Bridge Builder Podcast

Hey Bridge Builder listeners, Jason Adkins here. As the executive director of the Minnesota Catholic Conference, I am so grateful to everyone who has tuned into these podcast episodes over the years. Now, that the Bridge Builder has come to an end, I want to introduce you to a new podcast venture, "Catholic in America." Catholic in America is a podcast collaboration between OSVNews.com and OSVPodcasts.com. I host the program, but this is not a project of the Minnesota Catholic Conference nor are the opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the Minnesota Catholic Conference. Take a listen to the introductory episode, and then search for Catholic in America in you favorite podcast app or go to www.MNCatholic.org/CatholicInAmerica. Thanks for listening! ------ In the first episode of Catholic in America on the OSV Podcast Network, host Jason Adkins introduces the mission and vision of the podcast. Adkins explains the importance of faithful citizenship and how living for the good of the earthly city contributes to attaining the heavenly one. He shares his background as the Executive Director of the Minnesota Catholic Conference and outlines the role of the organization in advocating for policies that protect human dignity and promote the common good. Adkins emphasizes the integration of religion and politics, inspired by messages from Pope Benedict XVI and other Church thinkers. The episode sets the stage for future discussions on diverse issues impacting both local and national landscapes, focusing on the evangelical role of the Church in today's secular society. Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Welcome to Catholic in America.

Jason Adkins, Executive Director of the Minnesota Catholic Conference, joins Real Presence Radio to discuss the Minnesota Child Tax Credit and the tax relief it provides to so many Minnesotan families. He also provides an update on harms of sports gambling. Listen to MCC weekly on Real Presence Radio from now through May. Subscribe to our YouTube by visiting www.YouTube.com/MNCathConference.

Jason Adkins, Executive Director of the Minnesota Catholic Conference, joins Real Presence Radio to provide an update on the efforts to restore religious protections in the Minnesota Human Rights Act, and he shares an update on the status of the physician-assisted suicide bill. Listen to MCC weekly on Real Presence Radio from now through May. Subscribe to our YouTube by visiting www.YouTube.com/MNCathConference.

Maggee Hangge joins Real Presence Radio for a weekly update on the Minnesota Legislative Session, discussing proposed laws and how Catholics can engage in faithful citizenship.

Jason Adkins joins Real Presence Radio for a weekly update on the Minnesota Legislative Session, discussing proposed laws and how Catholics can engage in faithful citizenship.

In today's episode, we talk with Rachel Moriarty and Jared Spears from the Schumacher Center to discuss a new economics - welcoming the future and building for it.

In today's episode we're talking with R. Khari Brown and Ronald Brown on what Americans hear about social justice at church - and what do they do about it.

In this week's episode, we're speaking with Reverent Dr. John Senior the Director of the Art of Ministry, Assistant Professor of Practical Theology and Religious Leadership, and Director of the Collaborative for Religious Leadership at Wake Forest University's School of Divinity. We are speaking with Dr. Senior about his book, "A theology of Political Vocation: Christian Life and Public Office." We delve into questions such as what does it mean for politics to be a vocation, what difference is there for the Christian serving in the public square, and what does the journey look like when answering the calling to be a public servant? In our action item, we introduce you to the new bill tracking tool in our Catholic Advocacy Network action center and what issues we are tracking this session that Catholics will want to keep on their radar for discussions with their legislators. Related links: Dr. John Senior's webpage: https://divinity.wfu.edu/academics/faculty/john-e-senior/ Baylor Press for ordering "A theology of political vocation": https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481300353/a-theology-of-political-vocation/ Catholic Advocacy Network action center: www,MNCatholic.org/actioncenter

This week we're talking with, Dr. Glenn Hubbard a professor of finance and economics at Columbia Business School. He about his book, “The Bridge and The Wall” which just became available on January 25th. He argues in the book in favor of economic policies based on building bridges of preparation and adaptation rather than walls of protection and exclusion. In this week's action item we're discussing the importance of joining the Catholic Advocacy Network and how you can easily join to become better formed in the faith, informed on the issues, and contact your elected officials to begin to transform our state. Related links: The Wall and the Bridge (Yale University Press): https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300259087/wall-and-bridge Dr. Hubbard's Website: www.GlennHubbard.net

This week we speak with Jason Bedrick, Director of Policy at EdChoice a non-profit committed to understanding and pursuing a K–12 education system that empowers every family to choose the schooling environment that fits their children's needs best. We're speaking with him about a recent report he authored, "Who's afraid of school choice?" It examines some of the false rhetoric that school choice opponents make and compares it with the actual outcomes of school choice programs across the country. This week's action item: Check out our partners at Opportunity for All Kids (OAK) to learn more about school choice efforts in Minnesota and how you can help advocate for parents and students to have real educational choices. Links: OAK: https://opportunityforallkids.org/ School Choice Report:https://www.edchoice.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Whos-Afraid-of-School-Choice-by-Jason-Bedrick-and-Ed-Tarnowski.pdf EdChoice: https://www.edchoice.org/

In this week's episode, we speak with Dr. Grazie Pozo Christie of The Catholic Association about the brief she submitted in the Supreme Court Case Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, what the science of the unborn child tells us, and how this should impact our laws. This week's action item: Pray for your elected officials. Visit MNCatholic.org/actioncenter to send your elected officials a message that you are praying for them as they make decisions this session.

This week we are speaking with Danielle Brown. associate director of the USCCB's Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism. We're examining the call to evangelize and the ways in which the Church's decisions are impacting those efforts for communities and individuals of color. We also examine how this ties in with efforts to combat the sin of racism, and we delve into viewing Critical Race Theory through a Catholic lens. Make sure to check out our YouTube channel for the extended conversation! Links to the Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism and resources: Letter - https://www.usccb.org/resources/open-wide-our-hearts-enduring-call-love-pastoral-letter-against-racism Study Guide - https://www.usccb.org/resources/open-wide-our-hearts-study-guide Ad Hoc Cmte - https://www.usccb.org/committees/ad-hoc-committee-against-racism

In this week's episode, we speak with Dr. James Stoner, a political science professor at Louisiana State University, about his recent article, "Vaccination, the Law, and the Common Good". We examine what historical Supreme Court rulings that have set precedent mean in today's landscape of vaccine mandates. In this week's action item we have details on an upcoming pro-life training day and how you can get tickets to this event that can begin to change hearts and minds in conversations about abortion. Links: Professor Stoner's article: https://lawliberty.org/vaccination-the-law-and-the-common-good/ Equipped for Life Training: www.MNCatholic.org/equippedforlife

This week we speak with Dr. Ulrich Lehner a professor in the Theology Department at the University of Notre Dame where he specializes in the history of Christianity about his book, "Think Better: Unlocking the Power of Reason." We delve into how people can begin to think better when society has become ever more divided and has seemingly lost the ability to base decisions in reason instead of feelings. In our action item we have details on a great event that will help you put into practice reasoned arguments to counter common pro-choice arguments in a way that promotes dialogue in truth and love. Links: Think Better: http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/think-better/409330 God is not Nice:https://www.avemariapress.com/products/god-is-not-nice Equipped For Life - Pro-life Training Day Registration: www.MNCatholic.org/EquippedForLife

We're speaking about how to approach answering the world's tough questions on sensitive political issues through the lens of Catholic apologetics. We speak with Fr. Carter Griffin the rector of the St. John Paul II Seminary in Washington, D.C. for his insights published in his new book "Cross-Examined: Catholic Responses to the World's Questions." This week's action item is to take the Civilize It Pledge through the USCCB and to check out the resources provided by this campaign to help you be more equipped to lead civil conversations about tough political questions. Related links: Fr. Griffin's book, "Cross-Examined" https://stpaulcenter.com/product/cross-examined-catholic-responses-to-the-worlds-questions/ USCCB's Civilize It Pledge: http://www.civilizeit.org/

This week we're speaking with Dr. Daniel Di Salvo of the Manhattan Institute. He is also a professor of political science in the Colin Powell School at the City College of New York–CUNY. His scholarship focuses on American political parties, elections, labor unions, state government, and public policy. He holds a Ph.D. in politics from the University of Virginia. We're speaking with him about his National Affairs article, "The Trouble with Police Unions". We'll dive into how police unions came to be, why they have so much political power, and what - if any - reforms need to be made to that system. This week's action item is to contact your U.S. Senators regarding the Build Back Better Act and urge them to ensure that faith-based schools and childcare providers are not left out of program funding. You can send a message here: https://www.votervoice.net/USCCB/Campaigns/89541/Respond

This week we're talking about the intersection of theology and the economy. We speak with, Dr. Mary Hirschfeld, a professor of economics and theology at Villanova University and Author of Aquinas and the Market: Toward a Humane Economy. This week's action item examines the meaning of Advent and how we can make use of this time to build relationships with our elected officials.

We have two guests on this week's show. Dr. Kirk Doran an associate economics professor at Notre Dame and Brian Boyd a doctoral student at Notre Dame. We'll be discussing how pro-productivity reforms to the labor market could create better wages, why it all matters from a theological standpoint, and what improving human flourishing amidst it all looks like.

This week we're joined by Dr. John Cavadini a theology professor at the University of Notre Dame to discuss his reflections on Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si' and the influences of St. Francis and St. Augustine on that document. This week's action item: Join or start a small group using the Minnesota, Our Common Home resources to delve into the teachings in Laudato Si'. Links: Dr. Cavadini's article:https://churchlifejournal.nd.edu/articles/augustine-and-francis-the-saints-of-laudato-si/ Download/Purchase Minnesota, Our Common Home: www.MNCatholic.org/OurCommonHome

This week we're talking with, Zena Hitz, a tutor at St. John's College and author of “Lost in Thought”. We'll be talking about the state of education and get her thoughts on learning for the sake of learning. This week's action item: Continue to keep respect life issues at the forefront beyond October. Register for a Nov. 18th webinar discussing assisted suicide and the loss of dignity in secularized health care. Links mentioned in the podcast: Webinar: www.ethicalcaremn.org/webinars Catherine Project: www.catherineproject.org Zena's website: www.zenahitz.net

This week we speak with Ed Condon, Co-Founder, and Editor of The Pillar a Catholic news and analysis site. He reflects on the role of Catholic Journalism and the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and the failed nation-building attempt there. This week's action item: How you can get alerts about when your legislators are holding town hall meetings in your area. Plus, the resources you'll get to be equipped for those meetings. Related links: www.PillarCatholic.com

This week we're joined by R.J. Snell, Editor-in-Chief of Public Discourse and Director of Academic Programs at the Witherspoon Institute to discuss his recent article, "Lost in the Chaos: The Danger of Total Politics" and his practical tips on how to help end political chaos. In our action item, we're discussing getting involved in local decision-making through your local school board especially as elections are just around the corner.

This week we're joined by Patrick Brown of the Ethics and Public Policy Center. He recently wrote a piece for The New York Times entitled, “Why Working-Class Parents Don't Buy What D.C. Is Selling.” He'll discuss what pro-family economic policies should focus on and what working-class parents across the country are saying about current policy proposals. This week's action item provides you with ideas on how you can help families in need during Respect Life Month. Links: Patrick's NYT article: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/14/opinion/child-tax-credit-biden.html Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PTBWrites Ethics & Public Policy Center: EPPC.org

In this week's episode, we speak with Dr. Joseph Capizzi, about human ecology. We dig into what that is and how things like big tech and the emerging security state are impacting it. Dr. Capizzi is the Executive Director of the Institute for Human Ecology at Catholic University. In this week's action items, we examine what you can do to help promote the dignity of migrants and refugees. Related links: Institute for Human Ecology: IHE.Catholic.edu Our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/MNCathConference

In today's episode we're talking about the debate over whether religion is simply a private matter or is it public and what the implications are for religious freedom and the future of civilization. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about caring for people at the end of life. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, an opportunity coming up in September for parishes and communities to reach out to migrants and refugees. Related Links: Dr. Scott Hahn's Book ("It is Right and Just"): https://stpaulcenter.com/product/it-is-right-and-just-why-the-future-of-civilization-depends-on-true-religion/ Saint Paul Center for Biblical Theology: https://stpaulcenter.com/ Emmaus Academics: https://www.emmausacademic.com/ MN Alliance for Ethical Healthcare: https://ethicalcaremn.org/ MCC End of Life Decisions Page: https://www.mncatholic.org/advocacyarea/catholic-end-of-life-care-decisions/ Immigration Sunday: https://www.mncatholic.org/immigrationsunday/

In today's episode we're talking about living in truth and working ecumenically. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about a ruling in a Texas court and what it means for DACA recipients here in Minnesota and across the country. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, what you can do to help strengthen immigrant families. Related Links: Bruderhof Website: https://www.bruderhof.com/ Bruderhof YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/BruderhofCommunities Plough Magazine: https://www.plough.com/en Call your legislators to keep families at the center of immigration policy: https://www.mncatholic.org/actioncenter/directory/

In today's episode we're delving further in depth on an abortion case out of Mississippi going before the U.S. Supreme Court, “Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization” and what it could mean for the unborn and their mothers across the nation and here in Minnesota. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about taxpayer funding of abortion. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, what you can do to speak out against the use of tax-dollars to pay for abortion. Related Links: University of Saint Thomas Prolife Law Center: https://www.stthomas.edu/prolifecenter/mission/ Sign the Petition to oppose taxpayer-funded abortion: https://www.notaxpayerabortion.com/ MN Catholic Conference Action Center: https://www.mncatholic.org/actioncenter/

In today's episode we're talking about pro-life apologetics. How you can start to have real dialogue with people who believe women should have a right to abortion. In our mailbag segment, we answer a question about an upcoming supreme court case that could provide protections against abortion to the unborn as early as 15-weeks gestation. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, what you can do to start leading the conversation in your community about what decisions are made. Related Links: Equal Rights Institute website: https://equalrightsinstitute.com/ ERI Blog: https://blog.equalrightsinstitute.com/what-do-latin-americans-think-about-abortion/ ERI YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/EqualRightsInstitute Emily Albrecht's email: emily@equalrightsinstitute.com

In today's episode we're talking about new medical technologies, such as gene editing, and the ability technology gives us to mold our bodies at will. We discuss the principles needed for discerning the use of such technologies. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about peacetime states of emergency and the role of government. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, how you can begin making a difference for your neighborhood or town this summer. Related Links: Pater Waldstein's Article, "The Lords of Nature": https://www.plough.com/en/topics/justice/culture-of-life/the-lords-of-nature Pater Waldstein's Blogs: https://sancrucensis.wordpress.com/ https://thejosias.com/ Stift Heiligenkreuz Abbey's "Chant Music For Paradise: https://open.spotify.com/album/1FJhltPJUcIh7ZhGHeklOo?autoplay=true -or- https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=eRyp4QPPc7g&list=OLAK5uy_kTgCDgrmDGmov-2vq5viJX2onx5m9TBno Locate your legislator: https://www.mncatholic.org/actioncenter/directory/

In today's episode we're talking about the rise in people thinking of themselves not in terms of our physical being but instead placing primary importance on their interior being. What impacts does it have on society if one's thoughts and feelings define one's humanity and can the Christians bring a more stable understanding? In our mailbag segment we answer a question about political controversy and the role of clergy. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, tips for connecting with your lawmakers away from the Capitol. Related Links: Dr. Trueman's Book: https://www.crossway.org/books/the-rise-and-triumph-of-the-modern-self-hcj/ "The Rise of the 'Psychological Man'" article by Dr. Trueman: https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2020/11/72156/ Find My Legislators: https://www.gis.leg.mn/iMaps/districts/

In today's episode we're talking about the correct way to correct a bishop. Social media has enabled people to openly and widely air their grievances about Church hierarchy, but did you know that Canon Law actually gives us the principles of how to correct our Church leaders? In our mailbag segment, we answer a question about Church teaching and what it means to be in communion with the Church. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, we have suggestions for forming your conscience as a faithful citizen this summer. Related Links: Books: Live Not by Lies by Rod Dreher: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/622436/live-not-by-lies-by-rod-dreher/9780593087398 "What it Means to be Human" by Carter Snead: https://www.hup.harvard.edu/catalog.php?isbn=9780674987722 "Uprooted" by Grace Olmstead: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/608726/uprooted-by-grace-olmstead/9780593084021 "From Tolerance to Equality" Darel Paul: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481306959/from-tolerance-to-equality/ "Dominion" by Tom Holland: https://www.basicbooks.com/titles/tom-holland/dominion/9780465093526/

In today's episode we're talking about bioethics in public policy and what should be considered when it comes to policies impacting the human body. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about special legislative sessions and why they seem to be so commonplace. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, we're going to be talking about special observances in the month of June. Related Links: Prof. Snead's Book: https://www.hup.harvard.edu/catalog.php?isbn=9780674987722 Sacred Heart Novena: https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/novena-prayer-to-the-sacred-heart-311 Religious Freedom Week: https://www.mncatholic.org/ReligiousFreedomWeek/

In today's episode we're talking about America in crisis and how focusing on truth, beauty, and goodness can help revitalize our country. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about the relationship between our government leaders and Church leaders. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, what you can do to continue building relationships with your elected leaders now that the regular session has come to an end. Related Links: Dr. Hartch's Book: https://www.angelicopress.org/a-time-to-build-anew-hartch Inside the Capitol: https://www.mncatholic.org/bishops-meet-with-state-leaders-to-advocate-for-life-dignity-and-the-common-good/ Action Alert - Thank Your Legislators: https://www.mncatholic.org/action-alert-thank-your-legislators-for-their-service/

In today’s episode, we’re talking about thinking for yourself and what a lack of critical thinking says about the current state and future of American politics. In our mailbag segment, we answer a question about meeting the needs of parents who want more opportunities to choose the right school for their child’s needs. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, what you can do to begin preparing for the annual nationwide Religious Freedom Week. Related links: The James Madison Program at Princeton University - https://jmp.princeton.edu/ Religious Freedom Week -https://www.mncatholic.org/religiousfreedomweek/

In today’s episode we’re talking about our roots – the places we come from – and why so many people end up needing to uproot themselves to pursue education or careers. Could changes to public policy help enliven communities facing “brain drain”? In our mailbag segment we answer a question about advocacy efforts and policy priorities now that our regular session will continue into a special session. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, we have details on an important effort to help ensure your taxpayer dollars won’t go to abortion. Related links: Uprooted is available on: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Uprooted-Recovering-Legacy-Places-Behind/dp/0593084020 Penguin Random House: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/608726/uprooted-by-grace-olmstead/ Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/books/uprooted-recovering-the-legacy-of-the-places-we-ve-left-behind/9780593084021

In today’s episode we’re talking about elites and the challenges that their ideologies pose for proponents of marriage and the family. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about building relationships with Members of Congress without ever going to D.C. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, now that Minnesota’s regular session is done, what you can do to keep building bridges with your legislators.

In today’s episode we’re talking about the Church and the State and what history can teach us about how the Church can engage with liberal democracy. We're speaking with Dr. Andrew Jones of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology and author of "Before Church and State" and "The Two Cities: A history of Christian Politics." See below for links to his books including a coupon code to use for ordering the book! In our mailbag segment we answer a question about what happens at the Capitol in the final days and hours before the regular session comes to an end. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, the most effective thing you can do before session ends on Monday to make sure your legislators hear you. Related links: Order Dr. Jones' books: https://stpaulcenter.com/item-authors/andrew-willard-jones/ Coupon Code for 25% of "Before Church and State": BRIDGEBUILDER (all one word - enter during checkout)

In today’s episode, we’re talking about the role of Catholic higher education in providing thought leadership that is confident, comprehensive, steady, and humble and what impact this can have on the public square. In our mailbag segment we answer a question from a new listener who is eager to learn more about advocating for life and dignity. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, what you can do before Minnesota’s regular session wraps up in the coming weeks. Related links: Prime Matters https://www.primematters.com/ University of Mary: https://www.umary.edu/

In today’s episode we’re talking about the landscape of school choice legislation across our country and how COVID has made that need more clear. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about how Catholic education is being supported in Minnesota. In our bricklayer segment, we have an opportunity to be a public witness to the faith and pray for our elected leaders. Links: Catholic Education Partners https://catholiced.us/

In today’s episode we’re talking about why for Christians the end result of something – no matter how good it is – is not justified by the way someone gets to that result. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about an effort by the government to place a new fee on local churches. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, we have great library of videos that will help form you as a faithful citizen.

In today’s episode we’re talking about medical ethics and how it pertains to COVID-19 and other emerging bio-medical issues and how as Catholics we can apply our faith to decisions being made on these issues when it comes to policy. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about marijuana and what the church teaches when it comes to policies to regulate its use. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, how you can help create true educational choice for kids throughout Minnesota.

In today’s episode we’re talking about advocating in the public square and whether we are called to be “counter-cultural”. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about legislative efforts to decriminalize poverty. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, how you can join in the fight against physician assisted suicide.

In today’s episode we’re talking about the transformative role of Christianity in the development of the Western mind and its enduring impact on science, secularism, and even atheism. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about building up the City of God. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, there’s a renewed effort to allow for groups such as Planned Parenthood to teach in schools. How you can speak out against this.

In today’s episode we’re talking about the demand for equality from a Catholic perspective and how legislation such as the Equality Act play into the conversation about true equality. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about a bill that would provide undocumented immigrants the opportunity to become licensed drivers in Minnesota. In our bricklayer segment, we’ll have details on how you can make your voice heard in defense of religious freedom and much more that is under attack by the Equality Act. Send a message to the U.S. Senate here: https://oneclickpolitics.global.ssl.fastly.net/promo/2xe

In this episode, we have another one of our great Catholics at the Capitol features in which we talk with a Catholic who is living out their call to faithful citizenship right here in Minnesota. We’ll be speaking with Mike Franklin, the new Mayor of Jordan Minnesota – a great small town in Scott County on the Minnesota River. Mike knows many sides of Government Affairs as he has organized projects for political candidates, nonprofit organizations, multinational corporations and Grassroots-level community interests. Having served his employers and clients as a fundraiser, lobbyist, communications professional, issue expert, researcher and volunteer recruiter. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about people who have migrated to the United States. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, we further examine how you can engage with politics on the local level.

In this episode, we discus the role of cloistered religious sisters in promoting the common good in the public arena. We are joined by Sr. Mary Bede of the Cistercian Order. The sisters live a cloistered life following the Rule of St. Benedict. The motto of Benedictine monasticism “Ora et Labora” or “Prayer and Work” sets the rhythm of their daily life. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about helping ensure students are kept safe while at school whether they attend public or private school. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, we have an important message for you to send to legislators about the dangers of legalizing recreational marijuana. Valley of Our Lady Monastery project: https://build.valleyofourlady.org/

In this episode we’re talking about the media, journalism, seeking to know and share the truth. We’ll be talking with one of our great Catholic communicators from the Diocese of St. Cloud about the role of Catholic media in forming and informing faithful citizens. We are joined by Joe Towalski. Joe is the Editor of The Central Minnesota Catholic magazine out of the Diocese of St. Cloud where is also the Director of the Office of Communications. Joe has also held the position as president of the Catholic Press Association from 2017-2019. Before his time with the Diocese of St. Cloud Joe was also with The Catholic Spirit in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about speaking with your legislators. Why you don’t need to feel intimidated. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, we have a great source for news from a Catholic perspective about what is happening Inside the Capitol.

In this episode we speak with Alejandra Chavez Rivas, a Minnesota mom and DACA recipient, about her own journey with the immigration system and what’s being done here in Minnesota to try to provide immigrants with access to some of the basic needs to provide for their families. Alejandra is a Catholic mom and a parishioner here in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis and is a recent graduate of the University of St. Thomas with her bachelor’s in Catholic Studies and business. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about a bill in Minnesota that would legalize recreational marijuana use. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment, how you can help push vaccine companies to stop using cells from abortions.

In this episode we’re discussing why parents should pull their kids out of public schools. We are joined by Mary Rice Hasson co-author of Get Out Now: Why You Should Pull Your Child From Public School Before It’s Too Late. She is joining us from Washington DC where she is the Kate O’Beirne Fellow in Catholic Studies at the Ethics and Public Policy Center. Before joining EPPC, Mary worked as an attorney and writer and served the Church for over twenty years in leadership positions in Catholic marriage preparation programs, diocesan education efforts, and Catholic ministries to women and families. She is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and the University of Notre Dame Law School. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about the inner workings of the Catholic Conference and what it takes to stay on top of everything that is happening at the Capitol. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment we have a great idea for growing during this Lenten season.

In this episode we are very excited to be joined by one of our great Minnesota Bishops. We’ll be talking about what it means to be a faithful citizen and live out the faith in the public arena. Bishop John Quinn will give us his perspective and reflect on his time as shepherd of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester. We are joined on the line by Bishop John Quinn of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester. The Diocese comprises twenty counties across Southern Minnesota with a Catholic population of about 130,000 Catholics in 107 parishes. The Diocese of Winona-Rochester sponsors Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary for college level students preparing for the priesthood, which is located adjacent to Saint Mary’s University in Winona. Saint Mary's University conferred an honorary doctorate of education upon Bishop Quinn at a university convocation on August 27, 2012. In our mailbag segment we answer a question about making change in your very own neighborhood. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment we have information on an upcoming opportunity for volunteers, business owners, and organization leaders.

In this episode we’re discussing the intersection of faith and science. In our world that seems to be increasingly consumed with a need for data and science is there still room for faith? How can the Church respond to this increasing scientism? Will address some of these questions and more with nationally recognized author, speaker, and educator Dr. Stacy Trasancos. Professor Trasancos teaches in the Department of Catholic Studies at Seton Hall University in New Jersey. In our mailbag segment we’re talking about why the Church advocates for specific laws or policies on issues where Catholics may have legitimate disagreements. And of course, we want to leave you with some practical tips on how you can start to put your faith into action. In our bricklayer segment we have a tool that will not only show you what bills are being worked on at the Capitol but help you know what the Church has to say about them as well.