Higher Ground by Elevated Parish Missions

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the meaning of patriotism and the spiritual concept of freedom from a Catholic perspective. They reflect on how faith and patriotism intertwine, especially in the context of America's 250th birthday.  They emphasize that, as we celebrate the freedoms of America, may we also remember to celebrate...

Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin and Brian explore the life of John the Baptist, emphasizing humility, identity in Christ, and the importance of living a life that points others to Jesus. They discuss practical ways to embody these principles in everyday moments.  Tune in and learn how you too can "Prepare the way of the Lord...." Key topics: The signif...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground ,  Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound role of fathers in family and spiritual life.  Their discussion emphasizes the importance of active fatherhood, the impact of father figures on the spiritual walk of their family, and practical ways to reclaim and honor the role of dads today. Key topics The cultural shift in family dyna...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the significance of the Sacred Heart of Jesus as a spiritual stronghold for families.  They explain the importance of this devotion during chaotic times like summer vacations.  Their conversation reviews the related historical context, practical applications to daily life, and how to foster internal a...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore a unique perspective of the Solemnity of Corpus Christi (ie., the Body of Christ).  They discuss how we are called by Christ to be Eucharistic by giving people "something to eat, yourselves".  Through our feeding others in Truth, nourishing others in charity, and being present in our time/ta...

Send us Fan Mail Summary Exploring the profound mystery of the Holy Trinity on Trinity Sunday, this episode of Higher Ground delves into how routine rituals - like the sign of the cross - can deepen our understanding of and relationship with God. Through stories, analogies, and spiritual insights, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough encourage us to move beyond an "autopilot" faith and instead...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the essence of the Holy Spirit as shown through the rich symbolism of wind, fire, and the dove. It emphasizes how these symbols deepen our understanding of the Spirit's ongoing presence, action, and impact in our lives.  It encourages us to invite the Spirit into our hearts daily for inspiration...

Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound significance of the sacrament of Confirmation, emphasizing its role as a "spiritual charger" that empowers Catholics to live out their faith boldly. It discusses common misconceptions, the importance of understanding the indelible mark of the Holy Spirit, and practical ways to...

Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode of "Higher Ground", Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the significance of Mother's Day from personal, spiritual, and historical perspectives. It highlights the deep love and sacrifice of mothers, the spiritual symbolism of Mary as the mother of all believers, and practical ways to honor mothers daily.  Listen in, and take your love and a...

Send us Fan Mail Summary On this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound significance of First Communion, its connection to the wedding sacrament, and ways to deepen our spiritual union with Christ through the Eucharist. It emphasizes the importance of preparation, disposition, and ongoing prayer in our faith journey.  Listen in and take your love for the Eucha...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this inspiring episode, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough interview Brian’s nephew, Chase Hough, about his Catholic social media ministry “Chase Follows Christ”.  Chase shares his faith journey from a casual Catholic upbringing to a passionate evangelist using social media to reach young adults. Discover how personal struggles, a call to authenticity, and the power of digit...

Send us Fan Mail Summary Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound role of Our Lady as Queen, Mother, and Warrior, emphasizing her spiritual authority, historical significance, and how to deepen devotion through meaningful practices like May crowning. This discussion highlights the biblical roots, tradition, and practical ways to honor Mary in everyday life. Resources: Apostolate for Fami...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this enlightening conversation, Scott Anthony, the manager of ministries at the Apostolate for Family Consecration, discusses the importance of family consecration to Jesus through Mary and St. Joseph. The dialogue explores the history and mission of the Apostolate, practical steps for families to engage in consecration, and the transformative impact it can have on fami...

Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode of Higher Ground, Brian and Martin delve into the themes of mercy, forgiveness, and trust, focusing on Divine Mercy Sunday. They discuss biblical parables, share personal insights, and offer practical steps for living a life filled with mercy. The episode highlights how divine mercy is a gift often taken for granted and explores the importance of trust in...

Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode of "Higher Ground", Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore how the hope of the resurrection can ignite daily transformation in one's life and community. They discuss the profound impact of Easter on personal faith and  relationships with others.  They also recognize how the celebration of Jesus rising from the dead is also a celebration of us...

Send us Fan Mail Summary : In this episode of "Higher Ground", Martin Watjen and Brian Hough unpack the deep theological insights behind Jesus' final words on the cross, focusing on trust, sacrifice, and the new covenant. They explore the spiritual significance of "It is finished" and "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit," offering practical reflections an...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode, Martin and Brian reflect on the profound significance of Jesus' words, "I thirst," exploring themes of vulnerability, the human need for connection, and maintaining spiritual health as leaders and fathers. They delve into how acknowledging our needs can open the door to authentic relationships and divine grace. Takeaways The meaning of Chris...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough delve into the profound meaning behind Jesus's cry on the cross, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken Me?" It explores how this moment, rooted in Psalm 22, reveals a deeper divine plan for salvation and offers hope amidst suffering. The discussion highlights how Jesus's words serve as a...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the significance of family and devotion in the context of Jesus' last words, particularly focusing on the relationship between Mary and John. They discuss the importance of community, the role of Mary as a spiritual mother, and practical ways to incorporate devotion to Mary in daily life, emphasizing the need for...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground, Brian Hough and Martin Watjen explore the concept of paradise, both in personal experiences and in the context of scripture. They discuss the importance of faith in daily life, the role of fathers in nurturing faith within families, and the significance of love and surrender in the journey towards heaven. The conversation emphasizes that l...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the theme of forgiveness as they enter the Lenten season. They discuss the significance of Christ's words from the cross, emphasizing the importance of forgiving others and oneself. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, they highlight the challenges of forgiveness in daily life and offer pra...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode, Brian Hough and Martin Watjen explore the meaning and purpose of Lent, challenging the traditional views of self-denial and drudgery. They emphasize the importance of understanding the 'why' behind Lent, encouraging listeners to transform their practices into opportunities for growth and connection with Christ. The conversation highlights practic...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this conversation, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the deeper meaning of love, particularly in the context of Valentine's Day. They discuss how love is often portrayed as a simple act of giving gifts, but true love requires effort, sacrifice, and intentionality. The hosts emphasize the importance of making love a daily commitment, rather than a one-time event...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground, hosts Brian Hough and Martin Watjen explore the deep-rooted traditions of Western Pennsylvania, particularly focusing on Groundhog Day and its surprising connections to the Catholic Church. They discuss the significance of family in faith, the importance of presenting oneself and one's family to God, and how everyday actions can serve...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough discuss the significance of new beginnings in life, faith, and family. They reflect on the March for Life, the importance of inviting God into our new starts, and how every phase of life presents opportunities for growth and transformation. The conversation emphasizes the need to embrace change, recognize the...