In this book, we look at Augustine’s fascination with Manichaeism, the death of his friend and how his wrestling leads to an examination of the meaning of words. In fact, his analysis of the structure of a sentence, in true Augustinian fashion, will reveal to us the meaning of time and eternity. While he teaches us about words, he also gives a lesson on how to position ourselves to view reality and experience true conversion. We will look at phrases like, “I turned my back to the light and my face to the things it illuminated.”

Book III- The Case for Classical EducationJoin us for our look at Book III where Augustine encounters the fundamental question: What is education? We will see that in his journey to Christ, he first turns to the pagan Cicero. We see the pattern of the early Church right here. We find the noble search for truth in the pagans and this thirst then is only satisfied by Christ Himself. This is why the classical model of education is the most suited for finding Christ.The book begins with Augustine following unholy loves in Carthage. While reading Cicero changes his mind, we have yet to see what will convert his heart. Whether it is grappling with lust or being seduced by the Manichees, Augustine is still unteachable by the end of this book. And yet, the suspense builds towards hope as we learn about Monica's famous dream and her conversation with the formidable Bishop Ambrose.Perhaps most importantly, we will see why this book on Augustine's early years confronts us with a question: How do we approach teaching and learning? As a liberal arts school, we deeply desire to know the answer and we find here as we move through the Confessions, a work like no other.Join our Intellectual Society! https://www.holychildnm.com/about/intellectual-formation

Join us for Book Two where we learn about the ways Augustine places his fall into sin with Old Testament imagery from Genesis and Job and New Testament visions of the sower, the field and the Prodigal Son. Why does he spend so much time discussing the theft of the pears? Augustine challenges us to ask: How am I listening to God’s voice? Where might my ears be closed? Find out about this and other events from his period of “adolescentia” in our look at Book Two.Would you like to gain access to group reflection questions for these episodes? Then visit our website or sign up with our intellectual society by clicking here https://www.holychildnm.com/about/intellectual-formation

Join us as we plunge right into Book One! In particular, we will be mentioning how Augustine wrote his autobiography as a retelling of Virgil's Aeneid. (Don't forget, Virgil himself was retelling Homer's Iliad and Odyssey.) Would you like to learn more about how these three great authors provide the cornerstone for Western, Catholic literature, leading all the way to Dante in the Middle Ages? Then sign up with our intellectual society by clicking here https://www.holychildnm.com/about/intellectual-formation

Welcome to today's episode, where we dive into an important discussion on protecting kids from the potential pitfalls of addictive technology, including video games, social media, and other screens. While the topic may feel strong for some, we recognize every family's journey is unique, and there are many ways to approach screen time responsibly. Our aim here is to share insights from an organization that has seen success in helping families manage or even eliminate device dependency, offering practical ideas rooted in data and a balanced perspective. We hope this conversation serves as a resource for families striving for thoughtful, healthy media habits for their children in today’s digital world. For a letter from the Principal that delves into more detail on how to approach this topic from a Catholic perspective, Click Here: https://mailchi.mp/holychildnm/episode16 Resources mentioned in this episode: ScreenStrong: a gold mine of resources for parents.  Several free, though many cost. https://screenstrong.org/ Jose Briones’ Dumb Phone Selection Tool https://josebriones.org/dumbphone-finder To down select to child appropriate phones, on the left side, select “No” under Browser and select “Reliable” under Support and Updates. A detailed comparison chart for alternatives marked to parents for their child’s first phone (can also be used into adulthood, depending on lifestyle) https://screensanity.org/tool/first-phone-comparison-chart/  Several Parent Guides to help parents navigate technology and apps https://screensanity.org/tool-category/parent-guide/

Welcome to Our Year-Long Journey through St. Augustine's Confessions! We are delighted to have you with us as we embark on this transformative journey through one of the most profound spiritual autobiographies ever written. Our video discussions will begin in August 2024 and will continue through May 2025, giving us ample time to delve deeply into St. Augustine's Confessions. In our first video, we will introduce St. Augustine and give some background to his Confessions. We will also with one of our teachers, Ms. Marlena Galassi, and her husband about their personal conversion through reading the great books. Here's what else you can look forward to: Engaging Video Discussions: We plan to release two insightful videos each month, guiding you through St. Augustine's journey of faith. Dynamic In-Person Discussions: Join us for in-person discussions sprinkled throughout the year. The first session is scheduled for Sunday, September 8th, at 2 PM. These gatherings will offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow participants and engage in meaningful conversations. To stay up to date on locations, dates, and other important details, please sign up for our Intellectual Society email list. https://www.holychildnm.com/about/intellectual-formation This is more than just a book study—it's a chance to transform your life through the powerful insights of a saint. Whether you're a longtime admirer of St. Augustine or new to his works, this study will offer fresh perspectives and meaningful connections. We are here to support you every step of the way. Explore the resources, participate in discussions, and watch the videos that will guide us through this journey of faith and discovery. Together, let's deepen our spiritual understanding and grow closer to God. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. Let's get started!

As we close our School's year long journey with The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, I hope this video will illuminate and clarify some of the themes we have mentioned throughout the year. While our focus has been on the children, as Pope Benedict XVI taught us, ultimately this book is for adults as it teaches us how abide in Christ’s love in childlike simplicity.

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam

Dear Listeners,

In my eight years here at the school I have so often heard our children pray for an end to abortion. I have been moved by so many staff members and parishioners who devote themselves to the pro-life cause or have witnessed to me their own sacrifices for life. What a privilege it was to sit down and have a conversation with Mayra Rodriguez just before her presentation at our parish last month! I especially loved hearing about how the sidewalk prayer warriors were the force that led to her change in thinking.Mayra is a powerful advocate against abortion, a champion for women and the unborn, and is driven to expose the truth behind Planned Parenthood's dangerous practices. She credits the faith of those praying on the sidewalk and the Divine Mercy of God for her reversion to the Catholic faith and for the strength it took to stand against the abortion Goliath - and win.We hope you take the time to listen to this sobering, but also hopeful, episode.

Blessings,

Mrs. Martinez

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In Mansion 7 we look at how Saint Teresa describes the differences between the betrothal and the spiritual marriage in the soul. The saint’s fascinating interpretation of Martha and Mary brings the seven mansions to a culmination. And finally, we look at how the teachings of St. John of the Cross complement those of Teresa and give some masculine insight into how both men and women are called to be the bride with Christ in this spiritual nuptial vision.

AMDG Welcome to our episode on the story of how our little school in the East Mountains worked to make our St. Jerome’s Curriculum come alive with beauty on the hallways of our school! In this episode we will talk about our story. How did we find our art? How did we build on what Mrs. D was already doing here? Who paid for it? How does it reflect our curriculum? What are other schools doing with this vision? If you listen carefully, you will see how the three of us, along with Mrs. D, have been prepared for years by the Holy Spirit to bring this vision to our children. The role of Christ in the Desert Monastery, https://christdesert.org/ especially speaks to me as Catholic education began in the monastery centuries ago. If you want to go deeper, we will discuss how allowing ourselves to be vulnerable enough to be looked at by the art is the goal. We discuss how the rich art on our walls and the literature we read tell a story and teaches students about narrative that help them build a vision for their own lives. Also, how does the fact that art reaches into the pre-rational part of the human person open up the child to the humanity of Jesus in ways they may not even be aware of?  As in all things in our school, our look at beauty is meant to draw us to Christ Himself, the epitome of beauty. I know this discussion is long and may be worth breaking it up into three sessions, but truly it is worthwhile listening. Thank you for being on the journey to Christ with us here at Holy Child! Blessings, Principal Martinez

2:00 Where did the idea for Masterpiece Reproductions on our walls come from? 6:30 Monasteries....and who is doing this art like that!? 7:50 Introduction to Benedictus Art and Derek Brooks 15:45 How to be looked at by the art 27:15 How does this art in our Hallways impact our students 33:00 A New Renaissance 37:38 The role of community in appreciating and funding the art 42:00 More about funds and donors 54:10 Introduction to The Saint Luke Guild 1:12:15 National Recognition

Welcome to Mansion 6 of the Interior Castle!

In Mansion Six, Saint Teresa discusses her famous transverberation where the flame of love pierces her heart. We will also explore some of the ideas coming from Sr. Mary Prudence Allen, RSM, The Concept of Woman, (3 volumes) who connects Teresa’s thoughts with the medieval saint, Thomas Aquinas and the modern prophet, Pope Saint John Paul II and his groundbreaking Theology of the Body. It is always exciting to see how the Holy Spirit has been guiding the Church for thousands of years. View more from the Holy Child Catholic School Interior Castle video series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf_usepns-sePBg6DtvmgCfDMvIWydCAm

This is the fifth and final episode in a series of conversations with our teachers in which we discuss our main takeaways from the ICLE (Institute for Catholic Liberal Education) national conference this past Summer. We are so blessed to have been awarded a grant from APT Family Enterprises that allowed us to be inspired and equipped to reclaim the Church’s full vision of education and to bring it to life in our classrooms. Mrs. Sanchez shares her understanding of teaching mathematics at a classical school. She discusses how she relishes seeing the order of the cosmos and God’s hand at work. She also discusses the time honored traditions of Festina Lente and Multum non multa. Then, enjoy Mrs. Dominguez, a veteran teacher comparing the difference between Holy Child and other Catholic schools she has encountered. (Hint: the Holy Spirit is “in the air.”) This series is sponsored by Kahlig Auto Group https://www.kahligauto.com/ ************************************************************************************* Follow our podcast, Raising Saints, Forming Scholars on some of the major platforms to hear more about Classical Education and the Great Books! https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/holychildnm Enjoying our content? Consider supporting our school financially to help us Raise Saints, and Form scholars! https://www.holychildnm.com/give

This is the fourth episode in a series of conversations with our teachers in which we discuss our main takeaways from the ICLE (Institute for Catholic Liberal Education) national conference this past Summer. We are so blessed to have been awarded a grant from APT Family Enterprises that allowed us to be inspired and equipped to reclaim the Church’s full vision of education and to bring it to life in our classrooms. Mrs. Anaya’s shares her experiences in a talk about recognizing our priests, sisters and the sanctity of marriage. Did you know that boys hear the call for priesthood at a much higher percentage rate in Catholic schools than in public schools? Check out this website to discover how to encourage the vocational calling of your own child Vocationministry.com This series is sponsored by Kahlig Auto Group https://www.kahligauto.com/ ************************************************************************************* Follow our podcast, Raising Saints, Forming Scholars on some of the major platforms to hear more about Classical Education and the Great Books! https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/holychildnm Enjoying our content? Consider supporting our school financially to help us Raise Saints, and Form scholars! https://www.holychildnm.com/give

This is the third episode in a series of conversations with our teachers in which we discuss our main takeaways from the ICLE (Institute for Catholic Liberal Education) national conference this past Summer. We are so blessed to have been awarded a grant from APT Family Enterprises that allowed us to be inspired and equipped to reclaim the Church’s full vision of education and to bring it to life in our classrooms.

Listen to Mrs. Padilla, our Upper School History teacher share what she learned about teaching history to her students. Also, don’t miss Mrs. Padilla’s story of how she was listening to the Lord prior to the conference and heard His words confirmed in Pittsburgh from the Gospel of Matthew. And finally, she will reveal how the classical vision emphasizes our dignity as human persons, especially in its focus on memorization and recitation.

This series is sponsored by Kahlig Auto Group https://www.kahligauto.com/

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Follow our podcast, Raising Saints, Forming Scholars on some of the major platforms to hear more about Classical Education and the Great Books! https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/holychildnm Enjoying our content? Consider supporting our school financially to help us Raise Saints, and Form scholars! https://www.holychildnm.com/give

This is the second episode in a series of conversations with our teachers in which we discuss our main takeaways from the ICLE (Institute for Catholic Liberal Education) national conference this past Summer. We are so blessed to have been awarded a grant from APT Family Enterprises that allowed us to be inspired and equipped to reclaim the Church’s full vision of education and to bring it to life in our classrooms. In this episode listen to Mrs. Fogarty and Mr. Talley discuss what they learned from some of the breakout presentations they attended. In our discussion, we will learn how memorization can help the human person endure a difficult time. Also, what is the relationship between good books and virtue? And finally, what is the difference between a “good” book and a “great” book? (We even share ideas about detective stories in this exchange!) (Note-the reference to “Jean Valjean” comes from Victor Hugo’s masterpiece, Les Miserables.) This series is sponsored by Kahlig Auto Group https://www.kahligauto.com/ ********************************************************** Follow our podcast, Raising Saints, Forming Scholars on some of the major platforms to hear more about Classical Education and the Great Books! https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/holychildnm Enjoying our content? Consider supporting our school financially to help us Raise Saints, and Form scholars! https://www.holychildnm.com/give

This is the first episode in a series of conversations with our teachers in which we discuss our main takeaways from the  @CathLibEd  ICLE (Institute for Catholic Liberal Education) national conference this past Summer. We are so blessed to have been awarded a grant From APT Family Enterprises that allowed us to be inspired and equipped to reclaim the Church’s full vision of education and to bring it to life in our classrooms. In this episode, listen to Mrs. McCleave discuss her main takeaways from the conference. She shares her delight at the united purpose of all of the educators stating, "Everyone was on the same page, no one tiptoed around the issue of truth." Join us in hearing about the pleasure of being of one heart and one mind in education. This series is sponsored by Kahlig Auto Group https://www.kahligauto.com/ Follow our podcast, Raising Saints, Forming Scholars on some of the major platforms to hear more about Classical Education and the Great Books! https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/holychildnm Enjoying our content? Consider supporting our school financially to help us Raise Saints, and Form scholars! https://www.holychildnm.com/give

View more from the Holy Child Catholic School Interior Castle video series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf_usepns-sePBg6DtvmgCfDMvIWydCAm Welcome to Mansion Five of the Interior Castle by St. Teresa of Avila! Join us for a discussion of mansion five where Saint Theresa talks about the changes in prayer that occur in the soul moving out of mansion four. In this video we will highlight the Saints famous image of the the silk worm, and the butterfly that tell us so much about moving into union with our bridegroom, Jesus Christ. "He desires that, without knowing how, the spirit should come forth stamped with His seal for indeed it does no more than does the wax when impressed with the signet. It does not mould itself but need only be in a fit condition." Let nothing disturb you, Let nothing frighten you, All things are passing; God only is changeless. Patience gains all things. Who has God wants nothing. God alone suffices. (St. Teresa’s famous prayer) ****************************************************************************************** Follow our podcast, Raising Saints, Forming Scholars on some of the major platforms to hear more about Classical Education and the Great Books! https://open.spotify.com/show/2fXadrBE8iltaVWdJH79Ra Enjoying our content? Consider supporting our school financially to help us Raise Saints, and Form scholars! https://www.holychildnm.com/give

This Episode is Sponsored by 2M Express Inc. Listen to our podcast to learn about how fairy stories are a mirror to this world and help us avoid raising what Guroian calls the “autonomous child.” Are the American adaptations of fairy tales we are used to the best way to cultivate virtue in children or is there a value to returning to the originals? Do you feel called to help with podcasts? Email podcasts@holychildnm.com. Specifically we are looking for experienced help in the following areas: -Professional footage of students in the classroom, playground and at church -Help in staging, lighting and setting up -Financially supporting the Holy Child Catholic School (because the whole purpose of our podcast is to partner with likeminded people who can help us continue Raising Saints and Forming Scholars!) https://www.holychildnm.com/give -Sponsoring an episode of our podcast: https://www.holychildnm.com/give/gala-2023 ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES Important Terms "Eucatastrophe" was coined by J.R.R. Tolkien from Greek ευ- "good" and καταστροφή "sudden turn". It refers to the change from a hopeless situation to an unforeseen victory stemming from grace. Typology-Professor Scott Hahn calls typology the “rhyme scheme of history.” The study of persons, places or events in the Bible that foreshadow greater realities, especially concerning Christ, His Church and the Sacraments. Metanarrative-This is also called the "grand narrative." It is an overarching story or storyline that gives context, meaning, and purpose to all of life. Sub-creation according to Tolkien Sub-creation was a term used by J.R.R. Tolkien for a philosophical concept that he applied to all aspects of his life. It described the inclination of all living beings to create things within the primary world (i.e. the physical world in which they inhabit). In particular, Sub-creation" was used to describe the creative efforts of the elves. For our purposes, it reminds us how we are not the creators of ourselves, but instead we cooperate with The Creator, God the Father. Books mentioned: Marchen Und Legenden by Laura Eidt Tending the Heart of Virtue: How Classic Stories Awaken A Child's Moral Imagination, by Vigen Guroian "On Fairy Stories," by J.R.R. Tolkien Awakening Wonder: A Classical Guide to Truth, Goodness & Beauty, by Steven Turley, PhD.

View more from the Holy Child Catholic School Interior Castle video series:    • The Interior Castle   Welcome to Mansion Four of the Interior Castle by St. Teresa of Avila! Mansion Four is packed with three chapters and might be the most important mansion of all. Saint Teresa says this is the mansion where we move from the active form of prayer to the beginnings of passive recollection and we are getting closer to the Seventh Dwelling! (The change is so subtle we might miss it.) Questions for reflection: What is a good way to dispose oneself for this new type of prayer? Teresa uses the analogy of the water trough. Can you think of another one for explaining the difference in prayer? What is going well in your prayer life right now? What isn't? Is the Lord doing something new in your relationship with Him? Right now, is the Lord telling you to run or slow down? Do you struggle with distractions in prayer? If so, how can you apply St. Teresa's wisdom on how to deal with these distractions? Have any of the devil's tactics the saint mentions come against you in your prayer life? Where is there a lack of self-knowledge in your life and how might that be preventing you from going deeper in the mystical ladder? ******************************************************************************************* Make sure to sign for the Holy Child Catholic School Intellectual Society email list for extra content: https://www.holychildnm.com/about/int... And follow our podcast, Raising Saints, Forming Scholars on some of the major platforms to hear more about Classical Education and the Great Books! https://open.spotify.com/show/2fXadrB... Enjoying our content? Consider supporting our school financially to help us Raise Saints, and Form scholars! https://www.holychildnm.com/give

View more from the Holy Child Catholic School Interior Castle video series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf_usepns-sePBg6DtvmgCfDMvIWydCAm Welcome to Mansion Three of the Interior Castle by St. Teresa of Avila Here St. Teresa describes the last doorway before we enter into the mansions of the Lord's work as opposed to our own. ******************************************************************************************* Make sure to sign for the Holy Child Catholic School Intellectual Society email list for extra content: https://www.holychildnm.com/about/intellectual-formation And follow our podcast, Raising Saints, Forming Scholars on some of the major platforms to hear more about Classical Education and the Great Books! https://open.spotify.com/show/2fXadrBE8iltaVWdJH79Ra Enjoying our content? Consider supporting our school financially to help us Raise Saints, and Form scholars! https://www.holychildnm.com/give