Radio Maria England

In this engaging conversation, Sr Gemma Simmonds, a Roman Catholic theologian and author known for her work in Ignatian spirituality, shares insights from her book, *Donkey Roads and Camel Treks*. She explores the true meaning of Advent, emphasizing the importance of rekindling our desire for God and the spiritual significance of waiting. With humor, she contrasts the commercial rush of Christmas with authentic Advent reflection, and discusses using imagination in prayer to connect with the messy beauty of the Incarnation. Sr Gemma also highlights modern struggles and the hope represented in biblical prophecy.

In this enlightening discussion, John Newton, an ACN colleague, reveals the inception and global significance of Red Wednesday, emphasizing its symbolism in the fight for religious freedom. Joining him, Amy Ballock shares creative fundraising ideas and the powerful impact of solidarity and prayer for persecuted Christians. John Pontifex recalls his moving encounter with catechist Tobias in Nigeria, shedding light on the resilience of those facing persecution. Together, they highlight the importance of the Courage to be Christian award and the upcoming Mass, fostering hope and unity.

Fr Toby highlights the importance of embracing difficulties as a way to deepen our love for Christ. He reflects on Jesus' lament over Jerusalem, tying it to the themes of Advent and the expectation of trials. The discussion emphasizes preparing for personal judgment and recognizing modern pressures on faith. Advent is portrayed as a time for penance and readiness, urging believers to willingly face discomfort. Ultimately, the message is clear: embracing the cross can strengthen our relationship with Jesus.

Fr Toby explores fascinating models of the relationship between science and faith, focusing on collaboration and integration. He highlights the Catholic viewpoint advocating for harmony between Scripture and tradition, citing influential thinkers like St Augustine, St Robert Bellarmine, and St John Henry Newman. Augustine's symbolic interpretation of Genesis is discussed alongside Bellarmine's call to adapt scripture based on scientific evidence. Newman’s acceptance of evolution and geological time further illustrates the Catholic Church's dynamic approach to scientific inquiry.

Fr Toby dives into the fascinating relationship between science and faith. He introduces Barber's four models, discussing the conflict model and its historical misinterpretations, like Galileo's case. He also highlights the independence model, suggesting science and religion can coexist in separate realms. The dialogue model is explored through voices like Francis Collins, showing how science can enrich faith. Along the way, he shares personal anecdotes and addresses why some people use science to distance themselves from religion.

Fr Toby reflects on the transformative encounter between Jesus and Zacchaeus, emphasizing how this interaction shapes the Christian life. He shares how Pope Benedict's writings changed his perspective on faith by highlighting the personal nature of Christianity. Listeners learn practical ways to encounter Christ today through the Eucharist, sacraments, and prayer. The program likens radio to a sycamore tree, offering a unique vantage point for experiencing life-changing moments with God.

Join Lauren as she shares a family's exploration of the enchanting Northumberland coast, discovering faith in the natural world. From the serene shores of Lindisfarne to the playful pilgrimage of mudflat adventures, every moment reveals sacred connections. Reflecting on the lives of northern saints, she intertwines history with family fun—climbing Bamburgh Castle and enjoying Alnwick's magic. The episode beautifully illustrates how ordinary journeys can transform into spiritual retreats filled with laughter and wonder.

Lauren is back with her series Hidden Catholic, taking us up north to Lindisfarne, Durham and Jarrow today, which she visited with her family this summer, to discover the incredible Catholic history our country and shining a spotlight on the lives of St Cuthbert and St Bede. JUST LIFE is a human formation programme brought to you by Radio Maria, airing on weekdays at 10am and rebroadcast at 10pm.  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. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://radiomariaengland.uk/donations/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

SEASONS OF GRACE is a monthly programme on Radio Maria written and presented by Fiona Campbell-Hicks that airs on the last Thursday of the month at 8pm and looks at the rhythms and tables of the liturgical year, stopping along the way to marvel at nature.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. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://radiomariaengland.uk/donations/⁠

Fr Toby invites us to open ourselves up to Wisdom. 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. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://radiomariaengland.uk/donations/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠