The shownotes below were automatically created and may present issues with spelling and syntax. Reading these shownotes is not a replacement for hearing the podcast episode in its entirety.

Introduction

• Hosts: Lavinia Spirito and Mary Lou Nemecek
• Focus: The study of Saints, particularly St. Francis, St. Clare, and St. Catherine of Siena, in preparation for an upcoming trip to Italy.

Segment 1: St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi

• Discussion of St. Francis and his fundamental importance on the pilgrimage to Assisi, Italy.
• Introduction to St. Clare of Assisi, her early life, dedication to God, and influence by her mother's Faith.
• Comparison to romanticized portrayals of St. Clare in movies.
• Description of St. Clare's charitable actions and influence on the poor.
• Highlight of St. Clare's commitment and initiation into the Poor Clares.

Segment 2: St. Catherine of Siena

• Introduction to St. Catherine of Siena, born during the plague in 1347.
• Description of her family and early spiritual inclinations, dedicating her life to God at an early age.
• Overview of her visions and mystical experiences, including a mystical marriage with Jesus.
• Explanation of her role in persuading the Pope to return to Rome from Avignon and navigating the Great Western Schism.
• Summary of St. Catherine's significant works and impact, leading to her later recognition as a Doctor of the Church.

Segment 3: St. Catherine's Spiritual Insights

• Sharing notable spiritual insights from St. Catherine of Siena, including her understanding of the stages of Christian life.
• Discussing the three stages: beginner (fear-based), intermediate (love-based with constellations), and union (filial love for God).
• Emphasizing the importance of growing in holiness and service to God as an expression of true union with Him.

Conclusion

• Recap of the discussion on the Saints and their relevance to the upcoming trip to Italy.
• Closing with a meaningful quote from St. Catherine of Siena about setting the world on fire when being true to oneself.