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On an enlightening episode of The Catholic Gentleman, hosts Sam Guzman and John Heinen welcome special guest Fr. Daniel Maria Klimek to the show.
Franciscan Friar and assistant professor of theology at the Franciscan University of Steubenville, Fr. Klimek bravely unfolded his spiritual journey from agnosticism to devout Catholicism.
He attributes this transformation to the divine intervention of the Blessed Mother.
"She has been so instrumental in my spiritual life, in my conversion in bringing me to Jesus, and allowing me a deeper appreciation of the Catholic faith," he testified.
In his spiritual warfare, Fr. Klimek found an arsenal of holy weapons.
Firstly, the Rosary is depicted not just as a series of prayers, but as a symbol of resilience, compassion, and a divine bridge between heaven and earth.
"From a feminine perspective, you can see the Rosary as a bouquet of roses that you're offering to the Mother of God. It's beautiful, it's tender. And from a masculine perspective, the Rosary is a sword, a spiritual weapon."
Secondly, the constant “presence of Mary” in daily life acts as a soothing balm and a guiding light in his spiritual struggles. He encourages believers to establish an open dialogue with Mary--to share their vulnerabilities and sufferings.
"Understand that Mary seeks intimacy, and to truly have intimacy with someone, you need to be able to open your heart to them," he suggests.
"You can literally visualize her by your side...invite her, have that dialogue, have that conversation, share with her what's going on in your life, ask for her prayers, ask for intercession."
Finally, the understanding and embracing of “Mary's Stigmata” act as the third guide in spiritual warfare.
Fr. Klimek introduces this concept as a way to draw strength from Mary’s shared suffering with Christ during His passion. By identifying with her pain, we can find the courage to persevere through our own struggles and battles.
"There's a deep intimacy when our wounds meet Jesus' wounds on the cross and when our wounds meet our mother's wounds. This shared suffering can guide us through our spiritual battles, making us stronger and more resilient."
As Father Klimek succinctly puts it: "Every man needs a woman in his life, and for the priest, that woman is Our Lady--someone to fight for."
Take up your rosary, open your heart to her presence, and draw strength from her shared suffering.
George Ryan, May 26, 2023