What floats your boat with the CST

August 3, 2026 by Leave a Comment

What Floats Your Boat with the CST

What floats your boat? Hear inspiring testimonies about faith and trust in God from the women of Magnificat.

A Conversation on Faith, Community, and Trust in God

As the final day of a memorable retreat cruise came to a close, the women of Magnificat gathered for one last inspiring conversation centered around a simple yet profound question: “What floats your boat?” In other words, what keeps you spiritually afloat through the storms and challenges of life?

In this heartfelt panel discussion, members of the Some Women podcast share personal testimonies of faith, healing, and transformation. Their answers reveal common themes that resonate deeply with every Christian journey.

For some, what keeps them afloat is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ—learning to surrender control and allow Him to guide the course of life. Others speak of the power of community, emphasizing that faith was never meant to be lived alone. Through prayer groups, friendships, and ministries, they have discovered the strength that comes from walking alongside fellow believers.

The discussion also highlights the importance of Scripture and the Sacraments, particularly the Eucharist, as essential sources of spiritual nourishment. Panelists share how obedience to God’s will, even during difficult and uncertain times, has carried them through life’s storms.

Several touching testimonies underscore the beauty of God’s faithfulness: overcoming fear, receiving answers to years of prayer, witnessing family members return to the faith, and experiencing the peace that comes through complete trust and surrender to God.

Audience members add their own reflections, speaking about the goodness of God, unconditional love, perseverance, forgiveness, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. A special contribution from Fr. John reminds listeners that true intimacy is found not merely in human relationships but in a deep, spiritual relationship with God and one another.

This episode is a beautiful reminder that while everyone’s “boat” may look different, the source of our strength is the same. Whether through community, prayer, the sacraments, trust, or surrender, Jesus Christ remains the One who keeps us afloat.

Key Themes:

  • Trusting God through every season of life
  • The power of Christian community
  • The importance of Scripture and the Sacraments
  • Learning surrender and obedience
  • Persevering through trials with faith
  • Growing in intimacy with God
  • Recognizing the work of the Holy Spirit in everyday life

No matter what storms may come, this conversation encourages us to ask ourselves: What truly floats our boat—and are we allowing Christ to be our captain?

The Central Service Team (CST) talk was given on February 13, 2026, the 5th day of the Water Walking Women Retreat on the Caribbean Visitation Cruise Jan.31– Feb. 14, 2026.

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Magnificat Presents Some Women – Holiness through Prayer and Sacrament

December 26, 2025 by Leave a Comment

Holiness through Prayer and Sacrament | Engage with our panel as we uncover the sacrament through the stories of women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples.In this episode, Angela, Jackie, and Pat share testimonies concerning their personal prayer lives and how they have developed over years and the importance of the sacraments in our growth in holiness.

Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today?  

In this SOME WOMEN  podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples,  Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today.    Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church.  Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!

Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting.

The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women.  Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org

 

 

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The Sacred Practice of Contemplation for Catholic Women

May 3, 2024 by Leave a Comment

For Catholic women seeking to nurture their faith amidst the demands of everyday life, the art of contemplation serves as a profound pathway to spiritual enrichment and communion with the divine.Embracing Divine Connection: The Sacred Practice of Contemplation for Catholic Women

In the bustling rhythm of our modern lives, amidst the noise and distractions, finding moments of peace and connection with God can seem elusive. Yet, within the rich tapestry of Catholic spirituality lies a timeless practice that offers solace and deepens our relationship with God and the Lord Jesus: contemplation. For Catholic women seeking to nurture their faith amidst the demands of everyday life, the art of contemplation serves as a profound pathway to spiritual enrichment and communion with the divine.

What is Contemplation?

At its heart, contemplation in the Catholic tradition is a sacred invitation to encounter God’s presence in the quiet depths of our souls. It is a practice of intentional reflection, prayerful listening, and openness to the workings of the Holy Spirit. In a world filled with constant noise and distractions, the call to contemplation beckons us to carve out sacred spaces in our lives where we can quiet our minds and open our hearts to God’s loving presence.

Prayer as Contemplation

One powerful avenue for contemplation within the Catholic faith is through the rich tradition of prayer. Whether it’s participating in the Holy Mass, reciting the Rosary, or spending time in silent adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, these sacred practices offer moments of stillness and communion with God. For example, meditating on the mysteries of the Rosary, such as the Annunciation or the Crucifixion, allows Catholic women to enter into deeper contemplation of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Saints, Our Friends

Furthermore, the Catholic Church offers a wealth of spiritual resources to support contemplative prayer and reflection. The lives of the saints, with their profound devotion to prayer and intimacy with God, serve as inspiring examples for Catholic women seeking to deepen their own spiritual lives. Reading the writings of mystics like St. Teresa of Avila or St. John of the Cross can provide valuable insights into the journey of contemplative prayer and the mystical union with God.

Sacraments

The sacraments, particularly the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Eucharist, are powerful sources of grace and spiritual nourishment for Catholic women on their contemplative journey. Through the sacramental encounter with Christ, women can experience healing, forgiveness, and renewal, deepening their connection with God and strengthening their faith.

Incorporating contemplation into daily life as a Catholic woman doesn’t require elaborate rituals or extraordinary efforts. It’s about cultivating a spirit of openness and receptivity to God’s presence in the midst of the ordinary. Whether it’s through daily prayer, participation in the sacraments, or reflecting on the lives of the saints, Catholic women can find countless opportunities to deepen their relationship with God and the Lord Jesus.

Contemplation is a Sacred Gift

In conclusion, contemplation is a sacred gift that enriches the spiritual lives of Catholic women, offering moments of peace, connection, and intimacy with God. As women of faith journey through the joys and challenges of life, may they continue to embrace the practice of contemplation, knowing that in the silence of their hearts, they encounter the loving presence of God.

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Understanding Sacramental Marriage: A Journey of Love and Faith

March 20, 2024 by Leave a Comment

Sacramental Marriage is a journey that lasts a lifetime. It's about growing together, facing life's challenges together, and helping each other get closer to God. It's a beautiful adventure of love, faith, and commitment.Today, we’re diving into a very special topic that’s close to the heart of our Catholic faith: Sacramental Marriage. This might sound like a big term, but don’t worry! We’re going to explore it together, step by step, so you can understand why it’s so important and beautiful in the eyes of the Church and God.

What is Sacramental Marriage?

In the Catholic Church, marriage isn’t just any ordinary event. It’s what we call a sacrament. A sacrament is a special way we experience God’s love and grace in our lives. It’s like a divine promise of love and support from God, and in the case of marriage, it’s a promise shared between two people who decide to spend their lives together.

Why Is It So Special?

Sacramental Marriage is special because it’s not just an agreement between two people. It’s a covenant, which means a sacred promise, with each other and with God. It’s like saying, “Not only do I choose to love you for my whole life, but God is part of our relationship too.” This makes the marriage strong, filled with love, faith, and the support of the entire Catholic community.

Love and Faith Together

In a Sacramental Marriage, love and faith walk hand in hand. The couple promises to love each other no matter what, through the good times and the challenging ones. They also promise to keep God at the center of their relationship, praying together, going to Mass, and serving others. This way, their love isn’t just about them; it’s a reflection of God’s love for us all.

The Wedding Ceremony

During the wedding ceremony, there are beautiful symbols and rituals that reflect the sacramental nature of marriage. The rings exchanged symbolize an unending circle of love and fidelity. The vows are sacred promises made before God and the community, showing the seriousness and beauty of their commitment.

Living Out a Sacramental Marriage

Being married in the Church means the couple has a special grace from God to help them live out their promises. This doesn’t mean there won’t be difficult times, but it does mean they’re never alone. God is with them, helping them to grow in love and faith together.

A Lifetime Journey

Sacramental Marriage is a journey that lasts a lifetime. It’s about growing together, facing life’s challenges together, and helping each other get closer to God. It’s a beautiful adventure of love, faith, and commitment.

Sacramental Marriage is a beautiful example of how love and faith come together in a powerful way. It shows us the beauty of committing to someone with God’s help and reminds us of the special plan God has for each of us in our lives.

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Cleansing

January 22, 2021 by 1 Comment

What is the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation?

This sacrament forgives our sins, reconciles us to God and his people, and gives us the grace to not sin again. In John 20: 22b-23 Jesus is with the apostles, “he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.”

Where do we start?

First we need to examine our conscience. There are many ways to do this: use the 10 Commandments as a guide, review the past few weeks and months , sit quietly and think of the times you have less than your best.

If you haven’t been in a while, tell the priest. He will talk you through the steps.

It’s important that we have contrition, that is, are sorry for our sins. We also need the desire to amend our ways so we don’t sin again. We say our sins aloud to the priest and then he offers us absolution and gives us a penance.

What do we receive in the sacrament?

Unbelievable grace. Forgiveness. The strength to not sin again.

Those are just a few gifts we receive and that why going to confession is so important and helpful.

If you are Catholic, consider going to receive the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation. If you are not Catholic, ask forgiveness of anyone you  have hurt and pray to receive grace to not to it again.

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God the Holy Spirit

October 18, 2019 by Leave a Comment

The Holy Spirit is the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity.  He is made known to us from the beginning of the Old Testament, in Genesis 1:2, “and the earth was without form or shape, with darkness over the abyss and a mighty wind sweeping over the waters” that wind is the Holy Spirit. Then we see again, in Exodus, God is with the Israelites as they flee from Egypt, “The LORD preceded them, in the daytime by means of a column of cloud to show them the way, and at night by means of a column of fire to give them light. Thus they could travel both day and night. Neither the column of cloud by day nor the column of fire by night ever left its place in front of the people (Ex: 13:21-22). God was with them and he is with us as well.

In the New Testament, we see the action of the Holy Spirit when Mary conceives Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35) and again, when Jesus is baptized, the Spirit, in the form of a dove rests above Jesus as he comes up out of the water (Luke 3:22).

The Holy Spirit completes the Father’s plan; he sent Jesus to save us and Jesus tells us that the Holy Spirit will come and be with us always. The Holy Spirit was poured out onto the apostles at Pentecost and enabled them to go out and preach the Good News. The Spirit guides,  protects and sanctifies (makes holy) the Church.

He calls all people to Christ and completes his saving mission. The Holy Spirit is with us always, drawing us closer to Christ, both consoling and convicting us of our sin. He is the source of our hope.

In Baptism we receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord (Is 11:1-2). They are sealed in us at Confirmation. As we live and grow as Christians, we grow in the fruits of the Spirit, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control (Gal 5: 22-23).

The Holy Spirit as many titles, which give an idea of how he acts in our lives: consoler, creator spirit, giver of life, paraclete, source of goodness, and spirit of truth.

The Holy Spirit is the fullness of love between the Father and the Son, reminding us that something always comes from love.

the not lukewarm challenge

 

This week, pray St. Augustine’s Prayer to the Holy Spirit and see what happens when you invite him into your life.

You can right-click on the image of the prayer to “save image as” and then print it if you’d like.

Prayer to the Holy Spirit

 

 

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