The "gift of tongues" (or "speaking in tongues") has been an enduring topic of debate and even controversy within the mainstream Church, as perhaps no other gift has. However, as St. Paul's first letter to the Corinthians indicates, prayer and praise tongues were a normal part of life in the early Church, and clearly have a place in the Christian life today.

In this episode, Fr. Michael and Fr. Chris first address some common criticisms and misunderstandings of tongues that have gained traction among orthodox Catholics. They then explain the nature and purpose of tongues - not only to demystify the gift from a theological and biblical standpoint, but to encourage our listeners to open their hearts to this gift, which is a powerful means of personal renewal and deeper sensitivity to the indwelling Spirit.

"We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him..." (Romans 8:28). Few can say this with greater assurance than Alma Pederson. One of Fr. Michael's parishioners, Alma shares vulnerably about her challenging upbringing: her years of growing up in a poor family in Mexico; her teenage years financially supporting her family in L.A. with no more than a third grade education; her years as a young unmarried mother. Though she often had to endure horrific circumstances - rejection, betrayal, emotional and physical abuse, crushing responsibilities - God protected her from adopting a victim mentality and formed in her a heart of love and service for others. Finally, Alma relates how, in the season of her greatest powerlessness, the Holy Spirit intervened in her life during a weekend retreat and turned her life completely upside down.

What exactly is "inner healing"? Is it just another fad of pop spirituality? And if it's not, who needs it? Everyone, or just a few?

The answer is: in a fallen world, we all need inner healing. In this episode, our hosts introduce the topic of inner healing, and its crucial role in the renewal of the Church. Topics covered in this episode include:

• What is meant by inner healing - and what isn't
• Points of distinction between inner healing and psychological therapy
• The Scriptural basis for inner healing prayer, and its counterparts in traditional spirituality
• Common signs that we have areas in need of inner healing
• The ultimate goal of inner healing: the ability to freely give and receive love
• Testimonies from our hosts on their personal inner healing journeys