Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Welcome to the Twentity-First week in Ordinary Timeanother week on our journey towards holiness!

“But who do you say that I am?”

This is the question Jesus asks His disciples (and us!) in yesterday’s Gospel from Matthew 16:13–20. In fact, it may be the most important question any of us will ever answer.

Now, the disciples have plenty of answers about who other people say Jesus is. John the Baptist. Elijah. Jeremiah. Or one of the prophets. But Jesus then makes the question personal, “But who do YOU say that I am?”

And Peter responds, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

And from that moment onward, everything changes. Jesus tells Peter that this truth has been revealed to him by the Father and that upon this rock He will build His Church. But Peter’s confession cannot remain merely words, and neither can ours.

For if Jesus truly is the Christ, the Son of the living God, then that truth must become the foundation upon which we build our entire lives.

So how marvelous that the Church gives us four witnesses this week who demonstrate different ways of recognizing Christ and then allowing that recognition to transform their lives.

On Monday, we celebrate the Feast of Saint Bartholomew the Apostle, traditionally identified as Nathanael in John’s Gospel. His first encounter with Jesus changes causes Nathanael to respond by proclaiming, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” Just like Peter, Nathanael recognizes who Jesus truly is—and then follows Him.

Then, on Thursday, we remember Saint Monica, whose confidence in Christ allowed her to persevere in prayer for years for the conversion of her son, Augustine. Then Friday sees us celebrate Saint Augustine himself, whose restless search eventually led him to discover that only God could satisfy the deepest longing of his heart.

Then on Saturday, we conclude our week by commemorating the Passion of Saint John the Baptist, who remained faithful to the truth even when doing so cost him his life.

These four saints witness to us the different ways that we can all be disciples of Christ. Nathanael encountered Christ. Monica trusted Him. Augustine sought and found Christ. And John the Baptist witnessed to Christ through his death. Each, in their own way, answered the question Jesus places before every one of us: “Who do you say that I am?”

So, this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet will seek to inspire, encourage and accompany us in answering Jesus’ question for ourselves—and then building our lives upon our answer—as we continue our journey towards holiness…

Food for the Head

"Love takes up where knowledge leaves off." — Saint Thomas Aquinas

Peter knew the right answer, but knowing who Jesus is was only the beginning. Peter would still have to learn what it meant to love Him. And in the process, Peter would stumble, misunderstand, and deny Jesus three times. And yet, ultimately, Peter would give his life for Him.

Saint Thomas Aquinas reminds us that knowledge must eventually give way to love. Therefore, it is important to know what the Church teaches by studying Scripture and the Catechism.

It is important to understand our faith, but ultimately, all of that knowledge must lead us into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.

The question is not merely, “What do I know about Jesus?” Rather, the question is, “Do I love the One whom I know?”

This week, resolve to spend time each day with Jesus—not simply learning something about Him, but asking Him to help you love Him more deeply.

Food for the Heart

"To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek Him the greatest adventure; to find Him, the greatest human achievement." — Saint Augustine

Few people demonstrate the difference between knowing about God and actually encountering Him better than Saint Augustine, whose memorial we celebrate on Friday.

Augustine spent years searching. He searched for happiness. He searched for truth and for meaning. He looked in philosophy, intellectual achievement, ambition, relationships and worldly pleasures. Yet none of them satisfied him.

All the while, God was pursuing Augustine. But so was Augustine’s mother, Saint Monica. She prayed and prayed and prayed. She refused to believe that her son’s wandering was the end of his story. And eventually, Augustine discovered the One for whom he had been searching all along.

Jesus’ question—“Who do you say that I am?”—became personal because Jesus was no longer merely someone Augustine knew about.

He became the One Augustine loved, and that love transformed everything.

This week, resolve to ask yourself honestly, "Where am I searching for fulfillment apart from God?" Then invite Jesus into that place and ask Him to become the deepest desire of your heart.

Food for the Hands

“My confidence is placed in God who does not need our help for accomplishing his designs. Our single endeavor should be to give ourselves to the work and to be faithful to him, and not to spoil his work by our shortcomings." — Saint Isaac Jogues

Saint Monica understood this truth, and she desperately desired Augustine’s conversion. But she could not convert him. Only God could do that.

But Monica did what she could. She loved. She prayed. She sacrificed. She persevered. And she entrusted Augustine to God.

How difficult this can be for us (or at least it is for me!)

Because want to fix things for people, don’t we? Especially for those we love.

We want to change circumstances. Or we want to produce results. Or we want God to work according to our timetable.

Yet Saint Isaac Jogues reminds us that God does not need us to accomplish His designs. He simply asks us to be faithful. Sometimes faithfulness means doing something. Other times it means praying. And sometimes it means waiting while God works in ways we cannot yet see.

Saint Monica’s life reminds us never to underestimate what God may be doing through years of seemingly unanswered prayer, and Saint Isaac Jogues reminds us in whom we are to place our confidence.

This week, resolve to identify one person or situation you have been trying to change and entrust it to God. Then simply do the next faithful thing He asks of you.

Food for the Feet

“We ought to speak, shout out against injustices, with confidence and without fear. We proclaim the principles of the Church, the reign of love, without forgetting that it is also a reign of justice." — Blessed Miguel Pro

Peter proclaimed: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Eventually, each of us as Christ’s disciple must be willing to proclaim what we believe.

Saint John the Baptist certainly did. On Saturday, the Church remembers his Passion—his martyrdom because he refused to remain silent about the truth. John understood something our culture desperately needs to remember—Truth and love are not enemies. Authentic love desires what is true and good for another person. But proclaiming truth does not mean being harsh, argumentative, or self-righteous.

Blessed Miguel Pro reminds us that we proclaim the reign of love and justice. John the Baptist’s entire life pointed away from himself and toward Jesus, and that should be our goal as well.

We do this through our words, our choices, our priorities, our relationships, and our public witness. In fact, everything in our lives should answer Jesus’ question: “Who do you say that I am?”

So, what does your life say?

This week, resolve to courageously witness to one truth of the Gospel through both the way you speak and the way you live.

A beautiful way to gain courage to witness to the truth that Jesus is Lord is by praying the Rosary. Like Saint Monica, Mary teaches us how to trust God's work in those we love, and like Saint John the Baptist, she continually points beyond herself toward Jesus. A favorite rosary podcast of mine is the Daily Rosary podcast by the School of Faith.

Exhortation

"The only person who is free is the one who lives for Christ." — Saint John Chrysostom

“Who do you say that I am?”

Ultimately, no one else can answer that question for us. Not our parents, our spouse, our priest, or our friends. Not even the saints. Instead, we must answer it ourselves.

But our answer cannot remain merely words. If Jesus is truly the Christ, the Son of the living God, then He must become the foundation—the rock—upon which everything else in our life is built.

Saint Monica shows us what that looks like through persevering prayer. Saint Augustine shows us through a restless search that ultimately finds its fulfillment in God. Saint John the Baptist shows us through courageous witness to the truth regardless of the cost. And Saint Peter shows us that even when we fail, stumble, or deny Jesus, we can begin again and ultimately become the person God created us to be.

Each one answered Jesus’ question not merely with words, but with a life. And each one of us are invited to do the same.

So this week:

Know Him. Love Him. Trust Him. Proclaim Him.

And then build your life upon Him.

May each of us do WHATEVER IT TAKES to proclaim with Peter—and with our lives—that Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God,” so that together we can tell the Master of Death,“NOT TODAY!”

All the best,

Christina

PS—If you haven’t already, go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

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Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Both the Say Yes to Holiness and The Catholic Leadership Puzzle podcasts are now available on Fio!

Fio is a platform with a plethora of Catholic podcasts and music options. I invite you to go and check it out by accessing it through my podcast links below:

• https://play.fio.fm/show/SayYesToHolinessPodcast
  

• https://play.fio.fm/show/TheCatholicLeadershipPuzzlePodcast

Check out my christinasemmens.com website and download some of the free resources.

Some of the FREE resources include a Spiritual Wellness Assessment, List of Recommended Books for Spiritual Reading, and a Rule of Life Planner Sheet.

This website is also where I blog and where you can learn more about working with me or learning more about spiritual direction. If you are interested, make sure to sign up for a FREE 20 minute consultation. Hope to hear from you soon!

Finally, if you would like to support my work, you can click the link below and subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness Substack.

Subscribe now

Latest Posts on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Articles on the Catholic365.com Platform:

Recognizing the Path to Life

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #265

“America’s Saint--Venerable Fulton Sheen”—1:1 Converation with Dr. Peter Howard, President of Fulton Sheen Institute

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

Episode #265

“America’s Saint-Venerable Fulton Sheen”—1:1 Conversation with Dr. Peter Howard, President, Fulton Sheen Institute

In addition to podcasts, you can also find additional content like the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Now that Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, and One Leader at a Time has been released (and is available for purchase at Amazon), I have just started a NEW PODCAST SERIES that highlights different topics covered in the book by having conversations with a variety of guests.

The next in the series was just released, and the topic this time around was HOSPITALITY. My guest on the Catholic Leadership Podcast was Richard McCorry, Author of Company's Coming: A Spiritual Process for Creating More Welcoming Parishes.

The Power of Hospitality: Insights from Richard McCorry

If you have yet to pick up a copy of Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time, I encourage you to do so, especially in light of all the wonderful reviews it has received. And if you do already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon—every review matters!

And if you are looking for more SPP book resources and content, you can find it at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

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Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

In this Sunday’s Gospel from Matthew 15:21–28, a Canaanite woman approaches Jesus and begs Him to heal her daughter.

At first, Jesus appears to ignore her, so she cries out again. Now, the disciples want Jesus to send her away, but she continues to persist.

So, Jesus challenges her, and she still persists. Jesus seems to be intent on refusing her, but she finally kneels before Him and says simply: “Lord, help me.”

Jesus continues to challenge her, but she refuses to leave.

Why? Because she knows who Jesus is.

The Canaanite woman believes Jesus can heal her daughter, so no silence, obstacle, rebuke, or delay is going to convince her otherwise, and the result is that ultimately Jesus praises the greatness of her faith with one of the most extraordinary compliments we hear Him share in the Gospels as He finally grants her request: “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.”

I don’t know about you, but I long to have such persistent faith!

Because how often do we stop praying because God seems silent? Or we assume that a delay means “no”? Or we become discouraged because God’s response does not come in the manner—or according to the timetable—we expected?

The Canaanite woman models for us another way.

Keep asking. Keep trusting. Keep believing.

This model is particularly appropriate during this week in which we will celebrate the Feast of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 22, because Mary exemplifies for us what a lifetime of persevering faith and trust in God looks like.

Therefore, this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet will seek to inspire, encourage and accompany us in growing in faith, persevering in prayer, interceding for others, and confidently approaching Jesus—with the help of His Mother—as we continue on our journey towards holiness…

Food for the Head

"Something does change when we trust God. But it may not always be our circumstances. Often, the thing that changes is our disposition and our hearts, knowing that God is with us in this place." — Father Pierre Toussaint

The Canaanite woman’s circumstances did not immediately change.

Her daughter remained afflicted and Jesus remained silent and the disciples were annoyed by her presence. Yet, she continued to trust.

This is probably one of the most difficult lessons of the spiritual life, because we often think that trusting God means believing that He will change our circumstances.

And sometimes He does.

But trust means something much deeper. Trust means believing that God is present even when our circumstances do not change.

The Canaanite woman trusted Jesus more than she trusted what she could see happening around her.

The question before us is, can we do the same?

Can we believe that God is good when our prayers appear unanswered? Can we believe He is working when we cannot see evidence of it? Can we remain confident in His love when everything around us seems to suggest otherwise?

That is faith.

And it is the most difficult kind of faith to hold on to because it seems like God isn’t responding.

I can truly identify with this, especially in the last year and a half since my husband’s passing. It has seemed like God was not answering my prayers, especially when circumstances in some areas of my life seemed to get worse. But the fact is that God was moving. He was preparing the circumstances for a life that was beyond what I could even pray for, and now that life is beginning to emerge through new opportunities and new connections and new friendships. And I need to persist and have faith so the Lord can continue to love me and care for me—even if I still can’t see it sometimes.

That is the faith the Canaanite woman displays for us, and the same faith which Jesus invites us to cultivate in our lives.

This week, resolve to identify one circumstance you have been asking God to change and instead ask Him to help you recognize His presence within it.

Food for the Heart

"Know, dearest daughter, how, by humble, continual, and faithful prayer, the soul acquires, with time and perseverance, every virtue. Wherefore should she persevere and never abandon prayer." — Saint Catherine of Siena

The Canaanite woman gives us a beautiful model of humble, continual, and faithful prayer. She asks and waits. She asks again. She kneels and pleads. But most importantly, she refuses to stop believing.

Saint Catherine of Siena reminds us that perseverance in prayer does more than obtain something from God.

Prayer changes us.

Because it is through continual and faithful prayer that our desires are purified and our humility grows and our trust deepens. In the end, our faith becomes stronger.

Perhaps this is why God sometimes allows us to wait.

I know that the waiting for my son to secure a job as a golf instructor was a long time coming. And many prayers were offered for him to find not just a job, but the right one. To find the job that has him in the right place, with the right people, doing the thing that helps him become more fully who God created him to be. It took more than a year and a half, but it finally has happened.

All of us have something that we are seeking and desiring and praying for. For the Canaanite woman, she came seeking the healing of her daughter. But through her perseverance, something else was revealed—the extraordinary depth of her faith.

So extraordinary that Jesus Himself praised it!

Saint Catherine tells us how to do the same as the Canaanite woman. To remain humble, offer continual and faithful prayer so as to persevere in acquiring every virtue we will need to be a person of faith.

But also remember that our unanswered prayers could be the very places where God is quietly forming something beautiful within us—if we but persevere and remain faithful.

This week, resolve to return faithfully to one prayer intention you may have become discouraged about and entrust it to Jesus every day.

Food for the Hands

“You know well enough that Our Lord does not look so much at the greatness of our actions, nor even at their difficulty, but at the love with which we do them." — St. Thérèse of Lisieux

The Lord tells us that there are only two commandments—to love God with all our heart, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. This is important to remember in that the Canaanite woman was not asking for herself.

She was asking for her daughter.

Her persistence was an act of love.

And love is the heart of intercessory prayer.

Intercessory prayer is simply that we bring someone we love before Jesus and ask the Lord to help them. Because sometimes there is nothing else we can do.

We cannot heal their illness or repair their relationships, or make their decisions, or remove their suffering.

But we can carry them to Jesus.

Interceding for another is no small thing, and Saint Thérèse reminds us that God measures our actions according to the love with which they are offered.

All of the smallest acts, at least in the eyes of the world, are acts of love that are great in the eyes of God.

The persistent prayer of a parent. The quiet prayer of a spouse. The Rosary offered for a friend. The Mass offered for someone who has died. The whispered prayer for someone who may never even know we prayed for them.

These are all tremendous acts of love in the eyes of God, so love God even more by loving your neighbor.

This week, resolve to choose one person in particular and faithfully intercede for that person's needs each day.

Food for the Feet

“Let them fly with utter confidence to this most sweet Mother of mercy and grace in all dangers, difficulties, needs, doubts, and fears.... [S]he has been appointed by God to be the Queen of heaven and earth.... [S]he presents our petitions in a most efficacious manner. When she asks, she obtains. Her pleas can never be unheard." — Blessed Pope Pius IX

This Saturday, we celebrate the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and I can’t think of a better way to conclude a week spent reflecting upon persistent intercession!

But let’s not only remember the Canaanite woman who interceded for her daughter. Let’s remember that Mary intercedes for all of her spiritual children—and that includes each and every one of us!

Because Mary’s Queenship is not about worldly power or prestige. Mary’s queenship is all about being perfectly united to Christ the King. And through that union, Mary loves us and desires for us what is best for us.

And what is it that our Queen desires? For us to draw closer to her Son.

We see this throughout Mary’s life. At Cana, she recognizes the need of the newly married couple and brings that need to Jesus, and then she tells the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”

She tells us to do the same thing. And she has continued to do the same thing in Heaven by taking our needs to Jesus and then pointing us back towards Him.

So, let’s approach our Blessed Mother with confidence and ask her to intercede for us, so that we can keep asking, trusting and believeing—especially when we find it difficult to persevere.

This week, resolve to bring one seemingly impossible intention to Mary and ask her to present it to her Son.

A beautiful way to do this is through the Rosary. Place your intention into Mary's hands before beginning and allow her to accompany you as you meditate upon the life of her Son. A favorite rosary podcast of mine is the Daily Rosary podcast by the School of Faith.

Exhortation

"When will the happy time come when the divine Mary will be established Mistress and Queen of all hearts, in order that she may subject them fully to the empire of her great and holy Jesus?" — Saint Louis de Montfort

Queen of all hearts.

Saint Louis de Montfort beautifully captures what Mary’s Queenship is ultimately about—Jesus.

Because Mary does not desire our hearts so that she can keep them for herself. She desires to bring them completely under the reign of her Son.

This is why Mary can help us imitate the Canaanite woman. Mary knows what it means to trust when God’s plan is mysterious. She knows what it means to persevere when circumstances appear impossible, and she knows what it means to stand faithfully before Jesus in the midst of suffering.

Most importantly, she knows the power of intercession.

So when Jesus seems silent...

Keep praying.

When circumstances do not change...

Keep trusting.

When you become discouraged...

Keep believing.

When someone you love desperately needs God’s grace...

Keep interceding.

And when you feel as though you cannot persevere any longer, fly with confidence to your Queen and Mother and ask her to help you approach her Son, so perhaps one day we, too, might hear Jesus say: “Great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.”

This week, may each of us do WHATEVER IT TAKES to persevere in faith, hope and prayer, trusting in the goodness of Jesus and seeking the intercession of Mary, our Mother and Queen, so that together we can tell the Master of Death,“NOT TODAY!”

All the best,

Christina

PS—If you haven’t already, go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Both the Say Yes to Holiness and The Catholic Leadership Puzzle podcasts are now available on Fio!

Fio is a platform with a plethora of Catholic podcasts and music options. I invite you to go and check it out by accessing it through my podcast links below:

• https://play.fio.fm/show/SayYesToHolinessPodcast
  

• https://play.fio.fm/show/TheCatholicLeadershipPuzzlePodcast

Check out my christinasemmens.com website and download some of the free resources.

Some of the FREE resources include a Spiritual Wellness Assessment, List of Recommended Books for Spiritual Reading, and a Rule of Life Planner Sheet.

This website is also where I blog and where you can learn more about working with me or learning more about spiritual direction. If you are interested, make sure to sign up for a FREE 20 minute consultation. Hope to hear from you soon!

Finally, if you would like to support my work, you can click the link below and subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness Substack.

Subscribe now

Latest Posts on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Articles on the Catholic365.com Platform:

Recognizing the Path to Life

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #265

“America’s Saint--Venerable Fulton Sheen”—1:1 Converation with Dr. Peter Howard, President of Fulton Sheen Institute

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

Episode #265

“America’s Saint-Venerable Fulton Sheen”—1:1 Conversation with Dr. Peter Howard, President, Fulton Sheen Institute

In addition to podcasts, you can also find additional content like the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Now that Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, and One Leader at a Time has been released (and is available for purchase at Amazon), I have just started a NEW PODCAST SERIES that highlights different topics covered in the book by having conversations with a variety of guests.

The next in the series was just released, and the topic this time around was HOSPITALITY. My guest on the Catholic Leadership Podcast was Richard McCorry, Author of Company's Coming: A Spiritual Process for Creating More Welcoming Parishes.

The Power of Hospitality: Insights from Richard McCorry

If you have yet to pick up a copy of Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time, I encourage you to do so, especially in light of all the wonderful reviews it has received. And if you do already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon—every review matters!

And if you are looking for more SPP book resources and content, you can find it at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

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Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Storms.

We all experience them—just like the disciples did in the Gospel this weekend.

Now, sometimes storms arrive suddenly. Like a diagnosis, a death, a financial difficulty, the loss of a job, a broken relationship, or something else that we can’t quite control.

Right now, I am in the midst of a minor storm myself as I am still helping my son move and settle into his new apartment, so have had the challenges of trying to get access to the internet, and figuring out a place to and time to write the newsletter. :)

At other times, storms develop slowly in the midst of circumstances we thought we could control, but gradually become unmanageable. Regardless of whatever form they take, storms have an uncanny ability to reveal where we have placed our trust.

In the Gospel this Sunday from Matthew 14:22–33, the disciples find themselves in a boat being tossed about by a storm while Jesus is away praying. Later, in the middle of the night, Jesus comes walking toward them across the water, and when the disciples see Him, they become frightened. Yet Jesus reassures them that it is He. Then, Peter responds in a way that should inspire all of us.

He asks the Lord to command Him to come to Him, and when the Lord does, Peter gets out of the boat. But even more amazingly, Peter walks on water!

Until he notices the wind.

Then Peter becomes frightened and begins to sink.

Can you identify? I know I can.

We hear Jesus’ invitation. We step out in faith. But then we look around at the circumstances surrounding us, become afraid, and begin to sink.

But the most important part of this Gospel is what happens next.

Peter cries out, “Lord, save me!”

And immediately, Jesus reaches out His hand.

So, this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet will seek to inspire, encourage and accompany you in keeping your eyes fixed upon Jesus so you can trust Him amid life’s storms, and have the courage to step out of the boat while we continue on the way towards holiness…

Food for the Head

"The life of faith is nothing less than the continued pursuit of God through all that disguises, disfigures, destroys and, so to say, annihilates Him.... God hides beneath veils of darkness and illusive appearances which make His will difficult to recognize; but in spite of every obstacle these souls follow Him and love Him even to the death of the Cross." — Father Jean-Pierre de Caussade, Abandonment to Divine Providence

The disciples could not recognize Jesus at first. Rather, they saw someone walking across the water and cried out in fear, believing they were seeing a ghost.

Why?

Because they were trying to interpret what was happening through the storm surrounding them with their own understanding.

But we do exactly the same thing, don’t we?

We try to interpret things without God’s input. This is especially true when life becomes difficult, and God’s presence becomes harder to recognize. In fact, many times, we even interpret His apparent absence as evidence that He has abandoned us.

Yet, as Father Jean-Pierre de Caussade reminds us, the life of faith requires pursuing God even when circumstances seem to disguise His presence.

Jesus was present in the storm. He was walking toward His disciples even before they recognized Him.

And Jesus is doing the same for us right now.

So, keep your eyes on Him, and trust He is already there to help you get through.

This week, resolve to look for God's presence in one difficult circumstance rather than focusing solely upon the storm surrounding it.

Food for the Heart

“My daughter... Entrust everything to Me and do nothing on your own, and you will always have great freedom of spirit. No circumstances or events will ever be able to upset you.... And so, set free from everything, rest close to My Heart, not allowing your peace to be disturbed by anything." — Jesus to Saint Faustina, Diary of Divine Mercy

Peter was doing the impossible by walking on water. But then Matthew tells us that Peter “saw how strong the wind was and became afraid.”

In that moment, nothing about Jesus had changed. Rather, the only thing that changed was where Peter placed his attention.

How often is this true for us?

We begin by trusting Jesus, but then we start focusing upon our problems, don’t we?

We replay conversations. Or we imagine everything that could go wrong. Or we attempt to solve situations beyond our control.

And as we do, fear slowly replaces peace.

But Jesus’ words to St. Faustina offer the remedy: “Entrust everything to Me.”

Because peace does not come when the storm disappears, rather, peace comes when we turn our attention back upon Christ, and entrust everything to Him.

This week, whenever anxiety or fear begins to overwhelm you, resolve to stop and pray, "Jesus, I trust in You," while intentionally placing the situation into His hands.

Food for the Hands

“My confidence is placed in God who does not need our help for accomplishing his designs. Our single endeavor should be to give ourselves to the work and to be faithful to him, and not to spoil his work by our shortcomings." — Saint Isaac Jogues

Peter deserves more credit than we usually give him. Eleven disciples remained in the boat, but Peter got out.

Yes, he eventually sank. But before he sank, remember that Peter walked on water!

But to do that, Peter had to be willing to leave behind what was safe.

We, too, need to be willing to leave what is safe so that we can follow Jesus—even if we may not know exactly how things will work out. Or we may not feel prepared. Or we may be frightened.

But when Jesus says, “Come,” then our task is to go.

Saint Isaac Jogues reminds us that God’s plans do not depend upon our strength. Instead, our responsibility is to give ourselves faithfully to the work He places before us—even when He tells us to get out of the boat.

Trusting that Jesus will take care of the water. :)

This week, resolve to identify one thing you believe God has been asking you to do and courageously take the next step.

Food for the Feet

“The road is narrow. He who wishes to travel it more easily, must cast off all things and use the cross as his cane." — Saint John of the Cross

Getting out of the boat is only the beginning.

We then have to keep walking.

Peter discovered how difficult that can be, especially when there are storms raging about.

But the Christian journey does not promise calm seas. In fact, following Christ often takes us directly through circumstances we probably would rather avoid.

Yet, Jesus never asks us to walk anywhere that He has not already gone.

He walks before us, and whenever we stumble—or even if we begin to sink—He remains close enough to reach out His hand and save us.

So, the key is not to never fall. Rather, the key is to know where to turn when we do.

Peter knew where to turn, and he did. And when he did, he simply asked, “Lord, save me!”

Three simple words, and Jesus immediately reached out His hand.

The question is whether we will do the same.

This week, resolve that whenever you stumble, fail, become discouraged, or begin to sink, immediately turn back to Jesus and ask Him to take your hand.

One of my favorite ways to learn how to keep our eyes upon Jesus is by praying the Rosary. Mary continually directs our attention toward her Son, and each of the mysteries allows us to walk beside Him throughout His life. A favorite rosary podcast of mine is the Daily Rosary podcast by the School of Faith.

Exhortation

“Do not let the past disturb you, just leave everything in the Sacred Heart and begin again with joy." — Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Peter sank. But Jesus still chose Peter.

Peter later misunderstood Jesus, argued with Him, fell asleep when Jesus asked him to pray, and even denied knowing Jesus three times.

Yet Jesus still chose Peter.

Peter’s holiness was not found in his never failing. His holiness was found in repeatedly turning back to Christ.

The same is true for us.

There will be storms. There will be fear. There will be moments when we take our eyes off Jesus. There will even be times when we begin to sink.

But Jesus remains before us saying: “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.”

So, listen for His voice, and keep your eyes fixed upon Him.

SAY YES and get out of the boat when He calls. Walk toward Him. And when you inevitably sink (like we all do!), cry out: “Lord, save me!”

And then take His hand and begin again.

This week, may each of us do WHATEVER IT TAKES to keep our eyes fixed upon Jesus and courageously step out of the boat whenever He calls, so that together we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY!”

All the best,

Christina

PS—If you haven’t already, go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Both the Say yes to Holiness and The Catholic Leadership Puzzle podcasts are now available on Fio!

Fio is a platform with a plethora of Catholic podcasts and music options. I invite you to go and check it out by accessing it through my podcast links below:

• https://play.fio.fm/show/SayYesToHolinessPodcast
  

• https://play.fio.fm/show/TheCatholicLeadershipPuzzlePodcast

Check out my christinasemmens.com website and download some of the free resources.

Some of the FREE resources include a Spiritual Wellness Assessment, List of Recommended Books for Spiritual Reading, and a Rule of Life Planner Sheet.

This website is also where I blog and where you can learn more about working with me or learning more about spiritual direction. If you are interested, make sure to sign up for a FREE 20 minute consultation. Hope to hear from you soon!

Finally, if you would like to support my work, you can click the link below and subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness Substack.

Subscribe now

Latest Posts on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Articles on the Catholic365.com Platform:

Recognizing the Path to Life

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #265

“America’s Saint--Venerable Fulton Sheen”—1:1 Converation with Dr. Peter Howard, President of Fulton Sheen Institute

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

Episode #265

“America’s Saint-Venerable Fulton Sheen”—1:1 Conversation with Dr. Peter Howard, President, Fulton Sheen Institute

In addition to podcasts, you can also find additional content like the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Now that Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, and One Leader at a Time has been released (and is available for purchase at Amazon), I have just started a NEW PODCAST SERIES that highlights different topics covered in the book by having conversations with a variety of guests.

The next in the series was just released, and the topic this time around was HOSPITALITY. My guest on the Catholic Leadership Podcast was Richard McCorry, Author of Company's Coming: A Spiritual Process for Creating More Welcoming Parishes.

The Power of Hospitality: Insights from Richard McCorry

If you have yet to pick up a copy of Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time, I encourage you to do so, especially in light of all the wonderful reviews it has received. And if you do already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon—every review matters!

And if you are looking for more SPP book resources and content, you can find it at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

During this conversation, Dr. Peter Howard shares his inspiring faith journey, his deep admiration for Venerable Fulton J. Sheen, and details about the upcoming Fulton Sheen conference and beatification. Listen now to discover how Sheen’s teachings can transform your spiritual life and inspire a renewed evangelization effort in America.

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Key Topics

• Fulton Sheen’s impact on American Catholicism

• The importance of the daily holy hour

• Sheen’s approach to evangelization in the modern world

• The significance of Sheen’s beatification in 2026

Takeaways

• Fulton Sheen emphasized the importance of the daily holy hour for spiritual growth.

• Sheen’s teachings focus on meeting people where they are to evangelize effectively.

• The upcoming conference and beatification are opportunities to rediscover Sheen’s wisdom.

• Sheen’s approach to evangelization involves addressing the wounds of the modern person.

• The movement around Sheen’s legacy aims to inspire a renaissance in faith and family.

• Sheen’s message is not a finish line; it is a launch pad.

• Sheen’s life offers a blueprint for meeting the challenges of the modern world.

Sound Bites

• “We are just now beginning to rediscover why God has given us him.”

• “Support the Vicar of Christ through prayer and defense.”

• “Make your daily holy hour and ask the Lord.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Peter Howard and Fulton Sheen

01:32 Dr. Howard’s Faith Journey and Discovery of Sheen

05:02 The Transformative Power of Fulton Sheen’s Recordings

07:52 Sheen’s Call for the Holy Hour During WWII

11:15 The Significance of Sheen’s Beatification in 2026

14:36 Key Themes in Sheen’s Teachings for Today

19:45 Sheen’s Anthropological Approach to Modern Disordered Man

23:09 Vatican II, Sheen, and the Battle for the Church

27:19 Details of the Fulton Sheen Conference and Pilgrimage

33:33 Speakers and Highlights of the Conference

41:55 Mary, Sheen, and the Mission of Evangelization

Resources

Fulton Sheen Conference

Treasure in Clay

Fulton Sheen - Official YouTube Channel

EWTN - Fulton Sheen Collection

Pope John Paul II on Sheen

Links for Dr. Peter Howard

Website

Twitter

Beatification Pilgrimage:

Begins September 19 in Peoria, and is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate “America’s Saint” and encounter Sheen’s legacy through speakers, pilgrimage sites, and liturgical events.

America’s Conference on September 23rd.

Featured Speakers:

• Bishop Joseph Coffey

• Monsignor Landry

• Jason Jones

• Father Thomas Loya

• Father Jason Sharon

• Tammy Peterson

• John Yep

• Dale Alquist

• Sherry Ballinger

• Sister Dede Byrne

• Terry Barber

• Arthur Brooks

Subscribe now

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Welcome to another week on our journey toward holiness! I have to confess that I am writing this in the midst of moving boxes. so am a bit distracted. I am not moving, but my son is as he just secured a new job and is moving, so have been a bit preoccupied, so apologies in advance for a somewhat shorter newsletter this week.

However, this Sunday’s Gospel gives me great consolation because Jesus tells His disciples (and us) in the midst of feeding the multitudes, “Bring them here to me.”

Which means that what I write is all to be about bringing you to Jesus, so here goes…

At first glance, the Gospel appears to be about bread and feeding folks, but it’s not.

It is about compassion and about trust and about surrendering what little we have into the hands of Christ and then allowing Him to multiply it beyond anything we could imagine.

But us, like the disciples see only five loaves and two fish, don’t we?

But Jesus sees that there is enough, and He sees an opportunity for His Father’s generosity to be revealed.

I can’t tell you how often I only see my limitations, and tell myself that I don’t have enough time, enough talent, enough patience, enough money, enough courage, enough faith, or enough whatever it is that I think is necessary to deal with something or someone in my life.

But Jesus keeps saying to us, “Bring them here to me.”

Why? Because everything changes when we place what little we have into His hands.

So, this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet will seek to inspire, encourage, and accompany you in the process of learning to trust Jesus enough to offer Him everything you have as we continue on our journey towards holiness…

Food for the Head

"People often think of Christian morality as a kind of bargain... Every time you make a choice you are turning the central part of you... either into a heavenly creature or into a hellish creature." — C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

The miracle of the loaves began with a choice.

Now, the disciples could have continued focusing on scarcity, but instead, they obeyed Jesus.

We have a similar choice before us every day as every single choice we make either draws us closer to Christ or further away from Him. WHat this means is that each act of trust enlarges our capacity to receive God’s grace, and to be an instrument of His miraculous Presence.

The miracle of the loaves and fish is not simply that food multiplied. The greater miracle is that ordinary men chose to trust Jesus despite His request making no earthly sense.

Holiness grows in exactly the same way. We have the chance to allow God to transform us into either a heavenly creature or a hellish one. It all comes down to the choices we make, and whether we trust and our obedient—one faithful decision at a time.

This week, resolve to make one intentional decision each day based upon trust in Christ rather than fear of scarcity.

Food for the Heart

“Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is the most tender of friends with souls who seek to please Him. Be not afraid... to tell Him of your miseries, fears, worries... your projects, and your hopes." — St. Damien of Molokai

Before Jesus multiplied the loaves, He first welcomed the crowds and healed them and cared for them.

His Heart moved before His Hands did.

And that same Heart waits for us in the Most Blessed Sacrament.

How often are we carrying our worries alone when Jesus simply asks us to bring them to Him?

He wants to listen to our fears and disappointments and hopes. He wants to hear about our loved ones, and our vocations, and our struggles. He wants to hear about everything.

Like the five loaves, all of what we have to share may seem insignificant to us, but once we place them into Christ's hands, they become the beginning of miracles.

This week, resolve to spend time before the Blessed Sacrament—or before the tabernacle—and simply place your concerns into the Heart of Jesus.

Food for the Hands

“What was the first rule of our dear Savior's life? ... to do His Father's will... The first end I propose in our daily work is to do the will of God." — St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

The disciples did not understand how Jesus intended to feed thousands. Yet, despite their lack of understanding, they trusted and simply obeyed.

God’s will doesn’t make sense until after we have acted.

I can’t think of how many times I had no clue how something was going to work out in a situation, but I followed the Lord’s promptings, and later, came to see that it all served a purpose.

But I also can remember many times waiting until everything became clear before taking the first step. In those situations, I felt like I was being prudent, but what I was really doing was trying to remain in control and acting from my fears.

Jesus asks something different.

Trust first, and then understanding will follow—most of the time! :)

The disciples distributing bread did not know that the bread would continue multiplying, yet they remained faithful and kept doing it.

In order to discover God’s providence, we have to do the same by remaining faithful by doing the work He has placed before us.

This week, resolve to perform every task—large or small—with the simple intention of doing the Father's will.

Food for the Feet

“I urge you with all the strength of my soul to approach the Eucharistic Table as often as possible. Feed on this Bread of the Angels from which you will draw the strength to fight inner struggles." — Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati

The multiplication of the loaves points us directly towards another meal—the Most Holy Eucharist.

While the miracle in of the loaves and fish satisfied physical hunger, the Eucharist has the capacity to satisfy the deepest hunger of the human heart.

Because Jesus never intended merely to feed crowds for one afternoon, rather, He came to give Himself as the Bread of Life.

Every Mass is another invitation to bring our poverty before Christ and receive His abundance so that we can leave strengthened. Not because of our worthiness—but because of His generosity.

So, let us humble ourselves and open our minds, hearts and hands to receive the graces Jesus desires to give us each time we approach the Eucharistic Table.

This week, resolve to prepare intentionally for Mass by asking Jesus to satisfy the deepest hunger of your heart in Holy Communion.

Exhortation

“Once you have surrendered yourself, you make yourself receptive. In receiving from God, you are perfected and completed." — Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

The miracle of the loaves and fish began with trusting surrender.

Only five loaves and two fish, but that was enough. Because of whose Hands the loaves and fish were placed into.

The same remains true for us today.

Jesus is not asking whether we have enough. Rather, He is asking whether you are willing to offer Him what we have so He can transform it into abundance.

So, bring Jesus your gifts and your weaknesses.

Bring Him your fears and your hopes.

Bring Him your entire life.

Jesus will take everything that seems small, and will bless it, multiply it, and use it to feed far more souls than you could ever imagine. You just need to remember one thing.

“Bring them here to me.”

May each of us continue to do WHATEVER IT TAKES to place everything we are and everything we have into the hands of Christ, so that together we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY!”

All the best,

Christina

PS—If you haven’t already, go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Both the Say yes to Holiness and The Catholic Leadership Puzzle podcasts are now available on Fio!

Fio is a platform with a plethora of Catholic podcasts and music options. I invite you to go and check it out by accessing it through my podcast links below:

• https://play.fio.fm/show/SayYesToHolinessPodcast
  

• https://play.fio.fm/show/TheCatholicLeadershipPuzzlePodcast

Check out my christinasemmens.com website and download some of the free resources.

Some of the FREE resources include a Spiritual Wellness Assessment, List of Recommended Books for Spiritual Reading, and a Rule of Life Planner Sheet.

This website is also where I blog and where you can learn more about working with me or learning more about spiritual direction. If you are interested, make sure to sign up for a FREE 20 minute consultation. Hope to hear from you soon!

Finally, if you would like to support my work, you can click the link below and subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness Substack.

Subscribe now

Latest Posts on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Articles on the Catholic365.com Platform:

Recognizing the Path to Life

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #264

“Healing and Hope through Faith: A Conversation on Anxiety, Trauma, and Spiritual Wellness with Catherine DiNuzzo”

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

Episode #264

“Healing and Hope through Faith: A Conversation on Anxiety, Trauma, and Spiritual Wellness with Catherine DiNuzzo”

In addition to podcasts, you can also find additional content like the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Now that Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, and One Leader at a Time has been released (and is available for purchase at Amazon), I have just started a NEW PODCAST SERIES that highlights different topics covered in the book by having conversations with a variety of guests.

The next in the series was just released, and the topic this time around was HOSPITALITY. My guest on the Catholic Leadership Podcast was Richard McCorry, Author of Company's Coming: A Spiritual Process for Creating More Welcoming Parishes.

The Power of Hospitality: Insights from Richard McCorry

If you have yet to pick up a copy of Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time, I encourage you to do so, especially in light of all the wonderful reviews it has received. And if you do already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon—every review matters!

And if you are looking for more SPP book resources and content, you can find it at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

As we begin this Seventeenth week of Ordinary Time, I invite you to consider this question—What is the greatest treasure you possess?

For some of us, it might be our family. For others, it might be our health, friendships, meaningful work, or financial security.

Yet in this Sunday’s Gospel in Matthew 13:44-52, Jesus tells us that there is one treasure so valuable that it is worth giving up everything to possess it. And what might that be?

The Kingdom of Heaven.

Each of the parables Jesus shares in the Gospel emphasize this reality. The man who discovers a treasure hidden in a field and joyfully sells everything to buy it. Or the merchant who finds a pearl of incomparable value and willingly parts with all he owns.

Yet neither man sees what he gives up as a loss.

Why?

Because once they encountered the treasure, everything else found its proper place.

This is the power of the Kingdom of God. It has the power to reorder our priorities, reshape our desires, and transform the way we live.

So, this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet will seek to help us recognize the treasure Christ offers and joyfully place Him above every other pursuit as we continue on our journey towards holiness...

Food for the Head

"Can there be a more fitting pursuit in youth or a more valuable possession in old age than a knowledge of Holy Scripture? In the midst of storms it will preserve you from the dangers of shipwreck and guide you to the shore of an enchanting paradise and the everlasting bliss of the angels." — St. Boniface

Before anyone searches for treasure, we first must know that it exists. Thankfully, God has not hidden the Kingdom from us, or made it impossible for us to find. Rather, He continually reveals His treasure through Sacred Scripture, the teachings of the Church, the saints, and the Sacraments.

In fact, every page of the Gospel points toward Christ—the Treasure hidden in the field, and the pearl of great price. in fact, the more we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, the more we will begin to recognize what is truly valuable—and also what merely distracts us.

Like the merchant searching for fine pearls, knowledge of Holy Scripture will help us become better able to distinguish eternal riches from temporary pleasures, and this will ensure we are preserved from the dangers of shipwreck and be guided to the shore of an enchanting paradise and the everlasting bliss of the angels.

This week, resolve to spend at least fifteen minutes each day reading the Scriptures—like the Gospel of the day, as you ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the treasures hidden within His Word.

Food for the Heart

“God walks into your soul with silent step. God comes to you more than you go to Him. Never will His coming be what you expect, and yet never will it disappoint." — Venerable Fulton J. Sheen

The treasure of God’s Kingdom is not merely an idea.

Rather, the treasure is a Person. Jesus Himself.

The beautiful thing is that Jesus comes searching for us long before we begin searching for Him. A

And like the hidden treasure buried in the field, God’s grace often quietly works beneath the ordinary circumstances of our daily lives.

He meets us in prayer. He meets us in the Eucharist. He meets us in unexpected conversations, difficult trials, moments of beauty, and quiet invitations to trust Him more deeply.

But greatest treasure we can ever possess is not something we own. Rather, it is Someone who loves us beyond measure.

Yet, as Venerable Fulton Sheen reminds us, never will it disappoint.

This week, resolve to spend five quiet minutes each day simply resting in God's presence, allowing Him to come to you.

Food for the Hands

“We are placed in our different ranks and stations, not to get what we can out of them for ourselves, but to labor in them for Him." — St. John Neumann

The farmer and the merchant in the parables in the Gospel sold everything. Not to lose everything, but to gain something infinitely greater. Likewise, every vocation, career, family responsibility, ministry, and daily task becomes an opportunity to invest ourselves in the Kingdom of Heaven.

We often ask: “What do I get out of this?” But the Gospel asks something different: “How can I offer this for Christ?”

When we begin to view our work, conversations, and responsibilities as opportunities to build God’s Kingdom rather than our own, then ordinary life becomes filled with extraordinary purpose.

For every hidden act of love can become another investment in the treasure that lasts forever.

This week, resolve to intentionally offer one ordinary task each day entirely for the love of Christ rather than for recognition or reward.

Food for the Feet

“When uncertain about God's will... fulfill the duties of your state in life... be faithful to prayer... maintain trust in God... love the people around us here and now." — Fr. Jacques Philippe, Interior Freedom

Sometimes we think finding God’s Kingdom requires extraordinary experiences, but Jesus tells us otherwise. He reminds us that the Kingdom is often discovered in the ordinary as we faithfully fulfill our responsibilities today.

By praying today. Serving today. Forgiving today. Trusting today.

It’s in the ordinary that we can find what is hidden. Because the hidden treasure isn’t far away, rather, it is seems to hidden because we overlook the ordinary places where Christ is already waiting for us.

This is how the Kingdom begins. It begins wherever Christ reigns.

So, the work we must strive to do each day is to allow Christ to reign in all of the duties of our life. In our prayer. Our service. Our forgiveness. Our trust.

But first let us ensure that He reigns in our own hearts.

This week, resolve to seek Christ intentionally in one ordinary moment each day that you might otherwise overlook.

Exhortation

“The only person who is free is the one who lives for Christ." — St. John Chrysostom

The merchant sold everything because he knew the pearl was worth infinitely more than all he possessed. And the farmer went and sold everything he owned in order to buy the field where he had found the treasure.

Jesus invites us to make a similar discovery in our own lives.

Because nothing compares to His Kingdom.

No possession, or success, or reputation, or earthly security.

Because when Christ becomes our greatest treasure, everything else finds its proper place, and the sacrifices of discipleship no longer appear to be losses. Instead, they become joyful exchanges for something infinitely greater.

So, this week, may each of us continue to seek the hidden treasure of God’s Kingdom, surrender whatever keeps us from possessing it, and do WHATEVER IT TAKES to become rich in the only treasure that lasts forever, so together, we can tell the Master of Death,“NOT TODAY!”

All the best,

Christina

PS—If you haven’t already, go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Both the Say yes to Holiness and The Catholic Leadership Puzzle podcasts are now available on Fio!

Fio is a platform with a plethora of Catholic podcasts and music options. I invite you to go and check it out by accessing it through my podcast links below:

• https://play.fio.fm/show/SayYesToHolinessPodcast
  

• https://play.fio.fm/show/TheCatholicLeadershipPuzzlePodcast

Check out my christinasemmens.com website and download some of the free resources.

Some of the FREE resources include a Spiritual Wellness Assessment, List of Recommended Books for Spiritual Reading, and a Rule of Life Planner Sheet.

This website is also where I blog and where you can learn more about working with me or learning more about spiritual direction. If you are interested, make sure to sign up for a FREE 20 minute consultation. Hope to hear from you soon!

Finally, if you would like to support my work, you can click the link below and subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness Substack.

Subscribe now

Latest Posts on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Articles on the Catholic365.com Platform:

Recognizing the Path to Life

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #264

“Healing and Hope through Faith: A Conversation on Anxiety, Trauma, and Spiritual Wellness with Catherine DiNuzzo”

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

Episode #264

“Healing and Hope through Faith: A Conversation on Anxiety, Trauma, and Spiritual Wellness with Catherine DiNuzzo”

In addition to podcasts, you can also find additional content like the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Now that Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, and One Leader at a Time has been released (and is available for purchase at Amazon), I have just started a NEW PODCAST SERIES that highlights different topics covered in the book by having conversations with a variety of guests.

The first topic was LEADERSHIP, and to dive into that topic, my guest on the Catholic Leadership Podcast was Shawn Sommerkamp, Christian Leadership coach and founder of Motivationeer Coaching.

Christian Leadership Insights with Shawn Sommerkamp—1:1 Conversation with Founder of Motivationeer Coaching

If you have yet to pick up a copy of Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time, I encourage you to do so, especially in light of all the wonderful reviews it has received. And if you do already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon—every review matters!

And if you are looking for more SPP book resources and content, you can find it at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Share

In this episode:

• Catherine’s transformative journey from aspiring teacher to Catholic mental health advocate

• The profound connection between faith, body, and mental health

• Why Catholic principles offer unique strategies for coping with anxiety

• The importance of integrating Scripture, prayer, and sacraments into healing

• Understanding trauma versus traumatic events with saints’ examples

• The significance of working through holes and wounds in our spiritual and emotional lives

• Practical resources: the companion workbook and its role in personal healing

• The power of surrender and trust in God’s plan, inspired by the Sacred Heart devotion

• The role of saints like Mary Magdalene and Ignatius of Loyola as guides in recovery

• How to combat stigma around mental health with faith-based approaches

• Personal stories of overcoming grief, trauma, and anxiety through prayer and community

• The importance of communication and understanding in supporting loved ones with anxiety

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: Faith and mental health in today’s world
01:16 - Catherine’s journey from teacher to Catholic mental health advocate
02:19 - The biology of anxiety and faith’s role in healing
03:40 - Faith and counseling: intertwined paths for wellness
04:41 - How Catholic mass incorporates sensory grounding strategies
05:48 - Why secular counseling lacks what the Church provides
06:45 - The pervasive falsehoods about mental health and faith
08:18 - Saints as models for overcoming trauma and shame
09:17 - The analogy of swimming through life’s waves with God’s help
10:03 - Addressing shame around mental health struggles
11:57 - Filling holes with sand: understanding wounds and such filling with faith
13:48 - Building a strong spiritual basement for resilience
15:10 - Differentiating trauma and traumatic events
16:39 - Saints as companions in healing: Ignatius, Josephine Bakhita, Paul, and Mary Magdalene
18:26 - The empowering example of Mary Magdalene’s love and redemption
19:54 - Prayer, Scripture, and sacraments as anchors for mental wellness
22:35 - Using the companion workbook for personal growth and community
24:14 - The importance of resources in Spanish for broader outreach
25:31 - Challenges in reducing stigma and spreading faith-based mental health support
30:53 - God’s use of our vulnerabilities for greater purpose
32:29 - The practice of surrender and trusting in Sacred Heart devotion
34:48 - Inspiration from Philip Neri’s story and surrendering one’s desires
37:06 - Advice to younger self: “It’s gonna be okay”
37:59 - Resources and where to find Catherine’s work
39:04 - Final thoughts: You are not alone; faith and community are your strength

Resources & Links:

• Sacred Heart Mental Wellness

• Book: The Catholic Guide Through Anxiety

• Workbook Companion - Available in Spanish here

• Saint Ignatius of Loyola

• Saint Josephine Bakhita

• Saint Paul

• Mary Magdalene

Connect with Catherine DiNuzzo:

• Instagram

• Facebook

May this episode inspire you to embrace your healing journey with faith, hope, and love.

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Happy Sixteenth week in Ordinary Time!

We are well into the heart of summer, and if you happen to be a gardener, then you probably are seeing some pretty good growth going on in your garden. Unfortunately, this growth usually includes weeds—or at least that is what happens in my garden! LOL

The temptation is to focus on pulling the weeds, but by doing that, we often end up pulling out some of the good plants.

Now, this is very similar to one of our greatest temptations in the spiritual life, too—to spend more time worrying about weeds than tending the wheat.

Well, in this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus tells the Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds. At first glance, we may think the lesson is about identifying evil in the world. But Jesus is pointing us towards something much deeper.

The Master refuses to uproot the weeds immediately because doing so would damage the wheat. Instead, He patiently allows both to grow until the harvest.

God exercises remarkable patience with us, too.

He sees every weed in our own hearts—our pride, impatience, fears, resentments, selfishness, and attachments—and yet He does not abandon us. Instead, He continually pours out His grace, cultivating the good seed He planted within us at Baptism.

Likewise, we are called to exercise patience with others, allowing God to work in His time rather than demanding immediate perfection from ourselves or those around us.

So, this week's Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet seeks to inspire, encourage, and accompany us into becoming rich, fruitful wheat in the Lord's field as we continue on our journey towards holiness…

Food for the Head

"People often think of Christian morality as a kind of bargain... every time you make a choice you are turning the central part of you... either into a heavenly creature or into a hellish creature." — C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

Jesus reminds us that wheat and weeds grow together until harvest, and C.S. Lewis explains how that growth actually happens.

Every choice we make either strengthens the life of grace within us or strengthens those habits that draw us away from God. Holiness rarely comes through dramatic moments. It is usually formed by thousands of ordinary decisions made with love.

Every act of patience. Every act of forgiveness. Every prayer. Every sacrifice. Every choice to love instead of judge. Each one and every one of them slowly transforms us into the person God created us to become.

It’s the field of our soul is being cultivated every day.

The question is: What are we allowing to grow?

This week, resolve to make one deliberate choice each day that nourishes the wheat God has planted within you.

Food for the Heart

“Do not suppose that after advancing the soul to such a state God abandons it so easily... love is never idle... it is impossible for a soul that has come to this state not to go still farther." — Saint Teresa of Avila, Interior Castle

One of the consoling realities in today’s Gospel is that God never stops cultivating our hearts.

Even when weeds seem abundant, or when growth feels painfully slow, or when we feel discouraged, God continues His work.

Saint Teresa of Avila reminds us that authentic love is never idle because God is always inviting us to deeper conversion.

Sometimes His work comes through consolation., but other times it comes through trials, waiting, disappointments, or seasons when growth seems invisible.

Yet beneath the surface, grace is quietly strengthening the roots.

And just like the wheat in Jesus’ parable, we often will grow long before anyone—including ourselves—can even see the harvest, so we need to have faith and trust that God is working, and He will ensure that we go even farther.

This week, resolve to thank God for one hidden way He is quietly helping you grow in holiness.

Food for the Hands

“Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love." — Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

The servants wanted to pull up the weeds immediately, yet Jesus chooses patience.

Most of the time, holiness isn’t demonstrated through extraordinary deeds, but rather it is lived through countless ordinary acts of charity.

Like a kind word. A smile. A patient response. Listening before speaking. Choosing not to criticize. Praying for someone instead of complaining about them.

There are innumerable and seemingly insignificant acts that can become the seeds of the Kingdom because God grows extraordinary holiness through ordinary fidelity.

So, each day that we are attentive to doing the smallest right for love, we are allowing God to grow the wheat within.

This week, resolve to perform one hidden act of charity every day without seeking recognition.

Food for the Feet

“When uncertain about God's will... fulfill the duties of your state in life... be faithful to prayer... maintain trust in God... love the people around us here and now." — Father Jacques Philippe, Interior Freedom

While it may be tempting to spend our time trying to determine when God will finally remove all the weeds from the world, it’s not for us to know.

Jesus tells us that removing weeds is His work—not ours.

Rather, our task is much simpler—remain faithful today.

Pray today. Love today. Trust today. And fulfill the duties placed before us today.

Father Jacques Philippe reminds us that God’s future plans will become clearer for us when we faithfully embrace today’s responsibilities and trust His plan and the timing of the harvest.

And when the harvest eventually does comes, it belongs to God, not us.

Instead, our responsibility is simply to remain faithful while we wait.

This week, resolve to entrust one situation you cannot control completely into God's hands and simply remain faithful to today's duties.

(FYI—One of the best ways to remain faithful while you wait is by praying the Rosary. One of my favorites is the Daily Rosary meditation by the Holy Family School of Faith. You can find it here)

Exhortation

“One should not say that it is impossible to reach a virtuous life; but one should say that it is not easy.” — Saint Antony of the Desert

The wheat and the weeds will continue growing together until the Lord returns.

This reality should not discourage us, rather it should encourage us because the Master of the field has not abandoned His crop.

Instead, He patiently cultivates each soul by watering, pruning, nourishing, and waiting.

Our task is to not become discouraged by the weeds we encounter during the process.

Rather, our task is to keep choosing Christ, trusting that His grace is always stronger than any weed, and trust that His harvest will one day reveal the beauty He has been growing all along.

May you do WHATEVER IT TAKES to become the fruitful wheat the Lord planted us to be, so that together we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY!”

All the best,

Christina

PS—If you haven’t already, go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

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Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Both the Say yes to Holiness and The Catholic Leadership Puzzle podcasts are now available on Fio!

Fio is a platform with a plethora of Catholic podcasts and music options. I invite you to go and check it out by accessing it through my podcast links below:

• https://play.fio.fm/show/SayYesToHolinessPodcast
  

• https://play.fio.fm/show/TheCatholicLeadershipPuzzlePodcast

Check out my christinasemmens.com website and download some of the free resources.

Some of the FREE resources include a Spiritual Wellness Assessment, List of Recommended Books for Spiritual Reading, and a Rule of Life Planner Sheet.

This website is also where I blog and where you can learn more about working with me or learning more about spiritual direction. If you are interested, make sure to sign up for a FREE 20 minute consultation. Hope to hear from you soon!

Finally, if you would like to support my work, you can click the link below and subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness Substack.

Subscribe now

Latest Posts on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Articles on the Catholic365.com Platform:

Recognizing the Path to Life

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #263

“Freedom for Faith, Love and Service”

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

Episode #263—”Faith, Love and Service”—Say Yes to Holiness Podcast

In addition to podcasts, you can also find additional content like the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Now that Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, and One Leader at a Time has been released (and is available for purchase at Amazon), I have just started a NEW PODCAST SERIES that highlights different topics covered in the book by having conversations with a variety of guests.

The first topic was LEADERSHIP, and to dive into that topic, my guest on the Catholic Leadership Podcast was Shawn Sommerkamp, Christian Leadership coach and founder of Motivationeer Coaching.

Christian Leadership Insights with Shawn Sommerkamp—1:1 Conversation with Founder of Motivationeer Coaching

If you have yet to pick up a copy of Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time, I encourage you to do so, especially in light of all the wonderful reviews it has received. And if you do already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon—every review matters!

And if you are looking for more SPP book resources and content, you can find it at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Today is the Feast of Saint Henry. A special day for our family as today is the feast day for my husband’s grandson, Grant Henry, so I ask your prayers for Grant as well as for his mom and dad.

Today also marks the beginning of the Fifteenth week of Ordinary Time, and Sunday’s Gospel from Matthew 13:1-9 presents one of Jesus’ most familiar parables—the Parable of the Sower.

At first glance, we might think the story is about the seed or even the sower. But the real focus is about the quality of the soil.

Our hearts are that soil, and we must remember two things—1) the seed is always good because the seed is the Word of God; and 2) the Sower is always generous because God is generous and never tires of offering His grace.

But the question Jesus asks each of us is much more personal. He asks us to consider, “What kind of soil is my heart?”

Is my heart hardened by resentment? Or is it too shallow because I fail to nourish my spiritual life? Or perhaps it is crowded by worries, distractions, and worldly concerns?

Or is it the type of rich, receptive soil that allows God’s Word to take root and bear abundant fruit?

This week's Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet will seek to help us answer the question Jesus poses to us as we also ask the Holy Spirit to cultivate our hearts so that the seeds Christ plants may grow into a rich harvest for the Kingdom on our journey towards holiness…

Food for the Head

“The harm that comes to souls from the lack of reading holy books makes me shudder... What power spiritual reading has to lead to a change of course, and to make even worldly people enter into the way of perfection." — Saint Padre Pio

So how to become good soil?

First, good soil must be prepared to receive the seed.

This is the power of spiritual reading that Padre Pio is referring, and why the practice has the power to lead to a change of course and make worldly people enter into the way of perfection.

Likewise, our hearts must be exposed to God’s Word and the teachings of the Church. We must be very intentional in exposing ourselves to both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Traditions so our hearts can be transformed.

It is these three—Sacred Scripture, faithful spiritual reading, and the teachings of the Church—that cultivate the soil of our minds and help us be capable of recognizing God’s voice amid the countless voices competing for our attention.

In fact, the more deeply we immerse ourselves in God’s truth, the more readily His Word will take root and shape the way we think, choose, and live.

So, the question before us is what will we do to ensure that this can occur?

This week, resolve to spend fifteen minutes each day reading Sacred Scripture or another trusted spiritual book, asking the Holy Spirit to make your mind fertile soil for His Word.

Food for the Heart

“If the heart wanders or is distracted, bring it back to the point quite gently and replace it tenderly in its Master's presence. And even if you did nothing during the whole of your hour but bring your heart back and place it again in Our Lord's presence, though it went away every time you brought it back, your hour would be very well employed." — Saint Francis de Sales

One of the greatest obstacles to becoming rich soil for God’s Word is distraction.

Jesus tells us that some seed falls among thorns and is choked by the cares of the world. Those thorns are not always great sins. Often they are simply the countless worries, anxieties, entertainments, ambitions, and interruptions that slowly crowd Christ out of our hearts.

In the face of this reality, Saint Francis de Sales offers us both encouragement and hope. He tells us that we need not become discouraged whenever our hearts wander in prayer. Instead, we need to simply return—gently and without frustration—to the presence of the Lord. And every loving return helps to remove another thorn and soften another patch of soil in our hearts.

So, remember, the Christian life is not about never becoming distracted. Rather, it is about continually allowing the Divine Sower to cultivate our hearts until they become receptive to His Word.

And as we do that, we become better soil for the Sower to sow His seed in our hearts.

This week, each time you notice your heart becoming distracted, gently turn your attention back to Jesus and simply whisper, "Lord, make my heart good soil for Your Word."

Food for the Hands

“Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love." — Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

Healthy soil eventually produces fruit.

This is what a healthy soul does as well.

The evidence that God’s Word has taken root is not simply that we know more about our faith. Rather, evidence of God’s Word is when we become more loving, and more patient, and more generous, and more forgiving.

Saint Therese reminds us that holiness is rarely found in dramatic moments, instead, it is cultivated through countless small acts of love performed faithfully each and every day.

The Lottle Flower points out that every hidden sacrifice becomes another piece of fruit growing from the seed Christ has planted within us, and this is why we must strive to make as many small sacrifices as possible during our daily life.

This week, intentionally perform one hidden act of charity each day, allowing God's love to bear fruit through your ordinary actions..

Food for the Feet

“The ordinary acts we practice every day at home are of more importance to the soul than their simplicity might suggest." — Saint Thomas More

Saint Thomas More points out that the Christian life is not measured by extraordinary accomplishments but by daily fidelity. And Jesus confirms this when He tells us that good soil produces fruit “a hundredfold.”

But that fruit is usually grown one faithful step at a time in our daily words and actions.

Within the conversations we have, and the duties we fulfill.

The prayers we offer, and the forgiveness we extend.

The sacrifices we quietly embrace within every ordinary moment that eventually become an opportunity to bear fruit for Christ.

And the harvest begins wherever our feet are planted today.

This is the journey towards holiness.

For every YES we give to sanctify the ordinary acts of our day becomes one more brick we add to the path we are walking towards eternal life with our Lord in Heaven.

This week, choose one ordinary responsibility that you often rush through and perform it slowly, prayerfully, and entirely for the glory of God.

(FYI—One of the most beautiful ways to cultivate fertile soil is by praying the Rosary with the daily Gospel, as this allows Our Lady to teach us how to ponder and treasure God's Word in our hearts.)

Exhortation

"Love takes up where knowledge leaves off." — Saint Thomas Aquinas

The Parable of the Sower reminds us that the Christian life is not about accumulating information.

Instead, it is all about transformation.

For this transformation to take place, God is constantly sowing His grace by granting us His mercy, His truth, and His love.

But again, the question Jesus poses to us is whether our hearts are prepared to receive it.

So, this week, allow the Divine Gardener to till the hardened places of your heart.

Let Him remove the stones that keep you from trusting Him.

Invite Him to cut away the thorns that choke your spiritual growth.

And then watch what He can do with a heart that is fully surrendered to Him.

May you do WHATEVER IT TAKES to become rich soil for the Gospel, bearing fruit that will nourish your family, your parish, your community, and the world, so that together we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY!”

All the best,

Christina

PS—If you haven’t already, go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Both the Say yes to Holiness and The Catholic Leadership Puzzle podcasts are now available on Fio!

Fio is a platform of a plethora of Catholic podcasts and music. I invite you to go and check it out by accessing it through my podcast links below:

• https://play.fio.fm/show/SayYesToHolinessPodcast
  

• https://play.fio.fm/show/TheCatholicLeadershipPuzzlePodcast

Check out my christinasemmens.com website.

This website is where I blog and where you can learn more about working with me or talking about spiritual direction. If you are interested in either, make sure to sign up for a FREE consultation. Hope to hear from you soon!

And if you would like to make a donation in support of the work associated with this endeavor, you can click the link below and subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness Substack.

Subscribe now

Latest Posts on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Articles on the Catholic365.com Platform:

Recognizing the Path to Life

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #263

“Freedom for Faith, Love and Service”

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

Episode #263—”Faith, Love and Service”—Say Yes to Holiness Podcast

In addition to podcasts, you can also find additional content like the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, and One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase at Amazon.

The book focuses upon how we each can help to create life-giving communities where we can become the holy men and women that God created us to be, and is a compilation of the work I have been sharing on The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

I encourage you to read the reviews below to help you determine if you should pick up a copy today…

“Christina's book is both thoughtful and practical. I appreciate the careful attention to crafting a solid plan for reinvigorating and reenergizing parish life from from the 'ground up' - in other words, she writes with wisdom and experience about starting small and engaging individuals and small groups who can then passionately spread this message like fire. Helpful resource for anyone seeking to help take their parish community to a place of deep spiritual, practical, and holy love for the Lord and for one another!”—Matthew Koscal

“This book is for anyone who wants to see their parish thrive. Whether you are a priest or lay person, read Solving the Parish Puzzle for clear guidance on taking an average parish to the next level of discipleship. What we have been doing is not working. It’s time for something new. Semmens lays the groundwork so we can put the pieces together.”—Carol Wiget

If you already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon as well.

To access the SPP book resources and find more CLP content, you can find it here at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Welcome to the Fourteenth week of Ordinary Time. I hope that you, your family and friends all had a wonderful 4th of July celebration this last weekend.

When you think about it, it is quite a milestone for our nation—250 years! Yet, to get to this milestone, a LOT of courage, ingenuity, sacrifice, and perseverance had to happen day after day, year after year by many, many people so that our nation could get here—not dissimilar to our own journey towards holiness.

Because it is in the ordinary times of our continuing to do what is right, pursue truth, love our neighbors, and surrender to the Lord’s will that success will be ultimately determined.

But have you ever noticed that our lives seem to become more complicated the harder we try to control them? And then the more we strive to solve every problem ourselves, the more exhausted we become, right? Because the more we depend upon our own strength, the heavier life’s burdens seem to grow.

Yet in this Sunday’s Gospel (Matthew 11:25-30), Jesus offers us a different way.

After thanking the Father for not revealing the mysteries of the Kingdom to the wise and learned, but instead to little ones, Jesus then extends to us one of the most comforting invitations found anywhere in Sacred Scripture:

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Now, Jesus does not promise to remove every burden. Rather, He invites us to carry them with Him because His yoke is easy and light, and we no longer have to carry life’s burdens alone.

Therefore, this week's Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet will seek to help us become more childlike as we learn from the Heart of Christ, embrace His yoke, and discover the peace that only He can give on our journey towards holiness…

Food for the Head

“The harm that comes to souls from the lack of reading holy books makes me shudder... What power spiritual reading has to lead to a change of course, and to make even worldly people enter into the way of perfection." — St. Padre Pio

In the Gospel yesterday, Jesus begins by praising the Father because divine truths are revealed to “little ones.” Although “little ones” can refer to children, Jesus is actually referring to anyone who is childlike. But being childlike does not mean being childish.

Rather, being childlike means to be teachable.

Now, adults often believe they already know enough, but children know they have much to learn.

So, how to remain childlike?

One of the surest ways is through faithful spiritual reading.

The saints constantly immersed themselves in Sacred Scripture as well as the wisdom of those who had gone before them captured in writing because they knew they could never exhaust the riches of God’s truth. And they knew that the more we learn from Christ, the more we discover that His wisdom brings peace rather than confusion.

And when we are at peace, we remain more childlike and open to His teachings, and this helps us become one of the “little ones” of whom Jesus speaks.

This week, resolve to spend fifteen minutes each day reading Sacred Scripture or another trusted spiritual book, allowing the Lord to teach you like one of His little ones.

Food for the Heart

“Know, dearest daughter, how, by humble, continual, and faithful prayer, the soul acquires, with time and perseverance, every virtue... She should endeavor to elevate her mind in My love, with the consideration of her own defects and of the Blood of My only-begotten Son, wherein she finds the breadth of My charity and the remission of her sins." — St. Catherine of Siena

When Jesus says, “Learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart,” He is inviting us into a relationship that transforms us from the inside out.

But that transformation does not happen overnight.

As St. Catherine reminds us, it is through humble, continual, and faithful prayer that every virtue gradually takes root within the soul. We do not become gentle, humble, patient, or trusting by sheer willpower. We become like Christ by remaining with Christ in prayer.

Prayer is where we learn His Heart, and where our restless hearts become peaceful. It is also where we begin to exchange our heavy yoke for His gentle one.

The more faithfully we return to Him in prayer each day, the more we will discover that His Heart is forming our own, and this is how we learn from Him how to be meek and humble of heart ourselves.

This week, resolve to spend at least ten minutes each day in quiet prayer, asking Jesus to make your heart more like His—meek, humble, and filled with trust in the Father.

Food for the Hands

“Action relies upon contemplation for its fruitfulness; and contemplation, in its turn... pours out upon our active works some of its overflow." — Dom Jean-Baptiste Chautard

Many people imagine that following Christ means doing more. More prayer, more acts of charity, more responsibility, more service, more, more, more.

But Jesus proposes something different.

He asks us first to remain with Him, and it is only then that He send us into the world.

Every fruitful Christian life follows this rhythm.

Contemplation. Then action.

Prayer. Then service.

Receiving. Then giving.

Because it is only by receiving that we are capable of giving.

And only through prayer that we receive the grace we need to serve.

And it is only through contemplation that we can discern the action that the Lord is calling for us to take.

For when our activity flows from our union with Christ, even difficult work becomes lighter because we are carrying His yoke rather than our own ambitions.

This week, before beginning your work each morning, pause for one minute and consciously invite Jesus to carry the day's burdens with you.

Food for the Feet

“When you are at Mass, don't just go through the motions... Bring your whole self to it... ask for the grace to be His disciple in all you do." — Dr. Gregory Popcak

The Christian life is not lived standing still.

Jesus says: “Take my yoke upon you.”

That requires movement.

Each day we either walk beside Christ or drift away from Him.

Now, one of the greatest places where we learn to walk with Him is at Holy Mass. It is there that Christ teaches us, and feeds us and strengthens us. And then sends us forth to live what we have received.

Because His yoke is not merely something we carry. Rather, it is Someone with whom we walk. And the place where we have the opportunity to walk

This week, resolve to attend one additional Mass or spend time in Eucharistic Adoration, asking Jesus to teach you how to walk beside Him each day.

Exhortation

"My daughter... Entrust everything to Me and do nothing on your own... Set free from everything, rest close to My Heart, not allowing your peace to be disturbed by anything." — Jesus to St. Faustina, Diary of Divine Mercy

Perhaps the greatest lesson in this Gospel is that Jesus does not ask us to become stronger. Rather, He asks us to become more trusting.

Jesus invites us to allow Him to help us carry our burdens with Him.

He does not expect us to know all the answers, but rather asks us to become more childlike by being like little children who trust their Father completely.

Jesus offers us lasting rest and peace while the world tells us to depend upon ourselves by saying to us, “Come to Me.”

In the week ahead, keep striving to be teachable so that you may be transformed through humble and faithful prayer, knowing that action flows from that time of contemplation and by walking with Christ in the Eucharist so that you may rest eternally with Him.

May you do WHATEVER IT TAKES this week to lay down your burdens, place your trust in Christ, and walk beside Him beneath His gentle yoke, so that together we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY!”

All the best,

Christina

PS—If you haven’t already, go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Make sure to check out my christinasemmens.com website.

This website is where I blog and where you can learn more about working with me or talking about spiritual direction. If you are interested in either, make sure to sign up for a FREE consultation. Hope to hear from you soon!

And if you would like to make a donation in support of the work associated with this endeavor, you can click the link below and subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness Substack.

Subscribe now

Latest Posts on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Articles on the Catholic365.com Platform:

Recognizing the Path to Life

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #263

“Freedom for Faith, Love and Service”

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

Episode #263—”Faith, Love and Service”—Say Yes to Holiness Podcast

In addition to podcasts, you can also find additional content like the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, and One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase at Amazon.

The book focuses upon how we each can help to create life-giving communities where we can become the holy men and women that God created us to be, and is a compilation of the work I have been sharing on The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

I encourage you to read the reviews below to help you determine if you should pick up a copy today…

“Christina's book is both thoughtful and practical. I appreciate the careful attention to crafting a solid plan for reinvigorating and reenergizing parish life from from the 'ground up' - in other words, she writes with wisdom and experience about starting small and engaging individuals and small groups who can then passionately spread this message like fire. Helpful resource for anyone seeking to help take their parish community to a place of deep spiritual, practical, and holy love for the Lord and for one another!”—Matthew Koscal

“This book is for anyone who wants to see their parish thrive. Whether you are a priest or lay person, read Solving the Parish Puzzle for clear guidance on taking an average parish to the next level of discipleship. What we have been doing is not working. It’s time for something new. Semmens lays the groundwork so we can put the pieces together.”—Carol Wiget

If you already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon as well.

To access the SPP book resources and find more CLP content, you can find it here at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Topics

• The significance of the 250th anniversary of the United States

• Lessons from Saints Kateri Tekakwitha, Damien of Molokai, Rose Philippine Duchesne, and Junipero Serra

• The importance of faith, love, and service in personal and national growth

• Trusting God’s plan during challenging times

• The role of saints in inspiring patriotism and unity

Sound Bites

• “Transforming union with God is our true goal”

• “God knows how to proportion Himself to all His creatures”

• “Every act of mercy matters because God makes it matter”

Chapters

00:00 Honoring a Legacy: Personal Reflections

02:30 Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom

05:27 The Call to Holiness: Lessons from Saints

10:51 Love and Service: The Greatest Gifts

16:34 Perseverance in Faith: Trusting God’s Plan

21:46 Unity in Diversity: Embracing Our Shared Humanity

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Today is the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, which this year, falls on the Monday of the Thirteenth week of Ordinary Time.

In yesterday’s Gospel (Matthew 10:37-42), Jesus speaks words that might make us a bit uncomfortable:

“Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me... Whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me... Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”

At first glance, Jesus seems to be asking us to choose between loving Him and loving those closest to us.

But that is not what He is saying. Rather, Jesus is inviting us to love Him first.

When Jesus occupies first place in our hearts, then we can truly love everyone else just like Jesus loves them. Also, every relationship will find its proper order when Christ is at its center.

But this invitation is costly.

Why?

Well, it requires surrender. And it also demands that we carry our cross.

But if we SAY YES to His invitation, it can lead us to the greatest freedom imaginable, because the more we lose ourselves for Christ, the more we discover who we were created to be.

Finally, Jesus tells us that discipleship is often lived not in extraordinary moments, but in ordinary acts of love. He reminds us by telling us that by even offering a cup of cold water to another because they belong to Christ has eternal significance.

So, this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet will seek to inspire, encourage and accompany us as we seek to place Christ first in every aspect of our lives as we continue on our journey toward holiness…

Food for the Head

“Many men keep the commandments in the way sick men take medicine: more from fear of dying in damnation than for joy of living according to our Savior's will... On the contrary, a loving heart loves the commandments. The more difficult they are, the sweeter and more agreeable it finds them, since this more perfectly pleases the Beloved and gives Him greater honor." — Saint Francis de Sales

Jesus began yesterday’s Gospel by asking us to examine the ordering of our loves by asking do we love Him above all else?

That question can feel overwhelming until Saint Francis de Sales reminds us that authentic discipleship is never rooted in fear but in love.

Love is what can change our perspective.

Instead of asking, “What must I give up?” we begin asking, “How can I love Christ more completely today?”

For when Christ becomes the center of our lives, then every other relationship finds its proper place. We will become better spouses, parents, children, friends, and neighbors because Christ Himself is loving through us.

And this is how we experience the reality that Saint Francis de Sales speaks of about how more sweeter and agreeable our crosses become when we know that this more perfectly pleases the Beloved and gives Him greater honor.

This is how we will know the joy of living the Lord’s commandments.

But first, we must SAY YES to putting Christ first and strive to love as He loves.

This week, resolve to ask yourself each morning: "Lord, how can I love You first today?"

Food for the Heart

“Once you have surrendered yourself, you make yourself receptive. In receiving from God, you are perfected and completed." — Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen

After calling us to love Him above everything else, Jesus then immediately tells us to take up our cross.

Why is this?

Because love always involves surrender.

Each disciple eventually discovers that following Christ will require letting go of our own attachments, ambitions, fears, resentments, and sometimes even cherished plans.

But surrender is never a loss.

For before we can surrender ourselves to Christ, we must learn to become receptive to His grace. And it is in this surrender that we learn that the life we thought we were preserving then gives way to the life He has always desired to give us—a future of abundance.

In other words, God will never be outdone in His generosity towards us.

Therefore, surrender and embrace the abundance you will receive when you become receptive to all that God desires for you.

This week, resolve to place one attachment into the Lord's hands and trust Him with it completely.

Food for the Hands

“What was the first rule of our dear Savior's life? ... The first end I propose in our daily work is to do the will of God; secondly to do it in the manner He wills; and thirdly to do it because it is His will." — Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton

The Gospel concludes with an unexpected lesson.

After speaking about crosses and sacrifice, Jesus turns to something remarkably ordinary—a cup of cold water. It is through this reference that Jesus reminds us that no act of love offered for His sake is ever insignificant.

Sometimes we imagine holiness requires extraordinary accomplishments, but Jesus points us toward ordinary faithfulness because every act of charity matters.

Think of all of the possibilities.

A word of encouragement. A visit to someone who is lonely. Listening patiently. Forgiving generously. Serving quietly. Offering a cup of water to the thirsty.

All of these simple acts can become extraordinary—if they are done for love of Christ.

So, let’s get to it.

This week, resolve to intentionally perform one hidden act of charity each day simply because you love Jesus.

Food for the Feet

“My confidence is placed in God who does not need our help for accomplishing His designs. Our single endeavor should be to give ourselves to the work and to be faithful to Him, and not to spoil His work by our shortcomings." — Saint Isaac Jogues

The Christian life is rarely built upon dramatic moments. Our acts of charity bring to life our discipleship, and our discipleship is built upon daily fidelity.

Each morning we choose Christ again. Each day we pick up our cross again. Each encounter becomes another opportunity for us to receive Christ by receiving another person with love.

Saint Isaac Jogues reminds us that success in discipleship is not measured by visible accomplishments, but rather by our faithful perseverance.

For God always accomplishes His work. Yet, we need to remain faithful.

One of my favorite ways to grow in this daily fidelity is by praying the Rosary. I have found that as I meditate upon the mysteries of Christ’s life by sitting in the “school of Mary”, I learn how to SAY YES every day—just as Mary did.

So, when you are feeling discouraged or struggling with persevering in your walk of discipleship, ask for help to carry whatever cross is weighing you down.

And trust that God will accomplish His work.

This week, resolve to carry today’s cross with confidence, trusting that Christ walks beside you every step of the way.

Exhortation

"My Lord, I offer you myself in turn as a sacrifice of thanksgiving... I am not my own. You have bought me... Enable me to carry out what I profess." — Saint John Henry Newman

The question Jesus asks us this week is remarkably simple: “Who comes first?”

If Christ truly comes first, then every other part of our lives begins to fall into its proper place, won’t it?

We will love Him above every earthly attachment.

We will discover that surrender is not defeat but freedom.

We will recognize opportunities to serve Him in ordinary acts of charity.

We will faithfully carry our cross each day, trusting that the One who calls us is also the One who strengthens us.

And when we SAY YES to losing our lives for His sake, we will discover the abundant life that He has prepared for us from all eternity.

This week, may each of us continue to do WHATEVER IT TAKES to place Christ first in every aspect of our lives, so that together we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY!”

All the best,

Christina

PS—If you haven’t already, go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Make sure to check out my christinasemmens.com website.

This website is where I blog and where you can learn more about working with me or talking about spiritual direction. If you are interested in either, make sure to sign up for a FREE consultation. Hope to hear from you soon!

And if you would like to make a donation in support of the work associated with this endeavor, you can click the link below and subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness Substack.

Subscribe now

Latest Posts on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Articles on the Catholic365.com Platform:

Recognizing the Path to Life

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast... (more episodes coming this week!)

Episode #262

“Hope Springs Eternal”—1:1 with Paul McCusker, Senior Director Creative Content, Augustine Institute

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

In addition to podcasts, you can also find additional content like the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, and One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase at Amazon.

The book focuses upon how we each can help to create life-giving communities where we can become the holy men and women that God created us to be, and is a compilation of the work I have been sharing on The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

I encourage you to read the reviews below to help you determine if you should pick up a copy today…

“Christina's book is both thoughtful and practical. I appreciate the careful attention to crafting a solid plan for reinvigorating and reenergizing parish life from from the 'ground up' - in other words, she writes with wisdom and experience about starting small and engaging individuals and small groups who can then passionately spread this message like fire. Helpful resource for anyone seeking to help take their parish community to a place of deep spiritual, practical, and holy love for the Lord and for one another!”—Matthew Koscal

“This book is for anyone who wants to see their parish thrive. Whether you are a priest or lay person, read Solving the Parish Puzzle for clear guidance on taking an average parish to the next level of discipleship. What we have been doing is not working. It’s time for something new. Semmens lays the groundwork so we can put the pieces together.”—Carol Wiget

If you already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon as well.

To access the SPP book resources and find more CLP content, you can find it here at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Welcome to the Twelfth week of Ordinary Time and this week’s edition of the Say Yes to Holiness newsletter.

Again, I want to express my gratitude for all of your prayers as I went to Arlington National Cemetery two weeks ago tomorrow to bury my late husband, Paul. I shared some thoughts about the experience as well as the remarks I had made at the funeral reception following the burial on my christinasemmens.com blog, so if you are interested, you can find that here.

In light of my journey to Arlington and my remembering Paul’s life and his model of courageous service, the phrase that Jesus repeated three times in yesterday’s Gospel echoed resoundingly to me, but is one that every disciple needs to hear:

“Do not be afraid.”

We need to not be afraid of anyone who opposes us.

We need to not be afraid of suffering.

We need to not be afraid of what others might think of us.

We need to not be afraid to proclaim the truth.

But we especially need to not be afraid to follow Christ.

Jesus reminds us in the Gospel of how our Heavenly Father knows us intimately. He not only knows every sparrow that falls to the ground, but He also knows the number of hairs on our heads. And He knows all of our struggles, our fears, our hopes, and our dreams.

And because the Lord knows us and loves us, we need not be afraid.

So, this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet will look to help inspire, encourage, and accompany us in growing in trust, courage, and confidence in God’s loving providence as we continue our journey toward holiness…

Food for the Head

“There is nothing to be dreaded in human ills except sin—not poverty, or disease, or insult, or ill treatment, or dishonor, or death, which people call the worst of evils. To those who love spiritual wisdom, these things are only the names of disasters, names that have no substance. No, the true disaster is to offend God, to do anything that displeases Him." — Saint John Chrysostom

Fear drives much of human behavior.

We fear rejection.

We fear failure.

We fear loss.

We fear suffering.

We fear death.

Yet Jesus tells us not to fear those who can harm the body but cannot harm the soul.

Saint John Chrysostom helps us understand why.

Because the greatest danger we face is not what happens to us.

Rather, the greatest danger is forgetting who we belong to and allowing fear to separate us from God.

But when we keep eternity in view, many of our fears will begin to lose their power over us.

So, this week let us seek to not be afraid and follow Christ.

This week, resolve to identify one fear that is currently preventing you from following Christ more fully.

Food for the Heart

“God walks into your soul with silent step. God comes to you more than you go to Him. Never will His coming be what you expect, and yet never will it disappoint." — Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen

One of the reasons we become afraid is because we feel alone.

The disciples often felt this way, and so have all the saints.

And if my own experience is any indicator, each of us have certainly felt this way, too.

But the reality is that God is always near.

Yesterday, Jesus reminded us how the Father notices even the smallest details of our lives because nothing escapes His attention.

No suffering goes unseen, or prayer goes unheard, or any tear fall unnoticed.

The God who knows the number of hairs on your head certainly knows what is happening in your heart.

But the world tends to want to convince us otherwise.

To combat this, and to strengthen our faith and trust in God’s providential care for us, it helps to spend time quietly in His Presence, so make sure to do that this week.

This week, resolve to to spend fifteen minutes in silent prayer simply resting in God’s loving Presence.

Food for the Hands

“Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love." — Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

Jesus tells His disciples that what is hidden will become known. This is something we should defintiely keep in mind as we go about living our life of discipleship.

Because discipleship is not primarily about grand gestures, instead, it is built through daily acts of fidelity.

Every small act of charity and kindness proclaims Christ and witnesses to His love.

And each sacrifice we offer out of love can become a testimony to the Gospel.

Saint Therese of Lizieux was a master at showing us how holiness is found in ordinary moments lived extraordinarily well.

So, we don’t need to go and feed every hungry person in the world, we simply need to feed one.

And we don’t have to proclaim the Good News to everyone, but we do to be attentive to sharing the Gospel with those whom the Lord has cross our path.

We just need to offer a sacrifice, a smile, a kindly word, and do the smallest right as we go through our days.

And we need to do it all for love.

This week, resolve to perform at least one hidden act of love each day.

Food for the Feet

“My confidence is placed in God who does not need our help for accomplishing His designs. Our single endeavor should be to give ourselves to the work and to be faithful to Him." — Saint Isaac Jogues

In yesterday’s Gospel, Jesus gives us a challenge.

To acknowledges Him before others, so that we will be acknowledged before the Father.

There has never been any doubt that following Christ requires courage.

It takes courage to speak about our faith.

It takes courage to stand for truth, especially when it is unpopular.

And it takes courage to quietly remain faithful whenever others abandon the path.

Saint Isaac Jogues understood this well as a missionary in New France (Canada). He endured tremendous suffering because he refused to deny Christ, and as a result, became a martyr.

Most of us will never face such dramatic circumstances, but each of us are still called to publicly witness to our faith through the way we live.

This week, resolve to intentionally share your faith with one person through either your words or your actions.

Exhortation

"The only person who is free is the one who lives for Christ." — Saint John Chrysostom

Fear enslaves, but trust liberates.

This is why Jesus repeats over and over again:

“Do not be afraid.”

So remember, you are known. You are loved. You are seen. You are not forgotten.

The Father who watches over the sparrows watches over you, and our same Father who knows every hair on your head knows every need of your heart.

So, trust and follow Him.

And never be ashamed to belong to Him.

This week, continue to do WHATEVER IT TAKES to place your trust in God’s providence and courageously witness to Christ in the world, so that together we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY!”

All the best,

Christina

PS—If you haven’t already, go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Make sure to check out my christinasemmens.com website.

As I mentioned earlier, this website is where I blog, but it is ALSO where you can learn more about working with me or talking about spiritual direction. If you are interested in either, make sure to sign up for a FREE consultation. Hope to hear from you soon!

And if you would like to make a donation in support of the work associated with this endeavor, you can click the link below and subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness Substack.

Subscribe now

Latest Posts on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Articles on the Catholic365.com Platform:

Recognizing the Path to Life

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #262

“Hope Springs Eternal”—1:1 with Paul McCusker, Senior Director Creative Content, Augustine Institute

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

In addition to podcasts, you can also find additional content like the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, and One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase at Amazon.

The book focuses upon how we each can help to create life-giving communities where we can become the holy men and women that God created us to be, and is a compilation of the work I have been sharing on The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

I encourage you to read the reviews below to help you determine if you should pick up a copy today…

“Christina's book is both thoughtful and practical. I appreciate the careful attention to crafting a solid plan for reinvigorating and reenergizing parish life from from the 'ground up' - in other words, she writes with wisdom and experience about starting small and engaging individuals and small groups who can then passionately spread this message like fire. Helpful resource for anyone seeking to help take their parish community to a place of deep spiritual, practical, and holy love for the Lord and for one another!”—Matthew Koscal

“This book is for anyone who wants to see their parish thrive. Whether you are a priest or lay person, read Solving the Parish Puzzle for clear guidance on taking an average parish to the next level of discipleship. What we have been doing is not working. It’s time for something new. Semmens lays the groundwork so we can put the pieces together.”—Carol Wiget

If you already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon as well.

To access the SPP book resources and find more CLP content, you can find it here at The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Welcome to the Eleventh week of Ordianry Time and this week’s edition of the Say Yes to Holiness newsletter.

First, thank you for your prayers last week on Tuesday as I laid my husband to rest at Arlington National Cemetery juts outside Washington, DC. It was a memorable day, and I am grateful for your prayers.

But now, let us turn our attention to what the Lord asks of us as His disciples this week because the Gospel is not merely something we believe, rather, it is something we live.

Jesus did not simply call His disciples to know about Him. He called them (and us) to become His hands and feet in the world, carrying His love to those who are lonely, forgotten, wounded, and searching for hope.

Saints throughout the centuries have understood that authentic discipleship is rooted in love—love of God and love of neighbor, and they recognized that every person they encountered was an opportunity to encounter Christ Himself.

We are each called to such an understanding and recognition on our own journeys towards holiness, so this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet will seek to help us reflect upon what it means to become laborers in the Lord’s harvest and be powerful witnesses of His love in the world.

Food for the Head

“To love God is to love our neighbor." — Saint John of the Cross

Saint John of the Cross reminds us that love of God and love of neighbor cannot be separated.

Sometimes we convince ourselves that holiness is primarily about prayer, spiritual reading, or learning more about the faith. While these are important, they must ultimately lead us to love.

The measure of our relationship with God is often revealed by how we treat the people around us.

Do we show patience when it is difficult?

Do we forgive when we have been hurt?

Do we seek the good of others even when it costs us something?

Love of God always bears fruit in love of neighbor.

This week, resolve to intentionally show Christ’s love to someone who may be difficult to love.

Food for the Heart

“The greatest disease in the West today is not TB or leprosy; it is being unwanted, unloved, and uncared for." — Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Saint Mother Teresa spent her life among those whom the world had forgotten.

She understood that many people may suffer from physical illness, but they also suffer from loneliness, rejection, and isolation.

Because the truth is that every human heart longs to be seen, known, and loved.

As disciples of Jesus, we are called to notice those who are overlooked and to remind them of their dignity as a beloved child of God.

A kind word, a phone call, a handwritten note, or simply taking time to listen can become an instrument of God’s healing grace.

This week, resolve to reach out to someone who may be feeling forgotten or alone.

Food for the Hands

“We must never forget that we are called to be the hands and feet of Christ." — Saint Teresa of Avila

Saint Teresa understood that Christ chooses to work through His disciples.

When someone is hungry, we can feed them.

When someone is discouraged, we can encourage them.

When someone is burdened, we can help carry the load.

The Lord continues His mission through His people.

Rather than asking what someone else should do, we can ask, “Lord, what are You asking me to do?”

The answer may be simpler than we think.

This week, resolve to perform one concrete act of service for another person without expecting anything in return.

Food for the Feet

“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; let us be those laborers." — Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

Saint Therese, the Little Flower, spent most of her life hidden within a convent, yet she understood that every Christian is called to participate in Christ’s mission.

Some labor in mission fields.

Some labor in parishes.

Some labor within their families.

Others labor through prayer, sacrifice, and faithful witness in daily life.

The important thing is not where we labor, but that we answer the Lord’s invitation.

There are people around us every day who need hope, encouragement, truth, and love.

The harvest remains plentiful.

This week, resolve to ask the Lord where He is inviting you to labor in His vineyard.

Exhortation

"The measure of love is to love without measure." — Saint Francis de Sales

What would happen if we truly embraced this challenge to love wothout measure?

What would change in our families, workplaces, parishes, and communities if we loved without keeping score?

The saints became saints because they allowed God’s love to flow through them without reservation.

They loved generously.

They forgave freely.

They served joyfully.

They trusted completely.

The same invitation is extended to each one of us.

This week, may each of us do WHATEVER IT TAKES to love without measure, so that together we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY!”

Know of my prayers for each of you, and God bless.

All the best,

Christina

PS—Go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Check out my christinasemmens.com website.

The website is where I blog, so you can find out the latest by checking out the website. ALSO, if you would like to work with me or talk about spiritual direction, make sure to sign up for a FREE consultation. Looking forward to hearing from you!

The latest Say Yes to Holiness Online Retreat is still available!

This retreat saw us read the spiritual classic, Rooting Out Hidden Faults: How the Particular Examen Conquers Sin by Father James McElhone, CSC. If you are interested, simply go to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast (plus, you can find the podcast on Spotify and Apple) or watch the episodes on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel.

Finally, if you would like to make a donation in support of the work associated with this endeavor, you can click the link below.

Subscribe now

Latest Post on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Do Not Be Terrified (Nov 16)

Gaining Wisdom of Heart (Sept 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Article on Catholic365.com Platform:

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #262

“Hope Springs Eternal”—1:1 with Paul McCusker, Senior Director Creative Content, Augustine Institute

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

The latest offering is available—the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!

THIS WEEK! I will be holding a Zoom Q&A to answer questions about my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time on Wednesday, June 3rd at 7pmCST.

Click here for the Zoom link to join the meeting. Also, keep sending your questions to me at: christinasemmens@gmail.com

Looking forward to seeing you there!

The book focuses upon how we each can help to create life-giving communities where we can become the holy men and women that God created us to be, and is a compilation of the work I have been sharing on The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

I encourage you to read the reviews below to help you determine if you should pick up a copy today…

“Christina's book is both thoughtful and practical. I appreciate the careful attention to crafting a solid plan for reinvigorating and reenergizing parish life from from the 'ground up' - in other words, she writes with wisdom and experience about starting small and engaging individuals and small groups who can then passionately spread this message like fire. Helpful resource for anyone seeking to help take their parish community to a place of deep spiritual, practical, and holy love for the Lord and for one another!”—Matthew Koscal

“This book is for anyone who wants to see their parish thrive. Whether you are a priest or lay person, read Solving the Parish Puzzle for clear guidance on taking an average parish to the next level of discipleship. What we have been doing is not working. It’s time for something new. Semmens lays the groundwork so we can put the pieces together.”—Carol Wiget

“From my perspective, the value of Solving the Parish Puzzle is that it brings much-needed clarity and integration to a space that is often fragmented. Parish leaders, ministry teams, and disciples are usually generous and committed, but not always aligned around a common mission or framework. This book provides a language and structure that helps unify efforts, ensuring that what we do is not simply activity, but intentional participation in forming missionary disciples and building communities that truly accompany people toward Christ.

As a leader, what stands out is how the book reinforces that healthy ministries do not emerge from isolated talent or charisma, but from a disciplined commitment to principles that can be learned, practiced, and replicated. By identifying the twelve “puzzle pieces,” it gives leaders a roadmap for sustainability. It shifts the focus from short-term success or programmatic growth to long-term fruitfulness rooted in evangelization, formation, relationships, and accountability. That is exactly what is needed to form leaders who can endure, multiply, and build environments where others can flourish.

What I find most compelling is the insistence on integration and the rejection of the “Christmas tree” mentality. That diagnosis is both honest and accurate. Too many of our parishes are doing a lot but not always moving in the same direction. The call to rediscover the “why,” to place everything at the service of mission, and to intentionally build communities where people are known, formed, and sent, is not only helpful but also, urgent. The Church does not need more activity. It needs greater coherence, deeper conviction, and leaders who can align people and purpose toward the work of making saints.”—Cristofer Pereyra, Chief Executive Officer, Tepeyac Leadership Initiative (TLI)

Again, I pray that you will consider purchasing a copy of the book. If you do purchase a copy, send me an email saying “I purchased your book” and I will make sure you are sent information so you can participate in a special “Zoom Q&A” about the book.

And if you already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon as well.

To learn more, click here: The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Greetings!

I am on the road this week to Virginia to finally lay my late husband to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. Has been almost 19 months since Paul’s passing, so am thankful to finally be laying him to rest on Tuesday, June 9th. I have a feeling that I will be posting that day or the following about the experience, so if you are interested, keep an eye on the blog hosted on christinasemmens.com website. Regardless, I would be grateful for any prayers you could offer for myself and the entire family on Tuesday.

In the interim, the journey towards holiness never ceases, so let us continue onward and upward towards sanctity!

Yesterday, we celebrated the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi). By celebrating the solemnity, the Church invites us to pause and reflect upon one of the greatest gifts Jesus has given His Church—His Real Presence in the Eucharist.

Week after week, many of us receive Holy Communion. Or we kneel before the tabernacle. Or we pass by churches where Christ waits for us in silence.

How easy it can be to become familiar with what should fill us with awe and wonder, eh?

But the saints never lost their wonder before the Blessed Sacrament. The saints remind us that the Eucharist is not merely a symbol, but Jesus Himself—Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity—given for our salvation.

So, this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet is crafted to help us rediscover the gift of the Eucharist and deepen our love for Jesus truly present among us as we continue on our journey toward holiness...

Food for the Head

“The Eucharist is the sacrament of love: It signifies love, it produces love. The Eucharist is the consummation of the whole spiritual life.”—St. Thomas Aquinas

Saint Thomas Aquinas, who was responsible for writing many of the hymns that help the Church celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi, reminds us that the Eucharist is the culmination of everything God desires to accomplish in our lives.

Every sacrament prepares us for deeper union with Christ. Every prayer leads us toward Him. Every virtue helps us become more capable of receiving Him. But in the Eucharist, we receive not merely grace from Jesus—we receive Jesus Himself.

If we truly believed this with our whole hearts, minds and souls, how differently would we approach Mass? How differently would we prepare for Holy Communion? How differently would we spend time before the Blessed Sacrament?

Because the Eucharist is not one gift among many. It is the Gift.

This week, resolve to spend time reflecting on what you truly believe about the Eucharist and ask the Lord to increase your faith.

Food for the Heart

“If we paused for a moment to consider attentively what takes place in this Sacrament, I am sure that the thought of Christ’s love for us would transform the coldness of our hearts into a fire of love and gratitude.”—St. Angela of Foligno

How often do we rush through Mass? Or how often do we approach Holy Communion distracted by schedules, worries, frustrations, and responsibilities?

Yet Saint Angela invites us to pause.

The Eucharist is the greatest expression of Christ’s love for us. And at every Mass, Jesus gives Himself completely. He holds nothing back. The same Jesus who healed the sick, forgave sinners, and died upon the Cross comes to us in Holy Communion!

How amazing and awesome is that?!

If we truly spend time and reflect on this reality, gratitude will naturally follow.

Our cold (or jaded, or discouraged, or saddened) hearts become filled with warmth, hope, encouragement, and joy. Our indifference will become devotion. Routine will become encounter.

And our hearts will be on fire with love of the One who is Love.

This week, before (or after) receiving Holy Communion, resolve to spend at least one minute quietly thanking Jesus for His gift of Himself.

Food for the Hands

“To speak of the Blessed Sacrament is to speak of what is most sacred... He is ever there, waiting to help us.”—St. Euphrasia

One of the simplest and most powerful things we can do is visit Jesus.

How often do we bring our concerns to family, friends, coworkers, counselors, or mentors? But how often do we bring them to Christ first in the Blessed Sacrament?

Jesus is waiting for us in every tabernacle.

He is waiting not to condemn us, but rather to strengthen us. He has no wish to burden us, rather He desires to give us rest. And He longs for us to draw us closer—and to bring others with us.

Jesus is the greatest gift we can give to others, and the easiest way to give Him to others is to bring them to Him in the Blessed Sacrament where He can work in their minds and hearts and transform them and by so doing, transform their lives.

The saints understood that any time spent with Jesus in the Eucharist changes us. We need to live out this belief by spending time before the Lord in Adoration and also bring others to spend time with Him, too.

This week, resolve to make a visit to a church outside of Mass and spend at least fifteen minutes with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.

Food for the Feet

“O sublime humility! O humble sublimity! That the Lord of the whole universe, God and the Son of God, should humble himself like this and hide under the form of a little bread, for our salvation.”—St. Francis of Assisi

Saint Francis was overwhelmed by the humility of God, and the reality that the Creator of the universe chose to become small.

And the King of Kings allows Himself to be hidden beneath the appearance of bread—every single day!

In this way, the Almighty can be approached by His creatures—you and me.

So, if Christ humbles Himself so completely for us, then aren’t we called to imitate that humility in our daily lives, too?

The Eucharist gives us the strength and courage necessary to go forth not only to adore Christ, but to become like Him.

Humility, service, patience, forgiveness, generosity—these are the fruits that should flow from our worthy reception of Jesus in Holy Communion, and these are the fruits which we should strive to share with each person whom we encounter every day.

This week, resolve to intentionally perform one hidden act of charity without seeking recognition or praise.

Exhortation

“Since Christ himself has said, ‘This is my Body,’ who shall dare to doubt that it is his Body?”—St. Cyril of Jerusalem

Corpus Christi is ultimately a feast of faith.

Saint Cyril reminds us of this and challenges us to renew our faith in the One who proclaimed “This is my Body.” We do not gather because we fully understand the mystery. We gather because we trust the One who made the promise.

Remember, Jesus did not say, “This represents my body.” He said, “This is my Body.”

The saints believed those words, drew strength from those words, and built their lives upon those words. We need to do the same.

Just as they became holy because they encountered Christ in the Eucharist again and again, so can we.

For the same invitation is extended to us.

Come to Mass.

Come to Adoration.

Come to the tabernacle.

Come to Jesus.

SAY YES to that invitation and use this week as an opportunity for you to renew your faith in the Real Presence and to fall more deeply in love with the One who gives Himself completely to you in the Eucharist.

May you be given whatever graces you need to do WHATEVER IT TAKES to come and encounter Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and allow Him to transform your life, so that together we can tell the Master of death, “Not today!”

Know of my prayers for each of you, and God bless.

All the best,

Christina

PS—Go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Check out my christinasemmens.com website.

The website is where I blog, so you can find out the latest by checking out the website. ALSO, if you would like to work with me or talk about spiritual direction, make sure to sign up for a FREE consultation. Looking forward to hearing from you!

The latest Say Yes to Holiness Online Retreat is still available!

This retreat saw us read the spiritual classic, Rooting Out Hidden Faults: How the Particular Examen Conquers Sin by Father James McElhone, CSC. If you are interested, simply go to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast (plus, you can find the podcast on Spotify and Apple) or watch the episodes on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel.

Finally, if you would like to make a donation in support of the work associated with this endeavor, you can click the link below.

Subscribe now

Latest Post on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Do Not Be Terrified (Nov 16)

Gaining Wisdom of Heart (Sept 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Article on Catholic365.com Platform:

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #262

“Hope Springs Eternal”—1:1 with Paul McCusker, Senior Director Creative Content, Augustine Institute

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

The latest offering is available—the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!

THIS WEEK! I will be holding a Zoom Q&A to answer questions about my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time on Wednesday, June 3rd at 7pmCST.

Click here for the Zoom link to join the meeting. Also, keep sending your questions to me at: christinasemmens@gmail.com

Looking forward to seeing you there!

The book focuses upon how we each can help to create life-giving communities where we can become the holy men and women that God created us to be, and is a compilation of the work I have been sharing on The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

I encourage you to read the reviews below to help you determine if you should pick up a copy today…

“Christina's book is both thoughtful and practical. I appreciate the careful attention to crafting a solid plan for reinvigorating and reenergizing parish life from from the 'ground up' - in other words, she writes with wisdom and experience about starting small and engaging individuals and small groups who can then passionately spread this message like fire. Helpful resource for anyone seeking to help take their parish community to a place of deep spiritual, practical, and holy love for the Lord and for one another!”—Matthew Koscal

“This book is for anyone who wants to see their parish thrive. Whether you are a priest or lay person, read Solving the Parish Puzzle for clear guidance on taking an average parish to the next level of discipleship. What we have been doing is not working. It’s time for something new. Semmens lays the groundwork so we can put the pieces together.”—Carol Wiget

“From my perspective, the value of Solving the Parish Puzzle is that it brings much-needed clarity and integration to a space that is often fragmented. Parish leaders, ministry teams, and disciples are usually generous and committed, but not always aligned around a common mission or framework. This book provides a language and structure that helps unify efforts, ensuring that what we do is not simply activity, but intentional participation in forming missionary disciples and building communities that truly accompany people toward Christ.

As a leader, what stands out is how the book reinforces that healthy ministries do not emerge from isolated talent or charisma, but from a disciplined commitment to principles that can be learned, practiced, and replicated. By identifying the twelve “puzzle pieces,” it gives leaders a roadmap for sustainability. It shifts the focus from short-term success or programmatic growth to long-term fruitfulness rooted in evangelization, formation, relationships, and accountability. That is exactly what is needed to form leaders who can endure, multiply, and build environments where others can flourish.

What I find most compelling is the insistence on integration and the rejection of the “Christmas tree” mentality. That diagnosis is both honest and accurate. Too many of our parishes are doing a lot but not always moving in the same direction. The call to rediscover the “why,” to place everything at the service of mission, and to intentionally build communities where people are known, formed, and sent, is not only helpful but also, urgent. The Church does not need more activity. It needs greater coherence, deeper conviction, and leaders who can align people and purpose toward the work of making saints.”—Cristofer Pereyra, Chief Executive Officer, Tepeyac Leadership Initiative (TLI)

Again, I pray that you will consider purchasing a copy of the book. If you do purchase a copy, send me an email saying “I purchased your book” and I will make sure you are sent information so you can participate in a special “Zoom Q&A” about the book.

And if you already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon as well.

To learn more, click here: The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Happy Memorial of Saint Justin the Martyr!

Saint Justin Martyr was an early Christian writer and teacher. He lived in the second century and is known for defending Christianity. He used philosophy to explain the faith to others, but eventually he was killed for his beliefs and is now remembered as a martyr.

This weekend, we celebrated the Feast of the Holy Trinity in which we celebrated the the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit!

The Most Holy Trinity is one of the greatest mysteries of our faith.

One God. Three Divine Persons. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

A mystery so profound that even the greatest saints, including Saint Justin the Martyr, struggled to describe fully.

But the Trinity is not merely a doctrine to understand.

Rather, the Trinity is a relationship to enter. It is a life to receive, and a love to participate in.

Because the deepest truth about reality is that God is Love. A Love eternally shared between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

So, this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet will focus upon helping us live more deeply in the love of the Holy Trinity as we continue our journey toward holiness.

Food for the Head

“The Holy Trinity, the one true God, is of its nature unity, equality and love.” — St. Fulgentius of Ruspe

Our world is marked by division—arguments, competition, isolation, and confusion.

But at the center of reality stands the Holy Trinity—the perfect communion of unity, equality, and love.

This reveals something important—we are created in the image of the Trinity.

This means that we are created for communion, not isolation. We are meant to be a self-gift, not consumed by selfishness. We are to live in love, not division.

And the more we live in authentic love and unity, the more we will reflect the image of God within us. And as we do, the more we bear witness to the possibility of living in unity, equality and love. And when we bear witness, we become sources of unity, equality and love and can heal relationships that are strained and divided.

This is our opportunity when we live in union with the Trinity.

This week, resolve to seek unity in one relationship that has become strained or divided.

Food for the Heart

“The Father loves not only the Son, but also Himself and us, by the Holy Ghost.” — St. Thomas Aquinas

One of the most beautiful truths of the Trinity is that we are included in that love.

Because God does not merely tolerate us, He delights in us.

The same love that flows eternally between the Father and the Son is poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, and this means that we are not outsiders looking in, rather, we are invited into the very life of God.

Because the Trinity is not distant.

The Trinity dwells within us. The God who created the universe desires to make His home in your soul.

Pause and reflect on that reality.

This week, resolve to spend time in silent prayer simply resting in the knowledge that you are loved by God.

Food for the Hands

“Rise and hurry to the Church: here is the Father, here is the Son, here is the Holy Spirit.” — St. Ambrose

The Trinity is not merely something we think about.

The Trinity is Someone we encounter.

This happens most especially in the life of the Church at every Mass, every sacrament, every act of prayer, and every moment of grace.

The Father is who draws us close. The Son is who redeems us. And the Holy Spirit is who sanctifies us. Now, this does not mean that the Father is not part of the Son’s work to redeem, or the Spirit’s work to sanctify, or that the Son or the Spirit do not draw us close or redeem.

But the more we participate in the life of the Church, the more deeply we enter into the life of the Trinity, and as we do, we increase our capacity to be in union with the Trinity. And the more we are union with the Trinity, the more we can help others do the same.

This week, resolve to make an intentional visit to a church outside of Mass simply to spend time with God and to help others do the same.

Food for the Feet

“Today I put on a terrible strength invoking the Trinity, confessing the Three with faith in the One.” — St. Patrick

The Christian life is not easy. Saint Patrick knew this as his journey to faith was through his time as a slave in the land to which he eventually proclaimed the Good News.

He faced temptation, discouragement, fear, and many spiritual battles.

Yet Saint Patrick did not walk alone.

Neither do we.

St. Patrick proclaims in his famous prayer, “The Breastplate of Christ,” that our strength comes from invoking the Trinity.

The Father goes before us.

The Son walks beside us.

The Holy Spirit dwells within us.

So, no matter what lies ahead this week, remember, you do not face it by yourself.

The power of the Trinity accompanies you.

This week, resolve to begin each day by slowly making the Sign of the Cross and consciously entrusting your day to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Exhortation

“A great mystery, a mystery of love, an ineffable mystery.” — St. John Paul II

As we continue to contemplate the Trinity, let us be mindful that the Trinity is not a mystery that can be fully explained.

But the Trinity can be entered.

Never forget that the saints did not become saints because they solved the mystery of the Trinity. Instead, they became saints because they surrendered themselves to it.

So this week, receive the Father’s love; follow the Son, listen to the Holy Spirit, and allow the life of the Trinity to transform your own.

Because holiness is nothing less than participating in the very life of God.

Your Mission This Week

• Seek unity where division exists

• Rest in the love of the Father

• Encounter God intentionally through prayer and the Church

• Begin each day invoking the Holy Trinity

This week, continue to do WHATEVER IT TAKES to live more deeply in the love of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, so that together, we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY.”

All the best,

Christina

PS—Go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Check out my christinasemmens.com website.

The website is where I blog, so you can find out the latest by checking out the website. ALSO, if you would like to work with me or talk about spiritual direction, make sure to sign up for a FREE consultation. Looking forward to hearing from you!

The latest Say Yes to Holiness Online Retreat is still available!

This retreat saw us read the spiritual classic, Rooting Out Hidden Faults: How the Particular Examen Conquers Sin by Father James McElhone, CSC. If you are interested, simply go to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast (plus, you can find the podcast on Spotify and Apple) or watch the episodes on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel.

Finally, if you would like to make a donation in support of the work associated with this endeavor, you can click the link below.

Subscribe now

Latest Post on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Do Not Be Terrified (Nov 16)

Gaining Wisdom of Heart (Sept 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Article on Catholic365.com Platform:

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #262

“Hope Springs Eternal”—1:1 with Paul McCusker, Senior Director Creative Content, Augustine Institute

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

The latest offering is available—the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!

THIS WEEK! I will be holding a Zoom Q&A to answer questions about my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time on Wednesday, June 3rd at 7pmCST.

Click here for the Zoom link to join the meeting. Also, keep sending your questions to me at: christinasemmens@gmail.com

Looking forward to seeing you there!

The book focuses upon how we each can help to create life-giving communities where we can become the holy men and women that God created us to be, and is a compilation of the work I have been sharing on The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

I encourage you to read the reviews below to help you determine if you should pick up a copy today…

“Christina's book is both thoughtful and practical. I appreciate the careful attention to crafting a solid plan for reinvigorating and reenergizing parish life from from the 'ground up' - in other words, she writes with wisdom and experience about starting small and engaging individuals and small groups who can then passionately spread this message like fire. Helpful resource for anyone seeking to help take their parish community to a place of deep spiritual, practical, and holy love for the Lord and for one another!”—Matthew Koscal

“This book is for anyone who wants to see their parish thrive. Whether you are a priest or lay person, read Solving the Parish Puzzle for clear guidance on taking an average parish to the next level of discipleship. What we have been doing is not working. It’s time for something new. Semmens lays the groundwork so we can put the pieces together.”—Carol Wiget

“From my perspective, the value of Solving the Parish Puzzle is that it brings much-needed clarity and integration to a space that is often fragmented. Parish leaders, ministry teams, and disciples are usually generous and committed, but not always aligned around a common mission or framework. This book provides a language and structure that helps unify efforts, ensuring that what we do is not simply activity, but intentional participation in forming missionary disciples and building communities that truly accompany people toward Christ.

As a leader, what stands out is how the book reinforces that healthy ministries do not emerge from isolated talent or charisma, but from a disciplined commitment to principles that can be learned, practiced, and replicated. By identifying the twelve “puzzle pieces,” it gives leaders a roadmap for sustainability. It shifts the focus from short-term success or programmatic growth to long-term fruitfulness rooted in evangelization, formation, relationships, and accountability. That is exactly what is needed to form leaders who can endure, multiply, and build environments where others can flourish.

What I find most compelling is the insistence on integration and the rejection of the “Christmas tree” mentality. That diagnosis is both honest and accurate. Too many of our parishes are doing a lot but not always moving in the same direction. The call to rediscover the “why,” to place everything at the service of mission, and to intentionally build communities where people are known, formed, and sent, is not only helpful but also, urgent. The Church does not need more activity. It needs greater coherence, deeper conviction, and leaders who can align people and purpose toward the work of making saints.”—Cristofer Pereyra, Chief Executive Officer, Tepeyac Leadership Initiative (TLI)

Again, I pray that you will consider purchasing a copy of the book. If you do purchase a copy, send me an email saying “I purchased your book” and I will make sure you are sent information so you can participate in a special “Zoom Q&A” about the book.

And if you already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon as well.

To learn more, click here: The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Come, Holy Spirit!

Yesterday, the Church celebrated the great feast of Pentecost—the moment when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles and transformed frightened disciples into courageous witnesses.

Pentecost is not merely a historical event.

It is an ongoing invitation.

The same Holy Spirit who descended upon the apostles desires to descend into our hearts today.

To strengthen us.
To guide us.
To sanctify us.
To send us.

So this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet is designed to help you become more attentive and responsive to the Holy Spirit—the Paraclete, the Advocate, the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth so as to be strengthened, inspired and encouraged on our journey towards holiness…

Food for the Head ​

“Without the Holy Spirit, God is far away… With the Holy Spirit, the Gospel is the power of life.” — St. Athanasius

It is possible to know all about God without truly living in relationship with Him.

So we might know Scripture and/or Church teachings, follow the Precepts, and practice our faith, BUT God still remain spiritually distant.

Why?

Because we are just going through the motions. Christianity is not merely information, it’s about transformation.

And transformation only happens through the power of the Holy Spirit.

This power can only be transferred when we are in relationship. When we are walking and talking with the Lord, we open ourselves to the power of the Spirit, and then the Holy Spirit makes the Gospel come alive, and we become transformed.

So what might this transformation look like in our lives?

Our fear becomes courage. Our confusion becomes clarity. And our obligation becomes love.

Without the Spirit, our faith becomes dry, but with the Spirit, everything changes.

This week, resolve to begin each morning by praying, “Come, Holy Spirit,” before anything else.

Food for the Heart

“The Holy Spirit is the consoler of souls… tasting like honey and sweeter than the honeycomb.” — St. Hildegard of Bingen

The Holy Spirit does not come to condemn us. Rather, the Spirit comes to console, heal, strengthen, and restore us.

Yet many of us continue to carry anxieties, discouragement, fear, and exhaustion all on our own.

But the beauty of Pentecost is that it reminds us that we were never meant to live the spiritual life by our own strength.

The Holy Spirit desires to fill the empty and weary places within us with the sweetness of God’s love and peace so that we can weather whatever may come in our lives.

But we must slow down enough to receive Him.

It is only in slowing down and spending time that we can recognize the ways that God is moving in your life, so we must be intentional in setting aside that time.

This week, resolve to spend at least 10 minutes each day in silence, inviting the Holy Spirit to bring peace to your heart.

Food for the Hands

“It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you.” — Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta

You might be wondering why I am sharing a quote that seems to be about Christmas in May. Because the gift of God’s love found in the Spirit shouldn’t be reserved to Christmas. It should be an every day kind of thing.

This is because the Holy Spirit is never given merely for ourselves. Rather, He is given so that we may become instruments of God’s love in the world.

At Pentecost, the Apostles were filled with the Spirit—and then immediately sent outward.

The same must happen with us.

For if the Holy Spirit is truly alive within you, then His love will flow outward through our words, actions and sacrifices. But especially through our presence.

We go out to be present to the world. Not in a passive way, but in active way.

Because the Spirit has sent us out on a mission of love.

This week, resolve to intentionally allow God to love someone through you each day this week.

Food for the Feet

“The Holy Spirit leads us like a mother.” — St. John Vianney

The spiritual life is not about having every step figured out. Rather, it is about learning how to follow.

The Holy Spirit guides us gently, patiently, and faithfully.

Just like a loving mother teaching a child how to walk.

Far too often, we resist the Spirit because we want certainty before obedience (or at least I know I do!)

But the Holy Spirit usually reveals the path only one step at a time, so we have to be patient and remain obediently faithful to what has been placed before us.

Mary dis this in her own life, and she desires to help us do the same in our own. We simply need to ask for her help and she will provide it—just like a loving mother teaching a child how to walk.

Remember, our task is not to control the entire journey.

Our task is simply to follow.

This week, resolve to pay attention to the gentle promptings of the Holy Spirit—and respond quickly when He calls you to act.

Exhortation

“Ask Him often to help you. To say simply, ‘Come, Holy Spirit!’ is a powerful act of faith.” — St. Josemaría Escrivá

The apostles entered the Upper Room afraid, but they left it transformed.

So, what changed?

The Holy Spirit.

And the very same Holy Spirit is available to each of us.

Not someday. Not theoretically. Now.

So, stop trying to carry and do everything alone.

Stop trying to be transformed by sheer effort alone.

Instead, invite the Holy Spirit in.

Again and again.

Because Pentecost was never meant to be a one-time event.

It is meant to be a way of life.

Your Mission This Week (if you choose to accept it!)

• Begin each day with “Come, Holy Spirit”

• Create space for silence and listening

• Let God love others through you

• Follow the Spirit’s promptings with trust

Don’t stop celebrating the coming of the Holy Spirit. Instead, welcome Him into every area of your life.

So this week, do WHATEVER IT TAKES to become more open, more responsive, and more docile to the Holy Spirit, so that together, we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY.”

All the best,
Christina

PS—Go check out my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

Check out my christinasemmens.com website.

The website is where I blog, so you can find out the latest by checking out the website. ALSO, if you would like to work with me or talk about spiritual direction, make sure to sign up for a FREE consultation. Looking forward to hearing from you!

The latest Say Yes to Holiness Online Retreat is still available!

This retreat saw us read the spiritual classic, Rooting Out Hidden Faults: How the Particular Examen Conquers Sin by Father James McElhone, CSC. If you are interested, simply go to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast (plus, you can find the podcast on Spotify and Apple) or watch the episodes on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel.

Finally, if you would like to make a donation in support of the work associated with this endeavor, you can click the link below.

Subscribe now

Latest Post on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Do Not Be Terrified (Nov 16)

Gaining Wisdom of Heart (Sept 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Article on Catholic365.com Platform:

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #262

“Hope Springs Eternal”—1:1 with Paul McCusker, Senior Director Creative Content, Augustine Institute

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

The latest offering is available—the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!

Zoom Q&A about my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time will be happening on Wednesday, June 3rd at 7pmCST.

More information about participating will be coming soon. In the interim, send any questions you want answered to me at: christinasemmens@gmail.com

The book focuses upon how we each can help to create life-giving communities where we can become the holy men and women that God created us to be, and is a compilation of the work I have been sharing on The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

I encourage you to read the reviews below to help you determine if you should pick up a copy today…

“Christina's book is both thoughtful and practical. I appreciate the careful attention to crafting a solid plan for reinvigorating and reenergizing parish life from from the 'ground up' - in other words, she writes with wisdom and experience about starting small and engaging individuals and small groups who can then passionately spread this message like fire. Helpful resource for anyone seeking to help take their parish community to a place of deep spiritual, practical, and holy love for the Lord and for one another!”—Matthew Koscal

“This book is for anyone who wants to see their parish thrive. Whether you are a priest or lay person, read Solving the Parish Puzzle for clear guidance on taking an average parish to the next level of discipleship. What we have been doing is not working. It’s time for something new. Semmens lays the groundwork so we can put the pieces together.”—Carol Wiget

“From my perspective, the value of Solving the Parish Puzzle is that it brings much-needed clarity and integration to a space that is often fragmented. Parish leaders, ministry teams, and disciples are usually generous and committed, but not always aligned around a common mission or framework. This book provides a language and structure that helps unify efforts, ensuring that what we do is not simply activity, but intentional participation in forming missionary disciples and building communities that truly accompany people toward Christ.

As a leader, what stands out is how the book reinforces that healthy ministries do not emerge from isolated talent or charisma, but from a disciplined commitment to principles that can be learned, practiced, and replicated. By identifying the twelve “puzzle pieces,” it gives leaders a roadmap for sustainability. It shifts the focus from short-term success or programmatic growth to long-term fruitfulness rooted in evangelization, formation, relationships, and accountability. That is exactly what is needed to form leaders who can endure, multiply, and build environments where others can flourish.

What I find most compelling is the insistence on integration and the rejection of the “Christmas tree” mentality. That diagnosis is both honest and accurate. Too many of our parishes are doing a lot but not always moving in the same direction. The call to rediscover the “why,” to place everything at the service of mission, and to intentionally build communities where people are known, formed, and sent, is not only helpful but also, urgent. The Church does not need more activity. It needs greater coherence, deeper conviction, and leaders who can align people and purpose toward the work of making saints.”—Cristofer Pereyra, Chief Executive Officer, Tepeyac Leadership Initiative (TLI)

Again, I pray that you will consider purchasing a copy of the book. If you do purchase a copy, send me an email saying “I purchased your book” and I will make sure you are sent information so you can participate in a special “Zoom Q&A” about the book.

And if you already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon as well.

To learn more, click here: The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

He is Ascended! Alleluia!

This last week, the Church celebrated the Feast of the Ascension—the moment when Christ returns to the Father… not to leave us behind, but to draw us upward.

The Ascension is not an ending.

It is a commissioning.

A calling.

An invitation to live with our hearts fixed on heaven while our feet remain firmly planted on earth.

So this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet is meant to help you live in that tension—fully present here, but fully oriented toward eternity on our journey towards holiness...

Food for the Head ​

“People often think of Christian morality as a kind of bargain… but… every time you make a choice you are turning the central part of you… into something… either… in harmony with God… or… in a state of war…” — C.S. Lewis

The Ascension reminds us that heaven is real.

But not only that—it is our destination.

Yet what we often forget is this: We are becoming something right now.

Every choice:

• shapes our souls

• forms our hearts

• directs our lives

We are not standing still.

We are either moving toward God… or away from Him.

Jesus’ Ascension calls us higher, but we must choose to follow.

This week, resolve to become more aware of your daily choices—and intentionally choose what leads you toward God.

Food for the Heart

“God walks into your soul with silent step… The more you respond to His gentle pressure, the greater will be your freedom.” — Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen

The Ascension can feel like absence.

But it is actually presence—just in a deeper way.

Because Christ is not gone.

He is closer than ever.

• in our soul

• in the Eucharist

• in our prayer

But His presence is quiet.

Subtle.

Easy to miss.

Unless we are paying attention.

The spiritual life is not about chasing experiences.

It is about responding to presence.

This week, resolve to slow down and become attentive to the quiet ways God is moving in your life.

Food for the Hands

“Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice… doing the smallest right and doing it all for love.” — St. Thérèse of Lisieux

After the Ascension, the disciples didn’t just stand there.

They went.

They acted.

They loved.

And they changed the world.

Not through massive, dramatic actions…

But through faithful, consistent love.

Our mission is no different.

We don’t need to do everything.

We just need to do what is ours to do—with love.

This week, resolve to embrace your daily responsibilities as your mission field—and do them with great love.

Food for the Feet

“When uncertain about God’s will… we neglect things that are God’s will for us every day… Lacking answers about the future, we should… live today to the full.” — Fr. Jacques Philippe

After the Ascension, the disciples had questions.

What now?
Where do we go?
What does this mean?

And yet—they were told to wait… and to be faithful.

We do the same thing as the disciples did.

We want clarity about the future.

But God gives us something better:

The present moment.

His will is not hidden.

It is already in front of us.

This week, resolve to let go of trying to control the future—and fully live the responsibilities God has given you today.

Exhortation

“The only person who is free is the one who lives for Christ.” — St. John Chrysostom

The Ascension of the Lord reveals where true freedom is found.

Not in doing whatever we want.

But in living for Christ.

Because when we live for Him:

• our life has purpose

• our suffering has meaning

• our love has power

And our destination becomes clear.

Heaven is not just a place we hope for.

It is a life we begin now.

Your Mission This Week

• Be intentional in your choices

• Pay attention to God’s quiet presence

• Love faithfully in small ways

• Live fully in the present moment

Remember, the Ascension is not Christ leaving.

It is Christ leading.

Leading us higher.
Calling us forward.
Inviting us into more.

So this week, keep doing WHATEVER IT TAKES to lift your heart, your mind, and your life toward heaven, so that together, we can tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY.”

All the best,
Christina

PS—In case you missed it, my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

My christinasemmens.com website is LIVE!

I will be traveling the next few weeks and plan to be blogging daily, so you can follow along by checking out the website. Would love to know what you think, AND if you would like to work with me, make sure to sign up for a FREE consultation. Looking forward to hearing from you!

The latest Say Yes to Holiness Online Retreat is still available!

This retreat saw us read the spiritual classic, Rooting Out Hidden Faults: How the Particular Examen Conquers Sin by Father James McElhone, CSC. If you are interested, simply go to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast (plus, you can find the podcast on Spotify and Apple) or watch the episodes on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel.

Finally, if you would like to make a donation in support of the work associated with this endeavor, you can click the link below.

Subscribe now

Latest Post on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Do Not Be Terrified (Nov 16)

Gaining Wisdom of Heart (Sept 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Article on Catholic365.com Platform:

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #261

“Finding Purpose and Joy in the Easter Season”

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

The latest offering is available—the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!

Zoom Q&A about my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time will be happening on Wednesday, June 3rd at 7pmCST.

More information about participating will be coming soon. In the interim, send any questions you want answered to me at: christinasemmens@gmail.com

The book focuses upon how we each can help to create life-giving communities where we can become the holy men and women that God created us to be, and is a compilation of the work I have been sharing on The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

I encourage you to read the reviews below to help you determine if you should pick up a copy today…

“Christina's book is both thoughtful and practical. I appreciate the careful attention to crafting a solid plan for reinvigorating and reenergizing parish life from from the 'ground up' - in other words, she writes with wisdom and experience about starting small and engaging individuals and small groups who can then passionately spread this message like fire. Helpful resource for anyone seeking to help take their parish community to a place of deep spiritual, practical, and holy love for the Lord and for one another!”—Matthew Koscal

“This book is for anyone who wants to see their parish thrive. Whether you are a priest or lay person, read Solving the Parish Puzzle for clear guidance on taking an average parish to the next level of discipleship. What we have been doing is not working. It’s time for something new. Semmens lays the groundwork so we can put the pieces together.”—Carol Wiget

“From my perspective, the value of Solving the Parish Puzzle is that it brings much-needed clarity and integration to a space that is often fragmented. Parish leaders, ministry teams, and disciples are usually generous and committed, but not always aligned around a common mission or framework. This book provides a language and structure that helps unify efforts, ensuring that what we do is not simply activity, but intentional participation in forming missionary disciples and building communities that truly accompany people toward Christ.

As a leader, what stands out is how the book reinforces that healthy ministries do not emerge from isolated talent or charisma, but from a disciplined commitment to principles that can be learned, practiced, and replicated. By identifying the twelve “puzzle pieces,” it gives leaders a roadmap for sustainability. It shifts the focus from short-term success or programmatic growth to long-term fruitfulness rooted in evangelization, formation, relationships, and accountability. That is exactly what is needed to form leaders who can endure, multiply, and build environments where others can flourish.

What I find most compelling is the insistence on integration and the rejection of the “Christmas tree” mentality. That diagnosis is both honest and accurate. Too many of our parishes are doing a lot but not always moving in the same direction. The call to rediscover the “why,” to place everything at the service of mission, and to intentionally build communities where people are known, formed, and sent, is not only helpful but also, urgent. The Church does not need more activity. It needs greater coherence, deeper conviction, and leaders who can align people and purpose toward the work of making saints.”—Cristofer Pereyra, Chief Executive Officer, Tepeyac Leadership Initiative (TLI)

Again, I pray that you will consider purchasing a copy of the book. If you do purchase a copy, send me an email saying “I purchased your book” and I will make sure you are sent information so you can participate in a special “Zoom Q&A” about the book.

And if you already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon as well.

To learn more, click here: The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Share Say Yes to Holiness

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In this Say Yes to Holiness episode, we discover how storytelling can deepen our faith, help us explore spiritual themes, and also inspire the next generation.

Conversation Themes:

• Paul’s spiritual journey from Baptist to Catholic

• The role of storytelling and audio dramas in faith

• The development, purpose, and impact of ‘Hope Springs’ series

Sound Bites:

• “The Catholic imagination is so much bigger.”

• “Saints obeyed even when they felt crazy.”

• “Music and history inspire my storytelling.”

• “There’s a million reasons to become Catholic”

• “God knows me and loves me in spite of myself”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Paul McCusker and His Journey

02:37 The Intersection of Writing and Spirituality

05:11 Transitioning to Catholicism and Its Impact on Creativity

07:55 The Genesis of Hope Springs

10:39 Exploring the Themes of Hope Springs

13:25 The Resurgence of Audio Dramas

16:20 The Future of Hope Springs and Its Impact

18:51 Personal Reflections on Storytelling and Faith

The next season of “Welcome to Hope Springs” premieres on May 18th. Make sure to catch up on all episodes now on all your favorite streaming platforms.

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly Say Yes to Holiness newsletter—designed to help inspire, encourage and accompany you on the path towards holiness.

Happy Easter! He is Risen! Alleluia! Alleluia!

We are now entering into the Sixth Sunday of Easter, and the Church continues to lead us deeper into the reality of what it means to live as people of the Resurrection.

This week, we are invited into something both simple and deeply challenging:

To trust, to love and to begin again.

So, this week’s Food for the Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet will focus upon helping us move from simply knowing about God to actually living in relationship with Him as we continue our journey towards holiness…

Food for the Head ​

“Love takes up where knowledge leaves off.” — Saint Thomas Aquinas

We often try to figure everything out. We ask:

• Why is this happening?

• What should I do next?

• Where is God in this?

But at some point, knowledge reaches its limit.

And that’s where love—and trust—must begin.

Because holiness is not about having all the answers.

It is about choosing to trust God even when you don’t.

I can speak to this only too well in the last few years as I accompanied my husband through his cancer journey and then dealing with the aftermath of his passing. I have asked those questions of Why is this happening? What should I do next? and Where is God in this? too many times to count.

And the one answer that I hear over and over again is “Trust.”

Trust that God knows why this is all happening.

Trust that whatever I am supposed to do next starts with doing whatever is right before me right now.

And trust that God is in all of it—because He is.

All that needs to happen is for me to surrender and trust.

And that’s the path for all of us.

This week, resolve to surrender one area where you are seeking answers—and choose to trust God instead.

Food for the Heart

“Faith is above all a personal, intimate encounter with Jesus.” — Pope Benedict XVI

The spiritual life is not a formula, it’s a relationship.

It’s a relationship because God is not distant or abstract, rather, He is personal, present, and passionately pursuing you.

The fact is that the more you encounter Him, the more everything begins to change in your life.

Not because your circumstances necessarily shift, but because your heart does.

This is the power of prayer.

Prayer helps us come to know the Lord intimately, especially if you spend time with His Word found in Sacred Scripture.

His Word never returns to Him void. Rather, His Word always brings about growth and fruitfulness. And when that growth and fruifulness happens in our minds and hearts, then everything in our life begins to shift as we begin to see and hear as God sees and hears.

But we need to create space in our day for that encounter to happen.

We need to be intentional about scheduling time and then being faithful to showing up each and every day. This is hard and difficult, but it is well worth the effort because your life will never be the same.

This week, resolve to create intentional space each and every day for a real encounter with Jesus in Scripture.

Food for the Hands

“Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice… always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love.” — Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

Holiness is not built in big moments.

It is built in small, hidden choices. Whenever we give a patient response, make a quiet sacrifice, or commit a simple act of love, we are opening ourselves to transformation.

Because it is in doing the smallest right for love where transformation happens.

Therefore, miss no single opportunity to make many, many small sacrifices throughout the day.

Accepting the things that you do not like, do not choose, cannot change and do not understand are all opportunities for small sacrifices, and each one of us has countless numbers of these opportunities throughout the day that we can embrace. And all of these small, hidden choices add up to living a life of holiness.

This week, resolve to choose one small act of love each day—especially when it costs you something.

Food for the Feet

“When uncertain about God’s will… live today to the full.” — Father Jacques Philippe

We often get stuck trying to figure out the future. Our anxieties and worries prompt us to want to know what God’s will is for our future.

But God’s will is not hidden in some distant moment.

It is present in today. God’s will reveals itself in your duties, and in your relationships, and in your opportunities to love.

Each time we are faithful to our duties, relationships and opportunities to love, we gain clarity. Not from thinking and figuring it all out, but from allowing God to slowly reveal what He is doing and how He is moving in our lives through the duties, relationships and opportunities that present themselves in our daily life.

This is why we must live today to the full. Not in a hedonistic, “Eat, drink and be merry” live to the full kind of way, but in a humble, quiet and obedient way—just like Mary did.

I have no doubt that Mary had some significant concerns and worries abotu how everything was going to work being the Mother of the Son of God.

But clarity for Mary came through faithfulness, not from her figuring things out.

The same applies to us.

We need to stop overthinking and be faithful to what the Lord is asking of us today, and trust He will show us the way.

This week, resolve to let go of future worries—and live today fully and faithfully.

One of my favorite ways to let go of future worries is by asking for Mary’s help by praying the Rosary. One of my favorites is the Daily Rosary podcast by the School of Faith, You can find it by clicking here. ​

Exhortation

”Without love, deeds, even the most brilliant, count as nothing.” — Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

At the end of the day, everything comes back to this:

Love.

Not success.
Not perfection.
Not recognition.

Love.

Because love is what transforms.
Love is what endures.
Love is what makes the Resurrection real in your life.

So, our mission this week is to trust God whenever we lack clarity; make space for a daily encounter with Him; choose to make small acts of love daily; and live fully in the present moment.

This Easter season, don’t just believe in the Resurrection…

Live like it’s true.

When we do WHATEVER IT TAKES to trust, to love, and to respond, then we will be able to tell the Master of Death, “NOT TODAY.”

All the best,

Christina

PS—In case you missed it, my new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Share Say Yes to Holiness

Below are the Latest Happenings In the Say Yes to Holiness Community!

My christinasemmens.com website is LIVE!

I will be traveling the next few weeks and plan to be blogging daily, so you can follow along by checking out the website. Would love to know what you think, AND if you would like to work with me, make sure to sign up for a FREE consultation. Looking forward to hearing from you!

The latest Say Yes to Holiness Online Retreat is still available!

This retreat saw us read the spiritual classic, Rooting Out Hidden Faults: How the Particular Examen Conquers Sin by Father James McElhone, CSC. If you are interested, simply go to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast (plus, you can find the podcast on Spotify and Apple) or watch the episodes on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel.

Finally, if you would like to make a donation in support of the work associated with this endeavor, you can click the link below.

Subscribe now

Latest Post on the Women of the New Evangelization (WINE) blog:

Mercy, Peace and Exultation (April 12)

Harden Not Our Hearts (Mar 9)

Do Not Be Terrified (Nov 16)

Gaining Wisdom of Heart (Sept 9)

Guest appearance on the Equipcast Podcast:

"When God Asks, How Do You Answer?: The Power of 'Yes' with Christina Semmens

Article on Catholic365.com Platform:

We Are All Eucharistic Missionaires!

Latest episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast...

Episode #261

“Finding Purpose and Joy in the Easter Season”

​Subscribe to the Say Yes to Holiness podcast!

You can listen to the latest episodes of the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

You can also watch the podcast on the Say Yes to Holiness YouTube channel

Click Here to Check Out All the Podcast Episodes

The Say Yes to Holiness YouTube Channel

The latest offering is available—the Lenten Book Online Retreat—”Rooting Out Hidden Faults” by Father James McElhone on YouTube—Click here to be taken to the playlist

Update from The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

My new book, Solving the Parish Puzzle: One Person, One Disciple, One Leader at a Time is available for purchase on Amazon.

The book focuses upon how we each can help to create life-giving communities where we can become the holy men and women that God created us to be, and is a compilation of the work I have been sharing on The Catholic Leadership Puzzle Substack.

I encourage you to read the reviews below to help you determine if you should pick up a copy today…

“Christina's book is both thoughtful and practical. I appreciate the careful attention to crafting a solid plan for reinvigorating and reenergizing parish life from from the 'ground up' - in other words, she writes with wisdom and experience about starting small and engaging individuals and small groups who can then passionately spread this message like fire. Helpful resource for anyone seeking to help take their parish community to a place of deep spiritual, practical, and holy love for the Lord and for one another!”—Matthew Koscal

“This book is for anyone who wants to see their parish thrive. Whether you are a priest or lay person, read Solving the Parish Puzzle for clear guidance on taking an average parish to the next level of discipleship. What we have been doing is not working. It’s time for something new. Semmens lays the groundwork so we can put the pieces together.”—Carol Wiget

“From my perspective, the value of Solving the Parish Puzzle is that it brings much-needed clarity and integration to a space that is often fragmented. Parish leaders, ministry teams, and disciples are usually generous and committed, but not always aligned around a common mission or framework. This book provides a language and structure that helps unify efforts, ensuring that what we do is not simply activity, but intentional participation in forming missionary disciples and building communities that truly accompany people toward Christ.

As a leader, what stands out is how the book reinforces that healthy ministries do not emerge from isolated talent or charisma, but from a disciplined commitment to principles that can be learned, practiced, and replicated. By identifying the twelve “puzzle pieces,” it gives leaders a roadmap for sustainability. It shifts the focus from short-term success or programmatic growth to long-term fruitfulness rooted in evangelization, formation, relationships, and accountability. That is exactly what is needed to form leaders who can endure, multiply, and build environments where others can flourish.

What I find most compelling is the insistence on integration and the rejection of the “Christmas tree” mentality. That diagnosis is both honest and accurate. Too many of our parishes are doing a lot but not always moving in the same direction. The call to rediscover the “why,” to place everything at the service of mission, and to intentionally build communities where people are known, formed, and sent, is not only helpful but also, urgent. The Church does not need more activity. It needs greater coherence, deeper conviction, and leaders who can align people and purpose toward the work of making saints.”—Cristofer Pereyra, Chief Executive Officer, Tepeyac Leadership Initiative (TLI)

Again, I pray that you will consider purchasing a copy of the book. If you do purchase a copy, send me an email saying “I purchased your book” and I will make sure you are sent information so you can participate in a special “Zoom Q&A” about the book.

And if you already have a book, please consider posting a review on Amazon as well.

To learn more, click here: The Catholic Leadership Puzzle

Share Say Yes to Holiness