IP#251 – Anne Costa – Embracing Edith Stein on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Anne Costa – Embracing Edith Stein on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

In this episode of “Inside the Pages”, Kris McGregor and Anne Costa discuss Anne’s book, Embracing Edith Stein: Wisdom for Women from St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, which aims to introduce Edith Stein’s rich spirituality to a broader audience and her significance for women today.

Describing Edith Stein’s life, from her birth in Germany as the youngest of 11 children, through her rise as a prominent philosopher, to her eventual conversion to Catholicism inspired by the writings of St. Teresa of Avila and the example of devout Catholics; Edith’s intellectual journey was marked by a deep pursuit of truth, which eventually led her to Catholicism and a vocation as a Carmelite nun.

Edith’s writings, particularly on the nature and mission of women, are highlighted as deeply relevant today. Her thoughts on the complementarity of men and women, the importance of self-possession for women, and the need to balance intellectual and spiritual life resonate strongly in contemporary times. The podcast underscores how her wisdom, grounded in both personal experience and profound faith, offers practical guidance for modern women.

You can find the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Encountering Truth in Our Lives: How do I seek truth in my daily life, and am I open to the possibility that true wisdom may come from an encounter with Christ rather than just intellectual pursuit?
2. Embracing Our Feminine Gifts: In what ways can I better understand and utilize my unique gifts as a woman, according to God’s design, to serve my family and community?
3. The Cross and Suffering: How do I perceive and carry my own crosses, and can I learn from St. Edith Stein’s example to embrace suffering with hope and trust in God’s ultimate triumph?
4. Role of Prayer in Daily Life: Do I prioritize time for prayer in the midst of my daily responsibilities, allowing God to order my day and give me the strength to fulfill my duties?
5. Influence of Saints on Our Spiritual Journey: How can I foster a deeper relationship with the saints, particularly St. Edith Stein, to guide and support me in my spiritual growth during challenging times?

From the book description:

“Embracing Edith Stein shows how the different aspects of the life and teachings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross can serve as a guide for women and their unique vocation today. Written in a friendly, conversational style, this is one woman sharing the story of her friendship with this saint with her readers.”

About the Author

Anne Costa is a Catholic author and speaker with five books published including Embracing Edith Stein: Wisdom for Women from St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Servant) and Refresh Me Lord! Meditations to Renew a Women’sSpirit (The Word Among Us Press). She works with two apostolates: Sacred Heart Apostolate, Inc. as communications officer and the John Paul II Center for Women, Inc. Anne is a wife and mother, and enjoys traveling, painting and Eucharistic adoration.

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