In this bonus episode of Descent into Light, hosts Sister Danielle and Sister Theresa are joined by counselor Paul Fahey to unpack the subtle dynamics of spiritual abuse, abuse of power, and abuse of conscience in today's Church.

Building on the themes discussed in Episode 5 of Descent Into Light, Paul shares key insights from his professional counseling practice and educational workshops, offering clear frameworks to help survivors, leaders, and lay Catholics identify spiritual coercion and foster environments of authentic freedom.

In this episode, we explore how religious orders, lay Catholics, and Church leaders are beginning to address spiritual abuse. Paul also helps to define and distinguish abuse of power, spiritual abuse, and abuse of conscience. He also explains why equipping people with clear, precise language is the single most powerful tool for healing and systemic change.

Following our recent conversation with Marcus Mescher on moral injury, we are sharing our second bonus episode of Descent into Light.In this episode, Sister Danielle and Sister Theresa sit down with Fr. Boniface Hicks, OSB to unpack how to healthily live vulnerability, boundaries, and authority within spiritual direction.When seeking spiritual guidance, we are invited to open the deepest parts of our hearts. Yet, as Fr. Boniface points out, “that which is most fruitful is also most dangerous.” When authority is misused, spiritual directions can become harmful.How do you maintain healthy boundaries while staying open in your spiritual life? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.

P.S. If you prefer to watch this episode, the video can be found here!

In this special bonus episode of Descent into Light, we welcome back Catholic moral theologian Marcus Mescher to dive deeper into a crucial concept from Episode 3: Moral Injury. Marcus breaks down how moral injury differs from PTSD, where the term originates, and how it impacts individuals, communities, and the broader Church.

Drawing on a groundbreaking two-year study with survivors of clergy sexual abuse, church employees, and university students, Marcus talks about how moral injury manifests as persistent spiritual torment, moral confusion, and deep relational betrayal and he shares what he believes true institutional repair demands.