Dr. Gregory Bottaro — The Power of Listening Well: How Holy Curiosity Can Build Trust and Restore Relationships (Sophia Institute Press, 2026)

​

 

Dr. Gregory Bottaro’s book explores the idea that listening is not merely a communication skill but a deeply Catholic act of love. Drawing from his background as a Catholic psychologist formed under Fr. Benedict Groeschel, Bottaro shows how genuine listening reflects Christ’s own way of encountering people. He argues that most conflict in families comes from misunderstanding,

assumptions, and emotional reactivity — all of which can be transformed when we learn to listen with humility, patience, and what he calls holy curiosity. This curiosity is not nosiness; it is the willingness to see the other person as God sees them, with dignity and compassion.

​

 

The book presents seven principles of holy listening, each designed to help

families rebuild trust and strengthen relationships. Bottaro explains how slowing

down, asking thoughtful questions, and resisting the urge to “fix” or control the

conversation opens space for grace to work. His seven principles include:

 

• Presence — being fully attentive without distraction

• Patience — allowing conversations to unfold without rushing

• Humility — letting go of the need to be right

• Curiosity — seeking to understand the other person’s experience

• Compassion — responding with gentleness and empathy

• Clarity — asking questions that illuminate truth rather than accuse

• Commitment — staying engaged even when conversations are difficult

 

 

Throughout the book, he connects these principles to Scripture, the example of

Christ, and the Catholic understanding of the human person.

​

 

Bottaro also offers practical guidance for parents, spouses, and anyone navigating difficult relationships. He shows how holy listening can deescalate conflict, heal emotional wounds, and restore unity in the home. Real-life examples illustrate how families can use these techniques in everyday situations — from tense conversations with teenagers to misunderstandings between spouses. Ultimately, Bottaro’s message is that listening well is a path to holiness: when we listen with love, we allow God to work through us, and our homes become places of peace, trust, and authentic communion.