The Inner Life

IL – Fr. John Paul Erickson joins Patrick for the last chapter of our special Lenten Series on the 7 Last Words of Jesus – today’s topic: “Total Surrender to God” (6:17) What is the connection to the Psalms and this last word of Jesus? (15:29) what holds us back from surrendering entirely to the will of the Father? (19:50) Break 1 (20:57) How do you answer the question of does God really care about me and can I trust Him? (28:54) Carol - I'm an associate for an order. I serve worldwide for the sisters from home. I suffer from terminal illness. It's that surrender to God we're all trying to get to. Why does God allow suffering? (36:23) Break 2 (38:33) Laurie - Husband and I suffered 2 miscarriages. Another born and survived only days. Knowing God had a greater purpose. I figured we'd have 5-6 kids. I worked at a daycare. We adopted two children. God places these things before us and uses us as an instrument. (43:23) If we are to experience suffering why should we be faithful Christians? Serenity Prayer

Father Eric Nielsen joins Patrick to discuss the Stations of the Cross (3:29) what is the origin of the stations of the Cross? What is the order of the stations of the Cross? (17:50) Break 1 Email from Bob about the unique way he prays the stations of the Cross. (19:38) Marsha - I was able to go with my parish to the holy land and pray them in January. I think that is the change and memories and the places of Christ's passion. It was beautiful. Simon of Serene Stations of the Cross. (31:50) what is the benefit of praying the stations communally? (34:41) Greg - It's very simple. In order we become worthy to share in the resurrection, we need to share in his crucifixion. (36:33) Break 2 Mary - In Madison, for 40 days for life, the conclusion will be at Planned Parenthood. They will have the stations of the cross. It will be on Good Friday. (40:48) Barbara - I belong to the church of Jesus in Milwaukee. The upper church has such beautiful stations. There is so much detail and every one of them is so rich in material and great to meditate upon. Linda - I went on the Camino. While we were there, we walked to where the pilgrims were from. There were stations on the way to the village. It was very enlightening to walk where our Blessed mother appeared to the children. (46:29) Nicole - Before coming back to the church, I felt there was a bit of a patriarchal problem. I found the stations to be so female-centric. It was so profound (Veronica's veil). It felt very inclusive. I felt there was a patriarchal prayer to many prayers. Broke down when I first prayed them.

Check out this awesome show from April 3, 2025 IL: Father Sam Martin joins Patrick to discuss Patience (2:58) Patience is a fruit of the Spirit and a key part of the spiritual life (6:37) Holiness is humility and accepting help. Sometimes it is more blessed to receive than to give (13:10) Patience does coincide with slowing down, solitude and time in prayer (13:38) Contemplative life is one of the best ways we can spend our life in this planet – (20:21) Break 1 (22:03) Mark - Patience in prayer. I see signs that say keep praying. Isn't there a point where the answer is no and you should go on, or should you go on? How do you know when it's no? (28:50) Prayer is friendship and relationship and not just to make sure I am still “in the will” (30:40) Carlo - Could you describe the difference between patience and self-control? – (36:02) Break 2 (37:35) Is there something we can do in the moment to stave of impatience and foster patience in our minds? (45:13) Mary Lou I take care of my elderly mother. Patience is always on the tip of my tongue and heart. She moves really slow and bringing God into those moments where I want to rush her and God is helping me to stop and be present with her. Resources: Humility Rules by Fr. Augustine Wetta, O.S.B.

Father Peter Armenio joins Patrick to discuss Marriage and the Cross (3:09) What is Marriage? (22:09) Break 1 (23:25) Margaret - I'm in the process of converting and husband is against it. Any advice? (27:41) How is the man the head of the family? (39:32) Break 2 Carlos - I'll be married 58 years. The criticality is covenant vs contract. That's my experience. (43:04) Elizabeth - My husband and I are on our 2nd marriage for 21 years. Love each other a lot. Hardest thing is the baggage. I've overcome it, but he doesn't want to speak about certain things. He's estranged from his kids. He's very involved in my children's lives.

Father Elliot Zak joins Patrick to discuss Evangelization in Modern Times Father shares a little bit about himself. (5:03) what is evangelization? (10:13) Nick - Love how you started the show. Key is finding where they're at and listening in. The greatest thing we can do to evangelize is give our witness. Lord gives us the inspiration to evangelize. We have to pray on those inspirations. Philip - I evangelize. I was able to continue this mission since 2000. It's entering into the unknown and not being afraid. Mine was nursing home care. Finding out if anyone is praying the Rosary. So many assisted living/nursing homes. Bring your rosary and bring it up with permission (activities coordinator). (17:48) Dana - Choosing a particular book that may be of interest to my daughters. We are in a book club. I chose a book and they tore it down. It was a religious book. If I'm going to be part of their club, it has to include what I have. Evangelization with my daughters...what would be an interesting book to capture their attention and get them thinking? (22:43) Break 1 (25:48) Joel - I have been wearing a cross outside my shirt. People always comment, 'That's a beautiful cross.' Really brings up Christianity. A lot of guys and women are wearing the cross because of an organization in Fargo, ND. I give them out and it's a great way to spread evangelization. (28:26) what is the “new evangelization”? how do you respond to Christians who have questions about the Catholic Faith? Janet - A couple friends have started restaurant ministry. We go out to eat and say grace before meals. We ask our server how we can pray for them. Amazing some of the stories we hear. Easy way that's non-threatening. (37:57) Break 2 (39:48) Justin - Handing out little Jesus statues. I buy them off Amazon and hand them out. Easy way to spread the word. (41:19) Stephanie - How to approach in conversation with my non-believer friend. She told me she was baptized Catholic, raised Jehovah Witness. Now she's a non-believer. She's dear to my heart and it hurt me when she said she doesn't believe. Going to see her this week and hesitant, maybe scared, to approach it. (46:22) Role of social media and AI in Evangelization.

Fr. Michael Hurley joins Patrick for the sixth of a special Lenten Series on the 7 Last Words of Jesus – today’s topic: “It is Finished” What would have the people heard from these words of Jesus who where there? (9:43) What is the deeper meaning of this message. (12:56) Robert - I don't understand the debate. it was about his mission on earth. I don't understand the bewilderment. That is what the father had him do. (18:20) Break 1 Susan - The Latin being consumatem est...more literally translated to it is consummated. As in he's married to his church. (24:06) Timothy -You mentioned Came to save sinners...don't know what that exactly means. How does this connect with the Old Testament and the fourth cup? (38:33) Break 2 (41:43) The enduring wounds of Jesus even after it is finished. Jesus Shouts, it is Finished!

Bishop Joseph Coffey joins Patrick on the Solemnity of St. Joseph to discuss St. Joseph and Fatherhood Bishop Coffey shares a bit about himself and his ministry of the Archdiocese of the Military. (7:11) What is the Church’s teaching on Fatherhood? How was Saint Joseph the Father of Jesus even though they were not biologically connected? (11:41) What does God being referred to as Father tell us about Fatherhood? (15:55) Charles - I am a 93 year old veteran of the Korean war. How much difference in age was Joseph compared to Mary? What are some virtues of Saint Joseph? (21:44) Break 1 (22:40) Lily - Thank you Bishop for your guidance to our military men and woman. My son is in the Marines (ERIC). (26:30) What is the highest virtue of Saint Joseph? (30:39) Richard - St. Joseph devotion: he is the foster father of Jesus. I am also the foster Father of a little boy. I had to lean on St. Joseph when we were discerning what to do. (36:31) Break 2 (42:13) What if you don’t feel worthy of being a father? How can men and women strengthen Fatherhood in our society?

Check out this encore show from March 26, 2025 Father John Paul Erickson joins Patrick to discuss Spiritual Movies (4:06) what are the dangers of movies the spiritual life Father shares a movie which he really enjoys (13:52) Sean - The Adventures of Robinhood from 1938. It's a very Catholic movie. Had a good impression on my life. Saw it when I was 6. Greg – Nefarious outstanding movie. Certain groups played it off as a horror film. It's good vs. evil. Some have avoided it because it deals with evil. The guy who did it also did God is Not Dead. One priest said every priest should see it for giving advice for confession. Mark - Calvary...Irish Film. 10 years old. About a priest who really lays down life for his flock. (22:47) Break 1 John - Of Gods and Men...French film. About monks serving souls in north Africa. Based on a true story. Barb - The Shack...about what it's like to be God and sacrifice your son. It shows God sacrificed his son as this guy sacrificed his daughter. Bring your tissues. (29:50) Nels - The Last Supper....newly released film. Emphasis on Judas in that movie. Miriam - 7th Heaven...1930's. Star5ring Jimmy Stewart. Unlikely love story ever told. Mention of God in the movie. He's an atheist and then things happen. My favorite movie. (35:43) Break 2 Roland - Journey to Bethlehem....nativity story. Silence...the story of the Japanese Martyrs. Ignition Martyrs (39:16) Matt - Beckett, and the Cardinal. Excommunication scene in Beckett is most powerful scene. The Cardinal being more recent. Pope Benedict was advisor for this movie. Came out when V2 was written. Patrick shares some movie recommendation from listeners who write in. Roxanne - The Most Reluctant Convert...untold story of CS Lewis. Very good. (43:02) Jean - King of Kings...1925. It's a silent movie and beautiful. Eric - The Scarlet and the Black. Based off the Scarlet Pimpernel. Hides thousands of Jews during WWII. I think it's a must see. Resources - Spiritual Movies: Babette’s Feast (1987) The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938) Nefarious (2023) Calvary (Irish film) (2014) Of Gods and Men (2010) The Mission (1986) Arrival (2016) The Blue Kite (Chinese) (1993) The Shack (2017) The Last Supper (2025) The Chosen (series) (2017 – present) Seventh Heaven (1937) A Hidden Life (2019) A Man for All Seasons (1966) All That Remains: Dr. Takashi Nagai (2016) Journey to Bethlehem (Christmas) ( Nativity Story (Christmas) Silence (2023) Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014) The Ten Commandments (1956) Ben Hur (1959) The Robe (1953) Becket (1964) The Cardinal (1963) Gattaca (1997) The Most Reluctant Convert: the Untold Story of C.S. Lewis (2021) The King of Kings (1927) The Scarlet and the Black (1983) The Sound of Metal (2019) Life is Beautiful (1997) The Bells of St. Mary’s (1945) The Lord of the Rings (2001-03) Groundhog Day (1993) A River Runs Through It (1992)

Father Joseph Illo joins Patrick to discuss St. Patrick's Day (3:33) who was Saint Patrick? (13:26) Sylvia - I heard St. Patrick raised people from the dead. Is that true? (18:53) Break 1 (20:29) Natalia - Origins...I wondered if father is familiar with How the Irish Saved Civilization. There's a discrepancy as to where St. Patrick was born. I think he was Roman and living in North Africa...I believe in Carthage when he was captured by the Irish and taken to Ireland. (26:38) Patricia - Could Patricia be synonymous with St. Patrick because there is no St. Patricia. I look at Catholic names...most of my kids have Catholic names. Carmen - My grandfather was Irish and American Indian. One tradition we had was about getting the family together and my mom would make a pot of Irish stew and dad would make corned beef and cabbage. I haven't heard anybody mention that. We have an Irish population in Hawaii. On St. Patrick's Day, they go all out with festivities. Drinking problems in Ireland, especially around St. Patrick’s Day. (37:18) Break 2 (39:11) Dr. Gerard - Thanks to my priest who gave me sacraments and communion. They came from Ireland to India. I'm now a cardiologist for the last 35 years. in US. Very thankful for St. Patrick. John - Could you comment on St. Patrick's prayer. Christ before me, behind me, etc. How could he survive in that environment? He had Christ present with him and it made him so powerful. This is what made people take heed of it. So many Irish hear...after the famine. People had to pay 7 pounds to live there or pay 4 pounds to come to America. (45:30) Cassidy - He's my patron saint and confirmation saint. How can I incorporate the life of St. Patrick during the feast with my family and share that with them?

Check out this great show from April 7, 2025 Father Patrick Hyde joins Patrick to discuss Joy in Lent (4:17) why do we talk about joy during Lent? What is joy? How important are circumstances in finding joy? (17:18) Danny - I find it's becoming hard to find joy in lent. In today's age, you don't see it. You tell people it's Lent, and then it's like...and then what? (21:36) Break 1 Susan - I've been going to daily Mass. Hoping to grow faith. I'm proud that I'm hauling myself out of bed every morning. Joy, getting closer to God...no. What more can I do? (31:00) How do you find joy in Lent if it has been a real struggle? (35:57) Break 2 Alfredo - I have found joy in the 7 charisms of the Holy spirit. Try to focus on that every day. Don't always get to all of them, but try. Enjoying Lent so far. (42:10) Maryann - 84 years old. Having trouble finding Joy in Lent because of my inability to participate because I'm home bound. (44:54) Annie - I had a pastor who made a point that joy and happiness are different. Happiness is fleeting...joy is forever...it's lasting. Jesus Others Yourself. Resources: 5 Loaves and 2 Fish https://paulinestore.com/5-loaves-2-fishes-43739-115997.html Five Loaves & Two Fish https://www.amazon.com/Loaves-Francis-Xavier-Nguyen-Thuan/dp/0819826766 He Leadeth Me https://ignatius.com/he-leadeth-me-hlm2p/?searchid=2061706

Fr. Dave Heney joins Patrick for the fifth of a special Lenten Series on the 7 Last Words of Jesus – today’s topic: “I Thirst” How does this word of thirst relate with the old testament? (12:02) Biblical meaning of water. What is the significance of the Passover cup? (20:10) Break 1 What is the importance of the Woman at the Well with Jesus’ words of “I Thirst” (26:07) how can we satisfied Jesus thirst for us? (36:32) Break 2 Beatitudes I thirst and drink for riotousness (43:34) Madeline - I love this discussion. Years ago I read the 4th Cup. The new covenant is complete. This really has changed how I look at the Triduum. Richard – Did Jesus say Carry your cross before or after he died on the cross?

Msgr. Robert Dempsey joins Patrick in studio to discuss Liturgical Practices in Lent What is the Liturgy? How is the liturgy different in Lent? What is the reason for the missing of the A (18:26) Break 1 Addison – Not Catholic. Doing a lot of research. What should I expect at a Mass during Lent? (26:25) Bonita - Tenebrae...when is it done and why? (30:07) Why is purple used during Lent? Laetare Sunday (34:54) Break 2 (36:21) Monica - Good Friday is also the first Friday, but they don't celebrate Mass...how do I fulfill my first Friday obligation? Why are things like flowers and music made less during Lent (41:52) What are the scrutinies? What is Passiontide? (46:34) Vinny - What about Holy Saturday when there's no mass during the day. The vigil Mass is there, but is the obligation?

Fr. Craig DeYoung joins Patrick to discuss Self Denial What is self-denial? (5:21) How does self-denial lead to freedom? How does self-denial lead to virtuous living? (16:27) Nicole - How this lent has been more fruitful for me and helping me lean more into it this way. (20:24) Break 1 How does time play into self-denial? (25:09) the community’s role in helping us with self-denial? (34:03) Break 2 (35:43) Sylvia - Trying to understand when I do something for others, I feel a lot of joy, but when they thank me, I don't know how to respond. I want to understand that part. How can we discern what would be best for us to give up in our lives? (42:21) Heather - OCIA and wanted to know if you're allowed to change what you're doing for Lent. I don't know if I'm doing enough?

Fr. Spencer Howe joins Patrick to discuss English Literature (2:41) what is the role of Literature in the life of the Church? What is the history of the Catholic Church in England? (10:26) what is the Catholic influence of Shakespeare. (18:55) Break 1 (19:50) Richard - I'm a reader of CS Lewis, George McDonald. I can tell you how I was put on to CS Lewis and then George McDonald. (23:54) C.S. Lewis one of the evangelists? (28:43) Karen - Wanted to talk about reading Tolkien and then becoming Catholic. Heard about it on Fr. Simon's show. (34:00) Break 2 WWI’s influence on English Writers in their literature. (37:56) St John Henry Newman’s authorship and teaching. Who was Ronald Knox and why is he so important? (45:32) Chesterton’s importance in the common people’s mind. Resources: Newman Studies https://www.newmanreader.org/

Check out this great show from March 24, 2025 Father Dave Heney joins Patrick to discuss Anxiety in the Spiritual Life What is Anxiety? (6:49) What is the biggest source of anxiety? What is scrupulosity? (12:58) Email - How can we stop worrying we aren’t going to go to heaven? Barbara - I have suffered with OCD and scrupulosity. In the last couple years, I discovered Dr. Greg Bottaro's book and he has a chapter called Surrender to the Will of God. Admitting we are powerless over this. That is what I have to do every day. Just turn it over to God. (22:09) Break 1 What is the difference between anxiety, fear and stress? (27:41) Lisa - Are there are people who are predisposed to worry and anxiety genetically.? If they don't have faith, but tendency toward perfectionism. How advice would you offer to them? Thomas - Comments on healing between psychiatric approach and spiritual approach. Action between mental health work and spirituality. Finding healing and that people have the power to trust God and not get anxious. (40:51) Break 2 Leticia - Anxiety developed into a eating disorder. I battle with that. I do what you are suggesting...Jesus I trust in you. I take some medication. I teach catechism...takes my mind off it. (46:38) what can we do to keep anxiety down?

Msgr. Tom Richter joins Patrick for the fourth of a special Lenten Series on the 7 Last Words of Jesus – today’s topic, Spiritual Abandonment The Allusions of Control. (8:53) Jesus and Psalm 22. (21:24) Break 1 (22:27) Tom - I've always wondered if Jesus felt because of his humanity we as human would feel abandoned by God. Was that an expression of his human feeling because he was fully human. How can Christ feel he was abandoned? if he were fully human, he would feel that way. Can you explain that? (26:27) How Jesus abandoned Himself to God. How can we trust that God still loves us through the challenging times in our life? (38:54) Break 2 How can we cultivate Faith in our lives? (45:18) Entrusting to God all of those who will be affected by my abandonment.

Bishop Donald Hying joins Patrick to discuss Surrender to God What makes surrender so important? (7:27) What is the motivation to spiritual practices? (12:34) John - I've got 2 sons struggling with drugs. Talk to them all the time about it. Not having control and putting it in God's hands. Bonita - My brother is in a nursing home. They're going to put him on hospice. Wondering if he's in the right place. How to navigate making decisions. Can't always meet what we're hoping to have. Hospice and not knowing how to navigate. (18:54) Break 1 What does Saint Therese of Lisieux teach us about surrender to God? (22:55) Marisa - Last year, for Ash Wednesday and Lent, I vowed to give up alcohol. I used it as a crutch rather than surrounding to the Lord. I did the surrender novena, drank that night, but seven nights later, I gave it up and it's been a year of sobriety. (31:01) Stan email – are there any short prayers to say to not despair over past sins? Patrick - I've had some success surrendering to God. I have this sloth. It's tough. Lack of discipline. Need more help from God. (35:19) Break 2 Email from a listener wanting husband getting her husband back to Mass. (39:24) Elanore - I was given my sister's ashes. I'm driving around with them right now. I surrender, but have no direction. I'm looking for sacred ground. Nobody understands the relationship. She died in a nursing home. I need guidance. I believe she was a sacrificial lamb. I hold her in high regard while the rest of my family doesn't agree. Email about surrender when others don’t listen as well (45:42) Marge - I've learned to surrender to Him. I finally realized what the Our Father really means. I've experienced different things. Been praying for granddaughter for years. I have a lot of priest friends I'm in regular contact with. Was told to completely talk to Jesus and lay all in front of the cross. Mentor and confession is important.

Fr. Marc Lenneman joins Patrick to discuss Strengthening the Will (3:06) what is our will? What are the effects of original sin on the will? (10:11) what are good and bad convictions? (15:05) Mary from MN – How do you fight an affection to a specific sin? (18:54) Break 1 Suzie - I say I have a crazy or addict brain. I'm much better during Lent. Try really hard all year, but especially during Lent. I also know that I need to be patient. I'm working on my will and God's working on my will. My family and friends have to deal with this, too. (25:44) Where is the line between holy desires and earthly pleasures? (33:32) Ann Marie - Not to give into despair when God's working on your sinful nature. I'm working on a situation with jealousy and trying to deal with being angry or vindictive, but choosing to deal with my heart in the matter. (39:19) Break 2 (40:48) Carol - This show is so spot on. I needed it for my Lenten goal process. Opened up my path to be myself and understanding to what I need to achieve in my Catholicism in becoming a better person and what God wants for me. How does prayer fasting and alms giving increase our will power?

Msgr. Jason Gray joins Patrick to discuss Lessons from Bishop Fulton Sheen Msgr. Gray’s background (4:40) who was Bishop Fulton Sheen and what is his legacy? (9:34) Nick - Part of Militia of Immaculata. Headquarters was in Peoria until it moved. Tomb of Bp Sheen is there and adoration chapel. He had a saying...those who leave do it for what they think it is. He taught me how to love and learn the faith and serve the Lord. It's so intertwined. Stall in beatification. We know when that happens...it's good because Satan wants to mess things up. What were some challenges of the beatification of Fulton Sheen? (16:27) Ken - I was raised in a Catholic/Protestant home. Father was protestant and would listen to Bp Fulton Sheen with mom. He was impressed by Sheen and would laugh at some comments. When I started listening to RR, I can hear my father's laughter. (21:02) Break 1 How do you get canonized? (25:35) Art - When I was a boy in the 60's, my parents used to watch his program. I remember it was always brighter (we only had black and white). Always wondered why that was. I realized it was the holy spirit. Found that fascinating. Very blessed man. Regina - Received a minor miracle for surgery. Had bad cataracts. Didn't have health insurance at the time. I remember watching his program. Talked about angels. At the hospital, the surgeon was kind enough to get me an angel grant to pay for the surgery. (35:03) Break 2 (37:50) Dorothy - I missed him in the 50's. anecdote to share...his style. I worked in Catholic Charities. I didn't know the society of the propagation of the faith was a competitor of ours. Went to a performance and he was there. He had such a fun style. He asked me what I do...told him I was a secretary with CC...flung the cape over his shoulder almost in dismay. Had such a twinkle and fun personality. (40:41) Janine - My father was protestant, mom was catholic. Mom loved to watch him. Dad would watch with her. Made one wall black flocked wallpaper. We lived in uptown Chicago. To this day, I believe it had such an influence on dad because he did finally receive communion. I think it was Bp Sheen. Mary - I think Americans need to make a pilgrimage to some places. Champion to Peoria to Bp Sheen, and then to Quincy to Fr. Tolton. Resources: Fulton J. Sheen Foundation: https://www.celebratesheen.com/ Treasure in Clay https://ignatius.com/treasure-in-clay-tclayp/ The Priest Is Not His Own https://ignatius.com/the-priest-is-not-his-own-pnhop/

Father Joseph Illo joins Patrick to discuss Redemptive Suffering (3:19) What does the Church teach about suffering and God’s plan for suffering? (20:34) Break 1 Father talks about the importance of responding to suffering well (26:01) Yolie - A friend had a baby as the result of a rape. Refused to abort. Was alone after that and had to deal with shame. Is that redemptive suffering? (31:37) Philip - I'm a knight of the Immaculata...sub group called knights at the foot of the cross. They have extreme suffering...many wheel chair bound. When I've introduced the concept of redemptive suffering...suddenly, my back pain or chronic pain is less...receiving relief. I think it's a goodness of God as a thank you for offering it up. Mario - I've noticed in others...sometimes when God sends you a cross, you're carrying it for someone who is dear to you. (38:21) Break 2 How does punishment and suffering come from sin? (45:04) Ann - Live in independent living. Other floors have assisted living. Most people are 65+ up to 102. Lots of suffering going on. Don't know how to approach them sometimes. Feel funny by just saying 'offer it up.' How do I approach it? How do you cultivate joy in the midst of suffering?

Fr. Joseph Johnson joins Patrick for the third of a special Lenten Series on the 7 Last Words of Jesus – today’s topic: Mary’s Role at the Cross (3:26) What is the context in these words of Jesus from the Cross? What Who does John represent in this scene? (13:25) What is Mary’s role in the Passion of our Lord? (18:08) Break 1 What are practical ways in which we can share in the passion of Christ? (25:39) Jim - My mother is starting to fail. My wife asked who should we pray for as a caregiver. We stopped thinking about the saints and then turned to Jesus on the cross. Jesus found a caregiver for his own mother. Found great consolation. Kurt - Redemptive suffering and joining to Christ on the cross. Very rarely do I hear anyone talking about that. We not only have that opportunity, but for the redemption of the world. We are commanded to that in John 15 and John 13. I give you a new commandment... There's no greater good than to offer suffering for them. (34:06) Break 2 How does the prophecy of Simeon play a role in Mary’s heart at the Cross? (38:37) what can we expect from the love of Mary and how it helps us in our lives? (41:21) Sharon - When my son died. I identified with Mary for release. My son was 50 and died of a rare cancer. The loss was something I knew she understood. Gave me a great deal of help during that time. Michelle - Abortion and aborted children. Great sorrow. I delivered that child into Mary's hands.

Father Ryan Brady joins Patrick in studio to discuss The Gift of Giving and an encounter with Pope Leo (3:12)Father Brady meets the pope and gives a good gift from the heart. (9:15) the sacrificial effect of giving (12:46) How does giving make us better people? (20:31) Break 1 (21:36) Christina - At what point is the stuff you have a problem? I had a dream of St. Therese of Avila and I think she wants me to give away my wardrobe. Trying to find peace in that. Prudence in giving. Email from listener about giving a rosary as gift (36:17) Break 2 Amy - I don't struggle with giving away or helping. my gifts God gave me...giving and pure love is being who they need to be. I don't know how to give people their space sometimes. (42:23) Father Brady’s Gift in Rome. Dale - Giving someone dignity by the way they dress. Read an article about picking up homeless and cleaning them up. Gave such an improved impression of what's possible with dignity in their appearance.

IL – Father Tom McCarthy joins Patrick to discuss Listening During Lent As an Augustinian what was Pope Leo trying to say with his letter? (5:10) What prevents us from listening to God during Lent? How can we combat temptations to distractions when trying to listen to God? (13:41) what does it mean that Pope Leo says Docility is at the core of conversion? (17:02) Carol - I didn't have a way of listening, but I have one now...with Fr. McCarthy. I'm listening to him and he is phenomenal. He's humble, sort of quiet, and he's just phenomenal. So blessed in my spirit right now. Just want to say thanks for being there. (20:08) Break 1 Judy - I'm 83. Got married a long time ago. We got back from our honeymoon, and I said, 'Let's go to church.' He said we weren't going to do that. Felt cut off for the longest time. Needed a spiritual meeting and went to a Quaker meeting which is silent. Had liturgical dreams...would be in the church and dreamed in procession. Couldn't make the dream go away. Went back to episcopal church for a while and husband said we should go to Catholic church. It's been wonderful. (27:55) Leo - Listening now and my whole life. 81 and don't know what to do with the rest of my life. Talked to priests and they tell me to pray, and don't seem to get anything from it. (31:12) How does Fasting help us listen to God? (35:48) Break 2 (40:09) Fasting from Gossip? (42:32) Beth - Discerning God's will. Something I've always struggled with and felt I never got an answer. Sometimes no answer is THE answer and we expect something specific. Maybe God doesn't have that planned for us. Why doesn’t God always speak to us more clearly? Resources Listening and Fasting: Lent as a Time of Conversion https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2026/02/13/260213d.html

Check out this great show from March 11, 2025 Father Rob Kroll joins Patrick to discuss Mortification Where does the word mortification come from? (5:21) what does mortification include? How do we find the happy medium in mortification? (19:03) Laurie - A long time ago, my kids were going away from the faith. Stopped putting sugar in coffee. Would it be efficacious to cut out the cream too? Is it better to intensify it? (23:12) Break 1 Deb - Question about if a person has struggles when trying to do mortification and trouble with self-denial. Any advice? What are ways we can do mortification? (32:55) Chris - To what extent does trying to define holiness differ from by what you deny yourself instead of what you do for others? Is there a risk of denying yourself vs. becoming more active in our faith? (39:15) Break 2 What are dangers of Mortification? (45:15) How to discern what to do for mortification?

Check out this Encore show from March 10, 2025 Father Bobby Blood joins Patrick to discuss Simplicity in the Spiritual Life What is simplicity? (7:58) What are traps that interfere with our relationship with Jesus? How do we know if we are needing to change something in our prayer life? Albert - We go through life with battles and also the spirit world. Our Lord gives us gifts on his children. That's the mystery. Our spiritual life is uniting each and every one of us to the Lord. (20:06) Break 1 (21:48) Jonathan - When my conversion happened in 2016, had a spiritual director. Had a lot of zeal. My advisor suggested 1 or 2 devotions and try them for 6 months. if fruitful, continue, if not, try something else. Doing liturgy of the hours and the Jesus prayer. I have a lot of devotions if I need to make a change. What is the difference between reciting prayers and praying? What is contemplation and why does it matter? (36:17) Break 2 Shelly - I have some devotions including divine mercy, Rosary. God's will...what devotion do I do to get closer to God's will? (41:25) Walt - When I walk into church for Mass, I switch from seeing Him to listening. Then, I can live the words. This should be emphasized to all of us. You can't get a lot without listening. George - Cradle Catholic. I wanted to become a priest when I was young. Retired now. Now, I have a set of prayers I do every morning. Go to daily Mass. They always speak to me, doesn't have to be the same prayer. I always get something from them and hear God speak to me. Study scripture throughout the day and journal.

IL – Fr. James Kubicki joins Patrick for the second of a special Lenten Series on the 7 Last Words of Jesus – today’s topic: Repentance Who was St. Dismas? (7:53) where does the word repentance come from? (17:31) Deacon Shawn - I think the comment about conversion vs repentance is tied together. Reading a book . Repentance is a big part of it. Self reliance on God vs. Surrender. Deeper conversion helps navigate. (20:58) Break 1 (22:12) Gene - I was in a car accident 15 years ago. Someone was killed in the accident. I was convicted of vehicular homicide. Incarcerated for it. I felt and rationalized that if they weren't in the middle of the highway, this wouldn't have happened. Last 5 years, I've been in repentance in the dark night of the soul. Mourning and not rationalizing now. What is the meaning of the word “today” you will be with me in paradise? (36:22) Break 2 Bonnie - Repentance and conviction of the Holy Spirit. Adult children have cut me off. I'm focusing on my part. I can't fix it or fix anybody. The goodness of the holy spirit and that can bring us repentance and help us to surrender to the will of God. Accepting the consequences. (42:09) John - My problem was I felt I couldn't be forgiven for the sins I committed. When I repented, it was very difficult. I still struggle. Nicole - Question - speaking about what I've been pondering. I told my friend I don't hold on to any past sins, and I know it's a sin to not accept God's mercy. In my dream last night, I feel something was being revealed from a past sin. Had desire to go to confession. How do I go to priest about it? Wondering if I confessed it.

Fr. Allen Hoffa joins Patrick to discuss Sacramentals What is the goal of Sacramentals? (16:03) Karen - My brother when he was in his late teens was involved in drugs. My mom had placed a scapular inside his pillowcase. He didn't know it. The next morning, she looked at the scapular and it was all knotted up. She believes something happened. Brother didn't do it. How would one explain that? (20:06) Break 1 (21:10) Joshua - Is incense a sacramental? The difference between to (33:14) Break 2 (35:06) Jim - At my parish, they have removed the holy water from the fonts and wanted to find out your opinion. It appears to be against canon law. (38:59) Bella Donna - I was a witch for 40 years and was brought to the church through the Rosary.

Fr. John Eckert joins Patrick for the start of a special Lenten Series on the 7 Last Words of Jesus – today’s topic, Forgiveness What was he scene of the Crucifixion? How is trust in God the Father shown in this word? (16:20) Jason - I grew up in a tough household. Joined military at 17. Mom had mental illness, dad was a military man and constantly gone. Haven't seen them for years. Fighting with forgiveness and it's a battle on a daily basis. Interested if there's specific scripture or guidance to help. (25:20) Break 1 Who put Jesus on the Cross? (31:21) Linda - Why is it that a parent can forgive their children, but children are unable to forgive and hold onto things and not easily forgive us? (35:58) Jim - I'm at a point where there are family members that have been disrespectful to me and children. Children are older now, but family member favors one over the other because they are the godparent. Prayed about forgiving, confession, adoration, etc. I'm at a point where I don't want anything bad to happen, but don't want to be around them. Is that holding on to a grudge? (40:27) Break 2 (42:04) How is Forgiveness something we can strive for in our lives? Yolie – Is it mandatory to forgive others?

(2:10) If you found yourself procrastinating on deciding what your Lenten practices will be, we are here to help you make a decision on today's podcast. Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris of the Discalced Carmelites joins to discuss how we can better prepare ourselves for Lent. (11:12) Fragility reminds us how much we need the Lord. We shouldn’t look at our Lent as a failure if we slip up. We are weak and we need to rely on God every day. (12:18) Nick - I woke up this morning and told my wife, I'm still praying about what to give up for Lent. (20:20) Break 1 (20:24) Tyler - I am stumped on what I should do. Did you have any suggestions? (35:52) Break 2 (37:09) Felipe - Maybe a good thing to do is to keep in our hearts whatever practice that we take up.

Prayer Fasting and Almsgiving Fr. Dave Heney joins Patrick to discuss Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving (2:57) - Biblical foundations of Lenten practices (14:15) - Lenten practices as pillars of Catholic devotion (22:07) Break 1 (23:02) - Mary - I'm praying for my mom; will fasting help? (29:49) - Jordan - Giving up social media for Lent (38:51) Break 2 (39:46) - Connie - I'm converting soon! What should I do for lent. (46:24) - practical tips for almsgiving https://lent2026.com/

Fr. Tom Wilson joins Patrick to discuss Adoration (3:07) what is Eucharistic Adoration? What makes Eucharistic Adoration different from other forms of prayer? (15:52) Linda - I've been doing adoration over 15 years. I started when God hit me on the side of the head and had me change my attitude about it. We have 24/7 adoration. I always said I was too busy. Started as sub. God said how bout you start fitting your life into mine. It's the highlight of my life now. (20:30) Break 1 Rick - Question - Whether doing adoration on the internet is the same as doing it in church. (25:10) Kristle - When I was starting with adoration, I took early morning, late hours, etc. It's easier because when you'd be sleeping, instead, you're spending an hour with Jesus. (32:47) Mary - I used to go to adoration and I loved it. Now, when you go in, they give you a pamphlet and you have to follow their routine. I'm not comfortable with that. Is that legitimate? (36:54) Break 2 Deacon Gerald - I have a grandson who is a priest with Opus Angelorum. They promote prayer with your angel....one thing they do is adoration from 9p-12a. They're imitating the angels who consoled Christ when he was in the garden. They pray for priests who are spiritually asleep. They also do this at their retreats. (42:05) Jan - As a cradle Catholic, I have difficulties. I don't know whether to have a Bible or prayer book with me, or do I just sit in silence and wait to the Lord to speak to me? I haven't gotten that perfect solution. What do I do? How does Adoration strengthen families, marriages and vocations?

Fr. Marcel Taillon joins Patrick to discuss Morality What is Morality? (5:05) Natural Law. (17:49) Sara - Currently not in a state of grace...haven't been for 2 years. Divorced...very messy. Filing for an annulment. I'm in a relationship now. Praying that God helps me to see what my path forward is. (24:15) Break 1 (25:39) Paul - Had a friend who was raised Jewish and came to the church. 3 step process. Had to know the love of God, be catechized, and then the moral demands of faith. I think we put up the immoral part of people's lives sometimes...many live far from God and we want to address them about their immoral parts first. (29:18) Tina - Went through a divorce and want to know how to move forward from it. a lot of lies and deceit. Trying to draw closer to God and walk with him. Had a lot of anger and hate. How do I regain forgiveness in my heart? (38:36) Break 2 What is the connection between moral laws and civil laws?

Check out this Awesome Encore Show from January 20, 2026 Msgr. Robert Dempsey joins Patrick in studio to discuss the Beauty of the Liturgy (4:58) What does liturgy mean? How is the liturgy primarily an act of God? What is worship? (13:55) Alex - People responding verbally during the Mass. Sometimes they respond loudly and other times softly. Is there anything official on this? (21:29) Break 1 Natalia - How verifiable is it (the liturgy) that it hasn't changed from the original? Even going back to the Old Testament (translations). (27:06) Email about who put together the Mass as we now celebrate it? (31:11) Patrick - New pastor that refuses to continue with the use of incense during Mass. How can I speak to him about this? Henry - Our new priest, during the peace offering goes into the Lamb of God and doesn't allow for the sign of peace. Wanted your opinion/more info on this. (39:06) Break 2 Can you use incense during the liturgy of the hours at home? (45:15) Jim - The liturgy and how it's celebrated. Sometimes it seems so far off the rubrics. What is the right response for me internally in that situation? Do I offer it up?

Fr. Spencer Howe joins Patrick to discuss Saints of England (4:00) Why is England such a rich Catholic site? Who was Saint Alban? (9:10) – James - I was raised in an episcopal church. I wondered why they reject so much about the church and why do they refer to them as saints? Tom - Literature of Shakespeare. Every time I ask questions...the answers I get are defensive and that had nothing to do with Catholicism. Everything that had to do with it usually made a mockery of the king. Wouldn't it be also making a mockery of the religion? is there hidden references to religion in it? (18:30) Break 1 Madeline - St. Edmund Campion. He's my favorite saint. He's a powerhouse. (24:51) What is the Aylesford Priory? (37:32) Break 2 (39:39) Anita - John Henry Newman. He represented truth. Risked it all and approached it on an intellectual level. Fell in love with the Lord. How did G.K. Chesterton influence the Catholic Faith? Resources: Relevant Radio Pilgrimage to England with Patrick Conley & Fr. Spencer Howe https://app.nativitypilgrimage.com/trip/?trip=55805

Fr. Carter Griffin joins Patrick to discuss Fighting for Chastity The beginnings of the fight for Chastity? (4:29) what is the connection between war and chastity? (9:23) How is discouragement combated in fight sin? How is sexuality a gift? (15:06) Harmony - I was separated and still separated for 15 years. It didn't work out. Said I need to be abstinent. Asked God for help. First two years were hard. It's been 15 years of chastity and still going strong. (20:33) Break 1 Annie - In the catechism...widows...single for years. having difficulty through that and when I'm lonely, I get tempted about that. Is there resources on this? I'm really struggling. (30:56) in what ways does impurity damage masculinity? (36:52) Break 2 What are other battle fronts for Chastity? (44:36) Tony - I was introduced to porn at 8. With it most of my life. Being free from it now and it's great. Took a long time to figure it out. How can we help our young people grow in chastity in their life? Resources: Reclaimed: Win the War of Freedom, Self-Mastery, and Holy Purity https://scepterpublishers.org/products/reclaimed-win-the-war-of-freedom-self-mastery-and-holy-purity?srsltid=AfmBOop65ZyDTDQVxQtcy7OI_IStWBK6anpbeBEYClhkTNCMHVm7ibLe

Fr. Patrick Hyde joins Patrick to discuss Faith and Sports (4:53) What is the connection between athletics and the pursuit of holiness? (12:23) Mary - Sports and spiritual life. I'm working out right now and listen with my air pods. I've always found that when people talk about body building, I've always thought about it as we as a church are building a body. It is made up of many people and we're all working to build together. How can Sports become too all consuming for families? (27:00) Break 1 Should you pray for your favorite team to win? (30:20) Kevin - Grew up in St. Louis and was there when Rams went to the Superbowl. Professional sports athletes have the courage to witness like that and it's great to see that. The holy spirit allows this to happen through the medium of sports. Fr. Patrick Hyde -resident parishioner of St. Paul's. What do we do with dreams of doing great things in our life? (41:28) How do we deal with controversies in the super bowl? What is a good way to view competition?

Fr. Ramil Fajardo joins Patrick to discuss True Piety (1:56) what is piety? (12:00) How can we distinguish authentic devotion from external practices that may lack interior conversion? How can devotions be misshaped? (26:59) Break 1 (27:27) Mike - If I'm praying and it's a conversation with God, I recognize my voice, but not sure how it is that I'm interacting with God. What does that look like? It feels dry sometimes. Email from LA – shares a good habit developed in prayer. (40:43) How do sacramentals remind us of God’s presence? (43:58) Didier - Assuming that piety is one of the gifts from the holy spirit, can we say someone who has piety has received the gift from the HS...does he also have the other 6 gifts for the 7 complete gifts of the holy spirit?

Fr. Peter Armenio joins Patrick to discuss Marriage: Part 2 (2:17) Fear of something better when it comes to dating. What does service have to do with Marriage? (26:59) Break 1 What is the importance of children in a strong marriage? (31:54) What happens when marriage gets boring? When should you start looking for outside help in your marriage?

Fr. Matthew Widder joins Patrick to discuss The Presentation of the Lord What is happening in our Church today? (2:01) Why does Mary get purified if she is perfect? (12:57) Nick - Love the presentation. Love the old testament connection. Amazing how Jesus celebrates major accomplishments through the old. Waiting for something...I wait for so much because there's so much to overcome. How the law is given to us...how it is written into our hearts. What does the sacrifice mean in the bible? (21:49) Michael - I'm a parishioner of Fr. Matthew's parish. I've been going through a lot of stuff and might not be here without Fr. Matthew. (23:59) Break 1 What is Candlemas, and how are we called to be light? (31:09) What is a world day of consecrated life? (38:29) what does Simeon’s prophecy mean in the Bible? How can we turn over our trails to the Lord?

Fr. Eric Nielsen joins Patrick to discuss Ministering to the Youth (3:31) What makes working with Youth different from ministering to adults? Why is ministering t the youth so important for the life of the Church? (15:59) threats that young people are facing? (19:15) Break 1 How do we have good boundaries for our children? (23:26) Lourdes - Resiliency - Fr. is right about it. As a young person, I went to Catholic school and when I complained about getting hit on the knuckles, mom said, 'well, I'm sure you weren't praying the Rosary dear.' But I did well in school. The danger of self-esteem. Mary - I think it's never too late to turn it around. Even in their 70's my parents shared that they wished they hadn't sweated the little things. It's ok to make mistakes. God loves everyone. How do you pray the family rosary? (36:52) Break 2 (42:29) Helen - I'm a teacher who teaches theology of the body to teens. We need to get down to the middle schoolers and educating them better about our faith and TOB is a wonderful program that ministers to them. Teresa - I have a new family that moved in next door. Little girl is in 4 or 5th grade. She likes me. We haven't related that much, but I noticed she's doing an exercise and I think she's a cheerleader. Doing suggestive gyrations. How can I be there for her without being judgmental? (46:10) Theresa - I am a widow with 7 kids. Can't get my kids to go to church. Such a heavy burden on my shoulders. When the father is taken out of the home, it's tragedy. Feel so wounded.

Fr. Rob Kroll joins Patrick to discuss Confession Why do we need the Sacrament of Confession? What are the parts of confession? (14:05) What if someone hasn’t been in confession in a long time? (19:30) Kevin - I was in confession the other day. At the end, I had a feeling to say thank you Jesus, and the priest said you're welcome. He's in persona Christi and sometimes we forget that. (22:27) Break 1 (23:58) Lynn - Not Catholic yet, going through the OCIA program. Through that process, there's the first confession. Am I supposed to make a list of every sin in my life, or how am I supposed to do that? (32:54) Paul - 40 years as a Baptist, I felt the need to go to confession which lead me to RCIA and into the church. How should non-Catholics feel about confession and approach the sacrament? (37:51) George - I'm having a little trouble with confession. Every day I can't forgive myself. Am I doing something wrong by doing that? (43:12) Break 2 Barbara - I'm in a parish that had a priest who was moved several years back due to behaviors. I wonder sometimes if the confessions or baptisms were valid because of what was going on with him.

Fr. Michael Hurley joins Patrick to discuss St. Thomas Aquinas (4:43) who was St. Thomas Aquinas (11:15) what is the Albigensian heresy? (18:19) Brendan - The one that impacted me was Thomas Aquinas' 5 proofs. I saw a video in middle school that challenged atheists. I didn't know there were such intellectual people in the church. It really shook my faith and eased my anxieties in it and have more faith in God. (25:05) Break 1 Madeline - He's not my saint...I'm trying to love him as a brother and I don't know how to reconcile. I love St. Faustina. I don't like him because he said pets don't go to heaven and that's why I left the faith. I'm back in the faith now because of St. Faustina and St. Maximilian Kolbe. (32:53) Role of Reason in our life today (34:47) Jean - My most favorite thing about him...he admitted at the end of his conversations that all of his writings meant nothing. He found what he was writing was useless. Once he spoke to the Lord, he found that he was so inadequate from what he learned from the Lord. (39:48) Break 2 (40:52) Regina - He taught that women are defective. I want to know how to get around that. It's offensive. I have a reference from Summa Theologica. (45:03) Thomas Aquinas’ Devotional life Where should people start when reading about St. Thomas Aquinas?