Catholic Classics
Ascension
Welcome to Catholic Classics from Ascension! Each season we'll read through a great Catholic spiritual writing providing insightful commentary and practical guidance along the way. Informative and enriching, these 20-30 mins episodes will allow you to learn from the Catholic Church’s most revered saints and teachers as you seek to cultivate your spiritual life.
In season three of Catholic Classics, join Fr. Jacob Bertrand and Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris as they read and explain Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. In her “Little Way,” St. Thérèse shows us that, despite our weakness, (or perhaps because of it) God can make us saints through unbounded confidence in his love.
Find out more about the Catholic Classics podcast at ascensionpress.com/catholicclassics.
In season three of Catholic Classics, join Fr. Jacob Bertrand and Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris as they read and explain Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. In her “Little Way,” St. Thérèse shows us that, despite our weakness, (or perhaps because of it) God can make us saints through unbounded confidence in his love.
Find out more about the Catholic Classics podcast at ascensionpress.com/catholicclassics.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 16, 2024 • 26min
An Overview of St. Thérèse of Lisieux and Story of a Soul
Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk, an expert in St. Thérèse's life, and Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris, who offers insights on 'Story of a Soul,' delve into the profound legacy of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. They explore her 'little way' of spirituality, emphasizing love and humility. The discussion also highlights the autobiographical nature of her writings, providing advice on engaging deeply with her text. Listeners learn about her significant milestones, the importance of her manuscripts, and the impactful nature of her story on both readers and the Catholic Church.
Sep 9, 2024 • 15min
Introducing Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris, O.C.D.
We are excited to welcome the guest co-host for Season 3 of Catholic Classics: Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris, OCD. In this bonus episode, Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk and Fr. Gregory Pine get to know Fr. Michael-Joseph and learn more about his knowledge of Story of a Soul and his deep appreciation for the writings of St. Thérèse. Fr. Gregory also gives an update on his current assignment and his future involvement in Catholic Classics.
To get your copy of the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/catholicclassics or text "SOUL" to 33-777.
Aug 22, 2024 • 55sec
Announcing Season 3 of Catholic Classics!
A new season of Catholic Classics is starting this fall. We are so excited to announce that for this season of Catholic Classics, we will be reading Story of a Soul by St. Thérèse of Lisieux. You can download the reading plan and order your copy of the book at ascensionpress.com/catholicclassics.
To get your copy of the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/catholicclassics or text "SOUL" to 33-777.
Nov 30, 2023 • 24min
Day 60: Rest in Him (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk and Fr. Gregory Pine discuss St. Augustine's reflections on humanity's orientation towards God, the healing of humanity by God, and our worthiness of love, as outlined in Book 13, Chapters 31-38. They explore the concept of resting in God and the significance of finding eternal peace in Him, emphasizing the goodness of God, creation, and the journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
Nov 29, 2023 • 22min
Day 59: Gifts vs. Fruits (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
St. Augustine discusses the difference between gifts and fruits, refuting the Manichaeans. The hosts explore receiving gifts from God and the importance of righteous intent. They delve into philosophical reflections on creation and truth, emphasizing divine omnipotence and omnipresence. St. Augustine's theology on gifts and fruits is examined, focusing on grace and human response for spiritual growth. The interconnectedness of life and relationships is explored, advocating for communal living as a reflection of divine purpose.
Nov 28, 2023 • 25min
Day 58: The Hierarchy of Creation (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk and Fr. Gregory Pine discuss St. Augustine's reflections on humanity's dominion over creation, focusing on spiritual judgment, the hierarchy of creation, and the duty to be a doer of the law. They explore the role of man as a reflection of God's image, the significance of blessings and fruits of mercy, and the responsibilities of authority, stewardship, and discernment in serving justice.
Nov 27, 2023 • 28min
Day 57: Creation and the Sacraments (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk and Fr. Gregory Pine delve into St. Augustine's exploration of creation, the Church, and sacraments. They discuss the intertwining of Baptism and the Eucharist, emphasizing grace and conversion. The podcast reflects on how individuals can become lights of the world through divine wisdom and spiritual growth.
Nov 26, 2023 • 23min
Day 56: Creation of the Heavens (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
Fr. Gregory Pine and Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk discuss St. Augustine's reflections on the creation of the heavens, highlighting the purpose of God's creation for man. They explore the relationship between humanity and the environment, emphasizing the interconnectedness for human benefit and glorifying God through good deeds.
Nov 25, 2023 • 27min
Day 55: Finding Rest (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
Fr. Gregory Pine and Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk delve into St. Augustine's focus on finding rest in God. They discuss the purpose of the Church, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the journey towards spiritual fulfillment. The podcast touches on themes of enlightenment, divine transformation, faith, and the illuminating power of the Church in guiding individuals towards a deeper connection with the divine.
Nov 24, 2023 • 24min
Day 54: God’s Goodness in Creation (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
Fr. Gregory Pine and Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk discuss St. Augustine's Confessions focusing on God's goodness in creation. They explore the presence of the Trinity in creation and how man receives God's overflow of goodness. Topics include challenging Genesis understandings, the relationship between God and creation, and the disparity between human and divine motivations in creation.
