Radio Maria England

Fr Toby reflects on the dangers of a hardened heart, particularly in the Pharisees who miss miracles out of prejudice. He discusses how constant suspicion can poison our inner peace and turn us judgmental. Drawing parallels with Les Misérables, he highlights the tragedy of missing out on grace. To combat this, he offers three key ways to soften our hearts: prayer, practicing mercy, and addressing our grievances. Ultimately, he encourages choosing healing and embracing joy over the rigidity of legalism.

Stephanie Pena, a journalist and member of the Wintershaw education team, dives into the poignant film 'H is for Hawk', exploring Helen Macdonald's journey through grief after her father’s death. She and Helena Judd discuss how training a goshawk symbolizes healing and confrontation with life's struggles. They reflect on the nuanced themes of friendship and faith woven throughout the narrative. With stunning cinematography and powerful performances, this conversation illuminates the resilience of the human spirit amid sorrow.

Dive into January’s luminous quality as reflections on the liturgy unfold alongside joyful menus that uplift body and soul. Discover the folklore of January weather, debunk Blue Monday myths, and explore Epiphany traditions. Enjoy delicious recipes like braised lentils with clementine and Nigella's galette des rois. Fiona highlights the beauty of lichen and the traditions of St. Agnes, weaving prayer and nature throughout. This is a warm invitation to embrace the season's beauty and depth.

Fr Toby dives into René Girard's theories to explore the surge of violence in the West. He delves into mimetic desire, explaining how imitation fuels rivalry and unrest. The dangers of scapegoating for social harmony are highlighted, with Christ's teachings presented as a challenge to these cycles of violence. He discusses the impact of click culture on violent behavior and emphasizes personal responsibility and forgiveness as tools to break destructive patterns. A thought-provoking mix of philosophy and faith invites listeners to reflect on modern violence.

Fr Toby explores the fascinating concept of beauty, questioning whether it is objective or subjective. He emphasizes the blend of order and surprise in beauty, using examples from Scripture and creation. Critiquing modern art, he discusses how extremes can undermine true beauty. He highlights Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment and surprise, illustrating the connection between the Old and New Testaments. By engaging with scripture, Fr Toby encourages listeners to uncover the intertwined truths of beauty, goodness, and truth.

Fr Toby uses the insights of Rene Girard to take us deeper into what it means to call Jesus, 'the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world'.WORD FOR TODAY is broadcast live on Radio Maria on weekdays at 1:15pm and is rebroadcast at 12:15am and 5:45am the following day. In it our Priest Director Fr Toby offers a reflection, usually drawing from the Mass readings of the day. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider supporting us with a one-off or monthly donation. It is only through the generosity of our listeners that we are able to be a Christian voice by your side. ⁠www.radiomariaengland.uk⁠ 

Fr Toby delights in how many people requested a Companion Saint for the year, using the thought of Rene Girard on mimetic desire, to show why this matters so much.THE FRIARSIDE airs live on Radio Maria on Mondays and Tuesdays at 11.15am and is rebroadcast at 11.15pm on the same days. Radio Maria's priest director Fr Toby hosts special guests, reads spiritual books and talks everything from Aquinas to philosophy, making a wide range of content accessible for everyone. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider supporting us with a one-off or monthly donation. It is only through the generosity of our listeners that we are able to be a Christian voice by your side. ⁠www.radiomariaengland.uk⁠

Sally Read, a British poet and convert to Catholicism living in Rome, shares insights on conversion and new beginnings in faith. She delves into the rich poetry of G.K. Chesterton and Christina Rossetti, exploring themes of rebirth and spiritual awakening. Sally also highlights how secular perspectives can overlook religious depth in literature. With anecdotes from her teaching experiences, she emphasizes the importance of finding God in poetry and the arts, inviting listeners to embrace faith through creative expression.

Sr Amata and Fr Toby OP answer your questions on whether Jesus had blood brothers and sisters, the addition of the Luminous Mysteries, blood transfusions, and the Year of St Francis.QUESTIONS OF FAITH is a programme in which listeners call in and ask our guests a theological, biblical or pastoral question - anything related to the faith, in other words. We usually have a priest, religious brother or sister or lay evangelist on and the programme airs live on Fridays at 11:15am. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider supporting us with a one-off or monthly donation. It is only through the generosity of our listeners that we are able to be a Christian voice by your side. ⁠⁠www.radiomariaengland.uk⁠⁠

Fr Toby looks at Good Will Hunting and today's gospel.WORD FOR TODAY is broadcast live on Radio Maria on weekdays at 1:15pm and is rebroadcast at 12:15am and 5:45am the following day. In it our Priest Director Fr Toby offers a reflection, usually drawing from the Mass readings of the day. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider supporting us with a one-off or monthly donation. It is only through the generosity of our listeners that we are able to be a Christian voice by your side. ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.radiomariaengland.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠