As a new year approaches, many people reflect on who they want to become—but how should Catholics think about New Year’s resolutions? In this episode of Practicing Catholic, the hosts explore why starting fresh matters in the Christian life and how resolutions can be a meaningful part of growing in holiness. Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of the saints, and lived experience, they offer a hopeful and realistic vision of beginning again without discouragement or perfectionism.
Using the Parable of the Sower, the conversation examines common obstacles to spiritual growth, including shallow faith, fear of difficulty, and anxiety rooted in attachment to material things. Listeners are invited to consider three practical commitments for the year ahead: deepening understanding of the faith, living with evangelical courage, and practicing generosity through detachment and almsgiving. Whether you love New Year’s resolutions or struggle to keep them, this episode reframes the new year as an opportunity to begin again with grace.
Up Next in Season 1
-
Favorite Christmas Traditions, Movies...
Christmas is a season of joy, memory, and meaning—and in this special episode of Practicing Catholic, the hosts take a break from the usual format to celebrate it together. From favorite Christmas memories and family traditions to beloved songs and movies, the conversation is lighthearted, warm, ...
-
Navigating Holiday Stress: Finding Pe...
Family tensions, mixed expectations, spiritual pressure, and packed schedules — Christmas can bring joy and stress. In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor and Scott unpack how to navigate family dynamics during the holidays with gratitude, intentionality, and a deep reliance on God’s grac...
-
The Secret to Patience
Why is waiting so hard—and what is God doing in that waiting? In this Advent episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger explore the virtues of patience and perseverance, why they matter for the Christian life, and how Advent trains us to grow in them. From parenting str...
