What are the three most impactful books you’ve ever read? In this episode of the Practicing Catholic Podcast, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger share the books that profoundly shaped their faith, prayer life, and approach to work.

From Genesis 1–4 to Deep Work, they reflect on how Scripture, the saints, and thoughtful reading can transform the intellectual life, spiritual life, and daily responsibilities of lay Catholics. They also discuss practical takeaways: creating a reading plan, committing to a prayer schedule, and developing a personal rule of life. If you’re looking for faithful book recommendations—or inspiration to grow in holiness—this episode is for you.

Want to go deeper this Lent? Check out these resources on Formed!

How to Lent: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1096760

Foretold: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1096357

The Heart of Prayer with Bishop Andrew Cozzens: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1473553

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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Lent is almost here, and the question returns every year: What should I give up—and what should I take on? In this episode of the Practicing Catholic Podcast, hosts Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger walk through how Catholics can approach Lent with intention, freedom, and joy.

Together, they explore the three pillars of Lent—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—and share practical, lived examples of how these practices can shape family life, reorder desires, and make room for deeper intimacy with God. From navigating media and technology to forming children in generosity and prayer, this conversation offers a grounded, realistic approach to Lenten commitments.

Whether you’re discerning your Lenten plan or looking to reframe Lent as an invitation rather than a burden, this episode will help you enter the season with clarity, humility, and hope.

Want to go deeper this Lent? Check out these resources on Formed!

• How to Lent: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1096760
• Foretold: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1096357
• The Heart of Prayer with Bishop Andrew Cozzens: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1473553

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Practicing Catholic Podcast, hosts Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger conclude their inaugural Bible study by diving deep into the second half of the Book of Ruth. What initially seems like a strange or even uncomfortable story unfolds into one of Scripture’s most beautiful portraits of hope, virtue, and redemption.

Together, they explore the dramatic threshing floor scene, the role of the kinsman-redeemer, and how Ruth and Boaz break destructive patterns from Israel’s past through freedom, courage, and moral clarity. Set against the chaos of the period of the Judges, Ruth reveals how God’s providence works through ordinary choices marked by fidelity, chastity, and self-giving love.

This conversation highlights why Ruth stands at the heart of salvation history — pointing forward to King David and ultimately to Christ — and why its message still speaks powerfully to modern Christians seeking holiness in family life, marriage, and everyday decisions.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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