Catholic Spirit Radio 89.5 & 92.5

Deacon Al walks through the First Sunday of Lent readings—Genesis, Romans, and Matthew—explaining original sin, concupiscence, and how Jesus resists temptation by holding to Scripture. He offers practical Lenten advice on confession, perseverance, and attending Holy Week services, and points listeners to Catholic Spirit Radio resources and parish Vigil Masses to deepen faith during Lent. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Host Stan Ketcik speaks with attorney Robert Porter about wills, trusts, powers of attorney, probate, and estate taxes, explaining practical steps to protect your family and assets. The episode highlights planning for children, blended families, special needs trusts, ways to avoid probate, and a free MyCatholicWill resource offered through Catholic Spirit Radio. https://mycatholicwill.com/catholicspiritradio

On this episode of Catholic Conversations, Stan Ketcik talks with Sister Jean and Father Don about the life and cause for sainthood of Venerable Teresa (Mother) Dudzik— her immigration from Poland to Chicago, founding the Franciscan Sisters, her work serving the elderly and poor, and the hardships she endured. They also discuss a reported healing attributed to her intercession, how the Vatican investigates miracles, ways listeners can learn more or support the cause (websites, Heritage Hall, newsletter), and a closing prayer inviting listeners to live out Mother Teresa Dudzik's compassionate example. https://www.chicagofranciscans.org/

Deacon Al celebrates the Vatican approval of Fulton J. Sheen's beatification, shares a local miracle story, and guides listeners into the start of Lent with practical reflections on fasting, abstinence, and choosing a Christ-centered life. He reviews the weekend readings (Sirach, 1 Corinthians, Matthew), offers reflections on free will and repentance, and invites teens and listeners to engage with the station and submit questions for future shows. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Deacon Al recounts a humorous parish chili contest where his brisket chili won the trophy, shares parish news and invites community events to be submitted to Catholic Spirit Radio. He then reflects on the fifth Sunday readings (Isaiah, 1 Corinthians, Matthew), explaining how Christians are called to be the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world," and encourages teens to live their faith every day.

Bob Johnston examines why Western societies tend to lean left, tracing the shift to a managerial class that runs large corporations and government agencies. He explains how ESG, DEI, and similar projects bind managers together, create endless reforms, and shape culture and policy. The episode explores implications for families, faith, and politics, and asks what must change for citizens and leaders to restore stability and prioritize the common good.

Host Theresa Chambers interviews Melissa Ohden, an abortion survivor and founder of the Abortion Survivors Network, about her saline-abortion survival, healing journey, conversion to the Catholic faith, and the Network's support, advocacy, and educational work. They discuss abortion failures, abortion-pill reversal, resources for survivors and families, and how listeners can help through prayer, education, and sharing stories. Visit abortionsurvivors.org for support and information. https://melissaohden.com/

Deacon Al warns against viral videos and internet hoaxes claiming radical changes by the Pope, urging listeners to check official sources and remain grounded in Church teaching. He explains how misleading content can be persuasive and dangerous. Then he walks through the readings for the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time—Zephaniah, 1 Corinthians, and the Beatitudes from Matthew—showing how Jesus' teachings offer a lasting roadmap to true, lasting happiness through humility, mercy, and peacemaking. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Retired Circuit Court Judge Don Bernardi joins David Liptak on Catholic Conversations to explain how judicial philosophy, historical context, and legal procedure shaped Roe v. Wade and its eventual overturning in Dobbs. The episode examines why Roe relied on inferred rights, the absence of trial evidence on when life begins, the role of amicus briefs, and how Dobbs returned the issue to state legislatures and the people.  

Host Stan Ketick talks with Monsignor Jason Gray about the campaign to honor Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, recent progress toward beatification and possible miracles under investigation. The episode covers Sheen's life and media ministry, plans for the Fulton Sheen Experience in Peoria, how to visit or support the cause, and the devotional legacy he leaves for today's Catholics. https://www.celebratesheen.com/museum

Deacon Al opens with a heartfelt apology for a previous on-air personal opinion and announces the removal of last week's episode, then leads a prayer for the potential beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. He reflects on this Sunday's readings from Isaiah, Psalm 27, Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, and Matthew, emphasizing the theme of spiritual journey, Christ as our light, unity in the Church, and the call to follow Jesus. The episode closes with practical invitations to prayer, resources about the Sheen cause, and encouragement to use the sacraments and Mass to stay on the path of faith. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

On Catholic Conversations, host Stan Ketick speaks with Patty Kaczor, a retired hospice nurse and Secular Franciscan who taught herself to play a ten‑string harp and now volunteers to play for hospice patients. They discuss how music, prayer, and compassionate presence bring comfort during the end of life. The episode covers the hospice experience versus palliative care, practical advice for families and volunteers, stories of bedside ministry, and the spiritual lessons learned from caring for the dying.

Host Bob Johnston and his wife Lynn discuss Ryan Newhouse's "America's Affordability Crisis," exploring how decades of policy choices—immigration, corporate managerial culture, and misplaced metrics like GDP—have left many young Americans unable to afford homes, marriage, or stable family life. They connect this governing crisis to the health of churches and communities, arguing leaders must prioritize family formation, wages, and rooted neighborhoods to restore trust and prevent political extremes.

Host Bob Johnston and his wife Lynn reflect on William Butler Yeats' poem "The Second Coming" and what a waning Christian influence means for Western civilization. They connect Yeats' warning to recent social unrest, cultural polarization, and the erosion of civility seen during the Christmas season. The episode explores the need for a countercultural return to Christian values, practical ways to restore goodwill and community, and a reminder to keep hope alive as the new year begins.

Deacon Al Lundy reflects on this weekend's readings (Isaiah, Acts, and Luke) and explains why Jesus—though sinless—was baptized, how baptism prepares us for a life with Christ, and how the Trinity is revealed at the Jordan. He shares personal stories from parish life (a 99‑year‑old's funeral and longtime friends), news about parish dalmatics and Curcio retreats, and an invitation to consider baptism, OCIA, and living out the graces of baptism in daily life. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

On this episode of Catholic Conversations host David Liptak speaks with Mike Bull and illustrator Nancy Johnson about The First Night of Christmas — a child-centered retelling of Christ's birth born from family loss, self-publishing challenges, and a mission to give back to anti-trafficking charities. Later, author Stephen Thomas discusses his novel Catholic Joe, the role of suffering and adoration in spiritual growth, and the call for Catholic men to lead by faith and compassion. The show highlights storytelling, community outreach, and living faith in daily life.

Deacon Al Lundy welcomes listeners to an Advent-themed episode filled with personal Christmas memories, light-hearted anecdotes about decorations (and a mischievous cat), and a preview of upcoming nativity stories. He reflects on Gaudete Sunday and explains the readings from Isaiah, James, and Matthew — highlighting the signs of the Messiah, John the Baptist's questions, and Jesus' reassurance that God comes in love and salvation. The episode closes with a call to prepare our inner “stable” for Christ's coming and an invitation for listeners to submit faith questions to the show. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

On Catholic Conversations host Stan Ketcik speaks with Dr. Peter Howard about his open letter and campaign to advance Venerable Fulton Sheen's beatification and canonization. They discuss the approved miracle, the unexpected diocesan delays, and why Sheen's preaching and daily holy hour are urgently relevant today. The episode explains how listeners can help—prayer, contacting the Diocese of Peoria, sharing resources—and points to FultonSheenInstitute.com and FultonSheenMovement.com for more information, recordings, and ways to get involved.      

Deacon Al Lundy shares the recent loss of his mother-in-law and how her peaceful, faith-filled passing highlighted the Catholic focus on resurrection, hope, and the dignity of dying. He ties this personal story to the second Sunday of Advent readings (Isaiah, Romans, Matthew), calling listeners to repentance, unity, and bearing good spiritual fruit as they prepare for Christ and make use of the sacraments. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org    

Deacon Al reflects on Thanksgiving, family traditions, and the start of Advent, urging listeners to prepare both their homes and hearts for Christ's coming through worship, repentance, and hope. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Deacon Al reflects on the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King through this weekend's readings from Samuel, Colossians, and Luke, and explains what it means to live under Christ's rule. He shares personal moments — a silent retreat, assisting at Cursillo, turning 70, and the funeral of Monsignor Doug Hennessy — drawing connections between grief, joy, and faith. The episode closes with the gospel scene of the crucifixion and the good thief's plea, offering a hopeful reminder to place Christ at the center of our lives. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Bob Johnston and Lynn examine the apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes, Bernadette's testimony, the Church's investigations of miraculous cures, and the ongoing devotion at the grotto. The episode then explores speculative links between modern physics—particularly M‑theory and hidden dimensions—and reports of near‑death, out‑of‑body experiences to consider scientific frameworks that might help explain apparitions and miracles.

Bob Johnston reads Justin Lee's "The Death of Halloween" and explores Halloween's origins in All Saints and All Souls, its links to Samhain, and how commercialization and social change drained the festival of its play, meaning, and communal purpose. The episode calls Christians to recover a spirit of reverent play and communal memory—reminding listeners why Hallowtide once united the living and the dead and how that sacramental imagination might be restored.

Deacon Al explains how faith requires both God's grace and our cooperation, using vacation-planning analogies and the readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Exodus, 2 Timothy, Luke) to emphasize persistence. Hear practical encouragement to persevere in prayer, practice obedience, love your neighbor, and make daily choices that prepare you for a deeper relationship with Christ. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Bob Johnston and Lynn explore scientific and spiritual perspectives on consciousness, from microtubule and quantum theories to organ-transplant cases, asking whether consciousness is produced by the brain or received from the universe and how this connects to Catholic faith. They discuss research findings, personal stories, and the implications for identity, the afterlife, and the presence of good and evil in a mysterious, intelligent universe.

Bob Johnston and his wife Lynn discuss recent mass shootings, including the attack at a Catholic parish school, and examine cultural factors the episode links to rising violence—abortion, sexualized youth programming, and debates over gender identity. The episode explores the idea of spiritual evil influencing society, calls listeners to rely on the sacraments (especially the Eucharist), prayer, and St. Michael's intercession, and asks for support for Catholic Spirit Radio.  

Deacon Al Lundy reflects on faith and preparation this fall — from gardening as a spiritual metaphor to reminders about confession and Advent, plus a station Fall Appeal announcement. He answers a listener's question about receiving Communion in the hand versus the mouth, explains the Church's practice and canon law, and walks through the weekend readings that emphasize gratitude and God's healing. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Dr. David Anders shares his journey from evangelical Protestant scholar to Catholic convert and EWTN host, explaining how study, Scripture, and encounters with Catholic media led him to the Church. He reflects on the role of Catholic radio in evangelization, the need to support local stations, and how media reaches listeners who wouldn't otherwise seek out the faith. Anders also discusses his work on Called to Communion, his book about marriage and faith, and his hope that listeners will grow in gratitude, charity, and daily cooperation with God's grace.  

Bob Johnston (with his wife Lynn) returns to Being Catholic on Catholic Spirit Radio to examine modern secular utopias—how Marxism and wokeism fell short and how a new "geneticism" promises a technological utopia. Drawing on articles from First Things, the episode critiques IVF-based eugenics, embryo selection services like Orchid, and the social pressures that can turn private choice into public expectation. The show also explores emerging bioethical dangers such as "bodyoids" and the erosion of a clear definition of death, warning against treating human life as a disposable resource. Throughout, the hosts frame these concerns from a Catholic perspective, emphasizing human dignity, the reality of suffering, and the limits of human attempts to remake creation.

Deacon Al Lundy uses stories about family, vacations, and planning to explore different ways people live their faith. Drawing on the readings for the 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Habakkuk, 2 Timothy, Luke), he highlights patience, perseverance, and the courage the Holy Spirit gives believers. He challenges listeners to grow their "mustard-seed" faith, make room for prayer and worship in whatever way works for them, and serve with humility while trusting God's timing and judgment. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

On this episode of Catholic Conversations, hosts Paul Garcia and Will Tatro speak with Kathy Fulton and several pilgrims who traveled to the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament and EWTN in Alabama. Guests describe the shrine's golden beauty, cloistered nuns, times of adoration and Mass, behind-the-scenes visits to EWTN, and personal stories of prayer, healing, and renewed faith. Listeners will hear reflections on Mother Angelica's legacy, the power of pilgrimage to deepen Eucharistic devotion, and encouragement to consider making a pilgrimage of their own. https://www.olamshrine.com/

Paul Garcia and co-host Will Tetreault interview David John, founder of iCatholic Mobile, about a Catholic-focused phone service that donates profits to ministries, supports priests, and offers parental controls and a purity browser. The conversation covers smartphone addiction, protecting children online, the role of Catholic media in evangelization, and how families can set boundaries to keep faith central in a digital age. https://www.icatholicmobile.com/

Deacon Al opens the show with reflections on online misinformation and the importance of sincere questions about faith, then examines the readings for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time. He walks through Amos and 1 Timothy and focuses on Luke's parable of the rich man and Lazarus, urging listeners to truly listen to God, care for the poor, and practice faithful stewardship of their resources. The episode encourages mercy for those who suffer, hope for the needy, and a challenge to respond to God's call with love and action. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Deacon Al Lundy shares personal good news—his son's first new home, yard renovations, and close encounters with migrating hummingbirds—then turns to the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time readings. He explains Amos's warning against greed, Paul's call to pray for all in authority, and unpacks Luke's challenging parable of the dishonest steward with three helpful interpretations about prudence, true (authentic) wealth, and faithful stewardship. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Host Deacon Al Lundy reflects on a difficult day marked by the 9/11 anniversary and the recent death of Charlie Kirk, offering prayer, forgiveness, and a call to civil discourse amid rising violence and ignorance. The episode also celebrates new Catholic Spirit Radio expansions, encourages sacramental marriage, and explores Scripture readings for the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, emphasizing Christ's love and the need for repentance and hope. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Bob Johnston and his wife Lynn discuss recent tragedies, the spiritual battle facing the world, and the need to ‘re-crown' Christ the King. They read and reflect on an article arguing that rejecting Christ's social reign has led to societal decline, urging a traditional Catholic renaissance, renewed catechesis, and a return to faithful practices like the St. Michael prayer.

Host Paul Garcia talks with Marie, a spiritual director with advanced degrees, about a faith-based approach to overcoming worry and anxiety. They explore prayer, praise, surrender, the Divine Mercy chaplet, and practical steps listeners can use to find peace. The episode connects scripture and spiritual practices with modern insights (including neuroscience), shares personal testimonies, and explains how trust in God and sacramental life can restore calm and hope.

Deacon Al Lundy reflects on the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, connecting Labor Day and the dignity of work with the recent canonizations of St. Carlo Acutis and St. Pietro Frassati. He explains what canonized sainthood means, reviews the readings from Wisdom, Paul's letter to Philemon (and Onesimus), and Luke's call to carry the cross, emphasizing humility and putting God first. The episode encourages prayer, devotion to the Eucharist, and a commitment to growth in virtue as the path to becoming saints in daily life. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Bob Johnston interviews Kent Lasnowski about San Damiano College for the Trades in Springfield, Illinois, a new Catholic men's college rooted in Franciscan and Norbertine tradition that seeks to “rebuild the church” by integrating faithful formation and classical learning with hands‑on training in the seven construction trades. The episode outlines the college's current one‑year non‑degree formation program with trade exposure, plans for an associate degree, its strong Catholic identity and religious partnerships, and how the school prepares students for meaningful, durable work and apprenticeship opportunities. https://www.sandamianotrades.org/

Deacon Al Lundy shares a warm, personal reflection mixing everyday stories — broken church air conditioning, a new robotic lawnmower named Mo — with a clear explanation of the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time readings. He explores Isaiah's call to gather nations, the Hebrews' teaching about God's discipline, and Jesus' challenge to enter through the narrow gate, urging perseverance, prayer, and consideration of RCIA/OCIA for those interested in joining the Catholic Church. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

In this episode of Being Catholic with Bob Johnston, Bob and his wife Lynn discuss the newly opened San Damiano College for the Trades in Springfield, Illinois. They explore how the college combines hands-on vocational training with liberal arts, theology, and the Church's tradition to form independent, debt-free workers and revive a holistic model of education. The conversation also touches on broader concerns about modern education, dependence on the state, and the need to evolve learning for the AI era by emphasizing moral, practical, and integrative thinking. https://www.sandamianotrades.org/

Bob Johnston and his wife Lynn discuss an Epoch Times opinion piece about the surge of investment in AI, its massive energy demands, and how current machines fall short of the human brain's complexity, consciousness, and intentionality. They warn against idolizing technology, highlight risks to children's learning and curiosity from overreliance on AI, and urge using AI as a tool to amplify — not replace — human thinking. The episode ties these concerns to Catholic teaching, prayer, and the station's mission, encouraging listeners to reflect on faith, responsibility, and the proper place of technology in our lives.

Join Deacon Al Lundy on Catholic Spirit Radio's Good News, where teens and almost teens explore the relevance of the gospel of Jesus Christ in their lives. This episode delves into the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, exploring the church's stance and the tradition's nuances. Deacon Al shares personal reflections and invites listeners to ponder faith's role in their lives. The discussion extends to upcoming liturgical readings, faith's enduring nature, and how hope and vigilance are interwoven in our spiritual journey. With anecdotes and invitations to engage in local Catholic programs, this broadcast offers both enlightenment and a heartfelt call to deepen one's faith. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Welcome to Being Catholic with Bob Johnston on Catholic Spirit Radio, where today we delve into the historical complexities that define the schism between the Catholic and Orthodox Churches. Bob explores the misconceptions surrounding the pivotal year of 1054, providing insight into how historical events and theological differences contributed to the evolving separation. Join Bob and his wife Lynn as they unravel the intertwined history of Catholicism and Orthodoxy, from the intricate debates on the Holy Spirit's procession to the impact of the Crusades. This episode sheds light on potential paths to reconciliation, examining how the shared faith might pave a way forward for unity.  

Join Deacon Al Lundy on Catholic Spirit Radio as he shares a personal anecdote about the trials of lawn care, humorously intertwined with reflections on forgiveness and patience. Journey through the essence of Christianity as Deacon Al delves into the readings for the 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time, discussing the nature of earthly possessions and the true treasures of life. Explore common misconceptions about Catholic teachings and the Church's historical role in shaping the Bible. This episode invites listeners to focus on love, faith, and supporting vital causes like Catholic Spirit Radio's mission to expand its outreach in Rockford. Tune in for an uplifting blend of humor, wisdom, and spiritual insights that encourage a life of meaningful faith. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

This episode of Being Catholic with Bob Johnston on Catholic Spirit Radio dives into the fascinating intersections of faith, science, and philosophy. Bob and his wife, Lynn, engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the importance of listener support for their radio mission. They explore contemporary issues and delve into a captivating article on the cosmos, discussing the big bang, the emergence of life on Earth, and the mysterious evolution of human consciousness. Bob presents intriguing arguments on the origins of the universe and the sudden appearance of a transcendent capacity in Homo sapiens, highlighting three critical moments in cosmic history: the creation of the universe, the formation of life, and the ontological leap of human understanding. He shares personal insights into the concept of the rational mind and soul, urging listeners to contemplate the divine spark that possibly initiated humanity's quest for knowledge and meaning.

Join Deacon Al Lundy as he shares insights from his recent trip to the breathtaking landscapes of the Olympic National Park in Washington State. Through awe-inspiring encounters with nature, Deacon Al reflects on the presence of God in the beauty of creation and the parallels between nature's cycles of life and the promise of new life in Christianity. In this episode of Good News on Catholic Spirit Radio, explore how even in the depths of grief, the wonders of nature offer solace and a deeper understanding of the Christian faith's promise of life beyond death. Deacon Al encourages listeners to appreciate the stunning world God has given us and to find moments of reflection and prayer amidst nature's wonders. Tune in to deepen your connection with faith through nature's magnificence and discover the power of persistence in prayer as illustrated through scripture and personal experiences. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Welcome to another episode of Catholic Conversations on Catholic Spirit Radio. Join host Paul Garcia in an enlightening discussion with Dr. Ray Guarendi, a renowned Catholic clinical psychologist, and father of 10 adopted children. Dr. Ray shares valuable insights on strengthening family and marital relationships, drawn from his extensive experience and his latest book, "How to Get Along with Almost Everybody." This episode delves into practical steps to handle difficult interactions, explores the dangers of labeling others with toxic terminology, and emphasizes the power of humility and apology in fostering positive connections. Whether you're dealing with challenging relatives or seeking to improve your own interpersonal skills, this conversation is packed with wisdom and humor to guide you on your journey. https://www.drray.com/

Join us on this episode of Catholic Conversations as we delve into the impactful work of the St. Vincent de Paul Society with three dedicated members: Tim Abel, Steve Nolan, and Chris Kornfeld. Discover how this vibrant community ministry operates in Bloomington-Normal and beyond, and learn about the inspiring stories of hope and compassion they encounter. From providing essential support to families in need to fostering volunteerism and generosity, the St. Vincent de Paul Society shows the true spirit of service. Whether it's assistance with food, clothing, or financial hardships, hear firsthand accounts of how this organization is making a tangible difference in people's lives.

Join Bob Johnston and his wife Lynn as they delve into the profound impact of Christianity on Western civilization. In this episode of 'Being Catholic' on Catholic Spirit Radio, they explore the revolutionary era of the French Revolution, drawing parallels to today's societal shifts. Through the lens of Chateaubriand's writings, they discuss how the Christian faith has historically countered chaos and brought forth a structured and humane society. The conversation highlights the importance of preserving Christian values amidst modern challenges, reflecting on history to navigate through contemporary cultural upheavals.  

Join Bob Johnston and his wife, Lynn, on "Being Catholic with Bob Johnston" as they discuss the challenges facing Catholicism today, broadcasted across various stations courtesy of Catholic Spirit Radio. In this episode, Bob reflects on the changing societal views towards the Catholic Church and how these shifts require a more robust and attentive faith community. As they reminisce about family gatherings and local traditions, they delve into deeper topics like the controversial changes in sex education within the German Catholic schools and the broader implications for families everywhere. As the influence of Christianity faces growing pressure, Bob and Lynn emphasize the importance of maintaining strong Christian values and community ties. Listeners are encouraged to support Catholic Spirit Radio in its efforts to continue bringing impactful and informative programming. Find out how community engagement is essential to navigating these modern challenges, and why prayer and vigilance are necessary to protect faith and family values.