Reading Church Documents Outside the Walls

TL Putnam once again invited me on to his radio show/podcast Outside the Walls. This time we nerded out over our love of Church documents and why it’s important to read them for ourselves, and in community with others, rather then rely solely on other people’s commentary about them.

We then talked specifically about Pope Francis's new Apostolic Letter about the Eucharistic Liturgy, Desiderio Desideravi. We discussed some of the historical and theological context for this document, what all the controversy was about, and what makes it different from other things the Church has taught about the liturgy.

I always love talking with TL and this time was no different. I hope my enjoyment came across in our conversation. You can listen here or on your favorite podcast app:

https://www.outsidethewalls.com/e/desiderio-desideravi/

And if you are interested in reading Church documents for yourself in community (and with a guide!), you can join me in two weeks for a workshop about Desiderio Desideravi.

By prayerfully reading and discussing what Pope Francis teaches about the Mass, in this workshop you will not only grow in your own love for the Eucharist but you will be more prepared to share that devotion with others. Along with myself and a small community of learners, you will come to see the Mass as the privileged place to encounter Jesus, experience his healing love, and be divinized, that is, as St. Augustine said, “become Christ himself.” 

This workshop will help you understand and participate in the Mass as a life-giving encounter with God's relentless desire for you.

This workshop is for anyone who wants to deepen their faith, including catechists, ministers, and clergy who want to enhance their ministry and connect with a supportive community of learners. Whether you're looking to renew your love for Jesus, find a deeper sense of belonging, or grow in your relationship with God, the Desiderio Desideravi workshop is the perfect opportunity for you. In this workshop, you will have:

• the freedom to participate as you want  

• the opportunity to learn and grow within a small group 

• a non-judgemental space that proclaims and invites, never imposes

• the skills to read and understand papal documents 

• the chance to ask and discuss any questions that you have

This three-part live workshop will be held virtually on April 13, April 20, and April 27 at 7:30-9:00pm (EST).

In addition to studying Desiderio Desideravi in April, there will also be workshops on Pope Francis' life changing teaching about holiness, Gaudete et Exsultate this summer and the Church’s newest social encyclical, Fratelli Tutti, this fall. These workshops are open to everyone, but members of Father's Heart Academy will have access to them for half the price!

Join me!