Show Notes
What does adoption teach us about the way God loves? How can the Eucharist draw us closer to heaven even while we’re still on earth? In this week’s episode of Girlfriends, I’m joined by Jamie McAleer—wife, mom, grandmother, and author of I Will Come to You: A Story of Adoption and the Relentless Love of God. Jamie shares her powerful conversion story, beginning with her very first Mass as a college student, and how God used that moment to plant seeds of faith that would grow over decades. She also opens up about the journey to adopt her son from Russia, the challenges and joys of raising a child through adoption, and the way that experience deepened her understanding of our own adoption as children of God. We also talk about: * The connection between the Eucharist and Heaven * How Mary interceded for Jamie’s family in a time of great need * What it’s like to be a grandmother to fifteen grandchildren * Practical ways busy moms can deepen their Eucharistic devotion * Why sharing your personal story can open the door for others to share theirs Links and Resources: * I Will Come to You * Learn more about Jamie’s work in media: 4pmmedia.com * Subscribe to the Girlfriends newsletter If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and leave a review wherever you listen. Your support helps more women discover the hope, joy, and encouragement they need to live their faith in the middle of real life.
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Today’s episode is a little different. I’m sharing a clip from a recent Lenten prayer session inside my Girlfriends community, where we reflected on Jesus’ invitation to “abide in me.” If your Lent hasn’t gone the way you planned… this is for you. I also share a quick update at the beginning about the future of this podcast. While I won’t be publishing weekly episodes here anymore, I’ll still be sharing occasional clips, conversations, and special content from time to time. If you’d like to stay connected and not miss what’s coming next, the best place to find me is on Substack: 👉 daniellebean.substack.com That’s where I’m sharing regularly and where we’re continuing to pray, reflect, and grow together. I’m so grateful you’re here. God bless you!
As Christmas draws near, take a quiet moment to pause, breathe, and listen. In this episode of Girlfriends, Danielle Bean shares the reflection portion from Session Three of the Advent Prayer Series, centered on the shepherds’ encounter with the angels in Gospel of Luke 2:8–12. This gentle reflection invites us to step away from the noise and pressure of the season and remember the heart of Advent: that Christ comes for you—right into ordinary, messy, real life. Whether you’re finishing your to-do list, hiding with a cup of coffee, or carving out a rare moment of stillness, this episode offers space to prepare room for a quieter, deeper joy as Christmas approaches. * A peaceful pause for the final days of Advent * Rooted in Scripture and ordinary grace * An invitation to rest, return, and rejoice Subscribe at daniellebean.substack.com
Advent invites us into a kind of waiting that isn’t empty, but holy. I’m sharing the opening reflection from our second Advent prayer session, where we slow down together and make space for God in the middle of the busy season. We reflect on how God works in the in-between moments, why waiting can be an act of trust, and how Scripture helps steady our hearts when answers feel delayed. This gentle reflection is a small taste of the prayerful gatherings we share as a Girlfriends community. If you’re longing for quiet, grounding prayer as we approach Christmas, you’re invited to join us. daniellebean.substack.com/subscribe In this episode: * Why waiting is part of God’s loving preparation * How Advent teaches us to trust without having all the answers * Practical ways to remain faithful and hopeful while we wait Paid subscribers receive full access to the complete prayer sessions, guided Lectio Divina, downloadable resources, and live gatherings, including our upcoming Advent prayer session. Settle in. Take a deep breath. Let this reflection be a moment of peace in your day.
In today’s podcast episode, I’m sharing the guided prayer reflection from our first Advent live session: Let It Be: Mary’s Yes and Our Surrender. This 20-minute reflection gently leads you through Scripture, silence, and a posture of openness as we pray with Mary at the Annunciation. If you’ve been longing for a quiet moment to breathe, reconnect with God, and step away from December’s noise… this is for you. Inside this episode: * A calming reflection to settle your heart * A Scripture meditation on Mary’s courageous “yes” * Time to rest in God’s presence * A reminder that surrender isn’t weakness; it’s trust * Space to welcome Christ into the places you feel stretched or unsure This is the same reflection I shared live last week with our paid Substack community. I hope it brings peace and clarity to your Advent. Want to join me live for the next Advent prayer sessions? We still have two more evenings of prayer together: Wednesday, December 10Finding God in the Waiting Wednesday, December 17Welcoming Christ With Joy These sessions are quiet, simple, and deeply grounding, perfect for the end of a long day. You’ll receive: * A guided reflection * Scripture-based meditation or Lectio Divina * A quiet space to listen for the Holy Spirit * Optional chat sharing and prayer intentions * A downloadable prayer sheet to carry through your week Make sure you’re subscribed: That’s where you’ll get the registration links, reminders, and all the new Scripture-centered content coming in the new year.