How do we help our children see every person—regardless of abilities—as a beloved child of God? In this episode of Living LIT, Robyn is joined by Maggie Price, Special Needs Coordinator for the Diocese of Sioux Falls, SD. She shares about the beautiful work of her ministry: creating camps, retreats, and opportunities for those with special needs and disabilities to encounter Christ and belong in the life of the Church.

Together, they talk about how we as parents can guide our children to engage with others- with compassion and understanding, building a culture of dignity, empathy, and inclusion in our homes, parishes, and communities. The conversation also touches on how we as adults can grow in our own comfort and charity when encountering individuals with special needs—learning to respond not with hesitation or fear, but with warmth, welcome, and love.

Whether your family has personal experience with disability or is seeking ways to talk about it more intentionally, this conversation is full of grace, encouragement.

Topics Covered:

• The mission and ministry of serving individuals with special needs in the Church
• How retreats and camps open doors for belonging and faith formation
• Common misconceptions about disabilities and how to reframe them
• Talking to children about encountering people with special needs
• How to cultivate empathy and respect in everyday interactions
• Embracing the Pro-Life call to see Christ in every person

Get in touch with Maggie at: mprice@sfcatholic.org

What if faith formation for children could be both deeply contemplative and joyfully hands-on? In this episode of Living LIT—Living In Truth, Robyn welcomes Jodi Reel, a coordinator and catechist for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS), to explore this beautiful, Montessori-based approach to Catholic catechesis.

Together, they dive into what CGS is, how it nurtures a child’s personal relationship with God, and why it’s such a gift not only for children but also for parents, catechists, and parish communities. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about all the buzz with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, this episode offers an inspiring look at how the Good Shepherd calls each of us—especially the littlest ones—into His love.

In this episode:

What makes CGS different from traditional religious education

How the “Atrium” becomes a sacred space for children

The powerful impact CGS has on families and catechists

How you can get involved, whether as a parent or parish leader

Come and see how children, in their simplicity, often lead us more deeply into the mystery of God.

https://www.cgsusa.org/ CGSUSA | The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd® Method CGS website for more info

https://www.cgsusa.org/product/joyful_journey_continues/ book "Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues"

https://www.cgsusa.org/product/joyful_journey/. book "The Good Shepherd and the Child: A Joyful Journey revised"

https://www.cgsusa.org/discover/begin-cgs/cgs-in-the-school/ CGS in a school setting

In this powerful episode of Living LIT—Living In Truth, Robyn sits down with Fr. Carter Griffin, rector of the Saint John Paul II Seminary in Washington, D.C., to explore how the four foundational pillars of seminary formation—human, spiritual, intellectual, and apostolic—apply beautifully to forming strong, faith-filled families.

Drawing from his new book, Forming Families, Forming Saints, Fr. Griffin shares deep wisdom and practical insights on what a “formed family” looks like and how to intentionally build one. The conversation covers topics like:

What family formation really means

How to cultivate order and virtue in family life

Grounding children in reality amidst a digital culture

Practical tools for fostering human formation and flourishing

Learning to live in the present moment instead of dwelling on past parenting regrets

Whether you’re just beginning your parenting journey or in the thick of family life, this episode will leave you encouraged, inspired, and equipped to form your “little domestic church” in truth and love.

Fr. Griffin’s gentle wisdom and clear vision make this an absolute must-listen for every parent seeking to raise saints in today’s world.

Forming Families, Forming Saints by Fr Carter Griffin is available to purchase through: https://stpaulcenter.co/FormingFamiliesFormingSaints

Instagram Emmaus Road Publishing: https://www.instagram.com/p/DH6nG6JPGtC/

Instagram St Paul Center: https://www.instagram.com/stpaulcenter/