He Leadeth Me

Ever feel like giving up just when you've been praying the hardest?In this episode, Eve sits down with Fr. John Ezratty for a deeply practical and hope-filled conversation on discouragement- something every Christian faces, especially in seasons of waiting. Together, they unpack how discouragement works, how it differs from spiritual desolation, and how the Lord invites us to persevere with trust. If you've ever felt like giving up in prayer or questioning whether God is moving, this episode will meet you right there.In this episode, Eve and Fr. John discuss:The difference between discouragement and desolationHow Satan uses discouragement to undermine petitionary prayerHow discouragement shows up in seasons of waiting- and how to overcome it with hope and perseveranceFr. John Ezratty is a priest in the Archdiocese of Denver. He serves at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary and is a popular speaker and retreat director.Eve Doran serves FOCUS as the Spiritual Development Program Director. She and her husband, Stephen, reside in Texas.

In this episode, Jess sits down with Dr. Edward Sri for an honest conversation about zeal vs. indiscreet zeal, and how even good, holy desires can quietly slip into pride, rigidity, or judgment. Together, they explore what it means to live with passion for God that is shaped by humility, charity, and peace.In this episode, they discuss:What true Christian zeal looks like — and why prudence is essential for it to remain a virtueCommon ways indiscreet zeal shows up in prayer, penance, mission, and spiritual languageHow to grow in authentic zeal while responding to others with patience and wisdomDr. Edward Sri is a theologian, author, speaker, and FOCUS' Sr. Vice President of Apostolic Outreach. Dr. Sri has written several best-selling books and is also the presenter of several Ascension Press and Augustine Institute faith formation film series. He hosts the acclaimed podcast, "All Things Catholic" and is an adjunct professor at the Augustine Institute. He and his wife Beth reside in Littleton, Colorado. They are blessed with 8 children and one grandchild.

Recorded live from SEEK26, Kathleen and Sr. Jacinta discuss the following points about vocational discernment: Why this topic brings up mixed emotions for young adultsPrinciples of general discernmentThe purpose and call of each vocation Practicals to help you discern your vocationKathleen Calvin and Sr. Jacinta Man, OP, both serve on the FOCUS Spiritual Development Team.

In this episode, Kathleen and FOCUS Director of Collegiate Outreach Ben Kelly dive into the spiritual challenges and opportunities that come with heading home for a holiday or break. Kathleen and Ben discuss: The importance of having a plan going into a break.How breaks can be a time of true growth and maturity in your prayer life. The unique challenges of being at home and out of routine.Opportunities for evangelization with family and friends.Ben Kelly is in his 9th year with FOCUS and currently serves as Director of Collegiate Outreach. He has also served as a missionary at Bowling Green, George Washington University, and Harvard University. Ben and his wife Eliza reside in Rhode Island with their 4 children.

When you say “yes” to something you genuinely believed God was asking of you—a mission trip, graduate school, even becoming a FOCUS missionary—what do you do when later everything feels too heavy, too complicated, or simply not what you expected? In this episode, Jessica sits down with Fr. John Ezratty to explore the tension between commitment, freedom, and discernment through the lens of St. Ignatius of Loyola.Together they walk through real situations missionaries and students face: • What if I discerned something well, but now I feel overwhelmed and want to step back? • What if I didn’t pray about a commitment beforehand—am I still bound to it? • Can difficult circumstances be a sign that God is redirecting me? • How do I know when perseverance is holy… and when letting go is faithful?Drawing from Ignatian wisdom, Fr. John offers practical steps, prayerful tools, and spiritual clarity for anyone wrestling with a “yes” that suddenly feels uncertain. Whether you’re tempted to break a commitment or unsure what God is communicating through your current season, this conversation will help you discern with peace, freedom, and maturity.Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.

In this episode, Kathleen and Chris Vander Woude reflect on the extraordinary life of Tom Vander Woude — a devoted husband, father, and disciple of Christ. As Chris shares personal stories of his father, the conversation honors Tom’s quiet heroism, deep Catholic faith, and unwavering love for his family. Tom gave his life to save his son Joseph, who has Down Syndrome. With discussions on fatherhood, faith, and pro-life convictions, this episode also explores the inspiring legacy that has led to early steps toward Tom’s potential canonization. Chris Vander Woude is the 5th of 7 sons born to Tom and Mary Ellen Vander Woude. He has worked in Catholic education for 18 years, serving as Dean of Students and Athletic Director. Chris lives in Virginia with his wife of 18 years, Katie, and daughter Zellie. 

Brock Martin is a seasoned FOCUS missionary and the vice president of Parish Outreach, passionate about the Rosary's role in mission and family life. He shares his transformative journey from viewing the Rosary as a chore to embracing it as a crucial spiritual tool. The podcast delves into the profound connection between prayer and missionary work, the historical significance of the Rosary, and practical tips for overcoming distractions. Brock emphasizes the urgency of renewed devotion to combat spiritual challenges and highlights the Rosary as a powerful weapon against evil.

Why did Jesus sometimes say things that seem puzzling—or even contradictory—at first glance? In this episode, Dr. Edward Sri joins Jessica to unpack some of the most misunderstood sayings of Jesus in Scripture. Together, we explore the deeper meaning behind His words and actions, revealing the wisdom, mercy, and divine intention that underlie them.In this episode, Dr. Sri explains:John 8:6–8 – The Woman Caught in Adultery: Why did Jesus bend down to write in the dirt—and what might He have written?Matthew 5:39 – Turning the Other Cheek: Does Jesus really mean we should never defend ourselves? How do we understand this teaching without confusing it with passivity or enabling abuse?Luke 22:36–38 and 22:49–51 – The Command to Buy a Sword: Why did Jesus first tell the disciples to arm themselves, then forbid them to use the sword? What was He really teaching about spiritual readiness and His mission?John 20:17 – The Risen Jesus and Mary Magdalene: Why did Jesus tell Mary not to hold on to Him after the Resurrection? What does this moment reveal about the Ascension and our relationship with Christ today?Mark 10:18 – “Why Do You Call Me Good?” If Jesus is God and good, why does He ask this question? What truth is He leading the rich young man—and us—to see? Dr. Sri helps us see how each passage points us to the heart of Jesus: His divinity, His mercy, and His call to deeper discipleship. Dr. Edward Sri is a theologian, author, speaker, and FOCUS' Sr. Vice President of Apostolic Outreach. Dr. Sri has written several best-selling books and is also the presenter of several Ascension Press and Augustine Institute faith formation film series. He hosts the acclaimed podcast, "All Things Catholic" and is an adjunct professor at the Augustine Institute. He and his wife Beth reside in Littleton, Colorado. They are blessed with 8 children and one grandchild.

Fr. Denis Nakkeeran, a moral theologian and Dean of Men at St. John’s Seminary, sheds light on scrupulosity, a spiritual distortion affecting many, especially young Catholics. He explains its roots in anxiety and perfectionism and how it warps one’s view of God from loving Father to an authoritarian figure. Fr. Denis offers guidance for confessors and companions, emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying beliefs. He also provides practical tips for those struggling, advocating for trust in spiritual direction and embracing the journey of faith with grace.

In 1965, there were 178,000 religious Sisters. In 2024, there were less than 35,000. In less than 60 years, the landscape of women’s religious life has dramatically changed. Can there be a revival in women’s religious vocations?In this episode, Jessica talks with Kathleen Calvin and Sr. Jacinta Man about FOCUS’ new project to promote women’s religious vocations. Jess, Kathleen, and Sr. Jacinta discuss:The sharp decline in women’s religious vocations and what it means for the Church.How FOCUS’ new project is fostering a culture of discernment for young women.Practical ways listeners can support women discerning a religious vocation. Kathleen Calvin is the Spiritual Development Team Manager. She oversees projects such as women religious initiative. Kathleen lives in Philadelphia after serving 6 years as a campus missionary in Boston and Virginia Tech.  Originally from New Jersey, Sister Jacinta Man, OP, is a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia and currently resides at the motherhouse in Nashville. She served in the apostolate for ten years as a Catholic school elementary teacher in Tennessee, Georgia, and Ohio but now assists with vocation work for her community.  Before entering the convent fifteen years ago, Sister Jacinta participated in FOCUS bible studies while a student at NYU and met the Nashville Dominicans at the 2010 FOCUS conference in Orlando. Providentially, FOCUS missionaries had a profound impact on her spiritual journey, and it is a gift for her to now be a part of the chaplaincy for FOCUS.