Building Kingdom of Love Archives - Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts

The Annunciation – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the meaning of the Ascension and Pentecost, urging us to move beyond a childish, distant view of heaven. Christ’s ascension was not a departure to a far-off place, but a deeper entry into our lives through the Holy Spirit. Jesus remains present in the world through the Church and within each baptized person. Heaven is not “up there,” but within; the Trinity dwells in the heart of the faithful. The Church, then, is not merely an institution but the very...

Who Are You? Your Catholic Identity on Divine Mercy Sunday – Building a Kingdom with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. Esseff reflects on the readings for Divine Mercy Sunday and it’s meanings for our lives.  He discusses the identity of the Christian, and in particular, what it means to be a “Catholic”.

From the NAB

Reading 1 ACTS 5:12-16

Happy Easter!!!! Have You Encountered Jesus? – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Join Msgr. John Esseff as he reflects on the mystery of Easter and our relationship with the Risen Christ.

Gospel JN 20:1-9

“On the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the stone removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them, “They have taken the Lord fr...

A Special Good Friday Reflection with Msgr. John Esseff – Building a Kingdom of Love

Msgr. John Esseff guides listeners through a meditation on the Passion of Jesus Christ, drawing upon The Passion of the Christ film and the Stations of the Cross to help internalize Christ’s suffering. He invites the listener to not merely recall Christ’s death as a historical event, but to see it as a present and deeply personal encounter—where one’s own experiences of false accusations, humiliation, abandonment, and physical or emotional pain can be united with Jesus on the Cross...

A Special Holy Thursday Reflection – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects deeply on the meaning of Holy Thursday, focusing especially on Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet and the institution of the Eucharist. He describes the foot-washing as a sign of humility and love that all Christians are called to imitate, not just toward family and friends, but especially toward enemies and those most difficult to serve. This act, performed by Christ before his Passion, is framed as his last will and testament—a mandate to serve others with pro...

Palm Sunday: Uniting Our Pain With Christ – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff passionately proclaims the resurrection of Jesus Christ not just as a past event but as a living reality. He invites all people—regardless of background or faith tradition—to hear the Good News that Jesus has conquered death and now lives, offering eternal life and peace. Merely being baptized or identifying as a Christian isn’t enough without a personal encounter with the risen Christ. Citing examples from his ministry, including a then-recent prison baptism, this encounte...

The Fifth Sunday of Lent – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff explores the Gospel passage of the woman caught in adultery and Christ’s merciful response in contrast to the harsh judgment of the Pharisees. He invites us to recognize their own sinfulness and brokenness rather than focusing on the faults of others. Jesus alone offers the healing and transformation that leads to holiness. The encounter is not just about avoiding judgment but about experiencing a deep personal union with Christ, who refuses to condemn and instead offers freedom and...

The Prodigal Son – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the power of God’s mercy and the transformative grace offered through the sacrament of reconciliation, especially during Lent. Drawing from the parable of the Prodigal Son and St. Paul’s message on reconciliation, he urges anyone burdened by sin—whether hidden or known—to return to God. He shares a story of a woman who struggled to forgive herself despite confessing her sins, illustrating how many carry shame and guilt long after repentance. God, however, sees not condemnati...

Msgr. Esseff reflects on the readings for the 4th Sunday of Lent.  He discusses  the Sacrament of Reconciliation and how it’s key in the area of true inner healing.  The healing from the damage done by our sinful choices is more important than even physical healing.  He implores us all to see the value of this tremendous gift.

From the NAB

Gospel LK 15:1-3, 11-32

Msgr. Esseff reflects on the readings for the 5th Sunday of Lent.  He guides us through an honest self-examination of conscience and the need to confess our brokenness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

From the NAB

Gospel. JN 8:1-11

The Annunciation – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the Feast of the Annunciation, which falls in the heart of Lent. He shares how personal and significant this date is to him, as it marks the wedding anniversary of his parents. Their story, including seeking a dispensation to marry during Lent and defying an arranged marriage, mirrors the boldness and surrender exemplified by Mary’s own “yes” to God; drawing a connection between Mary’s total openness to God’s will and the Lenten call to deeper prayer, sacrifice, a...

Msgr. Esseff reflects on the readings for the 3rd Sunday of Lent.  We are called to be 100% love.  He recalls a young man named Kevin, his death, and the call to repentance and to love. Don’t be secure in your own eyes, we need to have the eyes of Christ.  We need to enter into the deepest parts of hearts to encounter the healing touch of Jesus.  We are not captives, we are not slaves, we are God’s children and we are called to freedom.

From the NAB

Gospel LK 13:1-9