36. Creating a Sacred Space at Home, building a home altar and what is a spiritual retreat? Plus a Prayer for Pope Francis and the Conclave

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Thanks be to God! Our warmest thanks to each and every one of you! 

Happy Podcast Anniversary!

As we mark one year of the Veil and Armour podcast, this episode invites you into a personal family conversation about creating spiritual retreats within the rhythm of daily life. Recorded during Holy Week but relevant year-round, we explore how the concept of "retreat" can transform our homes into sanctuaries of prayer and peace.

Drawing from a recent retreat experience, we unpack the Biblical foundations for spiritual withdrawal and renewal. Just as the Prophet Elijah received heavenly nourishment in the wilderness that sustained him for 40 days, we too, need spiritual food for our journey. The conversation shares practical ways to create sacred spaces at home – from establishing a simple home altar with a crucifix and candle, to carving out moments for family prayer and Scripture reading.

My children's questions about retreat life lead to deeper reflections on prayer as relationship. "Prayer is a conversation with God," we discover, "and heaven itself is a relationship." This perspective transforms our understanding of spiritual disciplines from obligation to life-giving connection. Like a muscle that strengthens with exercise, our prayer life grows more robust with consistent practice.

The episode takes on unexpected poignancy as we discuss Pope Francis's final Easter appearance and his death on Easter Monday. His example of carrying suffering with dignity while still ministering to others becomes a powerful illustration of the Easter message – that our sufferings united with Christ's passion lead ultimately to the joy of His Resurrection.

Whether you're seeking to deepen your family's faith practices or looking for simple ways to create moments of spiritual connection amid busy days, this anniversary episode offers gentle guidance and encouragement. Join us as we celebrate a year of stories and continue our journey together, supporting one another through prayer and shared experience in the seasons ahead.

This episode was recorded in two parts, the first being on April 15, and the second part on May 2nd. There was a technical glitch to the April 15 recording which required a May 2nd updated ending. 

Thank you for your understanding + God bless! 

Please join me and my family for the free 7-day online prayer retreat with the Hozana App for Mother's Day on. May 11, please register here:

https://hozana.org/community/12511-veil-armour-our-lady-s-prayer-warriors 

You can also download the Hozana App. This is not an ad! I wrote this on a voluntary basis because I believe it's important to unite women in prayer! Let's uplift each other through the power of God and the power of prayer! 

Thank you very much once again for being on this journey of faith discussions and podcasting with us! May God continue to bless you and your families!

We hope you will join us online for the Mother's Day Retreat with the Hozana Prayer App!

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