Mourning Glory Podcast

Shownotes For the longest time, Jennifer thought purgatory was a place of limbo. Somewhere you went after you died and it was there that God determined whether or not you went to Heaven. She thought if you went to purgatory, you could still go to Hell. Thanks to learning more about the Catholic faith and, more specifically purgatory, Jennifer has come to realize this is not true. But it raises questions: If your soul does go to purgatory, how does it get out? Is there something specific one must do in order to get to heaven? Are there any saints or prayers that can help us or, more importantly, help our loved ones make the leap from purgatory to Heaven?  In this week’s episode, Andrea and Jennifer have a conversation with guest Dana Nygaard about this and more. Our Guest Dana is a Catholic Licensed Professional Counselor, who has a devotion to St. Gertrude the Great. Especially after the death of her Father Bennie, she found great consolation in St. Gertrude’s prayers. Welcome to the show, Dana Scripture ⁠2 Maccabees 12:44-45⁠ ⁠Psalm 46:08⁠ ⁠1 Corinthians 3: 11-13 ⁠ Biographies of St. Gertrude the Great  Catholic Culture Bio of St. Gertrude   Given Institute Bio of St. Gertrude   Sacred Heart: St. Gertrude the Great   Links on Purgatory  Descriptive and clear bible passages about Purgatory (National Catholic Register) St. Gertrude bringing comfort and joy (TheDivineMercy.org)  Prayer of St. Gertrude the Great  for the Souls in Purgatory  Eternal Father, I offer Thee the Most Precious Blood of Thy Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the masses said throughout the world today, for all the holy souls in purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen. Prayer for the souls of Fr. Richard Hart, a former priest of Jennifer's. Journaling Questions Dana talks about Holy Spirit goose bumps and how she knows He is working in our lives. Have there been times where you have felt Holy Spirit goosebumps? What peaceful encounter did you experience? Like St. Gertrude, how does God use our talents and gifts to glorify him? In what times do we need to withdraw from those gifts so that we can focus on Him?  Who is someone in your life right now that needs prayer?  Think of opportunities throughout the day to ask the souls of purgatory to intercede. How can this be a gift for the faithfully departed?  How can you make the prayer of St. Gertrude a regular part of your prayers in November?  We hope you enjoy this episode of the Mourning Glory Podcast and share it with others who are on a journey through grief. You can find links to all of our episodes including a link to our brand new private online community on our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com.  God Bless!

Shownotes Talking about grief brings mixed emotions. Some avoid it whereas others fully embrace it. Our guest this week is a strong believer that pain needs to be witnessed, that vulnerability is essential to being loved and loving another, and that the only way to deal with pain (and consequently grief) is to immerse oneself in the trenches of it. Carina Fraser is a Catholic widow, mother, artist, and author. At 28 years old she lost five children in miscarriages, as well as her husband in a ten month span. Her grief prompted her to start an Instagram page called @thatCatholicwidow, which she uses as a way to work through much of her loss and give words to thoughts and feelings that can often be ignored. Now two years later Carina continues to use her faith and her grief to bring beauty and comfort to those around her. She has one surviving son. Our Guest Carina Fraser is a Catholic mother, artist, and author. She was born in Toronto, Ontario and received her post-secondary education at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Academy in Barry's Bay, ON. You can reach her at @that.catholic.widow @viduafidelis Books and products by Carina Fraser  My Easter Activity Book: For Catholics' https://a.co/d/7ZlKNPo 'Lent & Easter Picture This! Catholic Edition: A Look and Find Activity Book' https://a.co/d/0ECzyIK 'Advent & Christmas Picture This! Catholic Edition: A Look and Find Activity Book' https://a.co/d/dqgByRu 'My Christmas Activity Book: For Catholic Kids' https://a.co/d/83ksJpl 'Picture This! Catholic Edition: A Look And Find Activity Book' https://a.co/d/hzaN7oT 'The Catholic ABC Book' https://a.co/d/hJZhWpf 'The Catholic Coloring Book: For All of God's Bigger Children' https://a.co/d/hIOdKbH 'Holy Family Intimate Moments: Catholic Coloring Book' https://a.co/d/isJ8NGz Grief Books: 'Til Death Do Us Part' https://a.co/d/dwLq8KI 'When Words Fail, Shut …the F*** Up' https://a.co/d/9FX9KPw Links “In Heaven We’ll Meet Again by Fr. Francois Rene Blot MGP Private Online Community Scripture “The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be still.” Exodus 14:14 “Jesus wept.” John 11:35. Prayer for the souls of: Keegan Fraser, souls of babies lost to miscarriage and abortion, Lina Cirami, Giuseppe Cirami, Claudio Serafino, Emma Brydson, and Ambrose Walton. Journaling Questions Carina admits that social media gave her a voice to share when she herself could not talk verbally about grief. Why do some find it a place of consolation where as others may stay clear? How can social media be used to help others connect in grief?  Who has been someone that has been a surprising comfort to you in your grief journey? How can you show your appreciation for them?  What do you consider the time that grief “should be over?”  How is Carina’s story an example that anger with God does not mean abandonment?  We hope you enjoy this episode of the Mourning Glory Podcast and share it with others who are on a journey through grief. You can find links to all of our episodes including a link to our brand new private online community on our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com.  God Bless!

Shownotes Last week we talked to Susan Brinkman from Women of Grace about necromancy, mediums and conjuring the dead and as our conversation confirmed God forbids these actions.  Ironically, in today's episode we are going to talk about what the deceased want us to know about heaven and purgatory.  But I promise you we are breaking no rules. As Susan pointed out last week there are disembodied souls waiting for us to pray them into heaven, but we should not try to contact them.   In fact there are many Saints in the church who have had approved visions: Padre Pio, St. Tolentino, St. Gertrude, as well as even mystic Maria Simma, whose writings about the souls in purgatory received the imprimatur. Souls who have come from purgatory have sought out the prayers of individuals to gain entrance into heaven. Yet the question remains: What can we learn from these souls?  Our Guests Leslea Wahl lives in beautiful Colorado and is the author of several award-winning teen novels. She strives to write stories that encourage teens to grow in their faith through fun adventurous mysteries. Leslea is often inspired by her family, their travels, and real-life adventures. She particularly enjoys including the furry, four-legged members of her family in her novels. Besides writing Leslea also reviews faith-based novels on her website and is a founding member of CatholicTeenBooks.com. Theresa Linden is the author of award-winning Catholic fiction for children, teens, and adults, including Tortured Soul, a purgatory soul story that won recognition in the Catholic Media Association book awards. One of her great joys is to bring elements of the Catholic Faith to life through a story. A wife, retired homeschooling mom, and Secular Franciscan, she resides in northeast Ohio with her family.  Links from the show Jennifer’s Letters to Mom and Dad ‘The Incorruptibles’: Who Are These Mysterious Saints? St. Jerome Shadows: Visible and Invisible, part of the Catholic Teen Books: Visible & Invisible -AnthologySeries available at Catholicteenbooks.com Allhallowtide Soulcakes Scripture Verses “Great Mary who has worked for you…”  “for if he were not expecting the fallen to rise again, it would have been superfluous and foolish to pray for the dead.But if he did this with a view to the splendid reward that awaits those who had gone to rest in godliness, it was a holy and pious thought.Thus he made atonement for the dead that they might be absolved from their sin.2 Maccabees 12:44-46”  Prayer from St. Gertrude Eternal Father, I offer You the most Precious Blood of Your Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the Masses said throughout the world today, for all the Holy Souls in Purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the Universal Church, those in my own home, and within my family. Amen. Journaling Questions What surprised you about this episode? What are some misconceptions you have or had about purgatory, All Saints Day, or All Souls Day? Who is someone you can ask to intercede on your behalf? What is your mourning glory? We hope you enjoy this episode of the Mourning Glory Podcast and share it with others who are on a journey through grief. You can find links to all of our episodes including a link to our brand new private online community on our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com.  God Bless!

Shownotes We hear about the different stages of grief and know that loss can bring about feelings of shock, anger, bargaining, But what people don’t often recognize is that grief can also bring out other wounds. Past wounds and issues that were never addressed. It can bring forth issues that might not have been apparent until after a loved one dies, and now we, the grief-stricken, have to face those feelings and work towards healing. Today’s guest  gives us some powerful approaches to healing and has developed a powerful ministry to help with healing.  Our Guest Sonja Corbitt launched the Love Heals model after seeing extraordinary growth and healing in the lives of those she teaches through what Jesus called the “first and greatest” Commandment in Mark 12:30. Sonja’s podcasts, award-winning books, and sold-out speaking events led to one-on-one consultations; which became the Love Heals Masterclass; and then Love Heals LIVE, all of which are directly and indirectly transforming the hearts, souls, minds, and bodies of hundreds of thousands of people. Drawing on decades of experience and training at the Holy Apostles College and Seminary; Catholic Psychotherapy Association; NICABM; Compassionate Inquiry; Encounter School of Ministry; JPII Healing Center Ministry Training; and Unbound®, Sonja teaches how to feel better and how to be better. STOP Tool Sin not Tell God Offer the sacrifice of righteousness  Put your trust in God Scripture Mark 12:30 Genesis 1:28 Psalm 4:4-5 Proverbs 26:11 1 Corinthians 13 (Love) Song of Solomon 6:3,  Sirach (38)  Links Love Heals by Sonja Corbitt JPII Apostolic Letter on Redemptive Suffering (Salvifici doloris) St. John of the Cross Pope Benedict 16th quote about healing and redemption Daily readings through USCCB Shemah Prayer Catechism of the Catholic Church 2779 Auxilium Christianorum (Help of Christians) St. Padre Pio Thérèse of Lisieux Prayer for the souls of Jennifer’s classmates (DHS Class of 2000) who have passed away. Journaling Questions What resonated with you most from this particular episode?  What are some pop quizzes you feel God has sent your way? Have you worked through them? What is preventing you from working through them? Take some time to reflect on these and how you can overcome them. Sonja spoke about the power of the daily readings, especially when we read them for 40 days. Do you read the daily readings? Why or why not? Ask God, what do you want to tell me through these readings? What dark emotions (resentment, bitterness, anger) are you holding on to?  What cycles might God be trying to heal from your family of origin What might need to be loved and healed in your life? What is your mourning glory? We hope you enjoy this episode of the Mourning Glory Podcast and share it with others who are on a journey through grief. You can find links to all of our episodes including a link to our brand new private online community on our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com.  God Bless!

Shownotes When Andrea started her journey of grief many years ago, she found she needed to talk to others who had experienced loss. After attending local hospice groups that were helpful, she realized something was missing, as most bereavement groups she found didn't include the aspect of faith. Over the years she was blessed to connect with others who share a grief faith story. And because of this she met two beautiful women who came into her life who also felt the same way and took the call to help others in need of grief support.  Our Guests Dianne Crumpacker and Cleo Carillo are the organizers of St. Michaels Catholic Grief support group at St. Michaels Parish in Stockton, California. Through their patron our Lady of Sorrows they help others in their journey of grief and loss.  Links Episodes featuring Rosaline Cruz-Rine S1 E2 Different Kinds of Grief with Rosaline Cruz-Rine S1 E3 Having Expectations in Grief with Rosaline Cruz-Rine S1 E8 How Long is Too Long? Letting Go with Rosaline Cruz-Rine S3 E4 Saints Who Get It: St. Thérèse of Lisieux with Rosaline Cruz-Rine Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross And The Five Stages of Grief® A Widow’s Camino: The Road to Healing with Sherry Hayes-Pierce St. Francis of Assisi Prayer for the souls of Craig Crumpacker Israel Carillo Translation of Cleo’s message from Spanish to English "For all the souls who are listening to us, if you find yourself in a moment of grief and loss, try to reach out to your pastor at your parish to start a grief and loss group, because we all suffer pain at some point. Do not be afraid, ask the Holy Spirit and the Trinity to help you focus and start a group to help yourself. Life is for the glory of our Lord, to live life, not to live it in what they call sadness.” Leave that to the devil, not to God. Thank you, my love." Journaling Questions What struck you most from this episode? Were you inspired in any way to either try to find a group or start your own? Why or why not? Have you been part of any sort of grief support group? What were some things that were important to you and brought you comfort? If not, what would be important to you? Would you be comfortable sharing your story with others in a group setting? If not, what kind of support do you think would be most helpful to you? How has your faith impacted your grief journey? Are there any saints who have helped you on your grief journey? What is your mourning glory? We hope you enjoyed this episode of the Mourning Glory Podcast. Please be sure to share it with others who are journeying through grief, loss, or suffering. You can find links to all of our episodes including a link to our brand new private online community on our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com.  God Bless!

Shownotes Loss of a loved one can often feel isolating and desolate. When that loss is due to miscarriage or stillbirth, what resources are available to help those who are suffering?  In this week’s episode, Andrea and Jennifer share a beautiful conversation with guest Eileen Tully and discuss the story of the loss of her twin daughters and how that ultimately led her to create the online magazine,Those Who Mourn as a resource for others looking for a support system during their suffering, grief, and sorrow. Our Guest Eileen is the founder of Sursum Corda, an apostolate for women who have experienced pregnancy or child loss. She is also the editor of a new online magazine for grieving Catholics called Those Who Mourn. She lives in rural New Hampshire with her husband, Patrick, and six children. Links www.eileentully.com Those Who Mourn online magazine Sursum Corda S4 E Lamar Hanna CCAirwaves Interview with Eileen Praying with Our Lady of Sorrows book Retreats and courses for grieving mothers:  St. Thomas Aquinas 5 Remedies for Sorrow Pleasure Condolence of friends Weeping Contemplation of Truth Warm bath and a nap   Scripture 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV) Book of Psalms Lamentations 3 Prayers referenced in this episode  The Rosary Litany of Trust * If you would like a copy of the Litany of Trust written by the Sisters of Life, email us at mourningglorypodcast@gmail.com Devotion Our Lady of Sorrows O most holy Virgin, Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ: by the overwhelming grief you experienced when you witnessed the martyrdom, the crucifixion, and death of your divine Son, look upon me with eyes of compassion, and awaken in my heart a tender commiseration for those sufferings, as well as a sincere detestation of my sins, in order that being disengaged from all undue affection for the passing joys of this earth, I may sigh after the eternal Jerusalem, and that henceforward all my thoughts and all my actions may be directed towards this one most desirable object. Honor, glory, and love to our divine Lord Jesus, and to the holy and immaculate Mother of God. Amen. Prayer for the repose of the souls of Gabriel and Robert as well as their families. Journaling Questions What struck you most from this episode?  Prayer doesn't come naturally for many of us, especially after loss. Have you ever struggled with knowing what to say to God or struggled with prayer, especially after loss? What helped you or could help you overcome that struggle?  Eileen shared about St. Thomas Aquinas’ 5 Remedies for Sorrow. Which of the remedies resonated with you most and why?  What prayers or scripture verses have helped you on your own healing journey? What is your mourning glory? We hope you enjoy this episode of the Mourning Glory Podcast and share it with others who are on a journey through grief. You can find links to all of our episodes including a link to our brand new private online community on our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com.  God Bless!

Shownotes Do you ever feel disconnected in grief? While the world moves on, those of us in grief are still trying to find our way. And yet, those of us who grieve, have a common understanding. We belong to a club no-one signs up for but we can empathize with each other.  In this week’s episode, Andrea spends time with guest, Lindsay Machnik, to talk about the importance of community, especially in those early times of loss. After unexpectedly losing her husband, Lindsay was searching for a community that wasn’t only about grief but also one that understood grief from a Catholic perspective. As a result of her search, she found the Mourning Glory Podcast and thus, the Mourning Glory Community on Mighty Networks was born.  Tune in to learn more about Lindsay’s story and our new private community where you can find comfort and support on your own journey. Online community link https://mourning-glory.mn.co/ Prayer for the soul of Lindsay’s husband, Sean Machnik. Eternal Rest Grant Unto Him/Her O Lord, and let the perpetual Light shine upon her, may he rest in peace. Amen. May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. Journaling Questions How has your grief changed since the first few weeks/months? Who has been a source of community for you in grief?  How much prayer have you incorporated into your grieving process? If you have used prayer, in what ways have you found this a comfort? In ways have you found this a challenge?  What types of communities are available to you? In what ways have you contributed to their support? How have others contributed to your support?  What would it look like to start your own grief support group? We hope you enjoy the podcast. Please share it with others to help them know that they are not alone in their grief. You can also find all of our episodes as well as links to resources and join our brand new private online community at www.mourningglorypodcast.com. God Bless!

Shownotes This week's episode meditates on the Sorrows of Mary.  Follow Andrea as she walks you along a meditation prayer while reflecting on Mary's Seven Sorrows. The Seven Sorrows The Prophecy of Simeon (⁠Luke 2:34-35⁠) The Flight into Egypt (⁠Matthew 2:13-21⁠) The Loss of Jesus for Three Days (⁠Luke 2:41-50⁠) The Carrying of the Cross (⁠John 19:17⁠) The Crucifixion of Jesus (⁠John 19:18-30⁠) Jesus Taken Down from the Cross (⁠John 19:39-40⁠) Jesus Laid in the Tomb (⁠John 19:39-42⁠) Prayer featured in the meditation “Most merciful Mother, remind us always about the sorrows of your son, Jesus.” Links The Seven Sorrows of Mary Rosary S5 E2 Our Lady of Sorrows with Michelle Hamel Journaling Questions Which Sorrow of Mary speaks to you the most?  How can you see your own grief displayed through Mary's grief?  Reflect on how God shows Mary and Jesus were not reserved from feeling sorrow.  Some of Mary's sorrows also reflect joy. Why do you think God chooses to work joy in the midst of our sorrow? How can this give us hope?  Are there parts of your grief journey that don't make sense? How can you ask our Lady to help you navigate your grief just as she did ?  What is your mourning glory? We hope you enjoy the podcast. Please share it with others to help them know that they are not alone in their grief. You can also find all of our episodes as well as links to resources and join our brand new private online community at www.mourningglorypodcast.com. God Bless!

Shownotes How is value measured? When we find ourselves comparing our worth with standards of the world, we can feel little or small as if we don’t add up. But God tells us differently and has already determined our worth. In this episode Andrea Bear sits down with Sarah Kroger, Catholic  singer and songwriter. Sarah shares her new book, Beloved, named after her popular song and shares how God’s love has already given us worth.  Our Guest Sarah Kroger is a GMA Dove Award®-Nominated Artist, Songwriter, and Worship Leader. With her previously released albums Your Time(ff2011), Hallelujah is our Song (2013), Bloom (2019), Light (2020), and London Sessions (2023), her latest project, A New Reality, released on May 17, 2024 (Integrity Music). Links Song Belovedness based on the book by Henry Nouwen https://www.sarahkroger.com/ Scripture Ephesians 1:4   Prayer for those struggling with mental health, self-worth, and those who are mourning. Journaling Questions Why do you sometimes find society can take away your worth? How does God remind us over and over again that He has already placed our worth? Where do you see this in your life? Is there someone who needs reminding about God’s love? How can you be a light in their life? Why is it important to address mental health?  Spend time in prayer this week and meditate on Ephesians 1:4 and the word belovedness. What is God calling you to discover about His love for you?  What is your mourning glory? Be sure to subscribe to the podcast. You can find us on most podcast platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pocketcasts, and more. You can also follow us on both Instagram and Facebook. Be sure to also check out our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com. There you’ll find links to all of our episodes, shownotes, resources such as books recommendations, articles, and more.  

Shownotes In this week’s episode, Andrea and Jennifer have a candid and vulnerable conversation with Michelle Hamel about the Blessed Mother  under her title of Our Lady of Sorrows. After suffering the loss of her daughter, Therese, Michelle found solace  by sharing her sorrows as Mary revealed to her more than she could have imagined.  Our Guest Michelle Hamel is a wife, mother, and grammy who writes to encourage women in all seasons of life, especially those times of grief and struggle. Life experience has given her a heart for women that are facing and healing from traumatic experiences. She is the author of a forthcoming book about the journey of infant loss accompanied by Our Lady of Sorrows as well as a contributing author to Cloud of Witnesses: 25 Stories of Saintly Inspiration and Intercession. She is a contributing writer for Catholicmom.com and she was recently one of the breakout speakers for the Ecce Homo Retreat put on by Spritualdirection.com and the Avila Foundation. Find Michelle at michellehamel.com.  Links ​Michelle’s articles on Catholic Mom ​Waiting with Hope ​Cloud of Witnesses: 25 Stories of Saintly Inspiration and Intercession ​https://www.michellehamel.com/ ​The Seven Promises given to St. Brigid of Sweden  Scripture ​Romans 8:28 Prayers referenced in this episode  ​The Seven Sorrows of Mary Rosary ​The Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary Prayer for the souls of Michelle’s and her husband’s grandparents who have gone before us. Journaling Questions ​What struck you most about Michelle’s story?  ​Why do people struggle to embrace sorrow?  ​Have you experienced a time where joy and sorrow go together? ​How can Mary’s Sorrow be a place of consolation in our own grief? ​How do you see Mary’s role as your own mother? As the mother of your loved ones? How can this help us feel loved and consoled by God in grief? ​What is your mourning glory?

Shownotes In this opening episode for Season 5 Jennifer and Andrea talk about their in-between seasons between the podcast. Andrea shares  taking time for rest and some of her summer plans while Jennifer shares her break has been a busy one, but a time of discerning the next step. Andrea also shares preparing for the 1 year anniversary of her father’s death.  The ladies introduces a new online community for the Mourning Glory Podcast and how listeners can connect outside the podcast.  Tune in to hear all the exciting opportunities in store for the remainder of this Jubilee year of hope.  Scripture Romans 15:13 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." Prayers mentioned in this episode  (From Jennifer’s Spiritual Director) Joy lives even in  the most difficult moments. It dwells within, sometimes buried behind doubt and pain. And yet it lives, straining to be released for it resides in the unconquerable promise of hope. Surrender Novena  Prayer for the souls of Mike Warren, Alice Machuca, and Sam Boggs.  Journaling Questions Why are seasons of rest important in grief? In what ways are you working on keeping more rest while in grief? What are qualities you look for in a Grief Community?  What is your mourning glory? Be sure to subscribe to the podcast. You can find us on most podcast platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pocketcasts, and more. You can also follow us on both Instagram and Facebook. Be sure to also check out our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com. There you’ll find links to all of our episodes, shownotes, resources such as books recommendations, articles, and more.   We’d also love to hear your mourning glory stories, answer your questions, or know about  topics you’d like to hear us discuss so be sure to email us. We can’t wait to see what God has in store for us all as we continue on our journeys. God bless, everyone!

Shownotes Sometimes life can feel like an endless game of waiting. Waiting for seasons to change, the school year to end, for life to begin. How can we use our time of waiting to grow closer to God? Join Andrea and Jennifer as they discuss this topic and relate it to the idea of waiting for our grief and suffering to end and also share an update on their word of the year and summer plans. Links Waiting is Not Easy by Mo Willems S4 E13 Saints Who Get It: Saint Gemma Galgani with Allison Gingras Blessed Solanus Casey  St. Francis de Sales Quote S4 E1 Picking Up the Pieces (Word of the Year episode) The Allender Center Podcast The Place We Find Ourselves with Adam Young Medjugorje  Scripture Lamentations 3:25-26 Acts 1: 6-7 Revelations 21:4 Matthew 7:20 Prayers mentioned in this episode  Mourning Offering  O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer you my prayers, works, joys, and sufferings of this day for all the intentions of your Sacred Heart, in union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world, for the salvation of souls, the reparation of sins, the reunion of all Christians, and in particular for the intentions of the Holy Father this month. Amen. St. Michael the Archangel  Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.  Prayer for the souls of JoAnn Sampona and Bobby Woodlieff, who both recently passed away  Journaling Questions What is the hardest thing you've ever had to wait for? What can we do in the midst of our waiting, during our times of suffering? What are some gifts or graces you have discovered in the waiting or in the throws of suffering? How can you open yourself up more to prayer? Do you feel more drawn towards the rosary, novenas, or other rote prayers? Have you found yourself suffering from anxiety as a result of waiting for “the other shoe to drop,” as Jennifer mentioned? When was the last time you stopped to “smell the roses” or slowed down? What are you thankful for? Do you find yourself focusing on the glass half empty or half full? What is your mourning glory? We want to encourage you to subscribe to the podcast. You can find us on most podcast platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pocketcasts, and more. You can also follow us on both Instagram and Facebook. Be sure to also check out our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com. There you’ll find links to all of our episodes, shownotes, resources such as books recommendations, articles, and more.   We’d also love to hear your mourning glory stories, answer your questions, or know about  topics you’d like to hear us discuss so be sure to email us. We can’t wait to see what God has in store for us all as we continue on our journeys. God bless, everyone!

* Caution: some content may be sensitive for listeners. Shownotes When our loved ones die, there’s a desolation that comes over us. A feeling of knowing that the door of death has closed all opportunities for second chances. How do we reconcile with the moments of missing out?  Our Guest Dr. Gary Lawrence is the founder and director of New Life Dynamics Christian Counseling Ministries, and author of his bestselling book, Rejection Junkies. After 20 years as the host of his own radio show, Life Mastery Counseling with Dr. G, Dr. G has personally met with and coached more than 6,000 clients and has inspired thousands more on radio, television, and stage. Dr. G specializes in breaking down the damaging effects of rejection and the way in which this trauma manifests throughout all phases of life. In Rejection Junkies, Dr. G helps readers to recognize the circumstances that hold them hostage, keeping them stuck, and making them bitter. Scripture Isaiah 53:3 Hebrews 12:15 Links Rejection Junkies Unplugged (Dr. Gary Lawrence’s website) Rejection Junkies book Journaling questions 1. Reflect on this week’s scripture of Hebrews 12:15. How can you work to reduce bitterness that springs up? 2. Bitterness comes in many forms but the hardest comes when we must look within. If you are feeling bitterness toward someone or a situation what steps are you taking to remove your bitterness? 3. Who are positives examples in your life that promote love and forgiveness? How can this person(people) help you model virtue? 4. What is your mourning glory? We’d love to hear your mourning glory. Email us to share your mourning glory stories.  Be sure to let us know if you’re willing to allow us to share them with our community, as we can all use simple reminders that we are not alone on our grief journeys. God bless, everyone.

Shownotes The role of a mother and wife are intrinsic to the family.  So when God calls them home, the dynamic of home life changes. Jessica Hannah never questioned God’s plan for her, rather embraced it. In 2020,she was diagnosed with Breast cancer while pregnant with her fourth child. She understood her time here was precious and wanted to help others so she created a social media page called @blessed-by_cancer Jessica sharing her experience all the while catechizing others as she carried her cross. In 2024, Jessica returned home to our Lord and her husband Lamar Hannah, continues to share Jessica’s messages of love, humility and redemptive suffering. Listen in as Andrea and Lamar talk about the first year of grief and how the Hannah family anticipate this second Mother’s Day.  Scripture 2 Corinthians 1:2-3.  Links Blessed by Cancer (Facebook)  Blessed By Cancer (Instagram) Social Readjustment Rating Scale (SRRS) Journaling questions Lamar Hannah admits sharing his wife’s videos has been a form of healing, and  feels called to continue to share these to help others on their journey. What is something that helps you in your grief to help towards healing?  Do you find 1st year anniversaries or second year anniversaries are more difficult after someone dies?  Roles can change after the loss of a loved one. What roles have you had to take on after your loved one has passed? What roles have gone away or expanded?  What is your mourning glory? Prayer for the soul of Jessica Hanna

Shownotes Grief can present itself in many ways aside from losing someone we love to death. From the loss of identity to the loss of hopes and dreams for the future, grief is not isolated to death. Separation can also be its own type of grief. Whether the separation is intentional or not, it can prove difficult for even those with the strongest faith. But what about those who are not only cut off from loved ones like friends and family? How is it different, for example, for those cut off from society? How can they still be ministered to in a way that still gives them a sense of the dignity they deserve as a human being? Our Guest  Deacon Greg Orf has been ordained in the Archdiocese of Atlanta for 8 years.  He has served as a chaplain in the Gilmer County Sheriff's department and is engaged with the GA Depart of Corrections to start a Catholic presence in Phillips State Prison as a new endeavor.  Links from the show Holy Mother Redeemer (Alma Redemptoris Mater) Scripture The Judgement of Nations, Gospel of Matthew  Prayer for all those who are imprisoned as well as those who have no one praying for them. Journaling Questions What touched you most about this episode? How can you incorporate praying for those who are imprisoned into your prayer life? Deacon Greg mentioned the concept of “ministry of presence.” How can you be more present to those who just need the presence of someone? What is your mourning glory?

Shownotes There comes a time when we will all come face to face with our mortality. Very few of us will be able to see what impacts we’ve made until we are called home. Our guest Joelle Maryn,  was blessed to have a life changing experience.  In the midst of a near death encounter or what many call an Illumination of Conscience, God revealed aspects of her life. Listen as Andrea speaks with our guest about her near-death-like  experiences, but more importantly, what to do with the information to help us on our journey home. Our Guest Actress, speaker, and host Joelle Maryn. In her childhood, Joelle survived a house fire that unfortunately took the life of her only sibling, Maria.  Consumed by the flames of despair, she suffered an immensely tumultuous childhood. Buying into the lies of culture, Joelle sought comfort in the material world, and a successful career in the entertainment industry which was never fully satisfied. She eventually hit a spiritual rock bottom and had a near-death-like experience that transformed her faith and the trajectory of her life. Her “fires” were converted into a source of strength and purpose as she finally found her fire within.  Following her profound conversion experience, she now dedicates her life to sharing God’s healing love, inspiring millions worldwide. Maryn also engages in faith-based films and TV shows to lead others closer to Christ, including playing the role of the Blessed Mother in an upcoming movie. Her remarkable story has been featured on various platforms, including EWTN’s “The Journey Home.” And is the host of  Shalom World TV's "Beyond the Vision,"  this past February , “BECOME THE FIRE: Push Past Fear and Find Your Purpose.” was recently published in February. 2025. Scripture Jeremiah 31:13  Links EWTN’s Journey Home - Joelle Maryn  BECOME THE FIRE: Push Past Fear and Find Your Purpose MASTER OF THE PIECES: Being Restored, Redeemed, and Empowered by the Love of God WORKBOOK AND JOURNAL FOR MASTER OF THE PIECES: Being Restored, Redeemed, and Empowered by the Love of God Prayer to Saint Maria Goretti www.joellemaryn.com Prayer for children who have been sex trafficked, specifically for the girl Joelle had the image of and the forgotten souls, those who have been abused and those with no one praying for them. Help us spread the word about our ministry! Be sure to subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and other podcast platforms. You can also find out more information on the podcast including resources such as book recommendations, links to previous episodes and more at www.mourningglorypodcast.com. You can also send an email us, mourningglorypodcast@gmail.com. God bless!

Shownotes In this episode, Andrea and Jennifer reflect on Good Friday and what Lent has been like this year compared to last year.   Links S4 E13 Saints Who Get It: Saint Gemma Galgani with Allison Gingras 33 Days to Merciful Love Rosary in a Year Easter Story Egg S4 E9 Finding the Right Support on Your Grief Journey with Kenneth Harouff S2 Bonus: The Seven Sorrows of Mary Chaplet of Divine Mercy Scripture Genesis 1:28  John 15:2-13  Luke 1:42  Matthew 26:39 Journaling Questions How is your Lent this year compared to last year?  What are some of the crosses you have been carrying? Have you asked God to help you carry them? What has Lent taught you this year? Do you have a hard time receiving love? Have you ever been able to receive God’s merciful love? What is keeping you from allowing yourself to receive the love of Jesus? Do you have trouble speaking your needs out loud? If you do, explore why you struggle with it. What is your mourning glory? We’d love to hear your mourning glory. Email us to share your mourning glory stories.  Be sure to let us know if you’re willing to allow us to share them with our community, as we can all use simple reminders that we are not alone on our grief journeys. Happy Easter and God bless, everyone. 

In this special bonus episode, join Andrea and Jennifer as they pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. Links The Chaplet of Divine Mercy History of the Chaplet of The Chaplet of The Divine Mercy

Shownotes We’ve spoken about saints frequently here on the podcast and most recently had a conversation with Belinda Terro Mooney about how powerful the saints are especially on their feast days. From Saint Blaise who is known for curing throats to Carlo Acutis, also known as the digital saint, we’ve learned there’s a saint for just about everything. But how do we even find out about these saints? Is it through our own personal struggles and a quick Google search? Or do these saints somehow find us just when they know we need them the most?  Our Guest  Allison Gingras is an author, podcaster, and social media evangelist. Allison’s books include Encountering Signs of Faith from Ave Maria Press and the Stay Connected Journals for Catholic Women from Our Sunday Visitor, with the newest title, Jesus Heals. Allison is the Director of Digital Evangelization for Family Rosary and Catholic Mom. You can learn more at ReconciledToYou.com. Links from the show S4 E8 The Healing Power of Saints with Belinda Terro Mooney S1 E6 Our Saint Posse: Saint Faustina with Allison Gingras Allison’s website, ReconciledToYou.com 33 Days to Merciful Love  Stigmata Blessed Solanus Casey St. Amelia Scripture 2 Corinthians 5:18 Prayer for Jennifer’s friend and his mother, as she heals from shoulder surgery. Journaling Questions Do you have a special relationship with any of the saints? What were you surprised to learn about Saint Gemma Galgani? Who are the members of your “Saint Posse”? Which part of Allison’s testimony spoke to you from this episode? What is your mourning glory? Be sure to check out our website, www.mourningglorypodcast.com. There you will find links to all of our episodes as well as resources to help you on your journey.

Shownotes After six long years of constant chemotherapy, painful procedures, many relapses, and a brush with death from the chickenpox virus, Donna MacLeod’s daughter Erynne, died of leukemia at age 9. Her love of life, cheerful spirit, and devotion to Jesus inspired many. Being in her presence changed Donna as Erynne was a child of hope. In her early periods of grief, Donna began to write a spiritual companion to help others who were tending to their own grief.  We hope you enjoy this REPLAY of Andrea and Jennifer's conversation with Donna MacCleod as she shares her story and how the Seasons of Hope Journals came into existence.  Our Guest Donna is a nurse, bereft mom, Catholic lay leader, bereavement ministry specialist, and author known for her unique Christ-centered program for those who mourn. Her bestselling Seasons of Hope ministry books now have an updated Leader’s Guide: Bringing Comfort through Catholic Grief Support and four companion Journals: Finding Comfort in Your Grief (Ave Maria Press). Her writings on grief, loss, and faith also appear in CareNotes, PrayerNotes, and Caring Companions (Abbey Press) and other publications. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing and has served as an oncology clinical specialist, nurse educator, administrator, and hospice professional. She was on the board of trustees of the former National Catholic Ministry to the Bereaved and is a member of the Catholic Family Life Association.  You can find more information on Donna through her author link at Ave Maria Press found HERE. She can also be reached at seasonsofhope35@gmail.com. Links Seasons of Hope Series Journaling Questions What struck you most about this particular episode? Have you ever used a journal on your grief journey? What benefits did you find in using one? Have you ever attended any sort of grief support group? What did you find helpful or not helpful about it? What are some things that have helped you explore your grief in different ways besides perhaps support groups or journaling? What is your mourning glory? This episode is in memory of Erynne MacLeod, Jacqueline and Angus MacLeod, Sundy and Isabelle Mann.