Shalom World - Family (Guide to Parenthood)

In this episode, hosts Mike and Alicia Hernan, founders of the Messy Family Project and parents of 10 children, discuss the importance of family life and parenting. They express their passion for strengthening family bonds and helping parents fulfill their sacred calling. The episode features a special guest, Kimberly Hahn, a renowned speaker and author known for her dedication to promoting strong families. With her profound insights and passion for family life, she joins the discussion to share valuable perspectives on building a resilient and faithful family unit. The overarching message of this episode centers on the transformative power of Catholic families. Mike, Alicia, and Kimberly emphasize that by nurturing children in virtue, cultivating a relationship with Christ, and living intentionally as a family, parents play a crucial role in renewing the world and shaping a brighter future for society. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

In this episode of "Family: Guide to Parenthood," hosts Mike and Alicia Hernan from the Messy Family Project explore the crucial topic of forgiveness in family life. They stress the significance of forgiveness on the journey to holiness and how it impacts relationships with spouses and children. The episode delves into personal experiences and insights from guests Susan and Urby Potvin, who share their unique story of creating a family with diverse personalities and backgrounds. Susan and Urby Potvin, open up about their extraordinary journey as adoptive parents. They raised their adopted son in a Catholic home with strong Christian support, but he struggled with addiction and made grave mistakes, causing immense pain and challenges for the family. Despite the difficulties, the Potvins exemplify the power of forgiveness, faith, and perseverance in navigating through their profound journey. The episode underscores that forgiveness is a choice, not merely an emotion. It involves canceling a debt and freeing oneself from the burden of hurt and resentment. Moreover, forgiveness does not necessarily mean immediate reconciliation but sets the foundation for healing and growth in family relationships. As parents and children embrace forgiveness and strive for holiness, they pave the way for a more loving, compassionate, and resilient family unit. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Hosts Alicia and Mike Hernon delve into the crucial topic of training children in virtue. They are joined by a special guest, Sister John Paul Maher, a Dominican sister of Mary Mother of the Eucharist, who brings her extensive experience and wisdom to the discussion. They emphasize the practical aspects of forming children in virtue, going beyond theoretical concepts to provide actionable strategies for parents. They highlight the importance of parents modeling virtue and consistency in their behavior as a powerful way to influence their children's character development. Sister John Paul Maher O.P., Principal of St. Michael's School, Ohio, USA, is a Dominican sister belonging to the religious order of Mary Mother of the Eucharist. With her background and experience, she provides valuable guidance to parents, emphasizing the importance of partnership between educators and parents in shaping children's character and promoting virtuous living. They acknowledge the challenges of parenting and the uniqueness of each child's personality and stage of development. Sister John Paul emphasizes the importance of educators and parents working together in a partnership, providing support and guidance to parents as they navigate the journey of forming children in virtue. The conversation centers around the need for parents to educate themselves about virtues and the human person, and to foster a culture of prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit in the process. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Unity between parents is crucial for successfully navigating the various challenges of family life, such as educational choices, finances, and discipline. Hosts, Alicia and Mike Hernon of the Messy Family Project delve into the importance of unity and teamwork in parenting, showcasing the value of being a united force for the children. Together with Paco and Inez Gavrilides, they discuss the importance of shared decision-making, avoiding the "good cop, bad cop" dynamic, and maintaining open communication. Paco and Inez Gavrilidis are Evangelists and a couple who have dedicated themselves to serving the church. They have served in various capacities in Parish Ministry at Sacred Heart Seminary in Detroit. They highlight the blessing and occasional struggles of parenting together, including the need for understanding and emotional support. They encourage couples to come before the Lord together, seeking guidance and showing vulnerability. They discuss the power of prayer in resolving conflicts, making decisions, and asking for forgiveness when mistakes are made. They stress the importance of staying united as a couple and continually seeking God's grace in their parenting journey. The overarching message is the importance of parenting as a team and the significance of unity between parents. When parents work together, communicate effectively, and support each other emotionally, they create a stable and loving environment for their children. They stress that unity and confidence in each other as parents surpass the reliance on specific parenting methods or programs. They also highlight the role of prayer in seeking guidance, resolving conflicts, and asking for forgiveness. Ultimately, the episode encourages parents to prioritize unity, communication, and prayer in order to navigate the challenges of parenting and raise a thriving family. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Attachment between parents and children is crucial for the child's emotional well-being and overall development. The bond formed during the early stages of a child's life has lifelong implications for their ability to form healthy relationships. The episode offers insights from the hosts, Mike and Alicia Hernon, and Dr. Matthew Breuninger, a psychology expert, on navigating challenges and creating a safe environment for children's development. Dr. Matthew Breuninger, a professor of psychology at Franciscan University, specializes in attachment between parents and children. His research emphasizes the importance of consistent and empathic care in fostering secure attachments. He provides guidance to parents on cultivating secure attachments, contributing to the understanding of parent-child dynamics. Intentional attachment is essential for a child's emotional well-being, healthy development, and future relationships. Parents are encouraged to prioritize creating a safe and regulated environment that fosters secure attachments, laying a strong foundation for their lifelong growth and well-being. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

The Scripture has a significant role in shaping the identity and faith of both parents and children. Hosts Mike and Alicia Hernan delve into the topic: Bible and the family. They speak about the importance of introducing children to the Bible and embracing its teachings within the context of family life. They explore the significance of Scripture in nurturing a deep relationship with God and guiding children on their spiritual journey with Matthew Leonard. Matthew Leonard is an author, speaker, and teacher who has dedicated himself to guiding others on their journey of deepening their relationship with God. With his expertise and passion, Matthew leads the way in helping individuals and families embrace the richness of Scripture in their lives. His insights and practical ideas provide a roadmap for incorporating the Word of God into daily routines and family dynamics. Through his work, Matthew Leonard inspires and empowers others to discover the transformative power of the Bible and live out their faith with authenticity and joy. Parents, as primary educators in teaching their children about the Bible, help foster a relationship with God; they have to prioritize reading and praying with scripture, creating a space where the Word of God becomes a central part of family life. Families have to embrace the Bible as their story and actively engage with its teachings, finding meaning, guidance, and inspiration in the Word of God. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

One of the challenges of parenting in today's world is introducing the Word of God to our children. As the primary messengers of the gospel to their children, parents not only have the responsibility to teach the faith but also possess the greatest capacity to influence their kids' spiritual journey. Bob and Kate Lesnefsky, founders of Vagabond Missions, join Alicia and Mike Hernon of the Messy Family Project to talk about ‘Evangelizing Your Kids’ The Lesnefskys bring a personal perspective to the discussion, sharing their own struggles and questions about how to effectively pass on their faith to their daughters. Bob and Kate emphasize the importance of modeling a genuine relationship with God and creating a home environment where prayer and faith are integrated into daily life. They highlight the significance of conversations and open communication with teenagers, recognizing that each child is unique and requires individualized approaches to evangelization. Parents have a vital role in evangelizing their children and leading them into a saving relationship with God. It is imperative for parents to model a genuine and vibrant relationship with God, to create an environment of prayer and faith in the home, and to engage in open conversations with their children about spiritual matters. Parents can confidently and lovingly guide their children toward a deeper understanding and experience of the Gospel. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Parents often struggle to regulate technology use and are concerned about negative influences and inappropriate content that children may encounter. Hosts, Alicia and Mike Hernon delve into the complex relationship between families and technology. Together with Dr. Eugene Gan, they speak about the challenges parents face in managing technology, particularly smartphones, within their households. While technology presents challenges, it also holds tremendous opportunities for growth and positive impact. The guest speaker, Dr. Eugene Gan, a professor of communications and Fine Arts, joins the conversation and stresses the importance of using technology with virtue. He emphasizes the need to teach children how to use technology in a way that glorifies God. Dr. Gan offers an insight into media and technology, viewing them as gifts from God. He explores the theological and practical aspects of technology, highlighting its power and potential. Parents have a crucial role in guiding their children to use technology with virtue and in a way that aligns with their values and faith. The episode emphasizes the importance of discernment, balance, and proactive engagement with technology, rather than outright banning or avoiding it. By modeling good technology habits, setting guidelines, and fostering open conversations, families can navigate the digital landscape responsibly and harness the potential of technology to inspire truth and lead toward a virtuous life. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Hosts Mike and Alicia Hernan, along with guest Maggie Radzik, engage in a discussion about the challenges and strategies of parenting toddlers. With their wealth of experience as parents of 10 children, they emphasize the importance of recognizing the unique developmental stages and raw personalities of toddlers. They address common frustrations and questions from other parents regarding tantrums and communication difficulties. Maggie Radzik, a veteran Montessori teacher and formation leader, has a deep understanding of child development and a passion for guiding parents through the challenges of raising toddlers. With her background in catechesis and her dedication to helping children learn about the Lord, Maggie Radzik offers a unique perspective on parenting. Her practical knowledge and compassionate approach make her a valuable resource for parents seeking to navigate the complexities of raising strong-willed toddlers. Together, they provide practical strategies, such as observation, offering choices, creating an environment that encourages independence and purposeful work, and cultivating a patient and understanding approach to tantrums. The episode highlights the significance of nurturing a child's development during the toddler years, which sets the foundation for their future growth and well-being. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Children are born with a natural desire for God and it is the parents' duty to cultivate and shepherd their spiritual journey. Alicia and Mike Hernon emphasize the importance of recognizing that a child's relationship with God may look different from that of adults. Parents should allow children to develop their own unique spirituality and refrain from imposing their own expectations. Monica Stoutz shares her experience and insights into nurturing the spiritual lives of children. As a catechist, she has worked with children in their preparation for First Communion, using methods based on scripture and the teachings of Maria Montessori. Her approach is rooted in understanding child development and providing children with the tools and language to engage in prayer and spirituality. She emphasizes the importance of allowing children to have their own responses, wonder, and exploration of faith. This episode highlights the need for parents to be intentional and supportive in developing their children's spiritual lives while recognizing the importance of allowing them to explore and respond to God in their own way. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Is your teenager ready for the roller coaster of adolescence? Discover expert tips to navigate this transformative phase with hosts, Alicia and Mike Hernon. Adolescence can be daunting but it is important to build strong relationships with teenagers, even when they push back, and provide guidance while allowing them to make their own mistakes and learn from them. Bill and Tanis Merimee are a couple who have nine children of their own and are founders of Marriages of Grace. They bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to the topic of parenting and guiding children through the adolescent years. With a deep understanding of the challenges and joys that come with raising teenagers, Bill and Tanis offer valuable insights on building relationships, setting boundaries, and fostering a sense of identity in adolescents. This episode encourages parents to approach the adolescent years with love, patience, and understanding, recognizing that this transformative phase is an opportunity for growth and the development of future Christian adults who can positively impact society. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Is parenting hard? The hosts, Alicia and Mike Hernon delve into the transformative nature of parenthood and its potential to lead individuals on a journey of personal growth and holiness. They share their own experiences as parents and reflect on the difficulties they have encountered, emphasizing the importance of viewing these difficulties as opportunities for growth. The couple emphasizes the importance of relying on the grace of the sacrament of marriage to become better parents. Father Boniface Hicks, a spiritual director, speaks with Alicia and Mike about the relationship between parenting and holiness. Father Boniface explains that spousal love and family life are images of holiness, encouraging parents to see family life's challenges and imperfections as opportunities for growth and deepening their relationship with God. He addresses the tension that exists between the difficulties that parents face and their calling to be witnesses of Christ's love in their families. The overarching message of the episode is clear: parenting is a messy journey with enormous potential for joy, fulfillment, and spiritual growth. Key Takeaways: Get ready to embrace your sacred calling and embark on a journey of joyful family life with Alicia and Mike Hernon as your guides! Discover expert insights and practical tips from our diverse lineup of hosts and guest speakers. Join Shalom World Podcasts and the Messy Family Project for an inspiring season that will take your parenting skills to the next level. Messy Family Project: https://messyfamilyproject.org/ Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Ready to take your parenting game to the next level? Calling all moms and dads, it's time to embrace the sacred calling of parenting! Introducing "Family: Guide to Parenthood" on Shalom World Podcasts! Hosts, Alicia and Mike Hernon of the Messy Family Project, take you on an amazing journey to enrich your family life and strengthen your faith! Discover the incredible joys and navigate through the challenges of parenting with the help of experts from various ministries and diverse walks of life. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your family life, deepen your faith, and create beautiful memories together!