Traces of Faith with Traci Rhoades

TWO

On a woman named Egeria’s trip to Mt. Sanai:

THREE

On thin spaces:

FOUR

On using AI as a consultant on spiritual matters (from a 17-year old writer!):

FIVE

“The Millennial Dream Dash”

SIX

On Malcolm Guite’s Desk:

SEVEN

Save the best for last - On Dolly Parton:

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

What wellness is & Isn’t, OCD, and calming the nervous system

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 13:07:52 GMT

ONE

Let’s start by celebrating these words from one of my faves, Shauna Niequist:

TWO

We live with OCD in our home. I haven’t figured out yet how much of that is my story to tell, but please understand what OCD is and isn’t.

THREE

So, understandably, hearing that popular Christian figures like these two women are using terms like “intrusive” and “spiraling” in conjunction with negative thoughts concern me.

FOUR

Here’s a better picture of intrusive thoughts and OCD.

FIVE

Thank God for good therapists. They are needed. Medicine, needed occasionally. Most of us have a long way to go in understanding the interconnectivity of our bodies. This summer we focused on healing the gut, where serotonin is produced.

SIX

In our non-stop, busy world that is somehow also highly sedentary, it’s important to focus on calming our nervous system as well. Here are some thoughts on Somatic self care:

SEVEN

Of course, as the author of Ecclesiastes reminds us, there’s nothing new under the son. Mindfulness would serve us well.

A HEALTH CONVERSATION

As a wellness advocate, I help individuals and families build a more natural approach to health through foundational supplementation, essential oils, and simple tools that support the body before bigger issues arise. Think of it as creating a natural medicine cabinet and a stronger wellness foundation for everyday life. If something you read here sparked a question, connected with your family’s health journey, or made you curious about where to begin, reach out. I’d love to hear your story and help you explore next steps that make sense for your household and season of life.

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7 Things → Back to school, family focused reads, what is memoir, and a recipe

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 11:15:42 GMT

ONE

It’s back to school for many. Are college students attending church?

TWO

For those interested in introducing the Rosary to their children (or if you just appreciate a beautiful children’s story).

THREE

Here are a couple books for family devotions.

FOUR

Have I shared here about a new Bible in a Year for families releasing in 2027?!

FIVE

Here are a couple other companies that release good teaching material for children.

SIX

I’ve been doing a little writing, aiming to transition from creative nonfiction to memoir. Here’s more on the genre of memoir.

SEVEN

A simple but serious upgrade for serving asparagus.

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Things → Mary, female clergy, Church as mother

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 11:11:31 GMT

ONE

I finished the book on an author’s lifetime encountering Mary in artwork, and she mentioned this ancient Marian apparition in England (of all places).

TWO

Here is an ultimate guide to Marian Apparitions.

THREE

My friend, Hannah, wrote a lovely book called Feasting on Hope. She’s an Anglican Priest, in a denomination where some churches have those, and some do not.

FOUR

For those curious about how Mary is understood by many Christians, this booklet offers a great summary.

FIVE

Have you ever wondered about the history of the Rosary?

SIX

We’ve been talking about female pastors for a while.

SEVEN

There’s also a history of the Church as mother.

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Things → Cathedrals & The Reformation

Sat, 08 Aug 2026 11:16:03 GMT

ONE

I’ll never get over the beauty of cathedrals. I’m all for beautiful, sacred worship spaces.

TWO

Historic architecture that is beautiful is a gift and inspiration for all.

THREE

Here is an article and a poem about the collaborative work done in the Middle Ages.

FOUR

Some tragedy around English monasteries and churches during the English Reformation.

FIVE

Photos of abandoned churches around the world. Remarkable.

SIX

Of course, the Anglicans and other Protestants taught us simplicity can be sacred and beautiful too.

SEVEN

Lord, heal our ancestral wounds.

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Things → Ezekiel's visions, deuterocanonical books, church in community, catchesis

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 11:09:51 GMT

ONE

Two perspectives of what Ezekiel was describing in his early vision.

TWO

From this series on “Bad Books of the Bible,” referring to the deuterocanonical (apocryphal) books of the Bible, here’s insight on Tobit.

THREE

Are you curious about the other seven books found in some of our Bibles? BibleProject comes through.

FOUR

I have this Independence Day homily from Fr. Mike Schmitz cued up, but not listened yet: “Citizens, Not Subjects.”

FIVE

A beautiful story of church being good neighbors with their community.

SIX

Even in a new church tradition now, I still sense this disconnect from what the early church called Catechesis (religious instruction).

SEVEN

This draw to faith-shaping discipleship helped reframe my understanding of Scripture and Church Tradition (a lengthier YouTube interview).

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Things → Hell and purgatory, social media, fiction and cobbler

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 11:15:14 GMT

ONE

In a recent post by a popular, former evangelical influencer, she shared her viewpoint on hell had changed after years of study. That got some interesting remarks. We should at least be aware of a historic perspective. An article & a book:

TWO

I tried to be very helpful. I encouraged the woman to study up on the concept of purgatory next. Here, a Catholic perspective and a Protestant one.

THREE

I’m admittedly in a weird space regarding my relationship with the American evangelical church, but it’s forever part of my story. I’m finding words for what left me unsettled.

FOUR

For those of us who appreciate a good list AND are convicted we should spend less of our time on social media.

FIVE

One more look at hell, from the eyes of Judaism.

SIX

A couple contemporary fiction books I keep hearing about.

SEVEN

My mom has a birthday next week. She loves a good cobbler, so Mom, this one’s for you.

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

Holistic Focus Post: A BOGO Sale!

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 15:22:36 GMT

Two or three times a year, doTERRA has a BOGO sale. I’ve talked to so many who had their first essential oil experience because they took advantage of deals like these. Here’s info on the combos:

ONE

Adaptiv/Balance. For ushering in calm to both body and home. I heard a doctor recently call this combo the tantrum tamer.

TWO

Helichrysum/Lavender/Peppermint. Technically Buy one, get two. Probably my favorite offering. Helichrysum, think “heal,” things like bruises and bleedings, etc. I use lavender for occasional seasonal allergy flare-ups, peppermint for headaches.

THREE

Spearmint/Eucalyptus. We’re aiming for respiratory support here, but in a diffuser, these two aromas can bring a spa-like atmosphere into the home. Look at how doTERRA works with spearmint farmers on the ground.

FOUR

Frankincense Stick/Copaiba. The stick is excellent at targeting areas of inflammation and also scars, aging spots, rosacea, etc. Copaiba regulates the body and offers pain relief.

FIVE

Cheer/Grapefruit. When your spirits need a lift, Cheer as an emotional blend and citrus anything will do. Citrus is also good for gentle cleansing. I often get Cheer for college students moving into a dorm or apartment.

SIX

Frankincense Capsules available for free with qualifying orders. We take this supplement daily because of the many studies connecting frankincense with brain and cellular health.

SEVEN

Finally, if you’d like to watch a super informal, quick video from me on how we use these products in our home daily, enjoy. :) Hit reply if you want to chat about how these bundles might help support your health.

A HEALTH CONVERSATION

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Ready to take a next step but not dive in quite yet? Join our customer group that offers education and helpful tips on a holistic lifestyle.

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7 Things → Mother Mary, discipleship, and baseball

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 11:16:06 GMT

ONE

Curious about Mary? I’ve got two books for you.

TWO

Here are three informed Substack articles (more in the series) about Mary historically, from a Quaker perspective.

THREE

I’m still finding words for it, but I believe there’s deep value in faith’s transcendence, even as we practice being the "hands and feet of Jesus.”

FOUR

We aim to strike a balance between spiritual and practical when we talk discipleship.

FIVE

Here, some brief posts from Thomas Merton on discipleship; I especially like December 26, 2015.

SIX

On raising disciples.

SEVEN

I soaked up all the All Star baseball game coverage this past week. Enjoy the story behind “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.”

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Things → Some Mormon mentions, America's birthday, & English muffins

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 11:15:22 GMT

ONE

Two Catholic columnists share about their experience seeing inside a Mormon temple.

TWO

At the same time, I watched this reel from a friend of mine who is Mormon, and visited a church in Bulgaria.

THREE

There are many things I appreciate about Winn Collier, including his writing. Happy Birthday, America.

FOUR

Have you seen the SNL skits on “Washington’s Dream?”

FIVE

And have you seen the new movie, Young Washington?

SIX

Why is an English muffin, English?

SEVEN

While on vacation, we had from-scratch English muffins, and they were scrumptious. Then I found out there’s a local farmstand by me that makes them too.

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

It's OK. We Can Still Be Friends.

Traci Rhoades — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 02:12:50 GMT

You’re welcome here. In 2015, I attended my first Ash Wednesday service at St Margaret’s Church. It was the first time I’d been in this church, and while I didn’t think I would know anyone at that day’s service, I did know Jeanne. She attended my own local church. Her hug welcomed me into that foreign, sacred space.

The Priest also welcomed me, a denomin…

It's OK. We Can Still Be Friends.

Traci Rhoades — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 19:33:43 GMT

The Priest also welcomed me, a denomin…

7 Things → Independence Day (with a nod to Canada Day)

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 11:15:06 GMT

ONE

In the United States of America, from Time Magazine: “Our America”

TWO

Meanwhile in Canada, July 1st was a day of festivities.

THREE

I celebrated a bit early this year, watching this musical and cheering on Team USA in the FIFA Soccer World Cup.

FOUR

Enjoy this video, “America’s 250 Years In One Road Trip.”

FIVE

A woman in Maryland becomes a centenarian (turns 100) this weekend.

SIX

Fresh patriotic songs were released to commemorate the 250th Anniversary.

SEVEN

My daughter often requested this cake for our Independence Day celebrations.

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Natural Things (Does the body keep the score, personal interactions)

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 19:42:48 GMT

ONE

Here was the original article refuting the theories in this book:

TWO

So does the body keep score?

THREE

Or doesn’t it?

FOUR

Our wellness team uses this scanner to read the body’s responses over a short period of time, showing areas where the body needs support. If this is of interest to you, ask me about details.

FIVE

We had a class on Fasting recently, and this book was mentioned. Super fascinating to think God had physical and spiritual benefits in mind when he encouraged fasting. Hit reply for a class recording.

SIX

When we host in-person gatherings, having people bite into our EO Mega+ Complex is one of my favorite samples. How is our fish oil different?

SEVEN

My other favorite activity is offering an oil experience with peppermint. Look, becoming a crazy oil lady was about the last thing I saw coming!

A HEALTH CONVERSATION

FACEBOOK GROUP

Ready to take a next step but not dive in quite yet? Join our customer group that offers education and helpful tips on a holistic lifestyle.

Request to join here

7 Things → Poetry - Outdoors & Love

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 11:15:31 GMT

ONE

“Fern Hill” by Dylan Thomas.

TWO

“Outside the Village Church” by Alfred Austin

THREE

30 haiku poems about nature.

FOUR

“The Peace of Wild Things” by Wendell Berry

FIVE

“Summer” by Christina Rossetti

SIX

“I Am Offering This Poem” by Jimmy Santiago Baca

SEVEN

Spoken word poem for fun - When Love Arrives

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Things → A poem, soccer, presidential museums, birds, and appetizers

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 11:15:27 GMT

ONE

A follow up poem from Shawn Smucker on a viral post (they’re not all they’re cracked up to be).

TWO

Soccer takes over the United States. Kinda cool.

THREE

Inside the latest Presidential museum.

FOUR

Read up on the other 15 museums. How many have you visited?

FIVE

For the bird watchers.

SIX

Want to up your birdwatching game? Here are some app suggestions.

SEVEN

Tis the season for neighborhood cookouts. When you’re asked to bring an appetizer…

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Things → Women in church leadership, church camp, a fun drink

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:16:02 GMT

ONE

Southern Baptists were in the news recently.

TWO

Joining the Catholic church doesn’t mean I left behind the conversation about women in leadership, but I don’t hear the words complementation or egalitarian.

THREE

I’ve just never found those two terms helpful or true representation of a biblical worldview.

FOUR

What I am learning about the role of a Priest?

FIVE

Do youth you know still go to church camp?

SIX

My friend, Cara, wrote a book about church camp. Like every generation before us, we have some things to unpack when it comes to our childhood faith.

SEVEN

For fun, our daughter ordered an Espresso Mocktini the other day.

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Things → Relevant, neuroscience, convents and saints, books on place, and a rice recipe

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 11:15:32 GMT

ONE

Some thoughts on “relevant” Christianity.

TWO

The “Neuroscience of Encountering God” from Relevant Magazine.

THREE

I like the idea of podcasts more than I actually listen to them. Here’s one I just heard about, Dominican Sisters Open Mic and Episode 1 is “Education and Neuroscience.”

FOUR

I’ve been doing some exploring of the state of England prior to the European Reformation. History in context is telling.

FIVE

A poem about ordinary saints… in America.

SIX

Just two books I feel celebrate nature well. I was surprised how this new book made me think of this older one.

SEVEN

We celebrate our high school senior tomorrow. Street tacos, beans and rice. Here’s the copycat recipe of lime cilantro rice we’re having.

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Things → Publishing, Poetry, a Priest, Fish & Pork

Sat, 30 May 2026 11:11:58 GMT

ONE

It’s a good, good book, if you can find an original copy.

TWO

A few books on my Review List (the first one will make a splash but the wise will listen and consider).

THREE

Ah, poetry. “I Confess” by Alison Letterman

FOUR

A good writer friend recently became an Episcopalian Priest. I love her essay on taking on the role of “mother.”

FIVE

For the fishermen among us… “Fish of the Sea of Galilee.”

SIX

Two recent interviews I’ve maybe shared here already, but just in case.

SEVEN

We’re throwing a graduation party for our girl! Here’s the requested main dish, street tacos!

The work continues even now, on a daily basis, in countless conversations online, always remembering to recognize the imago dei in every person. In 2023, He nudged me again: step into holistic care. We’re called to an integrated life in Christ, where body, mind, and spirit flourish. I didn’t know how writing and natural health would fit together, but He’s showing me. I trust Him.

And you, my readers and friends, have walked with me through it all. Thank you for letting me live an embodied, pilgrim faith in public. If you’d like to support my work, consider subscribing to my Substack.

7 Things → Pentecost, Music, Community

Sat, 23 May 2026 11:16:01 GMT

ONE

Author Chris EW Green on Pentecost.

TWO

Pentecost, and a Synchronized Baptism Movement.

THREE

Some of my favorite Holy Spirit praise and worship songs.

FOUR

In case you’ve missed it, Amy Grant has a new album coming out! She’s slowly sharing some of the music.

FIVE

An essay on community (there are lots of good essays here).

SIX

Kneeling - A Poem

SEVEN

Connecting Pentecost with its Jewish roots, the celebration of Shauvot.