Christendom Conversations

In this episode, Frank La Rocca joins Christendom College President George A. Harne, Ph.D., to share his powerful musical and spiritual journey — from his early years studying music to his transition into composing, and the moments of crisis that ultimately led to his conversion to Catholicism. He also discusses the influence of his jazz trumpeter father, the challenges of modernist music, and the creation of his celebrated Mass of the Americas.

Professor Andrew Whitmore discusses his book 'Saintly Habits' and his new online course, 'Becoming a Saint', which both focus on cultivating a life of virtue. The conversation covers the definition of virtue, the importance of practice, and the role of grace in personal growth. Imitating virtuous individuals and maintaining patience are emphasized as key to developing true virtue.

Christendom College Philosophy Professor John Cuddeback shares insights on how ancient and medieval wisdom can guide family life. He discusses the roles of ethics, friendship, and family in achieving a good life. The conversation highlights the father's role in establishing order, the significance of leisure for learning, and the value of natural family conversations. Mentorship, gratitude, and docility are presented as key virtues for personal growth and a well-ordered life.

Explore the Catholic intellectual tradition with John Kirwan, who shares his educational journey and insights into the current crisis in education. He discusses the historical roots of this crisis, influenced by progressive movements and the denial of objective truths. The conversation highlights failures in New York City's educational projects, the rise of liberal arts education, and the need to integrate traditional philosophy with modern leadership for effective school administration.

Prof. Mary Stanford joins Dr. Harne for a conversation that covers the theology of the body, the effects of technology on communication, and the importance of physical presence in education. It also highlights the role of shame in relationships, the necessity of boredom for creativity, and the impact of parents' technology habits on children.

George A. Harne, Ph.D., welcomes philosophy professor Daniel McInerny, Ph.D. They discuss art as a means of understanding truth and moral vision, emphasizing its role as a contemplative experience. The conversation highlights the mimetic nature of art, rooted in Aristotle's philosophy, and its reflection of human life. It also addresses the importance of leisure and family engagement in appreciating beauty and the need for artistic excellence.

From a deeper conversion inspired by St. John Paul the Great to why we should evangelize like a hobbit explore fascinating topics with theologian and author Dr. Conor Sweeney.

Dr. Chris Lane joins Christendom College Executive Vice President Mark Rohlena in discussing topics surrounding Catholic history. What is the role of the historian? How has the Church handled discernment of vocation through the ages? 

Dr. Kurt Poterack joins Christendom College Executive Vice President Mark Rohlena in discussing topics surrounding sacred music. Can sacred music be defined? Where did it come from? 

Dr. Andrew Whitmore joins Christendom College Executive Vice President Mark Rohlena in discussing topics surrounding his new book Saintly Habits: Aquinas' 7 Simple Strategies You Can Use to Grow in Virtue. 

Dr. Daniel McInerny joins Christendom College Executive Vice President Mark Rohlena in discussing the relevance of philosophy in the modern culture.

Dr. Ben Reinhard, the academic dean of Christendom College, shares how love of medieval history played a decisive role in his winding faith journey.

Christendom College Executive Vice President Mark Rohlena invites Christendom President Dr. Timothy O'Donnell to share his academic search for truth and his early experience with the founding of Christendom.