Abiding Together

S16 E14 - A Father's Legacy - Pope Francis

Abiding Together

Show Notes

In this episode, we reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis. We talk about how, during his Pontificate, Pope Francis emphasized joy and, through his example, helped us remember to embody this joy in our daily lives to bring others into the Church. We also acknowledge how God has used Pope Francis to speak to us through his writings and discuss which of these writings most profoundly impacted us, how we can pray for our next Pope, and share what we think will be his lasting legacy.

Heather's One Thing - Her Parents Sister Miriam's One Thing - Firm Foundation by Cody Carnes (and the Maverick City Music Remix ;)) Michelle's One Thing - Wrightsville Beach in Wilmington , NC

Other Resources Mentioned: Papal Homily on the Revolution of Tenderness Pope Francis' Surprise TED Talk Patris Corde - Apostolic Letter Dilexit Nos - Encyclical Evangelii Gaudium (Joy of the Gospel) - Apostolic Exhortation List of Cardinals attending the Conclave

Abiding Together Episodes on Pope Francis' Writings: The Joy of the Gospel Study Rejoice and Be Glad Study The Sacred Heart (three part series) C'est la Confiance (two part series) Revolution of Tenderness

Journal Questions: How have I been blessed by Pope Francis' pontificate? In what ways do I experience the Gospel as Lent without Easter? How can I embrace the lessons Pope Francis has taught me throughout his papacy in my life? How can I pray for the Church during the conclave?

Discussion Questions: How did you receive the news of Pope Francis' passing? How can we live out Pope Francis' vision of the Church as a field hospital in our own lives? Which of Pope Francis' writings left an impactful impression on you? What's one word you would use to describe Pope Francis' legacy?

Quote to Ponder: "Joy adapts and changes, but it always endures, even as a flicker of life born of our personal certainty that, when everything is said and done, we are infinitely loved." (Pope Francis)

Scripture for Lectio: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." (Romans 15:13)

Sponsor - Glory: Women's Conference: This week's episode is sponsored by the Glory: Women's Conference hosted by Steubenville Conferences and our very own Heather Khym! We want to invite you to join Heather, Michelle, and our dear friends Debbie Herbeck, Sarah Kaczmarek, Monica Richards, and Sarah Kroger who will be leading us in worship, this June 6-8 in Steubenville, Ohio as we gather with women across generations and seek God's presence. We are just about one month out from the Glory: Women's Conference and tickets are still available! This is the first one and we want you to be part of it, especially since it's over Pentecost weekend and we know the Holy Spirit will be showing up in big ways. The conference schedule will include talks, worship, prayer experiences, and the opportunity to interact with fellow Abiding Together listeners and new friends from all over who will be flying in. Heather and Michelle would absolutely love to meet you. Whether you come with your Abiding Together small group, with a close friend, or on your own, we can't wait to gather in fellowship with you. Visit steubenvilleconferences.com/events/glory for more information or to register!

Timestamps: 00:00 - Glory: Women's Conference 01:10 - Intro 02:01 - Welcome 04:14 - How We Found Out 07:02 - His Funeral and the Upcoming Conclave 08:30 - A Grace-filled Time 09:54 - Evangelii Gaudium (Joy of the Gospel) 13:36 - The Church as a Field Hospital 15:52 - Revolution of Tenderness 18:26 - The Lord Deeply Cares for Us 19:48 - Dilexit Nos (The Sacred Heart) 20:27 - The Holy Spirit and the Holy Family 21:12 - His Lasting Legacy 26:08 - How Can We Pray? 29:52 - One Things

More from Abiding Together

Oct 19, 2026

In this episode, we talk about what it means to live an authentically human life in an increasingly digital world. Technology is reshaping the way we live and it affects more than just how we work and play. We reflect on how our thoughts, relationships, and emotions are being influenced, and why we need to be intentional about making space for real, human connection. We share how beauty, creativity, and wonder draw us out of an artificial reality and remind us of the goodness of being human. We also offer practical ideas for finding balance with technology, learning to savor rather than simply consume, and allowing the Lord to rightly order our lives.

Oct 12, 2026

In this episode, we reflect on how to integrate the rhythms of the liturgical year into our everyday lives. We talk about the different graces available to us in each liturgical season, and how by living these seasons year after year, we are slowly being taught how to thrive. We also reflect on the value of our attention, what it means to be human, and how sacramentals can help call our attention back to God. Living liturgically is not simply another thing to do, but an invitation to become the women God created us to be.

Oct 5, 2026

In this episode, we continue our reflection on the mysteries of our lives by exploring our luminous and glorious mysteries. We talk about how God has been inviting us to trust His plans, especially when they look different from our own. We also share how God has been restoring relationships in our lives, reminding us that He is faithful even when we cannot see the full picture of what He is doing. Through these reflections, we are reminded that when God brings something to light, He is inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him. And that His glory is often revealed through quiet moments of restoration and redemption.

Sep 28, 2026

Welcome to Season 19! In this episode, we continue our tradition of reflecting on the mysteries of our lives through the mysteries of the Rosary. In every season of our lives, God invites us to grow in charity, receive His grace, and allow Him to work more deeply in our hearts. It's important to pause from time to time and reflect on how God has been moving in and through our lives. We model what this reflection can look like and share about our joyful and sorrowful mysteries.

Sep 21, 2026

To read Sr. Miriam's Letter, visit the Friends of the Bridegroom's website.

See all episodes →