The Simple Truth

12/5/25 - We take an honest look at the crossroads facing the pro-life movement and why bold, unflinching leadership is now more critical than ever. With the Trump administration showing a willingness to cast pro-lifers aside, the need for powerful voices like Lila Rose and Kristan Hawkins has never been greater; voices willing not only to lead, but to lead loudly, consistently, and publicly without fear of political backlash. We discuss why their platforms, courage, and clarity are essential in a moment when many are staying silent, and why the pro-life movement cannot win without leaders who step forward, speak plainly, and refuse to back down. This is a call for the strongest advocates in the movement to amplify their voices even more, because the side with the boldest and most principled leadership will ultimately shape the future.

12/4/25 - Allan Parker, President of The Justice Foundation and former legal counsel for Norma McCorvey ("Roe") and Sandra Cano ("Doe"), returns to unpack the argument that abortion is fundamentally unconstitutional. Parker lays out the original meaning of the Constitution, explains how Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton were built on legal and historical distortions, and shows why the Supreme Court's own later rulings expose the weaknesses of those decisions. He also discusses the roles of due process, equal protection, and the rights of the unborn in building a clear legal case for life, while sharing The Justice Foundation's ongoing work to defend the most vulnerable.

12/3/25 - Brother Marcel Van, a Vietnamese Redemptorist known as the "Apostle of Love," grew up in a small Catholic village in northern Vietnam, where he experienced a profound personal conversion to Christ as a child. Embracing radical humility and mystical intimacy with God, he followed St. Thérèse of Lisieux's "Little Way," dedicating himself as the "heart of priests" through prayer, suffering, and love for the spiritual growth of others. Imprisoned after voluntarily returning to communist‑ruled North Vietnam, Marcel ministered to fellow prisoners and maintained unwavering faith under persecution until his death in 1959. His mystical visions, writings, and heroic witness continue to inspire, and his cause for beatification highlights a life of simplicity, love, and total self‑surrender.

12/2/25 - Jim sits down with Dr. Marie Meaney to discuss her book "When Expecting Doesn't Happen: Turning Infertility into a Journey of Hope." As a bioethicist, Dr. Meaney brings a wealth of knowledge on the ethical, medical, and spiritual dimensions of infertility and reproductive technologies. In this episode, she explores the journey of infertility and secondary infertility, how couples can navigate emotional and spiritual challenges, and ways friends and family can provide meaningful support. We'll also discuss natural fertility treatments, including NaProTechnology, and the potential risks and ethical concerns surrounding in vitro fertilization. Dr. Meaney offers insight into the theology of reproductive medicine, shares practical strategies for maintaining hope and resilience, and highlights how couples can find grace and spiritual growth even amidst the disappointments of infertility. This conversation provides a comprehensive guide for couples and supporters seeking understanding, guidance, and hope on the path toward parenthood.

12/1/25 - Dr. Joseph Meaney, Senior Fellow of the National Catholic Bioethics Center, examines the growing threats posed by artificial intelligence to human dignity, conscience, and the moral order. He warns that AI-driven technologies, if left unchecked, risk reducing human life to data, replacing personal responsibility with automated decision-making, and undermining the ethical foundations of medicine and society. Drawing on Catholic teaching, Dr. Meaney explains why a strong bioethical framework is essential to confront these challenges, defend the sanctity of life, and ensure technology serves humanity rather than dominates it.

11/26/25 - Maria Esperanza de Bianchini was born on November 22, 1928, in Barrancas, Venezuela, and from the age of five experienced mystical visions, including Thérèse of Lisieux appearing from the Orinoco River and giving her a red rose. At twelve, gravely ill, she saw the Our Lady of the Valley, who foretold her mission to "help save this world," after which her health was miraculously restored. Though she entered a convent in 1954, a vision involving a rose and the stigmata revealed her true vocation as a wife and mother, and she later founded Finca Betania, where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared publicly beginning in 1976. Credited with extraordinary gifts—mystical visions, reading hearts, bilocation, and roses spontaneously emerging from her chest—she also founded the Betania Foundation to promote evangelization, family unity, and spiritual renewal. Maria Esperanza died on August 7, 2004, and in 2010 the Church formally opened her cause for beatification, granting her the title "Servant of God," leaving a legacy of faith, prayer, and divine intimacy that continues to inspire believers worldwide.

11/25/25 - Bishop Joseph Strickland unpacks his pastoral letter, "The Truth About Vatican II", revealing that while the Council was born from holy intentions, it was also shaped by human frailty and deliberate infiltration that has contributed to widespread confusion in the Church. He explains how many of Vatican II's ambiguous teachings have been twisted into a "spirit of rupture" that undermines the Church's timeless doctrine and calls for a hermeneutic of continuity, reading the Council through the lens of Sacred Tradition and the Magisterium rather than as a break in the Deposit of Faith. Bishop Strickland also reflects on his recent interactions at the annual USCCB meeting in Baltimore, where he boldly spoke out on pressing issues facing the Church and called for episcopal clarity on matters of faith, liturgy, and moral truth. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the need for reverent worship, fidelity to doctrine, and courageous leadership in an age of confusion.

11/24/25 - Fr. Francis Mary Roaldi, CFR, joins us to address the deep wounds and hidden suffering experienced by women and men after abortion. With compassion, clarity, and the heart of a true shepherd, Fr. Roaldi explains why no sin is beyond God's mercy, how Christ longs to restore every soul, and what the Church offers for real healing—from the Sacrament of Confession to ministries like Rachel's Vineyard and post-abortion counseling. Whether you are seeking healing yourself or hoping to support someone you love, this conversation will remind you that God never abandons His children and that peace, forgiveness, and restoration are truly possible.

11/21/26 - We explore the growing movement for legal and spiritual recognition of every pre-born child as a human person made in the image of God. As personhood becomes an increasingly urgent topic in the public square, we reflect on the Church's clear and unwavering teaching that human life must be protected from the moment of conception. We also highlight recent signs of hope, such as the National Men's March in Boston, where faithful men gathered to pray, repent, and publicly witness to the dignity of unborn children. We examine why personhood matters, how Catholics can effectively articulate the truth in a culture confused about the value of human life, and what concrete steps believers can take to build a society that recognizes, protects, and cherishes every human person, no matter how small.

11/20/25 - Today on The Simple Truth, Jim Havens recaps the Men's March to Abolish Abortion as well as the Rally for Personhood. If you enjoy The Simple Truth and the other great Catholic programs from The Station of the Cross, please consider making a donation of any size to support our apostolate! As a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization, your donations are tax deductible and help us to continue spreading the Gospel to the airwaves for years to come! To donate, call 1-877-711-8500, visit thestationofthecross.com, or use your iCatholicRadio mobile app! We also offer a great assortment of thank-you gifts, which can be viewed at thestationofthecross.com! Thank you for your generosity!

11/19/25 - We are joined today by Joanne Wright, co-founder of The Station of the Cross Catholic Media Network! If you enjoy The Simple Truth and the other great Catholic programs from The Station of the Cross, please consider making a donation of any size to support our apostolate! As a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization, your donations are tax deductible and help us to continue spreading the Gospel to the airwaves for years to come! To donate, call 1-877-711-8500, visit thestationofthecross.com, or use your iCatholicRadio mobile app! We also offer a great assortment of thank-you gifts, which can be viewed at thestationofthecross.com! Thank you for your generosity!

11/18/25 - Bill Baaki, attorney and dedicated board member of the historic Our Lady of Martyrs Shrine in Fultonville, New York, shares the deeply personal journey that drew him into a life of faith, service, and devotion to the North American Martyrs. Bill reflects on the moments of grace, suffering, and providence that shaped his spiritual path, the role the Shrine played in strengthening his love for the Church, and why the witness of the martyrs continues to transform lives today. His story offers hope, encouragement, and a reminder that God still works profoundly through holy places and courageous saints.

11/17/25 - Dr. Elizabeth Rex, president and co-founder of the Children First Foundation and one of the nation's leading advocates for "snowflake" embryo adoption, joins us for an in-depth Catholic examination of the moral questions surrounding the rescue and implantation of frozen embryos. Drawing on decades of pro-life research and testimony, Dr. Rex explains how embryo adoption developed in response to the explosion of IVF practices that left hundreds of thousands of tiny human beings abandoned in cryogenic storage, and she walks through the key points of contention within Catholic moral theology, including debates sparked by Dignitas Personae, concerns about whether adoption constitutes illicit "heterologous procreation," and the moral distinction between creating embryos versus rescuing already existing ones. She discusses real cases of families who have adopted embryos, the pastoral questions couples face, the urgent need for clarity as IVF expands in the United States, and why she believes embryo adoption represents a life-affirming and morally defensible response to the crisis of frozen human persons.

11/14/25 - We examine Bishop Joseph Strickland speaking out during the USCCB fall assembly about a confirmation liturgy on 8 November in which Gio Benítez - in a civil same‑sex marriage - was confirmed, his spouse acted as sponsor, and both received Holy Communion at a Mass concelebrated by James Martin, S.J. Bishop Strickland told the Committee on Doctrine, "Since we're in the area of doctrine… priests and others gathered celebrating the confirmation of a man living with a man openly. And it just needs to be addressed." Despite his appeal, the panel offered no response and moved on, leaving many observers concerned about the silence on such a serious doctrinal matter. We'll explore the theological and canonical issues raised, why faithful Catholics may feel persecuted from within, and what this could mean for bishops, sacramental integrity, and accountability in the Church.

11/13/25 - We welcome Ann Koshute, co-founder of Springs in the Desert, a Catholic ministry dedicated to walking with those struggling with infertility. Ann shares her own journey and the mission behind Springs in the Desert: to bring hope, understanding, and healing to men and women who often suffer in silence. We discuss the emotional, spiritual, and even marital challenges that accompany infertility, and how faith transforms that suffering into a path toward deeper intimacy with God. Ann explains how Springs in the Desert creates community through retreats, podcasts, and resources that affirm the dignity of couples and remind them that their fruitfulness isn't limited to biological parenthood but can flourish in countless spiritual and creative ways. Learn more about Springs in the Desert at https://springsinthedesert.org/

11/12/25 - Venerable Patrick Peyton was a priest whose devotion to the rosary reached millions worldwide. Born in 1909 in Ireland and later emigrating to the United States, Fr. Peyton experienced the hardships of immigrant life, which shaped his mission to strengthen families through prayer. As the founder of the Family Rosary Crusade, he used radio, television, and film to bring the rosary into homes, emphasizing that daily prayer can unite families and communities. His famous motto, "The family that prays together stays together," reflects his belief in prayer as a foundation for family life. We'll follow his journey from humble beginnings to global ministry, highlighting his faith, perseverance, and innovative approach to evangelization, showing how his message continues to inspire Catholic families to make prayer a central part of daily life.

11/7/25 - Jim Havens and Father Stephen Imbarrato, co-founders of the National Men's March to Abolish Abortion and Rally for Personhood, look back on a powerful weekend in Boston, Massachusetts — a gathering of thousands of men of faith who marched, prayed, and publicly witnessed to the truth that abortion is the preeminent moral crisis of our time. Jim and Father Imbarrato share firsthand accounts from the event, including moments of deep prayer and repentance and bold preaching on the streets of Boston. They reflect on how the men's public witness is awakening hearts, inspiring conversion, and calling the Church to greater courage in defending the unborn. From the opening prayers outside the Planned Parenthood clinic to the mass march and the rally in Boston Common, this recap captures the energy, unity, and spiritual conviction that marked the weekend. The hosts also discuss what's next for the Men's March movement and issue a call to action for men across the country to rise up, take responsibility, and lead their families and communities in the defense of life.

11/6/25 - Many of the sharpest divisions between Catholics and Protestants trace back not to Scripture itself, but to how words and ideas have been interpreted across centuries of separation. Dr. Adam Van Wart, professor of theology at Ave Maria University, unpacks the roots of these misunderstandings and offers a path forward rooted in truth and charity. Dr. Van Wart explains how key debates - such as faith alone versus faith and works, Scripture alone versus Sacred Tradition, and the role of the Church's magisterial authority - often stem from differences in emphasis and historical context rather than outright contradiction. Drawing upon the writings of St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, and early Reformers like Luther and Calvin, he demonstrates how theological language developed in response to real pastoral concerns, and how those differences became hardened into divisions over time. If you've ever wondered why Christians still struggle to understand one another after 500 years of dialogue, or how we might finally move toward genuine unity in Christ, this episode offers a thoughtful, hopeful vision rooted in history, theology, and the enduring witness of the Church.

11/5/25 - Teresa Helena Higginson (1844‑1905), born in Holywell, Wales, spent her life as a humble schoolteacher while living a remarkable hidden sanctity. From her childhood in a devout Catholic family to her work in schools across Wigan, Bootle, and Edinburgh, she quietly bore suffering, illness, and the challenges of teaching with unwavering faith. On Good Friday 1874, she received the first of her mystical stigmata (bleeding wounds in her hands and feet), and experienced repeated ecstasies in which she shared in the Passion of Christ. Teresa also promoted a deep devotion to the "Sacred Head of Jesus, Seat of Divine Wisdom." Declared "Servant of God" in 1937, her life shows the extraordinary ways holiness can exist in ordinary daily work, patient suffering, and total union with Christ.

11/4/25 - Dr. Gerald P. Boersma, Professor of Theology at Ave Maria University and Humboldt Fellow at the University of Tübingen, shares his personal journey of faith, scholarship, and conversion of heart through the wisdom of St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas. In this conversation, Dr. Boersma reflects on how studying the Church Fathers and the great scholastics deepened his love for Christ and the Catholic Church, transforming theology from an academic pursuit into a lived encounter with Truth Himself. From his work as a Catholic systematic theologian and author of Augustine's Early Theology of Image (Oxford, 2016) to his reflections on faith, reason, and the image of God in man, this testimony reveals how intellectual formation and spiritual devotion can beautifully unite in the pursuit of holiness.  Learn more about Dr. Boersma's work at www.geraldboersma.com

10/31/25 - Tomorrow, men from across America will gather in Boston, Massachusetts, for the National Men's March to Abolish Abortion—and this is your final call to stand up for life. Join Jim Havens and Father Stephen Imbarrato, co-founders of the Men's March, as they deliver one last powerful invitation for men of faith and courage to take their rightful place in the public square, defend the unborn, and lead their families and communities in truth. Hear what to expect at tomorrow's march, why this moment matters more than ever, and how your presence can make a real impact in the fight to end abortion once and for all.

10/30/25 - Jim Havens sits down with pro-life powerhouse Pam Stenzel to preview this weekend's National Men's March to Abolish Abortion and Rally for Personhood, a bold public witness calling men of faith to rise up and lead in the defense of life. Pam shares how this movement is awakening Catholic and Christian men across the nation to take responsibility, speak truth, and stand for the dignity of every human person from conception to natural death. From the streets to the steps of the rally, this conversation exposes what's really at stake in today's battle for life, and how courage, repentance, and authentic manhood are key to ending abortion in America.

10/29/25 - Servant of God Frank Duff (1889–1980) was an Irish layman whose deep love for the Blessed Virgin Mary led to the founding of the Legion of Mary in Dublin in 1921. Rooted in the spirituality of St. Louis de Montfort, Duff encouraged ordinary Catholics to become apostles through prayer, humility, and personal outreach. His vision transformed lay involvement in the Church, inspiring millions across the world to serve Christ through Mary. Duff worked tirelessly among Dublin's poor, homeless, and marginalized, seeing in each person the image of God. His collaborators, Venerable Edel Quinn and Servant of God Alfie Lambe, carried the Legion's mission to Africa and Latin America, helping it spread to nearly every corner of the globe. Frank Duff later attended the Second Vatican Council as an observer, where his vision for the laity was affirmed by Church leaders. His cause for canonization continues, honoring a man whose quiet faith reshaped the modern Catholic apostolate.

10/28/25 - Join us for a powerful and timely conversation with Bishop Joseph Strickland as he addresses the Catholic Church's moral duty to speak clearly and forcefully against abortion. Drawing from his recent pastoral letter, "Before I Formed You in the Womb, I Knew You," Bishop Strickland responds to Pope Leo XIV's recent remarks and the controversy surrounding Cardinal Cupich's decision to honor Senator Dick Durbin despite Durbin's well-known support for Planned Parenthood and other pro-abortion entities. Bishop Strickland underscores why abortion remains the preeminent moral issue of our time and why silence or ambiguity from Church leaders endangers both souls and society. With conviction and pastoral charity, he calls all Catholics to stand firm in truth, hold leaders accountable, and courageously witness to the Gospel of Life in a culture increasingly hostile to it.

10/27/25 - We're joined by Allan Parker Jr., President of The Justice Foundation, as he shares the history, mission, and spiritual conviction behind one of America's most influential pro-life legal ministries. Founded in 1993, The Justice Foundation provides free legal representation to protect life, faith, and family while defending the constitutional and moral foundations of our nation. Parker, who served as lead counsel for Norma McCorvey ("Roe" of Roe v. Wade) and Sandra Cano ("Doe" of Doe v. Bolton), discusses his efforts to overturn the rulings that legalized abortion on demand, and how those cases shaped the pro-life movement for generations. The conversation explores the Foundation's ministries, including Operation Outcry, which gathers testimonies from women hurt by abortion to influence courts and legislatures; The Moral Outcry, a national petition campaign to awaken America's conscience; and the Center Against Forced Abortion (CAFA), which equips and defends mothers pressured into abortions, saving an estimated 1,000–2,000 babies each year. Parker also reflects on his background as a law professor and human rights advocate, and how The Justice Foundation's work unites faith, law, and culture in the pursuit of justice and truth. Learn more about The Justice Foundation at https://thejusticefoundation.org/

10/24/25 - Jim and Father Imbarrato faithfully unpack remarks made by Tucker Carlson at a Turning Point USA campus event at Indiana University, in which he characterized abortion as “murder… the same ritual that every civilization ever studied has engaged in… human sacrifice,” and asserted that “the only thing that matters is having children” in contrast to pursuing career ambitions. We'll examine how his sharp language, inviting students to watch an abortion video, calling termination “the most crazed level of fanaticism I've ever seen,” and challenging the “my body, my choice” rationale, intersects with Catholic teaching on the dignity of human life. Could blunt but honest remarks such as these be the answer to a culture increasingly desensitized to violence of all kinds?

10/23/25 - Catholic filmmaker Royce Hood shares the extraordinary story behind Incorruptible: The Life and Faith of Sister Wilhelmina, a new Catholic film that explores the miraculous discovery and profound holiness of Sister Wilhelmina Lancaster, foundress of the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles. When her body was discovered remarkably preserved four years after her death in 2019, the world turned its attention to the quiet Missouri abbey she founded, but this film reveals that the true miracle began long before then in a lifetime of joy, humility, and fidelity to the traditional religious life. Born in 1924 in St. Louis, Sister Wilhelmina's deep love for Jesus and devotion to the Blessed Mother led her to found a flourishing community dedicated to prayer and sacred song. Incorruptible traces her journey from a young Catholic girl hearing Christ's invitation, “Will you be Mine?”, to becoming a spiritual mother whose witness continues to draw souls back to faith. Royce Hood discusses how the project began, what makes Sister Wilhelmina's story so timely, and how this film aims to honor her legacy and inspire a renewal of faith around the world. Learn more about the film at https://mailchi.mp/fd24b1891167/incorruptible-movie

10/22/25 - John Bradburne's journey from England to the heart of Africa is a story unlike any other. A decorated World War II veteran and Oxford-educated poet, he spent years wandering through Europe and the Holy Land in search of God's will. His path ultimately led him to Zimbabwe, where he devoted himself to caring for men and women with Hansen's disease at the Mutemwa Leprosy Settlement. Living in a tin hut with a rosary in hand and the Eucharist at the center of his life, John restored dignity to those society had abandoned. When he refused to abandon the lepers during the Rhodesian Bush War, he was kidnapped and killed in 1979, dying as he had lived in fidelity to Christ. Today, with thousands of documented favors through his intercession, John Bradburne's cause for canonization is advancing, and he is remembered as a modern pilgrim-poet and martyr of charity.

10/21/25 - Dr. Joseph Meaney has spent his life defending the sanctity of life on every continent, from Vatican halls to remote mission fields. In this powerful personal testimony, the internationally respected bioethicist and pro-life leader shares the journey that led him from studying history and Latin American culture to earning a PhD in bioethics in Rome, where he explored the moral challenges of conscience and health care. With over 25 years of pro-life missions in 81 countries, Dr. Meaney reflects on the moments that deepened his faith, shaped his worldview, and solidified his conviction that the Gospel of Life must be lived and proclaimed in every culture. This is the inspiring story of a Catholic scholar who chose to use his intellect and his heart to serve God and defend human dignity across the globe.

10/17/25 - Virginia's governor's race has become one of the most consequential political battles in the country, not just for partisan control, but for the future of pro-life protections in the Commonwealth. At the heart of the race is a stark contrast between candidates who promise to increase abortion access up to birth and those who have pledged to defend the unborn with concrete legislative action. We go beyond soundbites to examine the real policies at stake: late-term abortion legislation, taxpayer funding for abortion providers, parental consent laws, and conscience protections for medical professionals. We'll unpack how this race could either strengthen Virginia's emerging pro-life momentum or cement its reputation as a haven for abortion extremism. Drawing from Catholic social teaching and the witness of the faithful, we'll look at what faithful citizenship demands in moments like these, why this particular race is being watched nationwide, and how Catholics can engage not just with a vote, but with prayer, public witness, and courage. This isn't just another election; it's a defining moment for life in Virginia.

10/16/25 - Journey with us to the historic Our Lady of Martyrs Shrine in Auriesville, New York, a sacred site where the blood of the North American Martyrs, including St. Isaac Jogues, St. René Goupil, and St. Jean de Lalande, consecrated the land to Christ. With the help of Bill Baaki, a member of the Shrine's Board of Directors, we'll explore the remarkable history of this holy place, its connection to early missionary work in North America, and its role in the conversion of St. Kateri Tekakwitha. This weekend, the shrine will host a powerful event featuring the exposition of sacred relics and a 7-mile Eucharistic procession that invites the faithful to deepen their devotion and bear public witness to the Real Presence. Whether you're a local pilgrim or discovering this shrine for the first time, today's show will inspire you to encounter Christ in a place where faith was tested, proven, and forever remembered.

10/15/25 - Our Lady of Licheń is one of the most remarkable Marian apparitions of modern times. In today's show, we explore the story of the apparitions, which began in 1850 in Poland when a humble shepherd, Mariusz, received messages from the Blessed Virgin Mary. From miraculous healings to a sanctuary that draws millions of pilgrims each year, the story of Our Lady of Licheń is a testament to God's power and Mary's maternal guidance. Discover the hidden messages, incredible miracles, and spiritual lessons that continue to inspire Catholics around the world!

10/14/25 - Dr. T. Adam Van Wart of Ave Maria University shares his personal journey of faith, recounting the pivotal moments that led him to embrace Catholicism and dedicate his life to serving God. He reflects on the challenges, inspirations, and mentors that shaped his spiritual path, offering a deeply personal testimony that will resonate with viewers seeking encouragement in their own faith journeys. The conversation then turns to Dr. Van Wart's current work at Ave Maria University, where he combines scholarship, teaching, and ministry to guide students in living out their Catholic faith with integrity and purpose. From fostering academic excellence to nurturing spiritual growth, Dr. Van Wart provides insights into how faith can inform every aspect of professional and personal life.

10/13/25 - The Rosary is far more than a string of beads: it's a spiritual powerhouse, a weapon against evil, and a lifeline to Heaven. In this powerful conversation, we're joined by GabiAfterHours, one of today's bold young voices in Catholic media, to dive deep into the history, mystery, and spiritual fire of the Rosary. Together, we'll explore how Our Lady gave us this prayer as a weapon of protection and conversion, why the Rosary has been at the center of some of history's greatest spiritual victories, and how it continues to transform lives today. Gabi shares personal insights and experiences from his own faith journey, revealing how the Rosary became a daily anchor and a source of supernatural strength in his life. Whether you're a lifelong devotee or just picking up the beads for the first time, this episode will renew your love for the Rosary, inspire you to pray with greater fervor, and remind you that we're called to spiritual battle… and Heaven has already given us the weapon to win. Get the Book (CLICK HERE) Subscribe to GabiAfterHours (CLICK HERE)

10/10/25 - Across the United States, the battle over abortion has reached a breaking point. Some states are advancing strong protections for the unborn, while others are expanding abortion access further than ever before. It's no longer just a political debate - it's a war over the very meaning of human dignity, law, and truth. We'll explore what faithful Catholics can do to confront this cultural and legislative war with moral clarity, courage, and strategic action. From state-level battles to national consequences, we look at how this conflict could shape the future of America, and how the Church must respond with conviction, truth, and love.

Joanne Wright is a Catholic wife, mother, grandmother and co-founder of The Station of the Cross Catholic Media Network, striving to live out her Consecration to the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts of Jesus and Mary for the intercession and salvation of souls. What do you know about Saint Benedict Joseph Labre.?  Saint Benedict Joseph Labre (1748–1783) was a French lay pilgrim who renounced wealth and comfort to live as a beggar devoted to the Eucharist and prayer. Known as the “Beggar of Rome,” he embodied humility and detachment, inspiring devotion through his radical trust in God's providence. If you enjoy The Simple Truth and the other great Catholic programs from The Station of the Cross, please consider making a donation of any size to support our apostolate! As a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization, your donations are tax deductible and help us to continue spreading the Gospel to the airwaves for years to come! To donate, call 1-877-711-8500, visit thestationofthecross.com, or use your iCatholicRadio mobile app! We also offer a great assortment of thank-you gifts, which can be viewed at thestationofthecross.com! Thank you for your generosity! Follow the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-simple-truth/id1554081947 More great free Catholic programming: https://thestationofthecross.com/ Check out Jim's website at https://jimhavens.com/ Get the free PDF resource - "Three Powerful Prayers to Start Each Day": https://www.jimhavens.com/threepowerfulprayers

10/7/25 - In this Testimony Tuesday episode Dr. Elizabeth Rex shares her faith journey in the Catholic Church.   Dr. Rex also discusses embro adoption and the ethics of the practice.  Dr. Elizabeth Bothamley Rex is President of the Donum Vitae Institute, an educational outreach of The Children First Foundation dedicated to promoting adoption as a loving, life-affirming alternative for unborn children, newborns, and human embryos. A Catholic convert and scholar in bioethics, Dr. Rex has taught at Holy Apostles College & Seminary and held leadership roles at Columbia University and St. Joseph's Seminary. She holds advanced degrees in philosophy from the University of Navarra and an MBA from Baruch College, and lives in Yonkers, New York, with her husband, concert violinist Charles Rex, and their three children.

10/6/25 - On this episode, we'll discuss how we can recover the moral foundation of America with Hadley P. Arkes. Hadley P. Arkes. (born 1940) is an American political scientist and the founding director of the James Wilson Institute on Natural Rights and the American Founding. A longtime professor at Amherst College, he is known for his work on natural law, moral philosophy, and constitutional interpretation. Arkes was a key advocate for the Born-Alive Infants Protection Act, signed into U.S. law in 2002. A convert to Catholicism, he integrates faith and reason in his defense of moral truth in public life. He continues to write and lecture widely on law, ethics, and the American founding tradition.

10/3/25 - We are joined today by returning co-host Father Stephen Imbarrato. If you enjoy The Simple Truth and the other great Catholic programs from The Station of the Cross, please consider making a donation of any size to support our apostolate! As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, your donations are tax-deductible and help us to continue spreading the Gospel to the airwaves for years to come! To donate, call 1-877-711-8500, visit thestationofthecross.com, or use your iCatholicRadio mobile app! We also offer a great assortment of thank-you gifts, which can be viewed at thestationofthecross.com! Thank you for your generosity!

10/2/25 - We are joined today by a special guest: Jim's wife, Becky Havens! If you enjoy The Simple Truth and the other great Catholic programs from The Station of the Cross, please consider making a donation of any size to support our apostolate! As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, your donations are tax-deductible and help us to continue spreading the Gospel to the airwaves for years to come! To donate, call 1-877-711-8500, visit thestationofthecross.com, or use your iCatholicRadio mobile app! We also offer a great assortment of thank-you gifts, which can be viewed at thestationofthecross.com! Thank you for your generosity!

10/1/25 - We are joined today by special guests Jim and Joanne Wright, co-founders of The Station of the Cross Catholic Media Network! If you enjoy The Simple Truth and the other great Catholic programs from The Station of the Cross, please consider making a donation of any size to support our apostolate! As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, your donations are tax-deductible and help us to continue spreading the Gospel to the airwaves for years to come! To donate, call 1-877-711-8500, visit thestationofthecross.com, or use your iCatholicRadio mobile app! We also offer a great assortment of thank-you gifts, which can be viewed at thestationofthecross.com! Thank you for your generosity!

9/30/25 - We are joined today by special guest Bishop Joseph Strickland! If you enjoy The Simple Truth and the other great Catholic programs from The Station of the Cross, please consider making a donation of any size to support our apostolate! As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, your donations are tax-deductible and help us to continue spreading the Gospel to the airwaves for years to come! To donate, call 1-877-711-8500, visit thestationofthecross.com, or use your iCatholicRadio mobile app! We also offer a great assortment of thank-you gifts, which can be viewed at thestationofthecross.com! Thank you for your generosity!

9/29/25 - We are joined today by special guest Scott Baier, CEO of Community Pregnancy Clinics! If you enjoy The Simple Truth and the other great Catholic programs from The Station of the Cross, please consider making a donation of ay size to support our apostolate! As a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization, your donations are tax deductible and help us to continue spreading the Gospel to the airwaves for years to come! To donate, call 1-877-711-8500, visit thestationofthecross.com, or use your iCatholicRadio mobile app! We also offer a great assortment of thank-you gifts, which can be viewed at thestationofthecross.com! Thank you for your generosity!

9/26/25 - We'll unpack the growing backlash against Cardinal Blase Cupich's decision to honor Senator Dick Durbin, a politician with a long record of supporting abortion. With seven U.S. bishops now speaking out against the award, this controversy raises urgent questions about scandal, unity, and the Church's public witness. Jim and Father Imbarrato bring a strong pro-life perspective to the discussion, examining why honoring a pro-abortion leader undermines Catholic teaching, how the bishops are responding, and what faithful Catholics can do to defend life and truth in a culture of confusion.

9/25/25 - In this powerful episode, we sit down with Bishop Joseph Strickland to discuss his recent pastoral letter “The Shot That Shook the Church,” published on Pillars of Faith. When a bold Protestant voice was suddenly silenced, many Catholics found themselves looking outside the Church for courage, and Bishop Strickland challenges us to ask why the Bride of Christ has grown timid and why the world now looks elsewhere for prophets and heroes. Together we explore the spiritual and cultural implications of this event, the Church's response and missed opportunities, the urgent need for renewed courage and bold Christian witness, and practical steps for rekindling the fire of faith in our time.  Read Bishop Strickland's Letter: https://pillarsoffaith.net/the-shot-that-shook-the-church/

9/23/25 - Dr. Michael Dauphinais, co-director of the Aquinas Center for Theological Renewal and Chair of the Theology Department at Ave Maria University, shares the story of his journey of faith and vocation. With advanced degrees from Duke University and the University of Notre Dame, Dr. Dauphinais has dedicated his life to teaching and defending the Catholic faith. He is the Fr. Matthew Lamb Professor of Catholic Theology, co-author of several acclaimed works including Knowing the Love of Christ: An Introduction to the Theology of Thomas Aquinas and Holy People, Holy Land: A Theological Introduction to the Bible, and most recently co-author of Wisdom of the Word: Biblical Answers to Ten Questions about Catholicism (Word on Fire Press, 2021). In this testimony, he reflects not only on his personal conversion and encounters with God's grace but also on how Catholic theology has deepened his love for Christ and His Church. As host of The Catholic Theology Show, Dr. Dauphinais continues to bring theology to life, and in this video he offers encouragement, insight, and a witness that will inspire Catholics to pursue holiness with confidence and joy.

9/22/25 - What if the Church was never meant to stay frozen in time, nor blown around by it? In this conversation, Dr. Jim Papandrea unpacks his latest work The Original Church, cutting through the noise of “tradition versus trend” to rediscover what Jesus actually intended when He said, “On this rock I will build my Church.” The earliest Christians weren't stuck in the past, nor chasing cultural relevance - they were rooted in Christ, growing in faith, and guided by a clear purpose. Dr. Papandrea reveals how the Church can develop without drifting, grow without losing its core, and how each believer today can live with conviction and clarity in a world that constantly shifts around us. Get the book: https://scepterpublishers.org/products/the-original-church-what-it-meant-and-still-means-to-be-a-christian?variant=46258102337713

9/19/25 - Jim and Father Imbarrato take a deep dive into Justice Amy Coney Barrett's new book, Listening to the Law: Reflections on the Court and Constitution. With sharp Catholic insight, they unpack what Barrett reveals - and what she leaves unsaid - about the sanctity of life, constitutional interpretation, and the future of the pro-life movement. Drawing on past public clips and speeches, we'll compare Barrett's earlier statements to her current writings, asking whether her messaging has shifted since joining the Supreme Court. Does her book provide real hope for ending abortion in America, or does it reflect the cautious language of judicial restraint?

9/18/25 - In the first half of today's show, pro-life leader Pam Stenzel shares urgent insights into the lack of enforcement of Florida's heartbeat law and the ongoing battle to end abortion in the state. Then, Nathan Lloyd, Staff Counsel at the Thomas More Society, joins us to highlight a critical case in Massachusetts, where pro-life pregnancy centers are facing aggressive lawfare aimed at silencing their free speech and lifesaving work. Together, they shed light on the growing threats against the pro-life movement and what Catholics must do to defend the unborn and protect those who serve mothers in need.

9/17/25 - We unravel the extraordinary story of Servant of God Wanda Boniszewska (1907–2003), a Polish nun of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Angels, who offered her life as a mystical victim soul for the conversion of sinners and the sanctification of priests. Bearing the hidden wounds of Christ's Passion and enduring suffering under communist persecution, Wanda's life reveals the power of redemptive suffering united with Christ. In this video, we explore her hidden mystical experiences, her diary, her mission of intercession, and her cause for canonization, inviting the faithful to rediscover the beauty of holiness in silence, sacrifice, and total surrender to God's will.

9/16/25 - Marcie Erickson shares her powerful personal testimony and the story behind the founding of the Grace Center Foundation in Ethiopia. What began as a response to the suffering of abandoned children, imprisoned women, and struggling families has grown into a vibrant ministry dedicated to meeting the whole person: physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Marcie explains the foundation's mission to care for orphans, provide education, offer prison ministry, and bring the hope of Christ to those most in need. She also reflects on the challenges of mission work, the miracles she has witnessed, and how Catholics everywhere can join in supporting this life-changing mission. Learn more at https://www.gracecenterfoundation.org/