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Messy Family Podcast : Catholic Conversations on Marriage and FamilyAuthor: Mike and Alicia Hernon : Catholic Marriage Parent and Family
Parenting is not a clean-cut, simple process for those who like to follow the rules. Family life is messy and unpredictable, but it is the greatest adventure you will ever have. We are Mike and Alicia Hernon, parents of 10 children with a growing number of grandchildren, and we would like to invite you into some of the conversations we have had with each other about marriage, parenting, and Catholic family life. Our hope is that our conversation sparks a dialogue between you and your spouse that leads to greater unity and intentional Christian parenting in your home. Listen in to our podcast and start the conversation as we seek to lead our families to heaven. Visit us at https:///www/MessyFamilyProject.org for resources, guides, links and show notes. Language: en-us Genres: Christianity, Kids & Family, Parenting, Religion & Spirituality Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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MFP 361: The Story of All Stories: Catholic Parenting & Hospitality with Emily Stimpson Chapman
Monday, 8 December, 2025
"Hospitality and real community starts by inviting people into your messy home…" Summary In this episode, Mike and Alicia sit down with best-selling Catholic author Emily Stimpson Chapman to talk about Advent, Storybook for young Catholics, and the beauty of simple hospitality. Emily shares the real, lived rhythms of Advent in her home—reminding parents that peace and prayerfulness grow best when traditions are tied to everyday routines and kept flexible, not burdensome. Emily also introduces her newest work, The Story of All Stories, a beautifully crafted children's story Bible from Word on Fire that presents salvation history as one unified narrative. Although written for ages 7–13, it has already captivated teens, parents, and grandparents alike. Finally, the conversation turns to hospitality—how ordinary families can open their homes joyfully, even amid noise, chaos, and little ones. Emily offers practical tips, simple meal ideas, and a vision for welcoming others that prioritizes connection over perfection. Key Takeaways Advent traditions work best when tied to existing family routines—like dinner—rather than starting from scratch. Flexibility in traditions preserves peace and allows your family to embrace the joy of the season without stress. Hospitality doesn't require perfection—simple meals and genuine presence build true community. Opening your home combats loneliness and helps families live their mission together. Couple Discussion Questions What Advent traditions have been life-giving for our family—and which ones cause unnecessary stress? How could we anchor Advent prayer or traditions more naturally into our existing daily routine? In what ways do we tell the story of salvation to our children? Is there room to deepen our approach? When we think about hospitality, what holds us back most—perfectionism, time, or fear? Who is one person or family we could invite over in the next two weeks for a simple, joy-filled meal?
