In our last episode of the semester, the team discusses the importance of reflecting on the graces given in a season and expressing gratitude where it is due before moving on. Practicing that gratitude, our beloved Fr. Chris announces his reassignment to St. Louis in Waco and reflects on his time at St. Mary’s and on Verso L’Alto. Thank you, Fr. Chris, for your wisdom, friendship, and fatherhood ..read more

This week we have a special twin guest join us as we talk about all the intricacies of being a Catholic man. We go in and discuss some pressures that guys face in society, what lifts and tears them down, and some ways to grow in brotherhood with one another. Ladies out there, this is also a good listen to learn more about the mind of your fellow guys and we give some ways that women can actually help us become better men. Good luck figuring out who is who based on just the Cox brothers’ voices ..read more

The Lord calls us to greater almsgiving during this season of Lent. Spending time in service to the poor is an active way to engage in this sort of giving. This episode, we discuss different avenues to journey with the poor, including mission trips, street service, unseen acts of service, and encountering the “poor in spirit” on campus every day. We pray this episode blesses you and inspires you to greater awareness of how to serve Christ himself through the poor in your life.    In this episode, Fr. Chris talks about The Missioners of Christ and Happy Are You Poor&nbs ..read more

We know “faithful friends are a sturdy shelter” (Sirach 6:14). This episode, we discuss the importance and the joy of walking with others during Lent (and all through the year). From accountability groups to authentic friendship, what should these relationships look like and how does one develop them? Tune in then go out and make some invitations; it’s time to Walk with Community ..read more

Reflecting on the call to fasting during Lent in imitation of Old Testament penitential practices and Jesus’ own preparation for ministry in the desert, the team discusses the purpose of this common practice and some practicals to encourage you on your way. During Lent, we are called to sharpen our senses to focus our hearts and minds on God, keeping in mind that fasting strengthens our wills. That increased freedom to say “no” means our “yes” mean much more, freeing us from the worldly attachments that keep us from saying more a complete “yes” to God’s call. Some highlights from this week inc ..read more

Continuing our season on "Journeying with Jesus in the Desert" during Lent, this week we consider the beauty of “Journeying with Simplicity.” How might we strip our lives of unnecessary business, clutter, and distraction in order to more fully make space for awareness of the Lord’s prompts and providence? These and other questions are discussed, keeping forefront how to always keep our eyes on the Lord amidst the commotion of everyday life. May we walk with the Lord in simplicity and docility, trusting that He gives us the grace for each day!  ..read more

In preparation for Lent, the team introduces the idea of journeying with the Lord in the desert for these 40 days. Discussing how to live out prayer, fasting, and almsgiving as college students, they consider some Lenten practices students might take up and dispositions to keep in mind. Specifically remembering St. Teresa of Avila’s encouragement to always persevere and the truth that the Lord wants our hearts—not just for us to do the most difficult thing—the allegory of a journey proves especially apt. May we willingly enter the desert with Christ this Lent, meekly letting Him lead us to the ..read more

This week, Charis, Will, and Fr. Chris welcome Fr. Adam of The Society of the Divine Word to discuss Christ’s Great Commission, calling us all to “go and make disciples.” Fr. Adam shares his experiences serving in faraway lands, including Japan and the Philippines, and touches on insights for college students to actively serve and evangelize right where they are. Notably, the power of invitation and maintaining awareness of those around us remain consistent themes in sharing the warmth and  light of the gospel wherever we are. Thank you Fr. Adam!  ..read more

This episode, the team is joined by Sr. Julianna from the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles. Diving into the history and characteristic spiritual practices of the Carmelite order, Sr. Julianna shares about community life, how college students can learn from the prayer practices of Carmel, and the cereal of choice in their convent (is it the cereal of the week? tune in to find out!). From hiking to nursing to teaching to exploring the depths of the soul’s garden in prayer, the Carmelites in Los Angeles certainly live adventurously! Thank you Sr. Julianna!   Interest ..read more

The Verso L’Alto Podcast proudly welcomes our new co-host, Will Cox! Aggie Catholic, Accounting enthusiast, and member of the class of 2024, he’s all systems go to join Charis and Fr. Chris of season 5. Will also comes bearing the cereal of the week; stay tuned! As we return from winter break and face a new semester, this episode explores the challenge of living in the present moment and receiving the Lord’s grace day by day. Remembering that spontaneity requires self-discipline, we touch on practical steps to prepare oneself to be intentional and present amidst the busy-ness of college daily ..read more