Good morning! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell discuss Bl. Nicolas Steno, a Lutheran convert and pioneer in the earth sciences whose feast is today. Other guests include Fr. Robert Nixon, OSB, with more insights into the daily life of a monk, and pastoral counselor Kevin Prendergast on navigating difficult family situations during the holidays. Plus news, weather, sports, and a whole lot more…

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Prayer for God’s Mercy by Padre Pio

O Lord, we ask for a boundless confidence and trust in Your divine mercy, and the courage to accept the crosses and sufferings which bring immense goodness to our souls and that of Your Church. Help us to love You with a pure and contrite heart, and to humble ourselves beneath Your cross, as we climb the mountain of holiness, carrying our cross that leads to heavenly glory. May we receive You with great faith and love in Holy Communion, and allow You to act in us as You desire for your greater glory. O Jesus, most adorable Heart and eternal fountain of Divine Love, may our prayer find favor before the Divine Majesty of Your heavenly Father.

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RITA HEIKENFELD’S BLESSED CHRISTMAS MIX

I love the significance of each ingredient here and the little poem that goes with it.

Let the little ones help!

Mix together and if you give this as a gift, include the meaning of the ingredients

Bugles –  Trumpets heralding His foretold birth.

Pretzels – (not pretzel sticks but mini pretzels) 

Mary’s arms cradled this Child of great worth.

Fruit & nuts – 

Praise and gifts the 3 wise men brought.

Candy canes – the mini ones are nice – 

Shepherds’ staffs helping them to the new King they sought.

Candy stars – 

The star of Bethlehem brightly that night shone.

Hershey kisses   – 

The love God has for us, calling us “His own”.

Raffia – (tie the bag with this)  

Bedding of the manger for His humble birth.

God’s Son, our Savior, sent lovingly to the earth!

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Full list of guests