Ep47 Sanity & Sanctity with St. Thérèse: Book Study Part 1

“Her ‘little way’ was her means of holiness, and it was also what kept her sane.”
~ Fr. Marc Foley

It's book study time! At long last, Kenna and Pat are joined by Fr. Nathan LaLiberte to delve into the thought-provoking spiritual gem, The Love That Keeps Us Sane: Living the Little Way of St. Thérèse of Lisieux by Fr. Marc Foley, OCD. Drawing from the psychological and spiritual genius of St. Thérèse, they discuss the interplay between sanity and sanctity as a fruit of humility, the value of silence, and the complexities of human relationships. The conversation covers the perils of external validation, the significance of personal agency, and discerning what to share with others.

As the trio reflects on the opportunities and struggles of seeking sanity and sanctity in a broken world, the conversation offers illuminating insights that touch on the intersection of faith, mental well-being, and everyday life. Join them in the pursuit of authenticity in spiritual practices.

Be a part of our book study on The Love That Keeps Us Sane by Fr. Marc Foley, OCD: Order your copy here 

Episode 47 Show Notes

Chapters:
0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
12:51: Intro to The Love That Keeps Us Sane
26:01: Chapter 1: The Secrets That Keep Us Sane
37:12: Chapter 2: Finding Her Way
53:41: Chapter 3: The Sanity of Silence
1:06:56: Challenge By Choice

Questions for Reflection & Discussion:

1. What are your previous experiences and impressions of St. Thérèse of Lisieux? Is this book showing you a new side of her?
2. Fr. Foley says that Thérèse "had the genius of knowing how to love others without becoming entangled or enmeshed in their problems." When are you able to love like this? When you do you struggle to love without becoming enmeshed?
3. How would you distinguish between bad secrets that lead to shame and the "secrets of the King"? How do you decide whether to give someone access to your interior life?
4. Thérèse lived in complete commitment to humility, even anonymity. How are you motivated by fame & being validated by others? What would greater humility look like for you?
5. What do you think of Thérèse's personal motto, "the loser always wins"? How can such a counter cultural motto lead to greater sanity & sanctity for you?
6. How do you decide whether to speak your mind or to remain silent? What motivations, values, and consequences do you consider when making that decision?

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.