of all backgrounds: "We believe also, if you are non-Christian or Catholic, that these activities will help your son grow in virtue, become a man of character." He warmly invites parents to engage in person: "If you have doubts or concerns, please come and visit us. I'm very happy to sit and talk." Resources Mentioned Nairana Study Centre Mirrabooka Study Centre Optimal Work Join the Conversation We'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your experiences and insights on nurturing faith during the teenage years. How have you supported your teenagers in their spiritual and personal growth? What challenges have you faced, and what strategies have worked for you? Join the conversation on our social media channels or leave a comment on our website. 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 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes

Join Tamara El-Rahi, a dedicated mum, mentor, and Tangara alumni, as she shares heartfelt insights on motherhood. She discusses the unexpected shifts of being a mom and the selfless love it fosters. Tamara emphasizes the importance of faith and community in navigating both the joys and challenges of parenting. She also reflects on Mary as an enduring example of grace, encouraging mothers to balance love with self-care. This uplifting conversation offers valuable perspectives for mothers on their unique journeys.

In this episode, we welcome Matt Unicomb to share his powerful conversion story. From growing up in a secular household to discovering the Catholic faith, Matt takes us through the pivotal moments that led him to embrace Christianity. Through intellectual exploration, deep personal reflection, and the influence of his wife, family, and mentors, Matt's journey is one of humility, truth-seeking, and transformation. Resources Mentioned: Ross Douthat's article: A Guide to Finding Faith St. John Paul II: Veritatis Splendour Connect with Matt: Podcast: Human Ecology 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 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes

Fr. Paul and Fr. Phil delve into the profound connection between a child’s relationship with their parents and their understanding of God. They tackle complex themes like the influence of parental expectations on a child’s self-worth and the importance of creating an expectation-free home. The conversation highlights genuine hope rooted in faith and grace, alongside warnings against false hopes and the dangers of unrealistic dreams. Inspired by the Jubilee Year’s message, they explore how spiritual reflection can nurture trust in divine promises.

Father Phil, a dedicated chaplain, joins Father Paul to unpack the heart’s vital role in faith and emotions. They reflect on Pope Francis' insights, emphasizing the heart as a sacred space for encountering God. With humor and personal anecdotes, they explore the complexities of the heart, the importance of emotional expression in relationships, and how to nurture children’s emotional and spiritual development. Their discussion highlights a profound connection to one’s true self, transcending societal expectations.

In this episode, Father Phil Elias, Chaplain of Redfield College, is joined by Father Paul Muller from Tangara. Together, they dive into the season of Lent, exploring its meaning and how we can prepare our hearts for a deeper encounter with Jesus. They discuss common ideas like give up or offering up things for Lent and how this seasons isn't just about sacrifice but about drawing closer to God. Through personal anecdotes—including Father Paul's love for tennis—they highlight the importance of keeping our focus on Christ, much like keeping an eye on the ball in sports. Join them as they unpack practical ways to approach fasting, almsgiving, and prayer with joy, ensuring that our Lenten journey leads us to a true transformation of heart. Other Resources: Podcast Crash Course Catholicism: Lent and Easter 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 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes

In this episode, we welcome Dr Andy Mullins to explore the profound meaning of Baptism and its impact on our lives as Christians. Dr Mullins shares his insights on why Baptism is the foundation of our faith journey, the responsibilities it entails for parents, and how we can foster a deeper appreciation of this sacrament in our families. Whether you're a new parent preparing for your child's Baptism or seeking to rekindle your own understanding, this conversation will inspire you to embrace this divine calling with renewed faith and purpose. Book: Parenting For Faith by Andrew Mullins 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 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes

As we begin a new year, many of us take time to reflect on what lies ahead. How can we live this year with intention, deepen our faith, and embrace the opportunities God places before us? In this episode, we welcome Jessica Doherty, a wife, mother of six, primary school teacher, and host of the Universal Sisterhood podcast. Jessica shares her personal journey, insights on setting realistic and meaningful goals, and the power of inviting God into our everyday lives. This episode is all about embracing the new year with faith, setting small but meaningful goals, and trusting that God is walking with us every step of the way. Let's thrive in 2025 together! Word of the year generator: http://www.wordoftheyear.me/ Listen to Jess's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/universal-sisterhood-podcast/id1387840896 Follow Jess on Instagram: @universalsisterhood_ 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

In this episode of Growing Hearts, Claire and John Wall join us to share their experiences, favorite traditions, and insights on keeping Christ at the center of Christmas while managing the busyness of family life with young children. They offer practical tips for blending Catholic traditions with family celebrations, emphasizing ways to encourage generosity, kindness, and a spirit of gratitude throughout the holiday season. We'd love to hear your Christmas traditions! How do you keep your celebrations Christ-centered? Do you have unique ways of helping your family focus on the true meaning of the season? Share with us on social media with #GrowingHeartsPodcast or send us a message! Recommended book: God has Made a Bethlehem 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 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes

In today's episode, we dive into Advent—a season of hope, preparation, and anticipation as we await Christmas. We'll uncover the deeper meaning behind Advent traditions, explore ways to bring them into family life, and discuss how Advent serves as a reminder of the joy and peace that Christ brings. Our guests, Fr. Felix and Fr. Anthony, provide insights on how this season can transform our hearts and help us focus on what truly matters during the holidays. We'd love to hear how your family celebrates Advent! Do you have any special traditions or ways of preparing your hearts for Christmas? Share your stories, ideas, or questions with us on social media or in the comments. Let's inspire one another with creative ways to keep the focus on the true meaning of this season! 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 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes