Jesuitical

This week on “Jesuitical,” Zac and Ashley are thrilled to speak with their friend and colleague Father James Martin about his new podcast, “The Spiritual Life with Fr. James Martin, S.J.,” which launched this week. We then share Jim's conversation with actor and comedian Whoopi Goldberg. Whoopi is known for playing a larger-than-life nun in “Sister Act,” but did you know she was also raised Catholic and educated by nuns until the eighth grade? Jim and Whoopi talk about her struggles with organized religion, the importance of laughter in a life of faith and her bold request to Pope Francis when they met in 2024. Links from the show: Listen to (or watch) “The Spiritual Life with Fr. James Martin, S.J., on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube. Whoopi Goldberg on God, authenticity and ‘acting the fool' Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe and the importance of friendship in the spiritual life LAST CHANCE TO JOIN THE FIRST-EVER JESUITICAL RETREAT! Join us at the studio and headquarters of America Media in New York City for two days of community, prayer and sharing stories of faith. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how we make the podcast, meet fellow young Catholics, pray with America staff and editor in chief Sam Sawyer, S.J., share meals and craft your own faith story with accompaniment from our team. There are only a few spots left, so sign up here today! We can't wait to meet you. Jesuitical Young Adult Retreat: What's Your Story? Open to ages 21-39 Friday, June 27th (evening) + Saturday, June 28th (all day) New York, NY Friday: America Media Office – 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036 Saturday: Jesuits USA East Province – 39 E 83rd St, New York, NY 10028 Cost: $100  Housing: Participants are responsible for their own lodging in NYC Capacity: The retreat will be capped at 30 participants. First come, first served. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Zac and Ashley talk with U.S. Senator Chris Coons, a Democrat who has served as a senator from Delaware since 2010.  Zac, Ashley and Senator Coons discuss:  How the senator's Protestant upbringing and the example of his parents shaped his perspective on service Why Democrats need to be more open about their faith in the public arena  How Senator Coons feels about having the first American pope In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss the recent removal of mosaics by alleged abuser Father Marko Rupnik from the Vatican News website and an op-ed in America by Archbishop John Wester on why President Trump's “big beautiful bill” betrays the poor.   BE PART OF THE FIRST-EVER JESUITICAL RETREAT! Join us at the studio and headquarters of America Media in New York City for two days of community, prayer and sharing stories of faith. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how we make the podcast, meet fellow young Catholics, pray with America staff and editor in chief Sam Sawyer, S.J., share meals and craft your own faith story with accompaniment from our team. Sign up here! We can't wait to meet you. Jesuitical Young Adult Retreat: What's Your Story? Open to ages 21-39 Friday, June 27th (evening) + Saturday, June 28th (all day) New York, NY Friday: America Media Office – 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036 Saturday: Jesuits USA East Province – 39 E 83rd St, New York, NY 10028 Cost: $100  Housing: Participants are responsible for their own lodging in NYC Capacity: The retreat will be capped at 30 participants. First come, first served. Links for further reading:  Jesuitical Storytelling Retreat Senator Chris Coons - Press Releases Prayer, not Politics, on Wednesday Mornings, by Chris Coons  Mosaics of alleged abuser Father Marko Rupnik removed from Vatican News website Trump's ‘big beautiful bill' betrays the poor. The church must oppose it. You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Zac and Ashley share a live interview recorded at 6ABC studios in Philadelphia, Pa., featuring prior provincial of the Province of St. Thomas of Villanova, Robert Hagan, O.S.A. Father Rob discusses the case for the canonization of Bill Atkinson, O.S.A., an Augustinan friar who was the first quadriplegic ordained in the Catholic Church and whose life—according to Father Rob—was a miracle.  Zac, Ashley and Father Rob discuss:  Father Rob's vocation story and why Father Bill inspired him to become an Augustinian priest How Father Bill's radical dependence on others and unwavering faith in the midst of great suffering inspired those around him  The case for Father Bill's canonization  In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley unpack recent backlash against the Charlotte diocese for a leaked draft on liturgical norms amid traditional Latin Mass restrictions; The Catholic University of America in Washington's two new degrees in artificial intelligence; and Pope Leo and Russia's President Vladimir Putin's first phone call.   BE PART OF THE FIRST-EVER JESUITICAL RETREAT! Join us at the studio and headquarters of America Media in New York City for two days of community, prayer and sharing stories of faith. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how we make the podcast, meet fellow young Catholics, pray with America staff and editor in chief Sam Sawyer, S.J., share meals and craft your own faith story with accompaniment from our team. Sign up here! We can't wait to meet you. Jesuitical Young Adult Retreat: What's Your Story? Open to ages 21-39 Friday, June 27th (evening) + Saturday, June 28th (all day) New York, NY Friday: America Media Office – 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036 Saturday: Jesuits USA East Province – 39 E 83rd St, New York, NY 10028 Cost: $100  Housing: Participants are responsible for their own lodging in NYC Capacity: The retreat will be capped at 30 participants. First come, first served. Links for further reading:  Jesuitical Storytelling Retreat Who is Fr. Bill Atkinson? Meet Fr. Bill Atkinson, OSA–the first quadriplegic Catholic priest Green Bananas: The Wisdom of Father Bill Atkinson Charlotte diocese faces backlash for leaked draft on liturgical norms amid traditional Latin Mass restrictions Catholic University of America to launch new degrees in A.I. Pope Leo XIV and Russia's Vladimir Putin have first phone call Fr. Bill Atkinson, O.S.A,, found God beyond the labels that divide us You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining Zac and Ashley on this week's episode of “Jesuitical” is Jamie Baxter, Founder & CEO of Exodus 90. The program, which helps men to strengthen their faith through prayer, asceticism and fraternity, faced some early skepticism from the Church—and the Jesuitical team—that led to valuable innovation.  Zac, Ashley and Jamie discuss:  Jamie's conversion story, going to seminary and ultimately discerning out How the idea for Exodus 90 originated and the challenge of being an entrepreneur in the Catholic Church What asceticism can teach men about life, sacrifice, community and finding God Healthy (and unhealthy) “Catholic masculinity” and men's spiritual formation  BE PART OF THE FIRST-EVER JESUITICAL RETREAT! Join us at the studio and headquarters of America Media in New York City for two days of community, prayer and sharing stories of faith. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how we make the podcast, meet fellow young Catholics, pray with America staff and editor-in-chief Sam Sawyer, S.J., share meals and craft your own faith story with accompaniment from our team. Sign up here! We can't wait to meet you. Jesuitical Young Adult Retreat: What's Your Story? Open to ages 21-39 Friday, June 27th (evening) + Saturday, June 28th (all day) New York, NY Friday: America Media Office – 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036 Saturday: Jesuits USA East Province – 39 E 83rd St, New York, NY 10028 Cost: $100  Housing: Participants are responsible for their own lodging in NYC Capacity: The retreat will be capped at 30 participants. First come, first served. Links for further reading:  Jesuitical Storytelling Retreat Exodus 90  Jamie Baxter's life and conversion story  Do I really have to give up the big game during Exodus 90?! Fasting, praying and working out: What ‘Exodus 90' gets right—and wrong—about asceticism for men Podcast: Prayer, fasting and...working out? What is Exodus 90? You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac are joined by Mark Francis, C.S.V., who was a seminary classmate of Pope Leo (then known as Bob Prevost) at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago in the late 1970s. Father Mark is the provincial of the Chicago province of the Viatorian community, and he describes Pope Leo as a thoughtful and sensitive leader—even in their seminary days. Zac, Ashley, and Fr. Mark discuss:  Pope Leo's formation at C.T.U., where he learned alongside women and engaged with social justice issues How Pope Leo's language skills, governing experience and global perspective will be key assets in his papacy  Why efforts to put Pope Leo in a box are doomed to fail Links for further reading:  Jesuitical Storytelling Retreat Podcast: Inside Pope Leo XIV's first week Pope Leo XIV, in first U.S. appointment, names San Diego's new bishop Pope Leo's first audience: God's love is generous, not calculating Pope Leo's Chicago roots: a conversation with Cardinal Cupich Leo XIV: An American pope for the end of American empire? You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the first days of Leo XIV's historic papacy. Today, Pope Leo met with members of the Vatican press corps and the thousands of other media in Rome covering his election, telling them to be peacemakers and calling for the release of all imprisoned journalists.  On our final episode recorded in Rome, the team discusses: How Pope Leo related to the media, and the importance of his message of peace and truth in a world threatened by war and the rise of A.I. Pope Leo's meeting with the College of Cardinals on Saturday, in which he signaled that he would continue the work started by Pope Francis Pope Leo's “honeymoon” period—and the opposition he will inevitably face This episode features: Sebastian Gomes, America's executive editor of audio and video Gerard O'Connell, America's Vatican correspondent  Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast Links from the show: Pope Leo XIV calls for the release of imprisoned journalists, tells media to be peacemakers Full text: Pope Leo XIV's address to the media Pope Leo XIV's message to the cardinals: Vatican II and Pope Francis are here to stay Full text: Pope Leo XIV's first formal address to the College of Cardinals Interview: Chicago's Cardinal Cupich on why the cardinals chose Pope Leo XIV Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. In this episode, the team discusses the Augustinian (and American) roots of Pope Leo XIV. They discuss: Pope Leo XIV is an alum of Villanova University. What's the atmosphere is like on campus right now? The Augustinian roots of Pope Leo: the intellectual, spiritual and social principles that will lead his ministry How poverty, chastity and obedience are a path to freedom and joy Subscribe to America to get our extensive coverage of the historic election of Pope Leo XIV at: ⁠⁠https://www.americamagazine.org/subscribe⁠⁠ Links from the show: ⁠Pope Leo XIV's first Sunday blessing: Appeals for peace, vocations and happy Mother's Day.⁠ ⁠Full text: Pope Leo XIV's first formal address to the College of Cardinals⁠ ⁠Pope Leo XIV's message to the cardinals: Vatican II and Pope Francis are here to stay⁠ ⁠⁠Pope Leo XIV: What to expect in the coming days⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Full text: Pope Leo XIV's first homily⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Who was Pope Leo XIII?⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. In this episode, veteran Vatican reporter Gerard O'Connell speaks to Colleen Dulle and Sam Sawyer, SJ about the unexpectedly quick election of Pope Leo XIV, who was elected on the fourth ballot in the conclave. They discuss: What the speedy election tell us about the conclave? Why a pope from the U.S. was thought to be "impossible", and why it happened anyway. Analyzing Leo XIV's first address to the world and homily to the cardinals. Who was Leo XIII? Who is Leo XIV in light of his legacy? Leo XIV was once a poor missionary in Peru and a capable administrator on a global stage Subscribe to America to get our extensive coverage of the historic election of Pope Leo XIV at: https://www.americamagazine.org/subscribe Links from the show: Pope Leo XIV: What to expect in the coming days Full text: Pope Leo XIV's first homily Who was Pope Leo XIII? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the America magazine conclave podcast. We are thrilled to join the church in welcoming Pope Leo XIV! Our team was just in St. Peter's Square for the historic election, and we're here with first reactions and some important details about the life and ministry of the missionary Augustinian friar turned pope: the now former-Cardinal Robert F. Prevost. Links from the show: Robert Francis Prevost elected first American pope Peru rejoices for their former bishop: Pope Leo XIV Prepare to be surprised by the next pope Sign up for America's subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: ⁠⁠⁠AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do we really trust the Holy Spirit to guide the election of a pope? What does that trust feel like? Are we hopeful or fearful for what is to come? Why does it feel so hard to pray in Rome sometimes?  The cardinals have asked for our prayers repeatedly in the run-up to the conclave. While they are sequestered away on the second day of conclave, Sebastian Gomes, Ashley McKinless, Zac Davis and J.D. Long García talk about what their prayer has been like while covering the lead-up to the conclave. Read more: ⁠Conclave watch: Which cardinals are likely contenders?⁠ Sign up for America's subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: ⁠⁠⁠AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope.  In today's episode from Rome, the team discusses: The protocols being followed by the cardinals in conclave The “habemus papam” moment, what the pope wears and other telling symbolic gestures  What happens in the days immediately following the election of a pope? This episode features: Sam Sawyer, S.J., America's editor in chief Colleen Dulle, co-host of America's “Inside the Vatican” podcast David Gibson, director of Fordham University's Center for Religion and Culture Sign up for America's subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Links from the show:  Cardinal Re's pre-conclave homily: ‘Love is the only force capable of changing the world.' Conclave: Everything you need to know about electing a new pope What time will we see black or white smoke? Past conclaves give clues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. In today's episode from Rome, the team discusses the frontrunners entering the conclave, and explains how the voting could quickly confirm papabile lists or pivot to an unexpected candidate. Featuring: Gerard O'Connell, America's Vatican correspondent and author of The Election of Pope Francis: An Inside Account of the Conclave that Changed History Colleen Dulle, co-host of the “Inside the Vatican” podcast Sam Sawyer, S.J., editor in chief of America Read more at: https://www.americamagazine.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope.  In today's episode from Rome, the team discusses: Final preparations for the conclave, including additional meetings for the cardinals President Trump's A.I. pope image Covering the conclave for secular media, with NPR's Scott Detrow The quirky procedures and protocols of the conclave, with Religion News Service's Thomas Reese, S.J. This episode features: Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast Zac Davis, director of digital strategy and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast Scott Detrow, weekend host of “All Things Considered,” and a co-host of the “Consider This” podcast. Thomas Reese, S.J., senior analyst at Religion News Service Sign up for America's subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: ⁠AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe⁠ Links from the show: ⁠Conclave: Everything you need to know about electing a new pope⁠ ⁠‘God is not mocked': US Catholic leaders criticize Trump's AI pope meme⁠ ⁠The conclave is a referendum on synodality⁠ ⁠Interview: Cardinal Müller on if Pope Francis was a heretic and what he wants in the next pope⁠ ⁠The pope is not the point⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope.  In today's episode from Rome, the team discusses: The security measures being taken at Casa Santa Marta, where the cardinal electors will stay during the conclave, including lock inspections and sealed windows The history and recent rise of betting on who will be the next pope, as well as Fantasy Football-style apps for building your conclave team The influence of the Synod on Synodality for the conclave—and what the result of the conclave might mean for the future of synodality This episode features: Sebastian Gomes, America's executive editor of audio and video Colleen Dulle, co-host of America's “Inside the Vatican” podcast Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast Anna Rolands, a professor of theology at Durham University Sign up for America's subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Links from the show:  The conclave is a referendum on synodality Over $10 million in bets placed on who will be the next pope Vatican guesthouse secured and sealed ahead of secret papal election Interview: Cardinal Müller on if Pope Francis was a heretic and what he wants in the next pope Hong Kong's Jesuit Cardinal Chow on the conclave, the next pope and Francis' legacy How will the next pope strengthen safeguards against sex abuse? Pope Francis and the future of Catholic moral theology Is it time for the second Latin American pope? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope.  In today's episode from Rome, the team discusses: The latest conclave news, including the installation of the chimney of the roof of the Sistine Chapel and how many cardinals have arrived in Rome The cardinals have asked Catholics to pray for them and the conclave. What exactly should we be praying for? And should we be scandalized by the intermingling of politics and spirituality? This episode features: James Martin, S.J., America's editor at large and founder of Outreach Colleen Dulle, co-host of America's “Inside the Vatican” podcast Zac Davis, director of digital strategy and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast J.D. Long García, senior editor at America  Sign up for America's subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: ⁠AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe⁠ Links from the show: ⁠Vatican firefighters install a chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel for the conclave⁠ ⁠With five days before the conclave, all but four cardinal electors are in Rome⁠ ⁠The prayer Rome needs right now: Come, Holy Spirit.⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope.  In today's episode from Rome, the team discusses: Cardinal Beniamino Stella's stunning attack on Pope Francis in Wednesday's general congregation meeting of the College of Cardinals The “election” of a new bishop in mainland China—while the chair of St. Peter is empty Papabile: How do conclave watchers come up with their lists of the next pope (and should we trust them?) This episode features: - Sebastian Gomes, America's executive editor of audio and video - Colleen Dulle, co-host of America's “Inside the Vatican” podcast - Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast - Zac Davis, director of digital strategy and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast Sign up for America's subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Links from the show: Backer of Cardinal Parolin attacks Pope Francis' push for lay involvement in church governance The new pope: How journalists (and cardinals) come up with their list of candidates Designers up in arms over Pope Francis' tombstone Despite the death of Pope Francis, auxiliary bishop elected in Shanghai Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope.  In today's episode from Rome, the team discusses: President Donald Trump's choice for pope The latest from the cardinal pre-conclave meetings The question: Will the next pope be an Italian? The unfinished business of Pope Francis' papacy, including: synodality, fighting sexual abuse, reforming Vatican governance and an ecumenical trip to Turkey on the anniversary of the Council of Nicaea   This episode features: Sam Sawyer, S.J., America's editor in chief  Sebastian Gomes, America's executive editor of audio and video Colleen Dulle, co-host of America's “Inside the Vatican” podcast Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast Zac Davis, director of digital strategy and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast Sign up for America's subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Links from the show: Cardinals say they are expecting a short conclave Watch: Trump jokes he'd ‘like to be Pope' Synodality—and ‘controversial' issues—are here to stay: Takeaways from the Synod's final document The four signs of a truly synodal church Pope Francis issues new rules for accountability and response to allegations of sexual abuse Pope Francis' new sex abuse rules are a revolution for the Catholic Church Vatican to consider classifying ‘spiritual abuse' as new Catholic crime With Pope Francis' reform of the Roman Curia, nine years of work is coming to fruition Podcast: Pope Francis' Roman Curia reform, explained Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine's Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope.  In today's episode, the team discusses: - The controversial presence at the pre-conclave meetings of Cardinal Becciu, convicted of embezzlement, and Cardinal Cipriani, who was sanctioned by the Vatican for alleged sexual abuse - The topics emerging in the cardinals' secret meetings - How “unity” and “clarity” are becoming buzzwords for reversing Francis' style of governance This episode features: - Sebastian Gomes, America's executive editor of audio and video - Colleen Dulle, co-host of America's “Inside the Vatican” podcast - Gerard O'Connell, Vatican correspondent and co-host of America's “Inside the Vatican” podcast - Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast - Zac Davis, director of digital strategy and co-host of America's “Jesuitical” podcast - Sam Sawyer, S.J., America's editor in chief  Sign up for America's subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Links from the show:  - What Pope Francis taught us: Church teaching finds clarity and power in acts of mercy - Cardinal Becciu will not participate in conclave following dispute over right to vote - As Cardinals Prepare to Elect a Pope, One Motto Is ‘Unity.' That's Divisive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

America Magazine's editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope. As part of the coverage, the team is producing a new podcast episode every day and releasing it on Inside the Vatican and Jesuitical. In today's episode, the team discusses: - The funeral of Pope Francis - The cardinal's decision to start the conclave on May 7 - The College of Cardinals by the numbers - How the conclave is (and isn't) a referendum on Pope Francis' pontificate Hosted by Sebastian Gomes, America's executive editor of audio and video, and featuring commentary from “Inside the Vatican” co-hosts Colleen Dulle and Gerard O'Connell, Jesuitical hosts Zac Davis and Ashley McKinless, editor in chief Sam Sawyer, SJ, editor at large James Martin, SJ, and senior editor J.D. Long García. Sign up for America's exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org Links: - Conclave to elect a new pope will start on May 7 - The three surprises of Pope Francis' funeral - Mourners from around the world flock to Rome to say goodbye to ‘pope of the people' - Father James Martin: Don't be afraid of the conclave—or the next pope - The papal transition: What you need to know - Cardinal Becciu will not participate in conclave following dispute over right to vote - The prayer Rome needs right now: Come, Holy Spirit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac are joined by America magazine's editor in chief, Sam Sawyer, S.J., and America editor at large James Martin, S.J., to discuss the life and legacy of Pope Francis, who died at the age of 88 in the early morning of April 21, 2025. He was the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit pope. Zac, Ashley, Sam and Jim discuss:  - Their personal encounters with the pope and how Francis impacted their priesthoods, careers and prayer life  - Pope Francis' gifts as a pastor—and whether he will have a lasting impact on the papacy - How Pope Francis responded to criticism and sought to preserve the unity of the church Links for further reading:  - Pope Francis, trailblazing Jesuit with a heart for the poor, dies at 88 - How Pope Francis changed the place of women in the church - Pope Francis never stopped being a Jesuit - Trump, Vance and Biden react to the death of Pope Francis - A prayer for our beloved Pope Francis - Vatican releases Pope Francis' final testament - What happens after a pope dies? - Pope Francis died after stroke and heart attack, Vatican says - Pope Francis' funeral set for April 26, first photos of his body released - Before picking a new pope, the cardinals will politick - In last words, Pope Francis thanked his nurse ‘for bringing me back to the square' You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of “Jesuitical,” Zac and Ashley chat with Sam Sorich, an award-winning filmmaker teaching film production at John Paul the Great Catholic University in Escondido, California. His latest film, which you can watch on YouTube, is “Things Hidden: The Life and Legacy of René Girard.” Zac, Ashley and Sam discuss:  How Sam's love of filmmaking and faith led him to make a documentary on the life and work of philosopher René Girard Mimetic desire, Girard's central theory of human behavior and relationships Girard's insights that offer a new perspective on Christian theology In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' plan to end a decades-long partnership with the U.S. government related to refugee resettlement after funding cuts from the Trump administration; and the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, the first ecumenical council in the history of the church.  Zoom Event | Praying through Holy Week with ‘Jesuitical' and Father James Martin As we enter into Holy Week, join America Media for a subscriber-only virtual event with James Martin, S.J., and “Jesuitical” hosts Zac Davis and Ashley McKinless. Links for further reading:  Things Hidden: The Life and Legacy of René Girard 8beats  8beats and Cinematic Catholic Beauty: An Interview with Sam Sorich U.S. bishops will cease refugee resettlement work with government after Trump funding freeze Nicaea anniversary inspires faith, strengthens mission, theologians say The Council of Nicaea, Christian unity and a common date for Easter Pope Francis hopes to travel to Turkey for Council of Nicea's 1,700th anniversary "Inside the Vatican": The Council of Nicaea and the struggle for a common date of Easter Why the Council of Nicaea still matters—1,700 years later You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining Zac and Ashley on this week's episode of “Jesuitical” is Kerry Robinson, the president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, the domestic humanitarian arm of the Catholic Church in the United States. Kerry was recently awarded the Notre Dame's Laetare Medal, the oldest and most prestigious honor bestowed exclusively on American Catholics. Zac, Ashley and Kerry discuss: - Kerry's family history of serving the Catholic Church - The importance of having more women in leadership positions in the church  - How Kerry has navigated challenging political opposition to Catholic Charities' work with migrants and refugees In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss the Supreme Court's likelihood to side with Catholic Charities in a religious-rights case; and a recent article in The Economist about Carlo Acutis, who is set to be made the first “millennial saint” on Apr. 27, 2025.  Links for further reading:  Kerry Alys Robinson, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, to receive 2025 Laetare Medal Catholic Charities USA: Working to Reduce Poverty in America Supreme Court seems likely to side with Catholic Charities in religious-rights case The secret life of the first millennial saint Zac's NYC marathon Catholic Charities fundraiser You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining Zac and Ashley on this episode of “Jesuitical” recorded in Douglaston, N.Y., is Msgr. Robert Sarno, a priest of the Diocese of Brooklyn and a former official of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints. With 38 years of experience in overseeing the process of canonization and beatification of saints, Monsignor Sarno offers a deep dive into the world of Catholic relics, including their history, hierarchy and controversy.  Zac, Ashley and Monsignor Sarno discuss: - How the devotion to relics began in the early Catholic Church and evolved over time - The distinction between first-class, second-class and third-class relics  - Contemporary issues with the misuse and trafficking of relics  Links for further reading:  Why every Catholic church altar has a relic inside it How are saints made in the Catholic Church? Inside the long, complicated and expensive process St. Thomas Aquinas' skull went on tour. Here's what the medieval saint would have said about its veneration I've always loved relics. After my cancer diagnosis, they mean even more to me. I wear a third-degree relic every day. It reminds me that all things are possible through God. What to make of holy relics You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Jubilee Year of Hope-themed episode of “Jesuitical,” Zac and Ashley chat with Father Ramil Fajardo, a tribunal judge in the Archdiocese of Chicago, about indulgences: What are they? Where did they come from? And how are they practiced today?  Zac, Ashley and Father Ramil discuss: - The evolution of indulgences, from the early church through the Protestant Reformation to today - The four current grants of indulgences, which involve acts of faith, charity, penance and witness - How to approach indulgences during the current Jubilee Year of Hope In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss a recent announcement from Buckingham Palace that King Charles II and Queen Camilla will be received in a Vatican audience by Pope Francis on April 8; and describe the busy lives of nuns working the Vatican switchboard to soothe anxious callers asking about Pope Francis' health.  Jesuitical is coming to Philadelphia! Join the Jesuitical team in Philadelphia for a Holy & Happy Hour at the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Topic: How to talk to your friends about your faith Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 Location: 1166 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146 Time: 6 p.m. adoration of the Blessed Sacrament; 7 p.m. group faith sharing and happy hour (come to either or both!) Links for further reading:  Vatican norms for Jubilee indulgence include pilgrimage, penance, service The Key Of Heaven: A Prayer Book for Catholics Manual of Indulgences The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius  Breaking: Pope Francis will receive King Charles III and Queen Camilla in audience in the Vatican on April 8 At the Vatican switchboard, nuns soothe anxious callers about Pope Francis You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On “Jesuitical” this week, Zac and Ashley chat with Sofia Carozza, a developmental neuroscientist working in research and a co-host of “The Pilgrim Soul,” a Catholic podcast about the journey of faith in the modern world. Sofia is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the Human Network Initiative at Harvard Medical School, where she uses computational modelling to study the role of the early-life environment in the development of the human brain.  Zac, Ashley and Sofia discuss: - The brain as a “relational organ” linking body and spirit - The neuroscientific response to the question, “What does it mean to be human?” - Sofia's experience as a person of faith in a “secular field” - Digital technology's effects on our brains (and faith) In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley give an update on Pope Francis' health after doctors lifted their “guarded prognosis,” meaning they no longer believe the pope is in imminent danger; next they discuss the lowering the standard age for confirmation in the Archdiocese of Baltimore to 9. Jesuitical is coming to Philadelphia! Join the Jesuitical team in Philadelphia for a Holy & Happy Hour at the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Topic: How to talk to your friends about your faith Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 Location: 1166 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146 Time: 6:00pm adoration of the Blessed Sacrament; 7:00pm group faith sharing and happy hour Links for further reading:  “The Pilgrim Soul: A Catholic Podcast”  “An Appraisal of the Neuroscientific Revolution's Promise of New Theological Horizons” by Sofia Carozza The Religious Sense by Luigi Giussani “The Faith of Fr. Luigi Giussani” Chest X-ray confirms improvements in Pope Francis' condition Pope Francis is out of imminent danger. What's next? Confirmation age lowered to 9 years old in Archdiocese of Baltimore You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On “Jesuitical” this week, Zac and Ashley chat with Kim Daniels, the director of the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life at Georgetown University. Kim is a member of the Vatican Dicastery for Communication, and served in the 2021-24 Synod on Synodality as an expert participant, as a member of the Synod Communications Commission, and as the coordinator of one of the 10 major Synod study groups, which focused on the church's mission in the digital environment. Zac, Ashley and Kim discuss: - How the Catholic Church is responding to the Trump administration's cuts to USAID - Kim's vision for implementing Catholic social teaching in the digital age  - How the church and government partner to serve communities, including some myth-busting about where funds go and how they're used In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley are joined by Bill O'Keefe, the executive vice president for mission, mobilization and advocacy at Catholic Relief Services, to discuss the 50th anniversary of C.R.S. Rice Bowl—an ecumenical response to the problem of world hunger. Plus: an update on Pope Francis' health, and the Trump administration terminates the U.S. bishops' refugee resettlement contract. Links for further reading:  Trump administration terminates US bishops' refugee resettlement contract I led Catholic Relief Services. I've seen USAID projects change lives. Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life Pope Francis' hospitalization: The complex picture, three weeks in Former USCCB spokesperson Kim Daniels appointed to Vatican commission The interfaith history of the C.R.S. Rice Bowl The Mission of C.R.S. Rice Bowl You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After 21 days of hospitalization, Pope Francis sent a brief message of thanks that was played for those praying for him in St. Peter's Square the night of March 6. Read Gerard O'Connell's report on the message here. Visit americamagazine.org for the latest on Pope Francis' health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On “Jesuitical” this week, Zac and Ashley are joined by Sister Josephine Garrett, a sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth, a licensed counselor, host of the “Hope Stories” podcast and the author of the new book, Wilderness Within: A Guided Lent Journal for Prayer and Meditation. Presently a counselor in private practice, Sister Josephine earned a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2019. Prior to entering religious life, she worked as vice president in the home loans division of Bank of America. She resides in Tyler, Tex. Zac, Ashley and Sister Josephine discuss:  - The challenges (and graces) that emerge in the spiritual wilderness - How therapy and counseling compare to spiritual direction and prayer - Why Lent promotes deeper reflections on our relationships with others and ourselves In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley are joined by America's editor at large, James Martin, S.J., to give an update on Pope Francis' health after his 13th day in Gemelli Hospital, where he is being treated for pneumonia in both of his lungs. They also discuss Father Martin's viral prayer for the pope during his illness, which is linked below.  Links for further reading:  Wilderness Within: A Guided Lent Journal for Prayer and Meditation  A prayer for Pope Francis during his grave illness Update: Pope Francis' CT scan shows ‘normal progression of the lung inflammation' Pope Francis beats back speculation of imminent death or conclave as he continues pneumonia recovery Hope Stories with Sr. Josephine Garrett, CSFN Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining Ashley and Zac to cover the cosmos on this week's episode of “Jesuitical” is Guy Consolmagno, S.J., the director of the Vatican Observatory and author of the new book, A Jesuit's Guide to the Stars: Exploring Wonder, Beauty, and Science. A research astronomer, physicist and Jesuit brother, he has served at the Vatican Observatory since 1993, and in 2015 Pope Francis appointed him director. He is the author of God's Mechanics and co-author of Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial? and Turn Left at Orion. Zac, Ashley and Brother Guy discuss:  - The relationship between science, theology and faith—how science points to God and God enables science - Brother Guy's passion for teaching science and inspiring “oh my God” moments in his students - Brother Guy's vocation story and the history of Jesuits making scientific advancements  In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley unpack Pope Francis' recent hospitalization for a respiratory infection, later confirmed as double pneumonia. As of Thursday, Feb. 20, he is stable, without fever and in good spirits.  Links for further reading:  A Jesuit's Guide to the Stars: Exploring Wonder, Beauty, and Science Pope Francis, battling double pneumonia, ‘alert and responsive,' according to Italian PM Cardinals push back on rumors Pope Francis will resign while in hospital Three ways Pope Francis should fix the procedures for papal illness, death and elections You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On “Jesuitical” this week, Zac and Ashley chat with Simon Critchley, the Hans Jonas Professor of Philosophy at the New School for Social Research in New York and a Director of the Onassis Foundation, about his new book, Mysticism. Among the most prolific of modern academic philosophers, Simon has written over twenty books, from works of philosophy to studies on topics from Greek tragedy and dead philosophers to David Bowie, football and suicide. Zac, Ashley and Simon discuss:  - The historical development of the concept of “mysticism,” how it was suppressed during the Reformation and its resurgent relevance for today. - Emotionally-charged forms of piety in the high Middle Ages among women mystics like Julian of Norwich - How modern mysticism can provide access to the sacred and transcendent in a melancholic world In Signs of the Times, Zac is joined by Fr. Sam Sawyer, S.J., editor-in-chief of America, for a conversation about Pope Francis' strongly worded letter of support to the Catholic bishops of the United States in which he denounced the mass deportation of undocumented migrants initiated by President Donald Trump, and corrected Vice President JD Vance's theology.  Links for further reading:  Mysticism by Simon Critchley  Pope Francis' letter, JD Vance's ‘ordo amoris' and what the Gospel asks of all of us on immigration Pope Francis to U.S. Catholic bishops: Oppose mass deportations What's on tap? Gin Martini You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Zac and Ashley chat with Dr. Gina Zurlo, the Yang Visiting Scholar of World Christianity at Harvard Divinity School, about her groundbreaking research on women outpacing men in worldwide church participation. Zac, Ashley, and Gina discuss:  - Gina's experience co-authoring World Christian Encyclopedia (Third Edition),  a 1,000-page textbook that documents the changing status of global Christianity over the past 120 years, which she presented to Pope Francis at the Vatican in 2023. - Why the participation and leadership of women in churches is often overlooked or underreported - Suggestions for how the church can better support and empower women in leadership and ministry In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley cover the hundreds of emails obtained by the Associated Press that reveal the extent to which the NFL's New Orleans Saints helped the Archdiocese of New Orleans contain the damage of new revelations of sexual abuse; and the Vatican's new rules on how to worship when when a holy day of obligation falls on a Sunday.  Links for further reading:  Gina Zurlo's website Gina Zurlo's Groundbreaking Research on Women in World Christianity World Christian Encyclopedia (Third Edition)  Emails reveal extent of New Orleans Saints' damage control for Catholic sex abuse crisis When a holy day of obligation falls on a Sunday: Vatican releases new rules  What's on tap? Black coffee  You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's episode of “Jesuitical” features a conversation with journalist Helene Stapinski and her son, Dean Jamieson, a fiction writer from Brooklyn who, now in his 20s, finds himself drawn to the Catholic Church his mother left behind two decades ago because of the sex abuse crisis.  Zac, Ashley, Helene and Dean discuss:  - Helene's faith journey, from a “cradle Catholic” and member of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps to a mom disillusioned by the church's sex abuse scandal and culture-war stances - How Dean became “Catholic curious” in college and started attending Mass, drawn to the aesthetics, anti-consumerist values and sense of community he found in the church - How the priest at Dean's local parish in Brooklyn has sought to actively engage young adults and welcome them (and sometimes their parents) back In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss Vice President JD Vance's accusations that the U.S. bishops were being critical of the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration because it would hurt their “bottom line”; the threat to Catholic Charities by Trump's directive to freeze federal financial assistance programs; and the Vatican's latest document on “the relationship between Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence” that addresses the ethical challenges raised by AI and warns against “creating a substitute for God.” Links for further reading:  “Turning Out, Tuning In? I left the Church, but now my twenty-something kids seem drawn to it” Vice President Vance: Thank you for making headlines about the bishops' care for immigrants JD Vance suggests U.S. bishops only care for immigrants to protect ‘their bottom line' Trump executive order will strip funds from Catholic Charities, White House says New Vatican document on A.I. warns against ‘creating a substitute for God' You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's episode of “Jesuitical” features a conversation with James T. Keane, senior editor at America and columnist for the Catholic Book Club, a weekly newsletter on literature and the arts. Jim's new book, Reading Culture Through Catholic Eyes, explores 50 Catholic writers, thinkers, and “firebrands” who have influenced Catholic culture—and yes, as Jim's colleagues, we may sound a little biased when we say it's well worth the read. Just take our word for it. Even better, grab a copy and see for yourselves.  Zac, Ashley and Jim discuss:  - What makes someone a “Catholic writer”  - Why so many of us get stuck on the same Catholic writers  - The works of three lesser-known Catholic authors: Myles Connolly, Andre Dubus and Mary Karr In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss inauguration prayers for the 47th U.S. president Donald J. Trump offered by Pope Francis, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Father Frank Mann and Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde; the Cuban government's plan to release 553 prisoners in response to Pope Francis' Jubilee request to set the captives free; and increased family benefits for Vatican City-State employees. Links for further reading:  Reading Culture through Catholic Eyes: 50 Writers, Thinkers, and Firebrands Who Challenge and Change Us Pope Francis assures Donald Trump of his prayers, but says mass deportations would be a ‘disgrace' If the Catholic Church is pro-life, why is its maternity leave so bad? After the election, people may know your political party—but will they know you're a Christian? God lifts up the underdogs Lean into love, not fear, this World Day of Migrants and Refugees, Beirut Jesuit pastor tells preachers You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On “Jesuitical” this week, Zac and Ashley chat with Kelly Ryan, the president of Jesuit Refugee Service USA, about her 30 years of experience working with refugees, asylum seekers and migrants in light of a second Trump administration. A two-time U.S. presidential political appointee, Kelly has also worked extensively with faith-based organizations, including the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Holy See.  Zac, Ashley and Kelly discuss:  - The origins of Jesuit Refugee Service, from its founding in 1980 by Pedro Arrupe, S.J., to assist refugees, especially those fleeing the Vietnam War - Challenges at the U.S. southern border, including the dangerous journeys many migrants make and the difficulties in processing their asylum claims - Concern about potential changes to refugee admissions and deportation policies under the incoming Trump administration In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss Pope Francis' autobiography Hope, which features critical reflections about his rowdy youth and staunch defenses of his most controversial moves; plus they chat about the 2025 College Football National Championship between the University of Notre Dame and Ohio State University, including some words on Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame's current coach, a Catholic convert—and a former Buckeye.  Links for further reading:  Opening doors at Advent and all year long: How J.R.S. responds to the plight of refugees  Pope Francis acknowledges mistakes and defends most controversial decisions in new autobiography Notre Dame story  Father Pedro Arrupe: a controversial Jesuit's bumpy path to sainthood A Jesuit border priest on Trump and the plight of migrants 109th World Day of Refugees and Migrants Message from Pope Francis Jesuit Refugee Service JRS is on Instagram: @jrs_usa You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Jan. 6, Pope Francis announced that Cardinal Robert McElroy will be the next archbishop of Washington, D.C. Cardinal McElroy, currently the bishop of San Diego, spoke with Zac and Ashley on the “Jesuitical” podcast back in 2023, and this week, they're revisiting that conversation. In it, Cardinal McElroy embraces the synodal vision and pastoral approach of Pope Francis and calls upon the church to dismantle the “structures and cultures of exclusion” that alienate some Catholics, including women, the poor, divorced-and-remarried couples and L.G.B.T. Catholics.  Zac, Ashley and Cardinal McElroy discuss:  - Cardinal McElroy's 2023 article in America on the Eucharist and radical inclusion for L.G.B.T. people, women and others - Why synodality is the connective tissue of the Catholic faith that enables us to work through disagreements in communion  - How to handle polarization in the church on issues like sexuality, marriage, racism and poverty In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss President Joe Biden's decision to commute the death sentences of 37 of the 40 prisoners on federal death row to a sentence of life in prison without parole; Pope Francis' appointment of Italian missionary nun Sister Simona Brambilla as the first woman to lead a major Vatican dicastery; and the exciting news that a soccer-loving Catholic nun from Brazil is officially the oldest living person at nearly 117.  Links for further reading:  Cardinal McElroy to lead D.C. archdiocese, Vatican announces Cardinal McElroy on ‘radical inclusion' for L.G.B.T. people, women and others in the Catholic Church Biden commutes 37 death row sentences before Trump can resume executions A woman leads a Vatican office for the first time ever. Why now? Historic first: Pope Francis appoints woman as prefect of Vatican dicastery A soccer-loving nun from Brazil is world's oldest living person at nearly 117 Zac's New Year's recommendation: What if you're already on top of things? You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On “Jesuitical” this week, Zac and Ashley chat with Colleen Dulle, an associate editor at America and co-host of the “Inside the Vatican” podcast, about how realistically the new film “Conclave” portrays the process of selecting a new pope. They praise the film's historical accuracy but raise eyebrows over the complex theological implications around the film's twist ending. Warning: This episode contains major spoilers.  Zac, Ashley and Colleen discuss:  - The challenges of translating the complexities of the Catholic Church to a mainstream audience through a cinematic lens - Varying reactions to “Conclave” from Catholics, including Bishop Robert Barron's critique of the film - The role and representation of women, including nuns, in the Catholic Church as depicted in the film In Signs of the Times, Zac, Ashley and Colleen discuss Pope Francis' new autobiography Hope, which reveals two assassination attempts on his life during his trip to Iraq in 2021; and a recent liturgical debate sparked by Cardinal Blase Cupich's guidance to parishioners in the Archdiocese of Chicago that discouraged kneeling to receive Communion. Links for further reading:  ‘Conclave' explainer: Could that twist ending really happen? Your Take: Is ‘Conclave' worth seeing for Catholics? ‘Conclave' hits theaters. What really happens when a new pope is elected? Pope Francis reveals he survived two assassination attempts during visit to Iraq Hope: The Autobiography by Pope Francis  Should you stand or kneel to receive communion? Cardinal Cupich stirs debate after weighing in What's on tap? French 75s You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of “Jesuitical,” Zac and Ashley interview bestselling Irish author John Connell on how embracing the farm life preserved by his family for generations brought him closer to God and greater inner peace. John's new book, The Lambing Season, explores the rhythms and realities of raising livestock, as well as the profound spiritual guidance John gleaned from a simple flock of sheep.  Zac, Ashley and John discuss:  - How John's spiritual awakening on a Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain led to his transformation from journalist and world traveler to shepherd on his family's farm  - John's discovery of the spiritual and therapeutic power of lambing season in Ireland - The contrast and balance between rural and urban life, and the need for citydwellers to “make appointments with nature” In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris after a fire in 2019, Pope Francis' latest consistory that created 21 new cardinals on Saturday, Dec. 7, and how the Loyola Chicago Ramblers recovered after (seemingly) snubbing their very own Sister Jean from a celebratory fist bump after their win against Eastern Michigan.  Links for further reading:  The Lambing Season: Stories of Life on an Irish Family Farm The Cow Book: A Story of Life on an Irish Family Farm Pomp and presidents at the reopening of Notre Dame in Paris Podcast: Pope Francis creates 21 cardinals, calls for an end to U.S. death penalty Read: Pope Francis' homily and message to new cardinals A busy weekend for Pope Francis: The Immaculate Conception, a consistory and prayers for death row inmates in the United States You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac are joined by Madeleine Kearns, an associate editor at The Free Press, and the author of a recently reported article, “The Young Catholic Women Bringing Back Veils.” Maddy shares how the veil boom evokes a “lost type of Catholicism” that satisfies the desire for reverence challenged by the reforms of Vatican II.  They discuss:  - The motivations of young women who veil—from personal expressions of piety and nostalgia to political posturing - Whether individual practices of worship impact communal worship in the church  - How young people engage with the “sacred space” of Mass today In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss a Brooklyn priest wrapped up in scandals involving a federal corruption investigation, New York City's Mayor Eric Adams and pop star Sabrina Carpenter. Plus: Environmentalists in Italy try (and fail) to stop Pope Francis from cutting down a Christmas tree to decorate St. Peter's Square. Links for further reading:  The Young Catholic Women Bringing Back Veils NYC priest who allowed Sabrina Carpenter to shoot a music video in church further stripped of duties The Priest, the Power Broker and the Pop Star Local group protests cutting down 200-year-old tree for Vatican's Christmas You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special Jesuitical episode to kickstart the Advent season, Ashley speaks with her colleague, Maggi Van Dorn, the host and creator of America's podcast, "Hark! The Stories Behind Our Favorite Christmas Carols." Maggi previews an all new season of "Hark!" launching today, November 29, and reveals what she uncovered about the Magi and the star of Bethlehem while working on the classic carol, "We Three Kings." Hark! is available everywhere. Listen on Apple or Spotify or your podcast app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's episode of “Jesuitical” features a conversation with Brian Strassburger, S.J., a Jesuit priest who serves as the director of Del Camino Jesuit Border Ministries in the Diocese of Brownsville, Tex., and a co-host of the Jesuit Border Podcast. In his ministry, Brian not only celebrates Mass in migrant shelters and camps at the U.S.-Mexico border, but he and his team also provide basic orientation and advocacy for migrants navigating the complex U.S. immigration system. Zac, Ashley and Brian discuss:  - What the election of Donald J. Trump might mean for migrants and his border ministry - How Brian talks to Catholics who are concerned about chaos at the border and want to see greater immigration restrictions - Brian's vision of heaven: one where the poor and migrants are welcomed and honored, rather than dismissed and betrayed Links for further reading:  The Betrayal of American Border Policy  The Jesuit Border Podcast  Del Camino Jesuit Border Ministries  Donald Trump's election has brought new fear to immigrant communities As U.S. Catholic bishops meet, Trump looms over their work on abortion and immigration You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac are joined by Sister Laura Vicuña Pereira Manso, an Indigenous activist fighting to protect the Amazon rainforest and serve its people. As the current vice president of the Ecclesial Conference of the Amazon region (known as CEAMA) and a 2019 auditor of the Synod for the Pan-Amazon Region, Sister Laura has met with Pope Francis to make the case for women's ministries, including restoring women deacons. They discuss:  - Sister Laura's experience at Amazon Synod, and whether synodality “works” - What a typical day looks like when you are ministering to Indigenous communities in the Amazon and struggling against powerful (and violent) corporations. - What she would say to those who criticize women deacons as a “Western obsession” Links for further reading:  A Franciscan sister joins the fight for Indigenous rights in Brazil A nun makes the case for women deacons to Pope Francis What you need to know about the 2019 Synod on the Amazon Brazilian Cardinal talks restoring women deacons, ordaining married men at synod press briefing Synod Diary: Women deacons are not a ‘Western' obsession We'd like to give a special thanks to our translators, America O'Hare fellow Leilani Fuentes and Ellie Hidalgo of Discerning Deacons, who helped with the translations for this episode.  You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac are joined by America magazine's editor in chief, Sam Sawyer, S.J., to discuss the results of the 2024 presidential election, in which Donald Trump defeated the sitting vice president, Kamala Harris. They discuss:  The Catholic vote in the election and how it differed from previous elections How Catholic leaders might respond to a second Trump presidency  The role of faith and trust in God in the face of political turmoil Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe Links for further reading:  The day after Trump's victory: searching for mercy, justice and God's providence Five political takeaways from the 2024 election Voters in 3 states reject abortion ballot measures, defying trend around country Trump courted white Catholics—and they helped him win the White House again Donald Trump won: 5 Catholic takeaways Donald Trump defeats Kamala Harris to become the 47th president of the United States Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices