Living Fullness

S08 Ep18 - Christmas Episode

 
In this final and special Christmas episode, Fr Sean Byrnes and Stina speak about all things Christmas, including when carols should be sung, the significance of the date of Christmas - whether it is pagan or Christian feast - plus managing Christmas stress and their Christmas traditions
 
00:00:00 - 00:01:45 - Introduction
00:01:46 - 00:04:50 - The Significance of Christmas Carols
00:04:51 - 00:10:51 - Understanding the Date of Christmas
00:10:52 - 00:16:53 - The Anticipation of Christmas vs the Day itself
00:16:54 - 00:22:48 - Managing of Christmas Stress and Expectations
00:22:49 - 00:27:50 - Christian Traditions and Their Evolution
00:27:51 - 00:32:22 - Prayer and Episode Conclusion
 
- A Virtue Ministry Podcast -
Please find all the information of todays episode in the show notes below:
https://www.virtueministry.org.au/podcast/podcast-notes/ 
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S08 Ep17 - Word of the Year

Padre and Stina sit down to talk about their annual word of the year and how this transpired throughout 2025. They discuss how each word benefitted/affected their lives and how they see the world through the lens of this particular word through surprises, set backs and challenges.
 
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - 00:02:49 - Introduction
00:02:50 - 00:04:53 - Personal Reflections on Rejoice
00:04:54 - 00:08:10 - The Challenges of Embracing Joy
00:08:11 - 00:11:08 - Understanding Sacrifice
00:11:09 - 00:14:06 - The Intersection of Obligation and Choice
00:14:07 - 00:17:12 - Padre’s Journey with Sacrifice
00:17:13 - 00:19:58 - The Meaning of Sacrifice in Ministry
00:19:59 - 00:28:40 - Finding Joy in Sacrifice
00:28:41 - 00:33:51 - Truth, Beauty, and Goodness / Episode Conclusion
 
Virtue and Grace Human Formation Program 2026: https://www.virtueministry.org.au/product/virtue-ministry-formation-program/
 
- A Virtue Ministry Podcast -
Please find all the information of todays episode in the show notes below:
https://www.virtueministry.org.au/podcast/podcast-notes/ 
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S08 Ep16 - Rev Deacon Saxon Onions - A Man Who Just Wanted to Be Happy - Gradual Vocational Call

Reverend Deacon Saxon Onions from Vianney College in the Wagga Wagga Diocese speaks with Fr Sean Byrnes and Stina on his journey to the seminary and his search for his vocation and happiness.
 
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - 00:01:42 - Introduction
00:01:43 - 00:06:51 - Saxon’s Background & Early Life
00:06:52 - 00:09:02 - Move to Wagga and exposure to seminary life
00:09:03 - 00:19:49 - Youth involvement and influence of peers
00:19:50 - 00:25:33 - Gradual pull towards seminary and discernment process
00:25:34 - 00:34:00 - Fear of unworthiness and struggles with vocation
00:34:01 - 00:38:04 - Saxon’s advice on vocation discernment
00:38:05 - 00:41:31 - Challenges towards the end of seminary and anticipation for priesthood
00:41:32 - 00:47:27 - Truth, Beauty, and Goodness / Episode Conclusion/
 
- A Virtue Ministry Podcast -
Please find all the information of todays episode in the show notes below:
https://www.virtueministry.org.au/podcast/podcast-notes/ 
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S08 Ep15 - When Relationships Hurt - When to Persevere and When to Walk Away

In this episode, Stina and Padre tackle one of the hardest questions in relationships: when do you stay and when do you leave? Whether in friendships, dating, or marriage, they explore the tension between fear of abandonment and the call to perseverance. They unpack what genuine loyalty looks like, when staying becomes enabling harm, and why walking away can sometimes be the most loving choice. Grounded in virtue and guided by Church teaching, this conversation offers clarity, courage, and compassion for those discerning difficult relational decisions.
 
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - 00:02:33 - Introduction
00:02:34 - 00:05:25 - The Dilemma of Abandonment and Fear
00:05:26 - 00:08:19 - Red Flags and Relationship Dynamics
00:08:20 - 00:11:25 - Cultural Reactions to Relationship Tensions
00:11:26 - 00:19:01 - When Staying Becoming Enabling
00:19:02 - 00:22:30 - The Sanctity of Marriage and Leaving Relationships
00:22:31 - 00:26:14 - Setting Boundaries in Relationships
00:26:15 - 00:28:59 - The Nature of Genuine Friendship
00:29:00 - 00:33:57 - The Dangers of Manipulative Relationships
00:33:58 - 00:39:26 - Truth, Beauty, and Goodness / Episode Conclusion
 
- A Virtue Ministry Podcast -
Please find all the information of todays episode in the show notes below:
https://www.virtueministry.org.au/podcast/podcast-notes/ 
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S08 Ep14 - A Tangible Fatherhood: The Priest Who Stands in the Breach - Book Study Pt 3

In this final part of the Priestly Fatherhood series, Stina and Padre explore how fatherhood becomes a tangible reality in the life and ministry of a priest. Drawing on Fr Jacques Philippe’s insights, they reflect on the heart of priestly intercession, the sacrificial nature of the Eucharist, the power of adoration, and the ministry of spiritual accompaniment. They discuss how true fatherhood is expressed not only through sacramental action but also through listening, tenderness, and authentic authority that frees and uplifts others.
 
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - 00:00:48 - Introduction
00:00:49 - 00:02:56 - Exploring Intercession in Priesthood
00:02:57 - 00:10:13 - Fatherhood in the Celebration of the Eucharist
00:10:14 - 00:15:35 - Eucharistic Adoration as a Means of Knowing the Father's Heart
00:15:36 - 00:23:49 - The Importance of Eucharistic Adoration in Priesthood
00:23:50 - 00:29:28 - Navigating the Challenges of Spiritual Guidance
00:29:29 - 00:37:49 - Qualities of a Good Spiritual Director
00:37:50 - 00:39:42 - The Call for Genuine Authority and Unity
00:39:43 - 00:40:17 - Protecting the Vulnerable in Leadership
00:40:18 - 00:44:59 - Truth, Beauty, and Goodness / Episode Conclusion
 
- A Virtue Ministry Podcast -
Please find all the information of todays episode in the show notes below:
https://www.virtueministry.org.au/podcast/podcast-notes/ 
Subscribe or Follow the Podcast and help us share our mission. Join our Community on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/LivingFullness) for exclusive content, behind the scenes, merch and MORE, and watch our guest interviews on our YouTube Channel. 
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S08 Ep12 - Sons Become Brothers and Fathers - Jacques Philippe Book Study Pt 2

Continuing our study of Fr Jacques Philippe’s Priestly Fatherhood: Treasure in Earthen Vessels, we dive into the heart of priestly fatherhood and what transforms a man into a true spiritual father. We discuss the profound reality that no one can be a father without first being a son, the essential role of prayer, and the way fatherhood flows through brotherhood, humility, and mercy. This conversation also explores the Beatitudes as the blueprint for authentic fatherhood, the Church’s role in shaping priests as sons and grooms, and how the ministerial priesthood exists to ignite the baptismal priesthood of all believers.
 
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - 00:00:30 - Introduction
00:00:31 - 00:06:05 - The Role of Sonship in Fatherhood
00:06:06 - 00:10:52 - Prayer and Presence in Spiritual Leadership
00:10:53 - 00:15:17 - The Church and Its Leadership Dynamics
00:15:18 - 00:20:14 - The Nature of the Church: Theocracy vs. Democracy
00:20:15 - 00:22:38 - Heart Posture Towards the Church
00:22:39 - 00:26:12 - Brotherhood and Accountability in the Priesthood
00:26:13 - 00:33:10 - Seasons of Ministry: Sowing vs. Reaping
00:33:11 - 00:36:35 - The Beatitudes and Spiritual Poverty
00:36:36 - 00:39:35 - Truth, Beauty, and Goodness / Episode Conclusion
 
- A Virtue Ministry Podcast -
Please find all the information of todays episode in the show notes below:
https://www.virtueministry.org.au/podcast/podcast-notes/ 
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S08 Ep11: Priestly Fatherhood: A Treasure in Earthen Vessels - Jacques Philippe Book Study Pt 1

In this episode, Stina and Padre begin their book study on Fr Jacques Philippe’s Priestly Fatherhood: Treasure in Earthen Vessels, exploring the mystery and gift of priesthood. They reflect on why fatherhood is essential for both family and faith, the wounds caused by its absence or distortion, and how authentic fatherhood mirrors God’s own love. From lineage and heritage to mercy, freedom, and responsibility, this conversation touches on the role of priests as spiritual fathers, the challenges of fatherhood in today’s culture, and the beauty of unity when we live as children of one Father.
 
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - 00:00:33 - Introduction
00:00:34 - 00:07:29 - Exploring Fatherhood and its importance
00:07:30 - 00:20:30 - The Role of Fathers in Identity and Lineage
00:20:31 - 00:23:02 - Brotherhood and Reconciliation 
00:23:03 - 00:30:02 - The Role of Femininity in supporting Fatherhood
00:30:03 - 00:33:13 - The Duality of Fatherhood: Strength and Vulnerability
00:33:14 - 00:37:18 - The Balance of Severity
00:37:19 - 00:41:30 - The Importance of Boundaries in Relationship 
00:41:31 - 00:47:00 - The Role of Vulnerability in Leadership
 
- A Virtue Ministry Podcast -
Please find all the information of todays episode in the show notes below:
https://www.virtueministry.org.au/podcast/podcast-notes/ 
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S08 Ep10 - Jubilee Year of Hope w/ Steve & Annie Lawrence

Stina talks with special guests Annie and Steve Lawrence, leaders of Emmanuel Community,speakers, authors and entrepreneurs. They discuss what is a Jubilee, the history of it, and how this year is a time of extraordinary grace, plus what is a plenary indulgence, as well as talking about hope and how it has played out in their lives.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - 00:02:02 - Introduction of Guest - Steve & Annie Lawrence
00:02:03 - 00:04:59 - Jubilee Year of Hope
00:05:00 - 00:08:11 - Indulgences
00:08:12 - 00:14:07 - Indulgences for Others & Purgatory
00:14:08 - 00:19:40 - Practical Living of the Jubilee Year
00:19:41 - 00:23:39 - Meaning of Home & Eternal Perspective
00:23:40 - 00:32:20 - Hope Amid Suffering & the World’s Wounds
00:32:21 - 00:37:05 - Personal Wounds & Healing
00:37:06 - 00:44:01 - Truth, Beauty, and Goodness / Episode Conclusion
 
- A Virtue Ministry Podcast -
Please find all the information of todays episode in the show notes below:
https://www.virtueministry.org.au/podcast/podcast-notes/ 
Subscribe or Follow the Podcast and help us share our mission. Join our Community on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/LivingFullness) for exclusive content, behind the scenes, merch and MORE, and watch our guest interviews on our YouTube Channel. 
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S08 Ep09 - Finding Joy in the Valley’s of Life

In Galatians 5:22–23, St Paul names the fruits of the Spirit as the evidence of a life rooted in Christ. Among them, joy stands out as something deeper than mere happiness. In this episode, Stina and Padre explore the difference between joy and happiness, the role of grace and freedom in nurturing joy, and how the fruits of the Spirit grow in our lives. They share stories, practical practices, and examples from Scripture and the saints to remind us that joy is not circumstantial but flows from a life anchored in God—even in suffering.
 
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - 00:00:25 - Introduction
00:00:26 - 00:02:05 - Understanding the Fruit of Joy
00:02:06 - 00:05:18 - Difference Between Joy and Happiness
00:05:19 - 00:09:04 - Ways to Nurture Joy
00:09:05 - 00:11:23 - Recognizing Fruits and Self-Awareness
00:11:24 - 00:17:20 - Gratitude, Reflection, and the Daily Journaling
00:17:21 - 00:23:03 - Joy in Suffering
00:23:04 - 00:25:56 - Joy Through Changing Seasons 
00:25:57 - 00:29:50 - Joy in the Face of Death
00:29:51 - 00:33:26 - Truth, Beauty, and Goodness / Episode Conclusion
 
- A Virtue Ministry Podcast -
Please find all the information of todays episode in the show notes below:
https://www.virtueministry.org.au/podcast/podcast-notes/ 
Subscribe or Follow the Podcast and help us share our mission. Join our Community on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/LivingFullness) for exclusive content, behind the scenes, merch and MORE, and watch our guest interviews on our YouTube Channel. 
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S08 Ep08 - Annulments Explained: More Than Catholic Divorce

Is an annulment just “Catholic divorce”? In this episode of Living Fullness, Stina and Padre unpack what annulments truly are, how they differ from civil divorce, and why sensitivity and pastoral care are vital in walking with those going through the process. Together they address common misconceptions, explore the grounds for annulments, and reflect on the tribunal process, community support, and the challenges couples face when annulments aren’t granted. With honesty and compassion, Stina and Padre guide us through how the Church—and we as Christians—can respond with truth and mercy.
 
00:00:00 - 00:00:34 - Introduction
00:00:35 - 00:03:02 - Understanding Annulments
00:03:03 - 00:11:16 -The Nature of Marriage and Validity
00:11:17 - 00:16:25 - The Tribunal Process
00:16:26 - 00:24:41 - Understanding Divorce and Marriage
00:24:42 - 00:28:39 - The Importance of Journeying Together
00:28:40 - 00:32:54 - Maturity and Readiness in Marriage
00:32:55 - 00:36:30 - The Role of Technology in Delayed Maturity
00:36:31 - 00:40:52 - Marriage as Reality
00:40:53 - 00:42:32 - Preventing future Annulments
00:42:33 - 00:47:07 - Truth, Beauty and Goodness / Episode Conclusion
 
FAMILIARIS CONSORTIO
https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_jp-ii_exh_19811122_familiaris-consortio.html
 
- A Virtue Ministry Podcast -
Please find all the information of todays episode in the show notes below:
https://www.virtueministry.org.au/podcast/podcast-notes/ 
Subscribe or Follow the Podcast and help us share our mission. Join our Community on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/LivingFullness) for exclusive content, behind the scenes, merch and MORE, and watch our guest interviews on our YouTube Channel. 
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