In this book, we look at Augustine’s fascination with Manichaeism, the death of his friend and how his wrestling leads to an examination of the meaning of words. In fact, his analysis of the structure of a sentence, in true Augustinian fashion, will reveal to us the meaning of time and eternity. While he teaches us about words, he also gives a lesson on how to position ourselves to view reality and experience true conversion. We will look at phrases like, “I turned my back to the light and my face to the things it illuminated.”

Book III- The Case for Classical EducationJoin us for our look at Book III where Augustine encounters the fundamental question: What is education? We will see that in his journey to Christ, he first turns to the pagan Cicero. We see the pattern of the early Church right here. We find the noble search for truth in the pagans and this thirst then is only satisfied by Christ Himself. This is why the classical model of education is the most suited for finding Christ.The book begins with Augustine following unholy loves in Carthage. While reading Cicero changes his mind, we have yet to see what will convert his heart. Whether it is grappling with lust or being seduced by the Manichees, Augustine is still unteachable by the end of this book. And yet, the suspense builds towards hope as we learn about Monica's famous dream and her conversation with the formidable Bishop Ambrose.Perhaps most importantly, we will see why this book on Augustine's early years confronts us with a question: How do we approach teaching and learning? As a liberal arts school, we deeply desire to know the answer and we find here as we move through the Confessions, a work like no other.Join our Intellectual Society! https://www.holychildnm.com/about/intellectual-formation

Join us for Book Two where we learn about the ways Augustine places his fall into sin with Old Testament imagery from Genesis and Job and New Testament visions of the sower, the field and the Prodigal Son. Why does he spend so much time discussing the theft of the pears? Augustine challenges us to ask: How am I listening to God’s voice? Where might my ears be closed? Find out about this and other events from his period of “adolescentia” in our look at Book Two.Would you like to gain access to group reflection questions for these episodes? Then visit our website or sign up with our intellectual society by clicking here https://www.holychildnm.com/about/intellectual-formation

Join us as we plunge right into Book One! In particular, we will be mentioning how Augustine wrote his autobiography as a retelling of Virgil's Aeneid. (Don't forget, Virgil himself was retelling Homer's Iliad and Odyssey.) Would you like to learn more about how these three great authors provide the cornerstone for Western, Catholic literature, leading all the way to Dante in the Middle Ages? Then sign up with our intellectual society by clicking here https://www.holychildnm.com/about/intellectual-formation

Welcome to today's episode, where we dive into an important discussion on protecting kids from the potential pitfalls of addictive technology, including video games, social media, and other screens. While the topic may feel strong for some, we recognize every family's journey is unique, and there are many ways to approach screen time responsibly. Our aim here is to share insights from an organization that has seen success in helping families manage or even eliminate device dependency, offering practical ideas rooted in data and a balanced perspective. We hope this conversation serves as a resource for families striving for thoughtful, healthy media habits for their children in today’s digital world. For a letter from the Principal that delves into more detail on how to approach this topic from a Catholic perspective, Click Here: https://mailchi.mp/holychildnm/episode16 Resources mentioned in this episode: ScreenStrong: a gold mine of resources for parents. Several free, though many cost. https://screenstrong.org/ Jose Briones’ Dumb Phone Selection Tool https://josebriones.org/dumbphone-finder To down select to child appropriate phones, on the left side, select “No” under Browser and select “Reliable” under Support and Updates. A detailed comparison chart for alternatives marked to parents for their child’s first phone (can also be used into adulthood, depending on lifestyle) https://screensanity.org/tool/first-phone-comparison-chart/ Several Parent Guides to help parents navigate technology and apps https://screensanity.org/tool-category/parent-guide/

Welcome to Our Year-Long Journey through St. Augustine's Confessions! We are delighted to have you with us as we embark on this transformative journey through one of the most profound spiritual autobiographies ever written. Our video discussions will begin in August 2024 and will continue through May 2025, giving us ample time to delve deeply into St. Augustine's Confessions. In our first video, we will introduce St. Augustine and give some background to his Confessions. We will also with one of our teachers, Ms. Marlena Galassi, and her husband about their personal conversion through reading the great books. Here's what else you can look forward to: Engaging Video Discussions: We plan to release two insightful videos each month, guiding you through St. Augustine's journey of faith. Dynamic In-Person Discussions: Join us for in-person discussions sprinkled throughout the year. The first session is scheduled for Sunday, September 8th, at 2 PM. These gatherings will offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow participants and engage in meaningful conversations. To stay up to date on locations, dates, and other important details, please sign up for our Intellectual Society email list. https://www.holychildnm.com/about/intellectual-formation This is more than just a book study—it's a chance to transform your life through the powerful insights of a saint. Whether you're a longtime admirer of St. Augustine or new to his works, this study will offer fresh perspectives and meaningful connections. We are here to support you every step of the way. Explore the resources, participate in discussions, and watch the videos that will guide us through this journey of faith and discovery. Together, let's deepen our spiritual understanding and grow closer to God. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. Let's get started!

As we close our School's year long journey with The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, I hope this video will illuminate and clarify some of the themes we have mentioned throughout the year. While our focus has been on the children, as Pope Benedict XVI taught us, ultimately this book is for adults as it teaches us how abide in Christ’s love in childlike simplicity.

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam

Dear Listeners,

In my eight years here at the school I have so often heard our children pray for an end to abortion. I have been moved by so many staff members and parishioners who devote themselves to the pro-life cause or have witnessed to me their own sacrifices for life. What a privilege it was to sit down and have a conversation with Mayra Rodriguez just before her presentation at our parish last month! I especially loved hearing about how the sidewalk prayer warriors were the force that led to her change in thinking.Mayra is a powerful advocate against abortion, a champion for women and the unborn, and is driven to expose the truth behind Planned Parenthood's dangerous practices. She credits the faith of those praying on the sidewalk and the Divine Mercy of God for her reversion to the Catholic faith and for the strength it took to stand against the abortion Goliath - and win.We hope you take the time to listen to this sobering, but also hopeful, episode.

Blessings,

Mrs. Martinez

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