Radio Maria England

This week, Helena Judd has the privilege of hosting Karolina Stolarska, an inspiring voice in the realm of faith and creativity. Karolina will delve into the profound connection between the creation of art and the practice of prayer, a topic that promises to resonate with many. In her conversation, Karolina highlights a poignant reality: the modern-day neglect of diverse prayer practices, particularly those involving our imaginations. She points out that while there are Catholic Bible/art journaling groups and numerous creative Catholic women online, these communities often appear niche. Art and prayer can sometimes be seen as separate hobbies or professional pursuits, rather than integrated methods of reflecting on and expressing our faith. Karolina shares her experiences of organizing events like the “Creative Spirit” exhibition in Northampton, where professional and amateur artists showcased their works as testimonies of faith. This event, featuring workshops open to all, was a testament to how art can engage and deepen one’s faith journey. A significant barrier Karolina addresses is the common misconception that art workshops are only for the artistically talented. Many adults shy away from participating, fearing they lack the necessary skills or experience. However, as Karolina astutely notes, everyone sings during Mass, despite varying levels of musical ability. Singing is often referred to as praying twice, so why not extend this concept to visual expression? She advocates for spontaneous visual expression as a natural and enriching form of prayer, akin to written spiritual journals or verbal sharing in prayer groups. Her message is clear: art is for everyone, and it can be a powerful medium for spiritual reflection and expression. ABOUT KAROLINA STOLARSKA Karolina Stolarska’s journey is a testament to the harmonious blend of art, philosophy, and faith. With a BA in Philosophy and Theology and an MA in Philosophy of Religion, her academic background is complemented by a deep passion for visual art, formally studied up to GCSE level. Her extensive visits to exhibitions in London and abroad have further enriched her artistic perspective. Her pursuit of art’s expressive and therapeutic potential led her to obtain a Foundation Certificate in Art Therapy. However, Karolina felt a crucial element was missing: the spiritual dimension. Inspired by Sarah de Nordwall, who led a group for Catholic creatives, and Sr Sheila Gosney, a nun who integrated art into days of reflection, Karolina embarked on a mission to fuse art with spiritual healing, guided by Catholic teachings. Karolina’s personal journey of integrating faith with her life and emotional experiences found its key through creating art in response to Scripture and spiritual readings. Her workshops aim to offer this transformative practice to others, making it simple and accessible. To learn more about Karolina Stolarska and her upcoming workshops, visit her website: https://karolinastolarska.wordpress.com/ Don’t miss this insightful episode of Culture Tuesday on 16th July at 9 PM. Tune in to explore how art and prayer can come together in a beautiful and meaningful way. The podcast will be available below once published.

Fr Euan Marley OP continues his commentary through the book of Job. AS I WAS SAYING airs live on Radio Maria on Thursdays at 11:15am and is rebroadcast at 11:15pm. Each week Fr Euan Marley OP makes his way, chapter by chapter, through a book of Holy Scripture providing in-depth commentary.  If you enjoyed this programme, please consider making a once off or monthly donation to Radio Maria England by visiting www.RadioMariaEngland.uk or calling 0300 302 1251 during office hours. It is only through the ongoing support of our listeners that we continue to be a Christian voice by your side.

Part 6 of Fr Simon Tugwell's Prayer in Practice. THE FRIARSIDE airs live on Radio Maria on Mondays and Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 11:15am and is rebroadcast at 11:15pm on the same days. Our Priest Director Fr Toby reads through a spiritual book, pausing and providing commentary as he goes. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider making a once off or monthly donation to Radio Maria England by visiting www.RadioMariaEngland.uk or calling 0300 302 1251 during office hours. It is only through the ongoing support of our listeners that we continue to be a Christian voice by your side.

Fr Toby on how today’s confrontation results in an assertion by Jesus of His divinity

James Hinchcliffe, a parishioner of St Mary's in Manchester, speaks about the history of this "hidden Gem of Manchester", why the church is considered a “hidden gem” and the good work they are doing in the community. https://hiddengem.me.uk/

Theresa Alessandro who hosts the weekly episodes. A new conversation with a different Catholic guest will be released on Wednesdays. The dialogue focuses on how each person is living their faith in the world today - with all the hopes, joys and disappointments that any of us might experience. Fresh from working at two different Catholic organisations and with her own lifelong experience of being a Catholic, Theresa felt called to develop this project in which she is joined by Catholic people who are often not in the public eye. The All Kinds of Catholic podcast is timely during the current synodal process when we are asked to listen deeply to one another. ALL KINDS OF CATHOLICS: https://kindsofcatholic.buzzsprout.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/KindsofCatholic Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/KindsofCatholic

Part 5 of Fr Simon Tugwell's Prayer in Practice. THE FRIARSIDE airs live on Radio Maria on Mondays and Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 11:15am and is rebroadcast at 11:15pm on the same days. Our Priest Director Fr Toby reads through a spiritual book, pausing and providing commentary as he goes. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider making a once off or monthly donation to Radio Maria England by visiting www.RadioMariaEngland.uk or calling 0300 302 1251 during office hours. It is only through the ongoing support of our listeners that we continue to be a Christian voice by your side.

Part 4 of Fr Simon Tugwell's Prayer in Practice. THE FRIARSIDE airs live on Radio Maria on Mondays and Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 11:15am and is rebroadcast at 11:15pm on the same days. Our Priest Director Fr Toby reads through a spiritual book, pausing and providing commentary as he goes. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider making a once off or monthly donation to Radio Maria England by visiting www.RadioMariaEngland.uk or calling 0300 302 1251 during office hours. It is only through the ongoing support of our listeners that we continue to be a Christian voice by your side.

We hear the fascinating story of Mzi, the founder of Langa Bicycle Hub and how he came from a rural village in South Africa with no running water or electricity to the big city to seek opportunities and eventually bring opportunities to others. Find out more about his work here: https://www.sacities.net/langa-bicycle-hub/ 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 making a once off or monthly donation to Radio Maria England by visiting www.RadioMariaEngland.uk or calling 0300 302 1251 during office hours. It is only through the ongoing support of our listeners that we continue to be a Christian voice by your side.

Edward Hadas discusses what the Church actually teaches about democracy. CREDO is a programme that nourishes listeners in their Catholic faith. It airs live on Radio Maria every weekday at 4pm and is rebroadcast at 4am the following morning.  If you enjoyed this programme, please consider making a once off or monthly donation to Radio Maria England by visiting www.RadioMariaEngland.uk or calling 0300 302 1251 during office hours. It is only through the ongoing support of our listeners that we continue to be a Christian voice by your side.