The Holy Joes Podcast

Last year, we said the winner of the Holy Joes Fantasy Football league would be on the podcast. The Holy Joes Fantasy Football League Winner speaks about life in OZ and gives us some things to think about as Men as he raises a family in a new place. 

In this episode, the men consider the power of the Sacrament of Confession in their children and consider the role of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

In this episode, Colm O'Farrell joins us on the podcast. He is a Catholic man of faith, Husband, Dad, and successful businessman.Colm shares his highs and lows as a businessman and he talks in particular about the impact of the 2008 recession on his company and his employees as he hit rock bottom. Making the step in the right direction, he went towards the stillness of the church and he has never looked back. Medjugorje has had a massive impact on his faith and he advocates for a good confession. Have a listen!  St Joseph Pray for us.

In this episode, Dermot and Joe listen to an episode of The Jeff Cavins Show with Joe being interviewed by Jeff during his recent visit to Belfast. As Northern Ireland commemorates the 100th Anniversary of division and sectarianism on the Island, it is time to reflect on some of the hurt. check out The Jeff Cavins Show for some great content and we will get him on the show next time he is in Ireland.

Special Needs School Principal, Neil Brannigan joins us on the Podcast as we continue to reflect on different workers, as we approach the feast of St Joseph the worker on the 1st of May.An Armagh man living, working, and marrying in Middle England, shares some of his thoughts and principles as he awaits the birth of his firstborn next month. He tells us about his faith journey, his wife Lucy joining the Catholic church, and his love for the beautiful Latin Mass. Neil shares some non-negotiables for him as a man of faith and leaves us with a challenge.Blessed Margaret of Castello, Pray for us, St Joseph the Worker, Pray for Us 

Matthew McFadden AKA 'The Tyrone Transformer' is back on the Podcast reflecting on mental and physical health and wellbeing. He has lost half his body weight in just over a year with exercise, healthy eating, and prayer.  Some gentle reflections and humour about making some changes to your life which may make a difference in the lives of others. Also a gentle reminder to look after our mental health....He also promotes the Darkness into Light challenge, check out www.darknessintolight.ie for more information and join people all over Ireland on the 8th of May.

As we prepare ourselves for the Feast of St Joseph the Worker on the 1st of May, we consider the role of men who have worked hard but also 'Serve the Lord' in the same manner.We are joined on the podcast with Rev. James McAllister,  a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of Down and Connor. James is married to Elaine with 3 lovely children and now makes a contribution to the church through his service and prison chaplaincy. James tells us about the 'God moment' as he rescued an infant from a house fire, the importance of a nudge from the wife, and how God can sometimes work in mysterious ways. He gives us some non-negotiables in his faith journey and leaves us with a challenge to reassess our lives at various intervals.St Joseph, Pray for us.

Dermot is back in town for this episode and we are joined very briefly with a 'Cameo' from PGA Golfer 'Graeme McDowell'(G-MAC) who listens to the Podcast while playing Golf. Reflecting on Holy Week and Easter Sunday, Dermot highlights the importance of 'The Great Reset' and having a perspective check in our lives. Going forward we consider who are we going to be 'Simon of Cyrene' to in our lives and community and the challenge of 'making a friend', 'being a friend', and 'Introducing a friend to Christ'.

In this weeks episode, Catholic Dad, Husband and all round good guy,  Andrew Tucker shares about how God has transformed him over the years. From Baptist to Catholic, From AA to Opus Dei and a journey towards being a virtuous leader. Have a listen to Andrew as he share some of his story and maybe you can pick  up a few ideas to change your life.Have a solemn, prayerful and meaningful Holy Week. God Bless, from The Holy Joe's.St Joseph, Pray for us

In this weeks episode, Dermot and Joe reflect on St Joseph's third angelic encounter in a dream. They begin with a reading from Matthew's Gospel 2:19-21 and consider how as men we can be protectors and courageous in our relationships with family and others.The Return from EgyptBut when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child's life are dead.”  And he rose and took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. let's continue to reflect on the life of St Joseph. We Recommend Fr Don Calloways Book Consecration to St Joseph, an excellent read and brings you closer to Christ.

In episode 2 of the Advent Series, the Holy Joes, reflect on the second dream of St Joseph.We hear in St Matthew's Gospel, "Now when they [the wise men] had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Arise and take the Child and His mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is going to search for the Child to destroy Him." The thought of the 'creative courageous' father, St Joseph who in many ways saved the saviour from the sword of the assassins of Herod. We was St Joseph chosen to be the protector of Christ and why did he listen to the Angel and go to the place that Israelites do not want to go.Listen to the amateur theologians try to unpack and understand what this dream means for us as men and how can we respond to the challenges set by St Joseph.Be sure to read Pope Francis' Apostolic Letter 'Patris Corde' also, excellent work. St Joseph, Protector of Christ and the Church, Pray for us

In the Advent episodes of THE HOLY JOES PODCAST, Dermot and Joe reflect on the life of St Joseph and offer an Advent meditation on the dreams of St Joseph.The Four Dreams of St. Joseph - what can we learn from them?The one thing we know about Joseph was that he was a Holy man and he had four dreams in which God spoke to him.1.  When the angel came to Joseph in a dream and told him that it was OK to marry Mary –as she had not been sleeping around (Mt 1.20-21)2.  When God warned him to take Mary and the child Jesus and flee to Egypt (Mt 2:13) and3.  When an angel of the Lord came to Joseph in a dream telling him to return to Israel, following the death of Herod(Mt 2:19-20)4.  When on his way back from Egypt, Joseph was concerned about going to Israel (because Archelaus had taken over power on the death of Herod), God spoke to Joseph in a dream guiding Joseph to move with the family to Galilee. (Mt 2:22-23)Join us as we reflect on the 

On the great feast in the Irish Church which celebrates the Holy Men and Women in Ireland, it is our All Saints Day! Too many to pick from and four that have officially been through the Canonisation process, St Malachy, St Oliver Plunkett, St Lorcán(Lawrence) O'Toole and St Charles of Mount Argus! check them outDermot and Joe have a quick chat and a coffee while mulling over the days going by in Ireland and trying to be a saint. There is a quick challenge from Pope Francis to say the Creed and An Our Father at a chapel or graveyard near you during November. Free Plenary Indulgence if you do...... we will explain plenary indulgences another day.Keep the prayers up for all those COVID patients and their families.

On this weeks episode, the Holy Joes Reflect on the Gospel reading for All Saints Day on the 1st of November 2020 from Matthew 5:1-12.On this episode, we hear about Dermot's leisurewear and how graveyards are good fun for kids, not just at Halloween.  The men reflect on everything from Marcus Rashford to trying to work out what it means to be 'Meek'.The hero for this episode, who always inspires us as men, is Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati who was known as 'the man of the beatitudes'. We ask for his intercession as we try to be better men.St Joseph, Pray for this show and anyone who listens. Amen

In this weeks, episode Dermot tells us about the fundraising challenge he is doing with the charity SANDS NI who help parents who have lost loved ones through Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Support (SANDS). He is walking 300000 steps in 30 days and this is a great initiative if you want to support him add Dermot Kelly on FaceBook. Joe is doing a virtual Camino and has walked about 500 steps so far! by this rate he will be in Santiago some time in 2023.In this weeks episode, the Holy Joes talk about prayer and with some inspiration from St Teresa of Avila & Brother Bede they offer Ten Top Tips from St Teresa of Avila. We encourage you to listen in and if anyone knows the Patron Saint of Madagascar, please let us know. St Joseph Pray for Us, St Teresa of Avila, Pray for us. Email the podcast at theholyjoespodcast@gmail.com 

We are joined on episode 21 with American Correspondent and Dead Theologian Society Founder Eddie Cotter.We speak briefly about American Politics, Blackberry Jam and Eddie's Positive Character that reminds us of Ted Lasso (great show if you haven't seen it).We then take a detour into Eddie's area of expertise and his passion and ministry, 'the lives of the Saints. This week we celebrated the Feast Day of Blessed Bartolo Longo who was a former Satanic Priest who became an ardent promoter of the Rosary and even build a Basilica in Naples/Pompeii. Amazing Conversion Story!This week, the first millennial saint is getting Beatified in Rome as Carlo Acutis becomes a Blessed in the Church. Listen to Eddie share some of Carlo's story and love of IT and his skills in developing a website about Eucharistic Miracles. If you haven't heard about soon to be Blessed, Carlo Acutis, please find out more now. The Saint with Nike and a HoodieWe ask these great Saints to Pray for us as we have a listen to the Podcast

On episode 20 with have an evangelical Christian on the show.......a Catholic one! The term evangelical Christian is something we associate with a Tele-evangelist Preacher on the God Channel or maybe it is a title we give to those Christians that can sometimes be in your face!In this episode, Paddy Monaghan founder of the Evangelical Catholic Initiative and former National Director of the Alpha Programme in Ireland shares with us why he believes every Catholic should be compelled to preach the Good News and have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.He is an interesting man, even befriending Ian Paisley and convincing even the most ardent anti-Catholic's that Catholic's are Christian and our faith is rooted in scriptures and the traditions of the early Church. Paddy is a lovely man and he is spearheading many initiatives that are moving the church into mission mode and is especially loving the challenge of COVID as an opportune time to share the message of Hope that comes from Christ. He is no spring chicken but playing football and squash he will definitely give Dermot a run for his money.Pray for Evangelical Catholic Initiative and their ministry. St Joseph, St Peter & St Paul, Pray for us.

In Episode 19 of the Podcast, we are joined by "Gerard Gallagher", a man who has been a leader within the Catholic Church in Ireland over the last 30 years with a passion for developing leaders and serving young people in his ministry.As the 2nd Lockdown approaches in Ireland we chat about our experience of church and the challenges we face with many Catholic's not returning to the pews. Research suggests 20% may not return and we explore these challenges whilst reflecting on some of Gerard's books.During 2005, Gerard'd book 'are we losing the young church?' highlighted some challenges for the church in Ireland and beyond. He spoke of an over-sacramentalized, poorly catechised and un-evangelised church which is a possible reason for many leaving. We reflect on some of these challenges in light of Gerard's recent book "Exploring Christus Vivit, 'making room for the young church'" which is a reflection on Pope Francis' Apostolic Exhortation, Christus Vivit.If Christ is alive and He is our hope, what are we doing about it? This is the challenge for Catholic men, we need to get off the sofa and transfer some of our energy to building up the church and spreading the Good News because it is news that is too good to keep! Gerard's new book is available to buy online at Veritas Books Online   St Joseph, Pray for us

In this episode, we talk about the Catholic Saints that are currently inspiring us or who we ask to intercede on our behalf. WOne of the greatest treasures we have in the Catholic Church is the rich heritage of the lives of the saints. These men and women of faith led extraordinary lives of holiness during their time on earth as they pursued Jesus in their prayers and lives. Most people use the word “saint” to refer to someone who is exceptionally good or “holy.” In the Catholic Church, however, a “saint” has a more specific meaning: someone who has led a life of “heroic virtue.” This definition includes the four “cardinal” virtues: prudence, temperance, fortitude and justice; as well as the “theological” virtues: faith, hope and charity. A saint displays these qualities in a consistent and exceptional way.When someone is proclaimed a saint by the pope – which can happen only after death – public devotion to the saint, called a “cultus,” is authorized for Catholics throughout the world.In this episode we want you to consider who are the saints that inspire you in your life, or who are the saints that are in your 'posse', your team or your clann. St Joseph, Pray for us

Dermot hosts the podcast this week as we reflect back on 'finding god in the mess' by Jim Deeds and we introduce Deacon John Taaffe, a well-respected servant of God working throughout Ireland and spreading the Good News and involved in Healing Ministries.After an encounter with God through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, he knew things were going to change forever. This led him to Jesus, His Church and tackling some unforgiveness in his life.Giving up a successful career in Sales & Marketing he dedicated his life to serving others and in particular those with addictions and on the margins.  He then made the call to commit his life fully to God and offer his service to the Church as a Permanent Deacon.John shares his love of Marian pilgrimage site Medjugorje and the many graces and miracles that have come from taking groups of people there. He shares some of his work in the charismatic renewal and healing ministries and encourages the men out there to help and heal those around them. His latest project, 'Apostoles of Love' aims to create an oasis of peace in Ireland and a place of pilgrimage for the tired and weary. pray for him and his ministry and check out the great work they do at http://apostlesoflove.ie/   St Joseph, Pray for us

On episode 16 of The Holy Joes Podcast, Author, Poet and all-round nice guy Jim Deeds joins us to talk faith and life, creativity and gives us 5 Ignatian principles for life.Jim shares the importance of family, friendship and faith growing up during the 'Troubles' in West Belfast in the 70's & 80's and how is faith reignited when he started a family. He shares some of his creativeness over the years and the sparks from the Holy Spirit that led him to writing reflections, prayers and poetry. One of the highlights of this time was his relationship with Fr Brendan McManus SJ which has led to some great collaborations and writing.Jim present 5 really useful principles that they utilize in their writing and ministry which have an Ignatian spirituality running through them, this podcast is worth a listen just for them. He ends the episode with a fresh reflective poem entitled 'Three Breathes' which is a challenging and engaging piece of work. You can check out Jim's work by googling 'Gym for the Soul' and you will find his work in all good bookshops.

In this week's podcast, the Holy Joes have a hike up the Mourne Mountains in Newcastle, County Down on the Feast of the Assumption on the 15th August.Dermot and Joe have a bit of banter and reflect on the thoughts of Scally from last week and also ponder some of the sentiments of an email they received from a Catholic Dad struggling to make ends meet and frustrated at the lack of genuine Catholic fellowship, especially when the going gets tough! Some of the Podcast listeners who joined us on this inaugural 'Camino' or 'Holy Joes hike' share the challenges and joys of their lives at the summit of Slieve Donard, thanks to Paddy, Conor, Sean & Chris (the highest mountain in the North of Ireland but a big hill for serious hikers).Our Lady of Knock, Pray for us.St Joseph, Pray for us.

In episode 14 of the Holy Joes Podcast, we meet the man, the legend, that is Philip Scanlon or Scally as he is known in the streets of Limerick. We follow the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in Limerick and Derry on Facebook as they do amazing work throughout Ireland. A few months back we were struck about how one mans simple 'Hail Mary' changed his life and those around him.We get chatting and we are introduced to his amazing daughter 'Kayleigh' who has special needs/Autism and hear about how she brought him and the family to Jesus. Scally tells us about the car journey where he was going to hear Boyzone Celebrity Keith Duffy talk about Autism. His friend Jason encourages him to join him in the Rosary and maybe say a 'Hail Mary'......the rest is history.Scally shares his journey back to the church and a deep personal relationship with Jesus. Sickness in the family leads him to a 'Holy Relic' belonging to St Padre Pio, who had the stigmata of Christ and covered his hands with mitts with many miracles attributed t his intercession.  One of these mitts touched Scally's wife and sons during illness, bringing healing, hope and a deeper relationship with Christ. In the Bible we hear about healing through 'Holy Relics', In  2 Kings 13:21 & Acts 5:15 & Acts 19:11-12 and they have played a significant role in bringing people closer to Christ.Now Scally prays with people with this relic and some people get healing but others lives are transformed by a deeper relationship with Jesus. Scally challenges listeners this week to say one 'Hail Mary' and wait for Mary to push you towards her Son, Jesus.St Padre Pio, Pray for us & St Joseph, Pray for us.

In episode 13, Joe and Dermot reflect on the last few weeks and even briefly celebrate Man United getting a champions league spot. Contemplating the wise words of Noel and Samuel over the last couple of weeks, we give our thoughts on Fatherhood and Catholic Virtues.Dermot gets the conversation off the ground by his own rendition of 'Satisfaction' by Mick Jagger but his singing sounds more like Britney Spears. It leads us into a discussion about 'hunger' and in particular spiritual hunger. Some reflections from linking the Prophet Elijah in the Book of kings to St Teresa in the slums of Calcutta.The men reflect on the challenges of being spiritually dry and trying to find what will quench their thirst or hunger. As St Augustine says 'our hearts will not rest until they rest with the lord' and this is true in our experience, especially during this pandemic when we have missed our encounter with Christ in the Eucharist.This week the challenge we leave the listeners is: What are you hungry for at this moment of time? and where do you get fed? we need answers and we would love you to tell us at theholyjoespodcast@gmail.com  St Joseph, Pray for Us.

On episode 12 of The Holy Joes Podcast, we explore the concept and reality of being a man of Virtue. We are joined on this episode by Samuel Baker, Founder of the Apostolate, Catholic Man UK & Ireland which aims to help men to lead virtuous lives. Check it out online.Samuel talks about his upbringing in a big Irish community in Luton and also the negative impact of his early Catholic formation as he was given a false presentation of the Catholic faith impacted by Jansenism and a lack of male role models. This in many ways was a catalyst for Samuel to consider what it means to be a real man and some of his own inadequacies he had to work on to be a Catholic Man of Faith.He helps us to reflect on the Cardinal/Theological virtues and even brings in a bit of philosophy with St Thomas Aquinas and Aristotle. He also presents us with a real challenge to be manly. Grab a cuppa, grab a snack, come and listen to some Catholic craic. St Joseph, Foster Father of Jesus, Pray for Us.

On episode 11 of The Holy Joes Podcast, Dermot and Matthew go on holiday and leave me areoareon my own. We are joined on this episode by self-professed Catholic hypocrite Noel Duggan as he unpacks the John Eldredge book, Fathered by God.Noel shares his journey in faith from Youth 2000 to being challenged to invest his life in men's ministry. Noel speaks openly and frankly about his relationship with his earthly and heavenly father. This leads us on a really good discussion on the six stages of fatherly love from John Eldredge's book 'fathered by God'. Some really good discussion and thoughts to considers as we journey from being cowboys to kings. Please listen and take the time to review or email theholyjoespodcast@gmail.com to tell us your thoughts. St Joseph, pray for us

In Episode 10, we reflect upon the week that has just passed and how people are 'buzzing' for Mass again and the mood music for being Catholic is good. The lads reflect on getting the families back to Mass and how the Podcast is helping them to think differently. Reaching a milestone of ten episodes completed, with listeners in every continent in the world from Australia to Zambia, we reflect on the fruits of the 'Holy Joes' Podcast. Matthew highlights that old friends have been in touch since he shared his story and he is even going for a regular walk and pray in the borderlands. Matthew also highlights that the challenges at the end of each episode have been a useful thing for him to consider each week. He has reflected on this and he is planning the Inaugural Holy Joes pilgrimage up the Slieve Donard in the Mourne Mountains on the 15th August, the Feast of the Assumption. More information to follow, check out the Facebook page and please consider joining us.Matthew also critiques how we may be perceived on the Podcast as fully-fledged 'Holy Joes' but we are not, we are men that struggle in life and try to strive for Holiness. This leads to a good discussion about our flaws and strengths. Joe presents the idea that we all have a unique purpose in life and God has placed this gift on our hearts. Joe challenges men to consider who they are at the core and what do they bring to the table? Who are you created to be and where are you going in your life? big questions but it is important for us to reflect upon.please email us at theholyjoespodcast@gmail.com St Joseph, Pray for us.

In Episode 9, the men reflect on last week's episode with Michael Kelly which went down well with the listeners. a sense of joy with the Holy Joes as they can receive the Eucharist again in Church as Covid19 restrictions are lifted. Dermot brings a cloud of sadness as he reminds us that Liverpool Football Club won the English Premier League. The only good point Dermot makes is that Jurgen Klopp is a prominent male Christian in the public arena. Matthew shares his new spiritual discipline of trying to restrict his mobile usage as it is a distraction from family life. We welcome our special guest, Davide Barbieri who works for the Pontifical Charity Aid to the Church in Need in Ireland. Davide shares his powerful and transformative story from life as a homeless heroin addict to a Committed Catholic and joyful family man living in Knock, County Mayo with his wife Niamh and lovely family.Davide's story is not for the faint-hearted and he shares the early challenges of family life the led to him being on the streets. His chance encounter with Peter from the Cenacolo Community in Italy changed his life and introduced him to a relationship with Jesus and His Church. Davide passionately talks about how men with addiction are transformed through prayer, work and fraternity and how the Cenacolo Community saves the lives of men across the world by introducing them to the person of Christ and the Gospel message of love. The Christian response with hostels, support programmes, treatment centres and prayer demonstrate that Christianity isn't something fluffy but our response to Christ's message.Davide shares some tips on family life too and leaves us with a challenge to pray the Apostles Creed and to show love to someone who is suffering. listen to this powerful testimony of life from Davide and find out more at https://www.communitycenacolo.ie/God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change;  courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference. St Joseph, Pray for us, Venerable Matt Talbot, pray for us.

In Episode 8 of The Holy Joes Podcast, we welcome special guest, Michael Kelly who is the Editor of The Irish Catholic Newspaper, the best newspaper for Catholics in Ireland.Some reflections on the last week and Father's Day with the Holy Joes before a big welcome to Michael Kelly. Growing up in the 1980's in Ireland Michael reflects on the nourishing experience he has had in a Catholic Family from County Tyrone. Reflecting on the role of Father as communicators of the faith he shares about his father who is an honourable man.Dermot asks Michael about his journey into journalism which began at a World Youth Day in Rome in 2000 and was enriched by a Masters Programme he completed a few years later in Rome. Excited about sharing Good News stories and his joy for writing Michaels career led him from places like the BBC all the way to the biggest Catholic newspaper in Ireland. Some reflections on the importance of the good news stories in journalism and also how there needs to be religious tolerance within society.Michael provides a serious challenge for men in regards to engaging with politics and bringing their faith to the public square. He encourages men to stand up and be counted and to consider how they communicate, defend and live their faith with words and actions.Finishing on a sombre note, Michael shares the highs and lows of his career with the Coronavirus having a significant impact on the Irish Catholic and also on pilgrimages to places such as the Holy Land. He encourages men to consider going on pilgrimage to support Catholic business and keeping things alive. Matthew is stoked up by Michaels enthusiasm and is committed to being a Paperboy for the Irish Catholic Newspaper. We ask all our listeners and local to help support the Irish Catholic Newspaper with your prayers or buying a copy, subscribing online or even writing an article or sending photos of great initiatives in your parish into the paper. St Joseph, Pray for Us.

In this weeks episode, the hosts, Joe McKeown, Matthew McFadden and Dermot Kelly are joined by Irish American musician, comedian, teacher, dad and all-round nice guy Bob Rice from Steubenville, Ohio.Dermot is encouraged by the positive reception from last weeks episode and some of the encouraging comments that made it worthwhile sharing his story. The Holy Joes introduce Prof. Bob Rice and admire his surroundings with perfectly framed photos and a bookshelf which earns him the title Bob the Builder. Joe offers a public apology for inviting Bob to the World Meeting of Families in Ireland during 2018 as he got to play in front of 20,000 chairs instead of people. Bob reflects on the positive encounters he had in Ireland, including almost high fiving Pope Francis.Bob reflects on his Irish Catholic roots, the Korean origin of his name and journey from youth ministry to lecturing in a great Catholic Institution at Franciscan University, Steubenville Ohio. Matthew asks some questions about family life which leads to a good discussion about the challenges and the joys of being a family man.Join us as we explore the challenges and joys of trying to be a great dad. 

In this week's Episode, We hear the final origin story of the Holy Joes hosts, as Dermot tells his emotional story of faith and fatherhood. Reflecting on some of Matthew's story from last week, we hear the final story in our trilogy.Dermot's tells us about his upbringing on the 3rd most famous street in the world? and his journey to Disney where he worked for Mickey Mouse. Reflecting on his time in the USA, Party Culture and difficult confessions drew him back home.Dermot speaks about the important encounters in life and how people can invite you into a deeper relationship with God without knowing it. A Priest that wouldn't sign his passport papers unless he helped out at a youth group and a girlfriend that wouldn't give him a kiss unless he went to the biggest Catholic youth festival with her, World Youth Day in Sydney in 2008.Dermot also speaks about the challenges of life, mental health and addiction, a father with Cancer and losing his Son Micah just before his birth in Christmas 2018. Dermot leaves a real challenge to men, asking them to speak about their struggles and to know that there is always hope in the journey. His story helps us to act justly, to love mercifully and to walk humbly (Micah 6:8).We would love to hear your reflections from this episode at theholyjoespodcast@gmail.com please review the podcast and subscribe and also share these podcasts with your friends.God Bless, The Holy Joes. St Joseph, Pray for us

In this episode, the Holy Joes speak of the joys of the great weather, paddling pools and water shortages. Dermot shares how he sent his wife and kids on a holiday to give himself a break.The men chat about the challenges of spiritual disciplines of initiatives such as EXODUS90 and also consider the simple spiritual disciplines and traditions within Irish Christianity. Bishop Alan last week challenged men to read the Word of God more, how do we as Catholic Men engage more with the living Word of God in the BiblePope Francis' call on World Communications Day to share your story, as in our personal stories, we encounter Christ and we can help others to encounter him by sharing our faith. Matthew McFadden shares his personal story of being raised by a saintly woman, his mother Mary, who was a single parent who did everything to ensure Matthew had a good start in life and strong foundations by witnessing her prayerful expression of her Catholic faith. He also shares his inspirational story of losing 13 stone in just over a year with hard work, dieting and nutrition, exercise and prayer.We have new listeners from Russia, Iran, USA, Philipines, Indonesia and Fermoy in County Cork. Please keep sharing this Podcast with friends and family and particular Catholic Men, those close to the Church and those on the fringes and disengaged.Email us at theholyjoespodcast@gmail.com for any ideas, themes, recommended speakers or comments about the show. please keep us in your prayers, St Joseph, Pray for Us.

In Episode 4 of The Holy Joe's Podcast we have split the episode into two beautiful halves like a good match at Croke Park. Silliness in the first half with the Holy Joes and a great conversation with Bishop of Raphoe, Alan McGuckian SJ.Matthew tells us about a practical joker priest in Clogher Diocese and Dermot makes no excuses for the Irish Dancing Priests in Lurgan. Joe highlights Pope Francis' Comments on World Communications day 'Human beings are storytellers.  From childhood we hunger for stories just as we hunger for food.  Stories influence our lives, whether in the form of fairy tales, novels, films, songs, news, even if we do not always realize it.  Often we decide what is right or wrong based on characters and stories we have made our own.  Stories leave their mark on us; they shape our convictions and our behaviour.  They can help us understand and communicate who we are.'  Joe shares some of his journey of faith to get to know listeners.In the econd, half of the show (about 29 mins in) Bishop Alan shares about life during COVID19 and shares about the encouraging initiative in Letterkenny, An Tobar Domhain (Gaeilge= 'the Deep Well'). As people draw close to the living water that is Jesus during these times. Bishop Alan also shares of his experience with the EXODUS 90 movement and encourages men to take up the challenge and to journey from slavery to the promised land. You can download the EXODUS90 app from www.exodus90.comThanks to Bishop Alan for his generosity, time and prayers for The Holy Joes Podcast listeners.

 In this episode, we get an update on Dermot's rat problem (or is it bats), Matthew is crowdfunding for a battery for his smoke alarm and Joe is afraid of blessing himself in KFC on the Shankill in Belfast. We also have special guest Eddie Cotter, Founder of the Dead Theologians Society sharing some of his stories.Eddie tells shares his deep faith but also the joy of tripping up a superstar on stage......no other than Mr Meat Loaf himself. Eddie also tells us about his apostolate aimed at teens and young adults which explores the lives of the saints, his lessons learnt as a dad and he ends with a story about Blessed Solanus Casey.He is officially appointed as our American correspondent.Thanks for all the Downloads and subscriptionsGod Bless, Folks 

In the first episode of 'The Holy Joes Podcast', the conveniently named host Joe McKeown and co-hosts Dermot Kelly and Matthew McFadden discuss faith, coronavirus and being a dad in Ireland during the lockdown.

In this exclusive interview with Ireland's youngest Parish Priest, this episode's host, Joe McKeown has some craic with Fr Conor McGrath (Parish of Glenravel) chatting about good coffee, confession and serving the people of God during Coronavirus in Ireland.