Close to Home
Start date: February 2006
Molly Sabourin is a freelance writer focusing on issues of family, faith, and community. She is also an Orthodox Christian, a wife, and a frenzied mother of four. Read more of her reflections at her Close to Home blog.
Episodes
| Date | Title & Description | Duration | ||||
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| Mar 12, 2010 |
Work Out Your FaithIn her continuing series on the Morning Prayer attributed to Metropolitan Philaret of Moscow, Molly talks about the work of faith involved in our salvation. |
19:39 |
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| Jan 28, 2010 |
Greet This Day In PeaceToday Molly begins a series of reflections on the widely used Morning Prayer most often attributed to Metropolitan Philaret of Moscow. In her introduction, she talks about anxiety and fears and the perspective opened up to her when she embraced the Orthodox faith. |
16:27 |
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| Dec 11, 2009 |
Good Will Toward MenDuring this Nativity season, Molly reflects on what it means to love our Neighbor - even if they have different beliefs, moral standards, or no belief at all. |
11:32 |
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| Oct 23, 2009 |
A Difference Of OpinionWhile society denigrates into a series of angry and uncivil arguments, Molly reflects on the temptation to always be "right" vs. the need to be "righteous." |
13:36 |
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| Sep 23, 2009 |
For They Shall Be ComfortedBlessed are they who throw off all inhibitions, forging bloodstained through the crowd, for the unbiased hem of Christ’s garment. |
11:37 |
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| Sep 11, 2009 |
On The Necessity Of BeautyWhy all the fuss about pageantry and beauty in Orthodoxy? Molly contends it is not God who needs it but us! |
11:52 |
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| Aug 28, 2009 |
Enlightenment"Teach me to act firmly and wisely, without embittering and embarrassing others," says the morning prayer of Metropolitan Philaret of Moscow. So, does that include our children? Molly catches herself forgetting that fact. |
08:54 |
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| Jul 30, 2009 |
SimplicityLife for many of us has degenerated into an endless series of self-evaluations and pretense which only serve to complicate the simple fact that we are all imperfect human beings in need of forgiveness. |
11:19 |
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| Jul 10, 2009 |
ThriveHow much time do we waste waiting for life to happen and worrying about things that might or might not happen? Molly is challenging herself and others to live and thrive now. |
11:47 |
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| Jun 12, 2009 |
PardonedWhat is unconditional love and forgiveness? Molly Sabourin says, "Blessed are those who rejoice in the compassion so generously showered upon them and in thankfulness respond by spreading out that same mercy like a blanket of impartiality on a world whose fragile inhabitants are in desperate need of warmth and kindness." |
09:30 |
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| May 25, 2009 |
Waiting For ChangeJust about the time you think you have one stage of your children's development figured out, they move on to the next one with all of the uncertainties and fears associated with it. This article is from the current edition of The Handmaiden magazine, published by Conciliar Press. |
12:38 |
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| May 03, 2009 |
LetdownLife can be full of disappointments and unmet expectations especially for a young mother. Molly Sabourin finds hope in the realness of life and the stability of the Church. |
12:16 |
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| Apr 14, 2009 |
PromiseAs Holy Week begins, we are tempted to lament the failings of Lent. Molly is challenging herself and others to stand up again and anticipate Pascha with joy and the promise of new life! |
09:31 |
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| Mar 29, 2009 |
Naming The ChildMolly is prompted to write a letter to the baby she miscarried 9 years ago after reading the newly released book by Matushka Jenny Schroedel entitled "Naming the Child." |
10:14 |
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| Mar 08, 2009 |
Arise"My soul, my soul, arise! Why are you sleeping? The end is drawing near, and you will be confounded. Awake, then, and, be watchful, that Christ our God may spare you, Who is everywhere present and fills all things." – Kontakion from the Canon of Saint Andrew. |
14:40 |
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| Feb 26, 2009 |
A House UnitedMolly demonstrates the importance of a husband who, while far from perfect, is at the very least devoted to his wife, to his family, and to his God. Originally published in the Winter 2009 issue of The Handmaiden. |
14:32 |
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| Feb 12, 2009 |
Close to Home—the Book!If you're a fan of Close to Home, then you'll want to order the book. Molly Sabourin's Close to Home: One Orthodox Mother's Quest for Peace, Patience, and Perseverance can now be purchased in advance at ConciliarPress.com. Here, Molly briefly explains what prompted the book, as well as how it will expand upon her popular podcast and blog. |
07:50 |
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| Jan 22, 2009 |
CommunityBy becoming integrated, through communal worship and a shared partaking of the Holy Mysteries, into the larger Body of Christ, we are often times called upon to carry on our shoulders those who are struggling, and just as often to accept our need to be carried, when we are dry as bone and have nothing to give. |
10:10 |
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| Jan 01, 2009 |
AbsorptionThank goodness for fresh starts and new beginnings. In this New Year, Molly challenges herself and all of us to absorb life with the attitude: Thy Will – Thy Perfect Will Be Done. |
09:42 |
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| Dec 17, 2008 |
SilentWhat gifts are you bringing to the Savior this Nativity season? |
09:50 |
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| Dec 06, 2008 |
St. Nicholas Day At The Sabourin’sIn this encore presentation, Molly interviews son Elijah about St. Nicholas and shares the dramatic story of this venerable Saint. |
19:44 |
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| Nov 23, 2008 |
ThankfulBefore you make out your list to read at the table this coming Thursday, think about those things to be thankful for that have contributed to your salvation. |
12:09 |
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| Nov 06, 2008 |
TenacityPre-occupied with your own fears, self-doubt, and petty interests? Nothing that a little tenacious elbow grease won't cure. |
09:07 |
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| Oct 24, 2008 |
RestIt is tempting to make things more complicated than they need to be when we cannot wrap our minds around a Love that's not dependent on our actions or intentions. It requires restraint to ignore our doubts and take Christ at His word. |
09:37 |
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| Oct 08, 2008 |
ChecklistDo you measure yourelf as an Orthodox Christian by some self imposed checklist to assure that you look the part? Molly has some insight for all of us but especially for mothers. |
11:00 |
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| Sep 20, 2008 |
AflameOur failings and inadequacies don't hold a "candle" to the Holy Flame - Glory to Thee Who Has Shown Us the Light! |
11:11 |
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| Sep 05, 2008 |
HonorableWe often suffer with our children when they are misunderstood or falsely accused but how is Mary shown to us as the ultimate example of love and compassion through the sufferings of her own Son? |
15:14 |
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| Aug 19, 2008 |
Photo OpportunityFrom the pages of the current edition of The Handmaiden, Molly reflects on her patron Saint Anna. |
13:48 |
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| Jul 29, 2008 |
BoundariesMolly reflects on both friendships and evangelism and the investment of ourselves in both. |
09:22 |
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| Jul 18, 2008 |
ResignationMoms are bombarded with books, articles and self-help plans toward better motherhood. But, what if you don't fit any of the molds? Here is one mother's resigned acknowledgment in the form of a letter to her kids. |
06:54 |
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| Jul 11, 2008 |
MarriageLast week, Molly and Troy celebrated their 11th wedding anniversary and today, Molly reflects on the lessons learned over the years and gets some help from St. John Chrysostom. |
14:48 |
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| Jun 25, 2008 |
SacredIn a throw-away society, there is healing and redemption to be found in the Orthodox view of the sacred. |
08:26 |
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| Jun 16, 2008 |
ExpressionWhat's in a song? From a mother's composition expressing love for her children to the great and theologically rich themes of the Church, music has an undeniable role to play in our lives. |
13:13 |
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| Jun 01, 2008 |
HealingMolly is deeply touched by the story of OCMC missionary Lynette Hoppe as told in the book compiled by Fr. Luke Veronis and published by Conciliar Press - Lynette's Hope. |
11:16 |
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| May 21, 2008 |
AssumptionsBe kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle - Philo of Alexandria |
07:54 |
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| May 15, 2008 |
StillEvery encounter with disappointment and injustice is a chance to be purified of our stubborn and egocentric passions. |
08:36 |
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| May 09, 2008 |
LiberationMolly explores the healthy boundaries found in the guidelines of our faith. |
09:14 |
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| May 01, 2008 |
Feast"The table is full-laden; feast ye all sumptuously", said St. John in his Paschal homily. The goal is to enjoy life in light of the truth of the resurrection! |
09:14 |
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| Apr 18, 2008 |
Delusion"There are two kinds of people," said CS Lewis. "Those who say to God, 'Thy will be done,' and those to whom God says 'All right then, have it your way.'" In this episode, Molly talks about faith and doubt. |
08:02 |
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| Apr 11, 2008 |
Despair"Poor me" can be the common sentiment during Great Lent but we have so much reason not to despair! |
08:23 |
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| Apr 04, 2008 |
An Impracticality ReconsideredToday Molly reads her article from the current edition of The Handmaiden magazine. Balancing your spiritual intake with your day to day interests and needs can be a challenge for a busy mother. |
10:37 |
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| Mar 28, 2008 |
ForgetfulWeakness in soul and body can lead to spiritual amnesia especially during Great Lent. |
07:37 |
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| Mar 19, 2008 |
FaithfulLooking for a place to serve? Where outside of our own homes could so many opportunities exist for being stretched and for serving God by serving others this Lent? |
08:57 |
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| Mar 12, 2008 |
CultivationWe can all be too good at transforming our desires into necessities. But, what is the lesson to be learned during Great Lent? |
08:26 |
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| Mar 05, 2008 |
ForgivenessAs Great Lent begins, we turn our attention to the relationships we have with our fellow Christians and ask for their forgiveness. |
08:46 |
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| Feb 29, 2008 |
SidetrackedHow do we make it through to other side of restlessness, finding peace in a moment of not doing, not telling, not asking, not trying but just being in the presence of Jesus? |
07:00 |
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| Feb 20, 2008 |
MetamorphosisThe transition is not easy and may even seem weird at first, but in this podcast, Molly urges you to "Come and See." |
08:02 |
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| Feb 13, 2008 |
SavedAre you saved? A familiar question if you come from evangelical background but what does it mean to an Orthodox Christian? |
09:04 |
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| Feb 07, 2008 |
OpportunityLife presents regular opportunities to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. But is it the catastrophic or the routine where that is most played out? |
07:40 |
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| Jan 31, 2008 |
Dead EndsGrudges, envy, Internet surfing, self-pity, curiosity, and anxiousness. These detract from, not encourage, our ability to act intentionally throughout the day, wringing out of it every sacred opportunity that we can to grow in faith. If you doubt it, just ask Scrunch Bob Short Pants. |
07:26 |
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| Jan 23, 2008 |
SatisfactionIf only I could have . . . . fill in the blank - A new car? a new spouse? A new job? Molly helps us find the true source of satisfaction. |
07:15 |
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| Jan 17, 2008 |
ParticipationWe all have a role to play in the continuing drama that tells the story of our salvation. |
07:09 |
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| Jan 10, 2008 |
ExcellenceMolly reads an excerpt from Brothers Karamazov which directs us to a more excellent way. |
09:32 |
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| Jan 03, 2008 |
ResolutionWhat are your New Year's resolutions? Do they sound vaguely familiar from previous years? |
06:49 |
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| Dec 27, 2007 |
HumbledThy Nativity O Christ God has shown to the world the light of wisdom - and humility. |
07:07 |
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| Dec 19, 2007 |
Wonder"God is with us, understand all ye nations and submit yourselves. For God is with us!" (Isa. 8:9) So, what are the implications of this reality? |
08:33 |
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| Dec 12, 2007 |
DisappointmentGodliness with contentment is great gain (I Tim. 6:6). What are you hoping for this Christmas? |
07:20 |
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| Dec 06, 2007 |
Truth"You can't handle the truth," said Jack Nicholson's character in A Few Good Men. Can we? |
06:46 |
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| Nov 28, 2007 |
The Real St. NickMolly has a special guest on this festal edition of Close to Home in preparation for St. Nicholas Day Dec. 6. |
19:44 |
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| Nov 22, 2007 |
Sunday Morning ChaosThere is nothing like Sunday morning preparation for church to test a family's patience! |
07:13 |
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| Nov 15, 2007 |
LoveToday we eavesdrop on a tender letter Molly has written to her children. |
10:13 |
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| Nov 08, 2007 |
SentimentalWhile we were created with emotions, sentimentality can often get in the way of authentic faith. |
07:06 |
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| Nov 01, 2007 |
SignificantHIgh expectations don't always line up with real life. Today, Molly is reflecting on our connection to the subtance of life as found in the Church. |
07:46 |
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| Oct 27, 2007 |
PrudenceThat line between gullability and prudence can sometimes get blurred. |
06:26 |
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| Oct 17, 2007 |
SleeplessOur heart's desire is that our children follow Christ and it is so wonderful when they see that desire exhibited in us. |
07:26 |
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| Oct 10, 2007 |
MiracleMiracles still happen - even for three year olds! |
08:36 |
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| Oct 03, 2007 |
UnclutteredWhat is cluttering our lives and keeping us from obedience to Christ and His commandments? |
07:56 |
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| Sep 26, 2007 |
Unflappable"Be Anxious For Nothing" is a scriptural admonishment that can be easier for some than others. |
08:36 |
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| Sep 19, 2007 |
ResistanceDo good. Sounds reasonable enough, right? |
07:53 |
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| Sep 12, 2007 |
ScreamerBe careful what you pray for because His answer may burn like a branding iron. |
08:48 |
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| Sep 05, 2007 |
TrendyFashion comes and goes but the Faith of the Apostles endures despite the trendiness of society and modern religion. |
07:42 |
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| Aug 30, 2007 |
ChangeSome things are just not worth holding on to in light of eternity. |
07:31 |
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| Aug 22, 2007 |
Idle TalkWe pray the prayer of St. Ephraim during Great Lent and understand the big items, but what about this one? |
08:07 |
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| Aug 15, 2007 |
CommunicationCommunicating implies staying in touch including in our relationship with God. |
06:41 |
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| Aug 08, 2007 |
SacredBringing up our children in an increasingly hostile world is the subject Molly addresses in today's episode. |
06:48 |
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| Aug 02, 2007 |
ShameTo love like we have been loved is the ultimate goal of the Christian. |
06:23 |
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| Jul 26, 2007 |
RootsIt takes time to develop roots and blossom in foreign soil. |
06:48 |
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| Jul 19, 2007 |
InconvenientSometimes we need to abandon the good and choose the better even if it is inconvenient. |
06:28 |
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| Jul 12, 2007 |
AnniversaryOn the occasion of her 10th anniversary, Molly gives tribute to her husband, Troy. |
05:07 |
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| Jul 05, 2007 |
Extraordinary“Acquire the Spirit of Peace,” said St. Seraphim of Sarov, “and thousands of souls around you will be saved.” |
06:14 |
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| Jun 28, 2007 |
BoredomIf your children are bored this summer, you will be able to relate to Molly's dilemma. Look for a helpful application in teaching our children to appreciate the liturgy. |
07:41 |
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| Jun 21, 2007 |
PersecutionThose small inconveniences and embarassments we experience don't begin to compare with the sufferings endured by the great martyrs of the faith. |
06:30 |
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| Jun 14, 2007 |
EntangledLike sticky gum, our worries and fears can entangle our minds but there is hope. |
07:02 |
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| Jun 07, 2007 |
FamilyThrough thick and thin, the journey toward salvation is a family project! |
06:38 |
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| May 31, 2007 |
WisdomThe coming of the Holy Spirit gives hope for bringing up our children wisely. |
07:05 |
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| May 24, 2007 |
HeroMemorial Day is a time to remember those who served as well as those who will serve. Here is a story that truly hits "Close to Home." |
06:58 |
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| May 17, 2007 |
Blessed Are Those Who MournIncluding those who genuinely mourn over their sin. |
04:49 |
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| May 10, 2007 |
HomeMolly explores the fulfillment of life to be found in the community of faith called Church. |
05:56 |
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| May 03, 2007 |
Living WaterHow thirsty are you? |
06:28 |
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| Apr 26, 2007 |
Rise and WalkLessons from the story of the Paralytic |
05:33 |
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| Apr 21, 2007 |
TimeThis day is a perfect day for standing still. |
05:30 |
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| Apr 12, 2007 |
PossessionReleasing the good and grasping the better through the power of the Resurrection. |
06:13 |
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| Apr 08, 2007 |
Indeed He Is Risen!Incorporating the reality of a risen Savior into the life of an eight year old. |
05:52 |
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| Mar 29, 2007 |
Death and ResurrectionMolly reflects on the realities of our daily experience in light of Christ's Passion. |
05:31 |
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| Mar 22, 2007 |
St. Mary of EgyptMolly reflects on her early misunderstandings of this revered Saint. |
05:47 |
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| Mar 18, 2007 |
SpringThe signs of spring bring hope of Resurrection |
05:33 |
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| Mar 13, 2007 |
FireMolly reflects on the danger of allowing the spark of God's love to get drown out by the cares of the world. |
05:39 |
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| Mar 05, 2007 |
Hunger for RighteousnessAnother in Molly Sabourin's series on the Beatitudes. |
05:01 |
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| Mar 04, 2007 |
Blessed are the PeacemakersPart of a series of Reflections on the Beatitudes by Molly Sabourin. |
05:12 |
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| Jan 05, 2007 |
Epiphany |
07:34 |
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| Dec 12, 2006 |
Tradition |
05:40 |
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| Dec 02, 2006 |
Guidance |
05:48 |
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| Nov 01, 2006 |
Advent |
08:37 |
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| Sep 01, 2006 |
Sunday Morning Chaos |
07:13 |
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| Aug 01, 2006 |
Forgiveness - Mat. Jenny Schroedel |
06:45 |
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| Feb 01, 2006 |
ConfessionRead more of Molly Sabourin's writings at her blog site Close to Home. |
05:59 |
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