F.L.O.W.cast

The Bot and I: Thinking ethically about Artificial Intelligence

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0600

Artificial Intelligence is ushering in another Industrial Revolution, and it is coming fast. Predictions suggest as much as a 45% loss of jobs over the next 5-10 years. This holds many challenges for people of faith as we learn to navigate this rapidly evolving technological rupture. Are you ready?

A humble blessing: welcoming new members to the church through the OCIA

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:52:00 -0600

Chances are, you know at least one person who has in the past or will soon become a member of the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil through a process called the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of the OCIA and its role in forming and welcoming new Catholic believers into parishes around the globe.

Catching Fire with the Dominican Charism

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600

A growing international movement of young adults associating themselves with the Dominican charism is cause for hope! Today we hear from the leader of that movement in the US, Adrian Dominican Sister Katherine Frazier, about how the Dominican Youth Movement is shaping Dominican life in the United States and the world.

Doing Good and Doing Well: Socially responsible investing

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 08:26:03 -0600

Socially responsible investing (SRI) is an effective tool for creating social change. It is often used by faith-based investors to bring ethical principles to the halls of power. Learn the history, approaches, and methods of SRI from two veterans of the practice.

Peace On Earth: Christmas at Sacred Heart Convent

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:05:00 -0600

Enjoy the sounds of the season brought to you by the sisters who live the message of Jesus every day at Sacred Heart Convent.

Disputatio: Can Slow Conversation Transform Discourse

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Disputatio, an ancient practice of conversation with the goal of distinguishing and clarifying thought, was employed by Dominican scholars in the Middle Ages. What can 21st century U.S. citizens learn from this practice that might transform our civil discourse today? F.L.O.W.cast talks with Adrian Dominican and theologian Sister Patricia Walter to explore the possibilities.

Going where God Leads: Faith in action for vocation discerners

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 00:05:00 -0600

There seems to be a growing curiosity about religion, living more deeply spiritual lives, and yes—vocations to religious life. A new approach to welcoming vocation discerners is taking root among the Springfield Dominicans, too. Come along with Sisters Denise Glazik and Mary Jo Sobieck to discover what’s happening and how you can support the movement.

Limb Loss and Adaptive Living

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0600

Mike Tanner’s superpower may be his ability to accompany those who, like himself, have experienced limb loss and the attending challenges that come with such a change. He has learned how to create communities of care that change the world for those who’ve had an amputation and for their loved ones. What’s Mike’s secret?

Global Catholic sisterhood

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:05:00 -0600

What does consecrated religious life have to give to the life of the church and the world at this moment in human history? Sister M. Paul McCaughey and Sister Mila Diaz Solano share the insights they gained during their participation in global gatherings of Catholic Sisters last spring in Rome.

Living for Otherness: Intercultural Religious Life

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 00:05:00 -0600

We Springfield Dominicans have taken on as a General Chapter commitment the goal of learning to be more intentionally intercultural in the way we live our religious life.

Friendship is foundational: Learning from Dominican Georges Anawati

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:05:00 -0600

Last spring, during our congregation’s general chapter, we made a commitment to "to walk together into a future of authentic intercultural living.”

The concept of interculturality often raises more questions than it answers. What does it mean? Why does it matter? And how do we get there

—meaning how do we attune ourselves to living prophetically enough to provide a foundation for a world of flourishing for people of every culture, race, and creed? Indeed, how do we create a world that comes closer to the beloved kingdom Jesus proclaimed?

Birdbanding at Jubilee Farm

Thu, 22 May 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Today our guests are Tony Rothering, who teaches biology at Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield and Angelea Cook, a biology student, who works with Tony managing the bird banding site at Jubilee Farm.

Next week marks the tenth anniversary of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis ground-breaking encyclical about the urgent need to care for Earth, our common home. In addition, this year, we celebrate a quarter-century of care for creation at Jubilee Farm.

Hospice Care: Uniting body, mind, and spirit at the end of life

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0600

The hospice nurse carries a pocketful of medical tools; the chaplain, a pocketful of the Word of God. This is how hospice nurse Cyndi Lawson describes nurse-chaplain collaboration in hospice care. We will learn more from Cyndi and Sister Kelly as they share insights into their ministry during this edition of FLOWcast, a podcast “For the Life of the World” from the Dominican Sisters of Springfield. After their conversation, I talk with Springfield Dominican Associate Marianne Chevalier about her experience with hospice in the final weeks of her husband Dan’s life. Dan died at home in December 2023.

Twenty years of SDART

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0600

What difference has it made that for two decades the Dominican Sisters of Springfield have been working to dismantle systems that perpetuate racism? In this episode, we talk with two founders of SDART—that's the Springfield Dominican Antiracism Team—about why they persist in their efforts, what difference it's made and why their work is still necessary today.

Dominican Dreams and Visions: Travels with Sister Mila Diaz Solano

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0600

What does the future hold for the Order of Preachers?

After completing a term in elected leadership for the Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Sister Mila Diaz Solano was freer to travel and engage in the scholarship and global dialogue that is her passion. In this conversation she unpacks her experience to share her “dreams and visions” for the future of Dominican life worldwide.

Coffee Ecumenism: A hope for the future of Christianity

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 15:21:29 -0600

Is coffee the key to Christian unity? During the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Dr. Jon Nilson, professor emeritus of Theology, Loyola University Chicago joins Sister Beth Murphy for a conversation about ecumenism in light of the most recent synod’s “conversations in the Spirit” about the ways Christian unity can enrich Catholicism, lead to a more synodal church, and bring about deep healing in the Body of Christ. Coffee and other seemingly mundane things may be the key.

Christmas Lights: Real-life Christmas Tales from the Dominican Sisters

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0600

This time of year, Christmas memories flash on like the lights on our Christmas trees. Here are some joyful, exuberant, touching true tales from four of our Dominican Sisters.

Together we will: Leadership Team Roundtable

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Three months into their term of service as leaders for the Dominican Sisters of Springfield, the new team discusses their approach to implementing the decisions of the 2024 General Chapter, their thoughts on leadership, and the changing realities for consecrated women religious.

Changing lives for English-language learners

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Challenges related to language-learning for immigrant women often mean they are among the last in their families to learn English. The Springfield Dominican Sisters have opened a new literacy center to meet the language-learning needs of women and we need volunteer tutors to join us.

Sister Katherine O'Connor and tutor-volunteer Tammy McCormick talk about the new center and the rewards of being in relationship with women passionate about learning English.

Good News: Listening to Gods Word Together

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Our focus is the Sunday liturgy. The Catholic Church, and other Christian traditions, too, use a lectionary, a kind of schedule of readings from the Hebrew and Christian scriptures, so worshipers can know what biblical texts will be used on any given Sunday. Here our guests share their experience preparing for Sunday liturgy using lectio divina—“holy reading.” Sister Phyllis has led a lectio divina group for several years, and Sister Jude has been a faithful participant. Here they share the fruits of what they’ve learned from this fruitful way of preparing for preparation in the Sunday assembly at Mass.

The Web of Life: Gardening with a purpose

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Gardening is good for the soil—and good for the soul. Springfield Dominican Sister Kristin Crawford shares lessons from the permaculture garden at Jubilee Farm with our Dominican Associate John Malanchak, who talks about the impact of gardening with persons with disabilities.

Miracle on the Lake: A F.L.O.W.cast Special

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0600

On the Feast of the Holy Rosary in 1972, a relaxing island holiday in the Minnesota Boundary Waters brought four Springfield Dominican Sisters to the brink of tragedy. Sister Margaret Grueter and Sister Marie Michelle Hackett share their poignant memories of this heart-racing experience in a special Catholic Sisters Week edition of F.L.O.W.cast.

Of the Father’s love Begotten: A F.L.O.W.cast Christmas

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0600

The greatest gift of Christmas is the one that most matters: the Incarnation of the Son of God. In this special F.L..O.Wcast episode, Sister Lori Kirchman, a liturgical musician, and Sister Joanne Delehanty, a pastoral minister, share their mutual love for an ancient poem set to a haunting medieval chant. They unpack the lyrics and explore the intricacies of the text, the chant, and their healing and life-transforming properties.

Fan Favorites and Heartfelt Hymns

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Do you have a favorite hymn? One that touches your heart? Perhaps one that changed your life in some way? On this episode of F.L.O.W.cast we explore hymns and songs our listeners told us were their favorites, in our first ever fan participation episode.

Advent Redeaux - Giving God Time

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Give yourself—and God—the gift of time during this holy season of Advent and let Sister Phyllis Schenk , an experienced spiritual guide, lead you in a few moments of quiet reflection. You may want to get a hot drink and your journal and Bible before you sit down for this timeless prayerful retreat.

Amazonia - Dominicans In Solidarity with Creation

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Two million square miles of rainforest in the Amazon River basin is the focus of the global Dominican family’s Month for Peace observance in 2023. Springfield Dominican Sister Mila Díaz Solano and Father Brendan Curran, a member of the Dominican central province and the North American co-promoter of justice for the Order of Preachers discuss the challenges facing the region and the dream of Dominicans in the Amazon for the people they serve.

Eucharist means thanksgiving

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Is Eucharist thanksgiving? Is Thanksgiving eucharist? Sister Margaret Schreiber brings all of her passion for liturgy and prayer to this special Thanksgiving podcast in a free-wheeling, exploratory conversation with F.L.O.W.cast host Sister Beth Murphy.

Synod Perspectives

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0600

The historic assembly of the “synod on synodality” concluded in Rome in October and ushered in a new era in the Roman Catholic Church—one from which we “can’t go back” according to some participants. Springfield Dominican Sisters Mila Diaz Solano and Barbara Blesse, theologians and experienced pastoral ministers, share the insights they’ve gleaned as observers from afar, and articulate sources of hope for the evolution of the church.

Find Your Person; Find Yourself

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0600

The average worker changes careers 7-12 times in a lifetime and may change jobs every 12 months. If you sense an imminent career or job change, you will want to hear this F.L.O.W.cast episode. Our guest, Deanna Blackwell, a training specialist in intercultural engagement and diversity for the Peace Corps, has some thoughts on how to make that next, best move to a new career. She shares the insights she has gleaned from her experience as a Peace Corps volunteer, educator, and trainer, as a mentor, and mentee.

The first story: Jewish and Christian approaches to scripture study

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Months before the ongoing, tragic conflict between Israel and Gaza, F.L.O.W.cast producer Sister Beth Murphy made plans for this conversation between her friends, Rabbi Eve Posen and Natalie Long. She knew that Rabbi Posen—an associate Rabbi at Congregation Neveh Shalom, Portland, Oregon, and Natalie—a self-identified “Catholic-leaning Protestant”—would be the perfect pairing for a conversation about Jewish Torah study and how it might inform our Christian approach to the Hebrew Bible—the Christian Old Testament.

F.L.O.W.cast fan favorites: The Hymn Episode [promo]

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 08:43:35 -0600

Do you ever find yourself humming the tune of a song you sang at Mass? Is it your favorite? Or is there another? This week’s F.L.O.W.cast invites fan participation. Take a listen, then get busy on the phone sharing with us your favorite hymn. Tell us a story about why it’s your favorite and you might hear yourself on an episode of F.L.O.W.cast later this season.

From Creating Content to Consuming Barbie

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0600

The media landscape has changed dramatically since Sister Beth Murphy and her guest, Sister Rose Pacatte, completed advanced degrees in pastoral communications theology and media literacy 30 years ago. Here they converse about everything from the challenges and gifts of Artificial Intelligence to the impact of media on family life, the well-being of society, and movies they love.

Adventures inTruth-telling

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Now is the time to bring the perspectives, tell the stories, and value the leadership of Illinois’ indigenous people. Our guest Heather Miller, the first-ever director of tribal relations and historic preservation at the Illinois State Museum, and Sister Marcelline Koch do just that in this touching and sensitive conversation about the value of respecting indigenous wisdom and engaging in actions that heal and renew.

Grounded in the Promise

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Claudia Aravello is a mother, wife, employee, communion minister, volunteer—a Mexican immigrant living in Rantoul, Illinois—whose approach to life and faith is both profound and simple. Her conversation with our Sister Denise Glazik is sure to inspire and perhaps lead to a moment of self-reflection on what it means to you to live as a person of faith.

Science and Christ

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0600

How is Jesus like us, and different from us? What does it mean to claim our own divinity without claiming we are equal to Jesus Christ? What do science and faith have to say to each other? Explore these questions and more with today’s guests: Springfield Dominican Sister Sharon Zayac and Father Richard Chiola, a retired priest of the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois.

Restorative Justice: Healing Relationships in Community

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Too often wrong-doing is dealt with punitively and unproductively. Relationships torn asunder by violence, trauma, or harmful speech are left in tatters, offenders and victims alike left to live with the consequences of broken relationships. Restorative justice brings healing by repairing harm, rebuilding relationships, and strengthening communities.

The Relationship Episode

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Springfield Dominican Associates Steph Steele and Lucinda and Keith Buescher share a delightful, insightful conversation on all the things about dating and relationships. Steph, a teacher at St. Agnes in Springfield, Ill., and the Bueschers, medical professionals, bring all their joy and personality to this fun conversation. You will laugh with them, enjoy their translucent humanity, and be wiser at the end of this episode—no matter where you are in the relationship lifecycle.

Work, Life, Faith

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0600

F.L.O.W.cast producer Sister Beth Murphy talks with Liz Mitchell—Catholic convert, spouse, mom of two, and deputy spokesperson for the Illinois Senate Democrats—about the intersection of life, work and faith in this Labor Day weekend episode.

Resources

Holy Name Cathedral, Chicago

Blessed Sacrament Parish, Springfield, Ill.

How to apply for a Fulbright Scholarship

Learn about Catholic Social Teaching from Catholic Relief Services

More about Illinois’ Labor History

Visit Mother Jones’ burial site

The story of the Haymarket Riot

Liz’s playlist

Don’t Stop Believin’ —Journey (my husband and I’s song!)
Do You Realize? —The Flaming Lips
Time to Pretend—MGMT

Helping Earth Heal: Permaculture at Jubilee Farm

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Listen and learn alongside the Dominican Sisters at Jubilee Farm as they help Earth heal by learning the skills for permaculture—working with land to allow it to heal itself. They will discuss weeds, waste, and how to get started on your own permaculture garden. It isn’t as simple as letting the grass grow and not pulling ‘weeds.’ By making some changes to a land management routine they hope to help the land at Jubilee Farm heal, become more sustainable, and contribute to the wellbeing of Earth.

Visit Jubilee Farm to learn more about their vision for permaculture or learn how you can get involved.

Visit Faith in Place, for a multitude of resources for faith communities and individuals who want to protect Earth.

Email Jubilee Farm

Email Faith in Place

Sisters on the Family Tree: Family ties to the Springfield Dominicans

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 00:15:00 -0600

People who are related to Catholic sisters have a unique “insiders” perspective on religious life. Three Springfield Dominican associates share inspiring stories about the joys of having a Springfield Dominican Sister on their family tree.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Follow us on social media for exclusive content! And, could you do us a favor? Rate, Review, & Follow on your favorite podcast player - it helps this podcast get seen by more people that would enjoy it!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowcastpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowcastlisten
Twitter: https://twitter.com/flowcastlisten
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9oQ1l_KHP1WBg--LzcbvfA

A F.L.O.W.cast Christmas Special

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Three Dominican Sisters share their favorite Christmas memories.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Dominicans, Human Rights, and Hope for the World

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Two Dominicans who work at the United Nations talk about the half-millennia-long role of the Order of Preachers in advancing human rights.

Father Aniedi Okure and Sister Dusty Farnan talk about the Dominican roots of human rights and share inspiring stories about the courageous efforts of women and men around the world to defend the rights of peoples everywhere.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Letting Liturgy Matter

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Sister Joanne Delehanty and Adrienne Alexander step past the Catholic “liturgy wars” to share moving stories about their experiences as praying members of the Body of Christ.

Listeners will find much food for thought as Sister Joanne and Adrienne witness to the role of faith in their own lives and discuss the very real challenge it is for contemporary Catholics to uncover the truth about which Pope Francis writes in his apostolic letter On the Liturgical Formation of the People of God: It is God’s desire to share the Passover with us that puts us in communion with one another and with God, when we allow ourselves to be shaped by the liturgy and a praying community.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Advent: Giving God Time

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Here’s a mini-retreat for Advent led by our Sister Phyllis Schenk. Are you ready to give God the time God needs to act in your life?

Sister Phyllis Schenk has accompanied parish communities in Illinois and Ohio for decades. She is a spiritual director and lives now at Sacred Heart Convent in Springfield.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Acknowledge and Repair: A Conversation About Land Acknowledgement

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 09:11:46 -0600

Just in time for Thanksgiving, Sister Marcelline Koch talks with Illinois State Museum leaders about the growing practice of land acknowledgement in relationship to Indian nations that claim Illinois as home.

Though there are no federally recognized Indian tribes on their own land in Illinois, the region is considered sacred land by 32 nations that prized the healing and restorative properties of Illinois’ waters and medicinal plants. Illinois was in times past a meeting place for sport and community among Native people. Learn more about how the Illinois State Museum is working to repair the wounds of colonization in the 21st state.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How Does Prayer Change Us?

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Three wise women talk about how prayer has transformed them and share advice for those who want to learn how to pray.

Vicki Schmidt, the retired executive director of an international faith-based women’s community, has recently completed certification as a spiritual director. She lives in Springfield, Ill.

Michele Sisson-White lives in Columbia, Mo., and says her daughters and grandchildren, Bible study, and outdoor activities like rappelling and kayaking make her happiest.

Nancy Armstrong recently retired from a 30+ year career in perinatal nursing and is waiting to hear where God is calling her next. She is a certified spiritual director and a certified practitioner of healing touch ministry. Nancy lives in O’Fallon, Mo.

All of them are Springfield Dominican associates.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Cor Unum: Community for Women

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Young professional women sometimes struggle to build friendships and find support for their faith lives. Stephanie Steele and Daisy Contreras found their way to stronger faith and deeper relationships at Cor Unum, a community for women sponsored by the Dominican Sisters.

Guest host Daisy Contreras is editor for Latino USA, a Futuro Media production for Public Radio International. In this episode she talks with Stephanie Steele, elementary school teacher who is also pursuing a masters’ degree in library and information science. They talk about how they found their way to Cor Unum, what difference it’s made in their lives, and how they’d like to see Cor Unum grow.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Jesus Was An Organizer

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0600

If you know about community organizing, it might be because our 44th President Barak Obama put a spotlight on his former job. But today’s guest says Jesus was organizing long before that. Emma Shafer, a Springfield native and community organizer, shines her own kind of light on the power for good that comes from working together for positive change.

Emma Shafer grew up in Springfield and returned to her hometown after completing a degree in urban studies to work as a community organizer for the Faith Coalition for the Common Good.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Journeys to Religious Life

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Sister M. Thecla Kuhnline and Sister M. Celestine Rondelli were born the same year in two different Central Illinois towns and their journeys to religious life followed similar trajectories. Here they share the wisdom they’ve gleaned from 67 years of ministry and compare notes on their experience as hospital chaplains.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How to Discern Anything

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0600

You decide things all the time, but do you know how to discern?

Sister Elyse Marie Ramirez shares insights about discernment she’s learned through decades of her own journey and through accompanying others.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

We Are Eagles: Seeing Immigrants Soar

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0600

For nearly 30 years immigrant women have gained confidence and independence through the Dominican Literacy Center in Aurora, Illinois. Our guests share inspiring stories about the impact of the center on thousands of families.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Embracing the Gospel: Sisters’ Life, Mission and Ministry - Part Two

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Sisters Barbara Ann Bogenschutz, Martha Carmody, and Anita Cleary, talk about community life, who’s “in their corner” and their varied ministries, from teaching and nursing to fiber art and the accompaniment of Native Americans.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Embracing the Gospel: Sisters’ Life, Mission and Ministry- Part One

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Listen in as Sisters Mary Clare Fichtner, Judith Anne Haase, and Marcelline Koch reflect with host Sister Karen Freund about the changes they’ve seen in religious life during their combined 187 years of religious profession.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Spiritual Practices for Everybody

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Deepening your spiritual life is not rocket science. Everyone can do it. Springfield Dominican Sisters Barbara Blesse and Jane Ann Beckman share practical tips for growing and deepening your relationship with God and God’s creation.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are You A Savvy News Consumer?

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Dominicans and journalists share a common sacred trust: communicating truth. The proliferation of news distributors and the multiplication of social media platforms that purport to be legitimate news sources makes the goal of truth-finding in news harder than ever. This conversation with trained journalists can help you sort it out.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Transformative Effects of Antiracism

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0600

There is lots of talk about dismantling racism these days. But what does that mean to the people who are committed to the process? Two veterans of the antiracism movement share their experience and wisdom.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Why become a Dominican Associate With Jen Graves and Kara Rapacz

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Introduction

Young professionals are catching on to the Springfield Dominican Associate Program. Learn why from two professional women who made their commitment as Springfield Dominican Associates in 2019.

Show notes

About the host: Veronica Brown served as a valuable member of the Dominican Sisters’ communications team for nearly two years. In August she took a new step in her career after hosting this episode of F.L.O.W.cast. We miss her already and wish her well in her new role!

About Jen: Jen was born in Chicago and raised in the suburbs. A 2000 graduate of Providence Catholic High School; she attended Loyola university and DePaul University and obtained a degree in mathematics and secondary education. She has taught in Iowa, Indiana, and Illinois. In Springfield, she has served on the board of the Elizabeth Ann Seton Program, was the president of Saint Agnes Parents’ Club, and is now a member of various committees at Saint Agnes parish, and is a current St. Agnes school board member.

About Kara: Born in Jacksonville, Kara gives priority to her family and her ministry at Sacred Heart-Griffin High School, where she began teaching in 2008. In 2017 she was appointed the first lay principal of SHG.

Takeaways

Baptized persons of any Christian tradition are welcome to consider the Dominican Associate Program
The Springfield Dominican Associate Program is a spiritual support for its members and their families.
Having people in your life who support your values is important.
Are you on a faith journey? Start asking the questions! Talk with someone you trust.

What would you rather?

Veronica asked our guests whether they would rather:

have someone randomize their clothing choices every day, or
have to have to readjust their car seat every day.

Listen to their answers…What would you rather?

Our Guests’ Current obsessions

Books

Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln’s Killer, James L. Swanson

Cutting for Stone, Abraham Verghese

Scythe, Neal Shusterman

Music

Carry On by Fun

Shine by Collective Soul

Fix You by Coldplay

Resources

Learn More

Become a Dominican Associate

Sacred Heart-Griffin High School

St. Agnes School

Releasing the Arrow: Dominican High School Preachers

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 01:03:00 -0600

"First the bow is bent in study, then the arrow is released in preaching." Hugh of St. Cher

Be inspired by three graduates of Dominican High Schools, participants in the high school preaching programs at Sacred Heart-Griffin, Rosary, and Marian Catholic. Hear how the Dominican education of Elizabeth Sperlakis, Leo Rubinkowsi and Amir Gazaleh continues to impact their lives in adulthood.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A Very F.L.O.W.cast Christmas

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 00:01:00 -0600

Welcome to this special Christmas edition of F.L.O.W.cast. Three of our elder sisters are here to share their Christmas memories. Sister Gabriella Luebbers, Sister Agnes Ann Pisel, and Sister Rosemary McGuire will inspire you with their Christmas memories and proclaim the Gospel from the Christmas liturgies. Whether you are relaxing in an easy chair or listening as you tick off your Christmas to-do list, enjoy this Christmas gift from Sacred Heart Convent.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Smell of the Sheep: Sisters in Pastoral Leadership

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 00:01:00 -0600

Pope Francis turned heads in 2013 when he told a group of priests: “This is what I am asking you—be shepherds with the smell of sheep.” Shepherds and sheep have long been metaphors for pastoral leaders, those who accompany communities of faith. Today, three Springfield Dominican Sisters who are veteran pastoral ministers talk shop about their lives and ministries and share heartwarming stories about their experiences with the parishioners they love and lead.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Guadalupe: The Maternal Face of God

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 00:01:00 -0600

Host Jeremiah Washington welcomes Sister Mila Diaz Solano for a conversation about the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, celebrated on December 12. In 1945 Pope Pius XII declared Our Lady of Guadalupe patroness of all the Americas. Her integration into U.S. Catholic culture has been greatly influenced by the devotion of immigrants from Mexico and other Latin American countries. Over time she has come to be understood as good news for the impoverished and oppressed of every nation.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Peace, Be Still: An Advent Reflection with Sister Karen Freund, OP

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 00:01:00 -0600

This week's episode is sure to bring you a few moments of peace and stillness, courtesy of Springfield Dominican Sister Karen Freund. Sister Karen has years of experience accompanying men and women on their spiritual journeys.

Today, she will share three uncomplicated ways to enrich your experience of Advent. Things you can do now, and things you can build into your daily schedule that may strengthen you spiritually during this four-week season of preparation for Christmas.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

AMA Episode: Your Questions Answered by Dominican Sisters

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:01:00 -0600

This is the first-ever “Ask me anything edition” of FLOWcast. We’ll answer questions from our listeners.

Answering your question today are Sisters Judith Anne Haas, Margaret Schreiber, and Rose Miriam Schulte. And, because this episode airs on Thanksgiving Day, the sisters will also share what they are grateful for.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Our Common Home: A Discussion on the Laudato Si’ Action Platform

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 00:01:00 -0600

For decades the Dominican Sisters of Springfield have understood, preached, taught and begun to adapt their lives in response to the ecological crisis facing Earth. Now they and hundreds of other congregations of Catholic Sisters around the globe are responding to the cry of Earth and the cry of the poor by joining Pope Francis in a seven-year journey toward sustainable living. Host Jeremiah Washington talks with Sister Marcelline Koch and Sister Elyse Ramirez, who are on the implementation team for the sisters’ response to the Vatican’s Laudato Si’ Action Platform, an initiative to change the way we think and act in relationship with one another and our fragile Earth.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/ourcommonhome

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Gift of the Land: A Roundtable with the Dominican Sisters at Jubilee Farm

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 00:01:00 -0600

Ever wondered what Catholic sisters might do when presented with 164 acres of land, a few llamas and alpacas, and some chickens? Well, you are about to find out. You're invited to meet Sisters Rose Marie Riley, Sharon Zayac, Anita Cleary and Susan Donner, who converse about what it means to have the stewardship of Jubilee Farm, their community’s ecology and spirituality center on the west edge of Springfield.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/giftoftheland

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sacred Heart Chapel Tour

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 00:01:00 -0600

Our motherhouse chapel is an architectural gem in the heart of Springfield. Dedicated in 1968, for more than 50 years it has been the center of life for our sisters. We are pleased to share it with you!

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/chapeltour

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Triduum of Saints: Halloween and the Feasts that Follow

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 00:01:00 -0600

Sister Barbara Blesse and Sister Beth Murphy reminisce with host Jeremiah Washington about Halloween and share insights about the holiday’s connection to the Catholic holy days that follow, All Saints Day and All Soul’s Day.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/triduumofsaints

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Growing Strong in Faith: The Interfaith Experience in Parochial Schools

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 00:01:00 -0600

When Bill and Rebecca Steele first married, they agreed to raise their children in an interfaith home. They determined to raise their girls in their mother’s Lutheran tradition and the boys in their father’s Catholic faith. In this episode we hear from their daughter, F.L.O.W.cast team member Veronica Brown as she reflects on her experience with two veteran Catholic educators with a broad experience of educating children of multiple faith traditions in Catholic schools.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/growingstrong

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Faith, Heritage, and the Future: Sister M. Alberta Lawless & Sister Denise Glazik

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 07:06:19 -0600

A glimpse into the growth of Dominican ministry on the Illinois prairie in this wide-ranging conversation between Sister Denise Glazik and Sister M. Alberta Lawless about history, community, and the future of religious life.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/faithheritagefuture/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Feast of the Holy Rosary

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 00:01:00 -0600

Sister Jean Patrick Ehrhardt, OP and Sister Beth Murphy, OP have a great conversation about the Feast of the Holy Rosary. Sister Jean Patrick shares how you can get one of her handmade rosaries.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/holyrosary/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Inside Edition: A conversation with F.L.O.W.cast team members Aaron Tebrinke and Jeremiah Washington

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 00:01:00 -0600

F.L.O.W.cast engineer Aaron Tebrinke and host Jeremiah Washington talk about working at Sacred Heart Convent, living in a time of pandemic, and their unique perspective on the sisters’ life and ministry.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/insideedition/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Spiritual Energy of Sister Mary Emmeric

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 00:01:00 -0600

Host Jeremiah Washington learns the origins of Sister Mary Emmeric’s name, her parents’ reaction to her choice of religious life, and how her experience of God has changed in 60 years of religious life.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/spiritualenergy/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Bonus Story: The Mansion Convent

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 00:02:00 -0600

When an old mansion once occupied by writer Sinclair Lewis was donated to the parish, it became the sisters’ convent and the stuff of legend in the community. Sister Marilyn Jean shares the story with host Jeremiah Washington.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/leadershipandmentoring

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sister Marilyn Jean Runkel Talks Leadership & Mentoring

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 00:01:00 -0600

Sister Marilyn Jean Runkel and host Jeremiah Washington converse about her long life of ministry as an educator, mentor and leader; Jeremiah discloses the difference Sister Marilyn Jean has made in his life.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/leadershipandmentoring

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Praise & Thanksgiving: Praying the Liturgy of the Hours

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 00:01:00 -0600

Host Jeremiah Washington shares with Sister Lori Kirchman what he learned about prayer in the blueberry patch; they explore the church’s ancient prayer and discover ways everyone can integrate Liturgy of the Hours into busy lives.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/praiseandthanksgiving

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Don‘t Hang Up: Discovering Your Place in the Dominican Family

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 00:01:00 -0600

The Dominican Family has room for everyone. Two Springfield Dominican Sisters and two associates answer the question “What attracted you to the Dominican Family?” Hear stories from associates Vicki Schmidt and Kara Mernaugh and Sisters Bernice Juip and Denise Glazik about how being Dominican enriches and shapes their lives.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/donthangup/

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A Certain Joy: Choosing Religious Life with Sister Kelly Moline, OP

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 06:01:31 -0600

Listen in as Sister Kelly talks with host Jeremiah Washington about ministry, presence, joy, coming home, and making a choice for consecrated life. Sister Kelly made her perpetual profession of vows on August 8, 2021.

Show Notes available here: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/acertainjoy/

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sister Bernie Has a Fan Club!

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0600

After five years washing dishes and emptying trash at Sacred Heart Convent Jeremiah Washington agreed to moonlight as host for the Dominican Sisters’ new podcast. Given the choice of who to interview first, he chose Sister Bernadette Marie McGuire because he knew her reputation as an unlikely comic icon at Rosary High School, Aurora. Welcome to the inaugural episode of F.L.O.W.cast!

Show Notes available on our website: https://flowcastlisten.org/episodes/sisterberniehasafanclub/

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Introducing F.L.O.W.cast

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 12:34:47 -0600

We'll be coming to your headphones in the very near future! Stay tuned for more details.