They That Hope

Why does the Ascension of Jesus—one of the great feasts of the Church—end up celebrated on a Sunday in most dioceses, while others keep it on Thursday? And what does that tell us about our faith, traditions, and the challenges of Holy Days of Obligation? Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack the significance of the Ascension within the Paschal Mystery, showing why it's more than just a “tag-on” after Easter, but a powerful reminder of Christ's victory and our shared destiny in Him. But as usual, sports, movies, and mild chaos before the theology kicks in. Join them as they recap the NBA and NHL playoffs, share stories from the Indy 500, Monaco Grand Prix, and Coca-Cola 600, and offer a review of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning (complete with seat mix-ups and a D-Box adventure). They also chat about Father Dave's solo Thai food outing, pay tribute to the late George Wendt—aka Norm from Cheers—and reflect on how these everyday moments can point us toward joy, gratitude, and community. The episode wraps with humor, brotherhood, and a reminder that no matter where you are—whether at a car race, a movie theater, or Mass on Sunday—our true hope is in Jesus Christ. And yes, the Topps Pope Leo XIV baseball card is still on their wish list. Highlighted Sections (00:00) Playoff Plot Twists, Fast Cars, and Father Dave's Almost-Trip to the Indy 500 Father Dave and Deacon Bob kick off the episode with a rundown of the latest sports headlines, including the Pacers and Knicks battling in the NBA playoffs, and the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers making waves in the NHL. They also discuss the excitement surrounding the Indy 500, the Monaco Grand Prix, and the Coca-Cola 600. (12:07) Movie Review: Mission Impossible + Solo Movie Etiquette Father Dave recounts his solo movie theater adventure to see Mission Impossible: Final Reckoning, complete with a funny seating mishap and his first-ever D-Box chair experience. They reflect on the perks (and occasional awkwardness) of going to the movies alone, and whether movie theaters are best for deep conversations or just a chance to unwind. (20:03) Thai Food, Pity Tips, and Remembering Norm The conversation shifts to Father Dave's recent solo Thai food experience—one of the best meals he's ever had, which he may or may not have posted about on Instagram—and a reflection on how dining alone can be a quiet joy. They also pay tribute to the late George Wendt (Norm from Cheers)and share laughs about a show that captured the essence of community in the most unexpected places. (26:13) Relics on Display and Catholic Curiosities The hosts dive into the story of St. Teresa of Avila's relics being publicly displayed, exploring the beauty, reverence, and quirkiness of Catholic traditions. They discuss how relics inspire faith, connect us to the saints, and remind us that the Church is both ancient and alive. (28:41) Thursday or Sunday? The Ascension's Place in the Paschal Mystery Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack why the Ascension is a crucial part of the Paschal Mystery, how it's celebrated differently across dioceses, and why it's much more than just a calendar quirk. They encourage listeners to see these Holy Days as not just “rules to follow” but as moments to pause, celebrate, and remember the story of salvation. (37:45) Closing Blessings, Pentecost Prep, and Hope in the Everyday The episode wraps with reflections on Pentecost, Holy Days of Obligation, and staying grounded in faith—whether you're at a playoff game, a movie theater, or wrangling kids at home. Father Dave offers a prayer for graduates, families, and the entire They That Hope community, with a reminder that hope is our anchor—on Thursdays, Sundays, or any day in between. Resources Mentioned Steubenville Conferences – SteubenvilleConferences.com Discipleship Quads – dquads.com Topps Pope Leo XIV Baseball Card

The NBA playoffs may be unpredictable, but at least summer blockbusters deliver.   In this episode of They That Hope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack the Cleveland Cavaliers' devastating playoff collapse (RIP hope), debate baseball scandals from Pete Rose to steroid-era legends, and preview the biggest summer movies hitting theaters. From Marvel's new Thunderbolts to the return of Mission: Impossible and a much-anticipated Fantastic Four reboot, they break down what's worth watching and what might just be movie theater popcorn filler.  Alongside the movie chatter and sports rants, Deacon Bob introduces an exciting revival of a powerful small group ministry: Discipleship Quads. This free resource fosters spiritual growth through intentional, weekly gatherings rooted in Scripture, catechesis, and deep personal sharing. With new momentum and even a Spanish-language version, the Quads model is helping people grow in faith and community across the country. (Check it out at dquads.com.)  The episode wraps with reflections on Pope Leo XIV's installation Mass, his moving words of humility, and the symbolic weight of receiving the Fisherman's Ring. As the Church welcomes a new pope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob consider what might lie ahead in his papacy—including the possibility of a historic first visit to Ukraine.   As always, expect humor, brotherhood, and a reminder that our hope isn't in playoffs or premieres—it's in Jesus.    Highlighted Sections  (00:00) Postseason Chaos and NBA Plot Twists  Deacon Bob and Father Dave kick off the episode with a spirited sports recap, reacting to the Cleveland Cavaliers' playoff collapse and the unexpected shape of the NBA postseason. They debate changing legacies, cheer for the Knicks, and comment on the Toronto Maple Leafs' latest heartbreak in hockey.  (05:23) Baseball Scandals and Hall of Fame Debates  From debates over Pete Rose to steroid-era sluggers like Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa, the hosts unpack the evolving conversation around integrity in baseball and eligibility for Cooperstown.  (14:18) Speaking of Movies: Summer Blockbusters Begin  Summer movie season kicks off with Marvel's Thunderbolts, and Father Dave shares why this new team-up film hits just right. The duo also discuss upcoming blockbusters like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning and the much-anticipated reboot of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, as well as kids' flicks like How to Train Your Dragon and Lilo & Stitch going live-action.   (23:11) A Ministry That's Multiplying: Discipleship Quads  Father Dave and Deacon Bob talk about Discipleship Quads—a free resource from Franciscan University that helps small groups grow in faith together. Recently refreshed with new materials and a Spanish-language version, this initiative is spreading globally and helping transform Catholic community life.   (26:30) A Pope Named Bob (Sort Of): Leo XIV's Installation  Pope Leo XIV's inauguration Mass moved the world—and the hosts—with moments of humility and reverence. They reflect on his powerful statement of servanthood and the symbolism of receiving the Fisherman's Ring, traditionally used to seal papal documents.  (32:10) Praying for Ukraine and Papal Diplomacy  As the pope meets with global leaders, including U.S. officials, Deacon Bob and Father Dave explore the possibility of his first papal trip being to Ukraine. They also reflect on early reports of peace talks and the potential impact of a papal presence in times of global tension and reconciliation.    Resources Mentioned  Discipleship Quads – dquads.com  Homily of Pope Leo XIV during the Mass of Inauguration of the Petrine Ministry – NCR Online.  

Habemus Papam! The Church has a new pope—and he's from Chicago. In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob react with joy, awe, and a healthy dose of disbelief to the election of Pope Leo XIV, a South Side Chicago native and fellow “Bob.” The first American pontiff, Leo XIV is an Augustinian, missionary, canon lawyer, and lifelong baseball fan with deep roots in both Villanova and Peru. His election is already making waves—and memes. Before diving into Vatican news, the hosts process a different kind of drama: sports heartbreak. Bob relives the Cleveland Cavaliers' playoff collapse—one for the record books—and the deep disappointment that followed. Father Dave offers perspective (and a hopeful prediction) before they shift gears to highlight Franciscan University's Commencement weekend. From Mary Rice Hasson's bold defense of the human person to Bishop Andrew Cozzens' catechetical preaching, the event was a joyful witness to faith and truth. Finally, they unpack the significance of the name Leo, what this new pope may prioritize, and how the legacy of Pope Leo XIII—with his groundbreaking encyclicals on labor, justice, and the Holy Spirit—may resonate in the years ahead. From Chicago sports to conclave suspense, from Catholic memes to Marian devotion, this episode is a fast-paced blend of humor, reverence, and hope for the Church's future under a pope who, as Bob puts it, “plays Wordle with his brother and orders from Wawa.”   Resources Mentioned The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty Rerum Novarum by Pope Leo XIII Pope Leo XIV – Live Coverage and Commentary (Vatican News)

What does it feel like when the eyes of the world turn to the Sistine Chapel, as everyone waits for white smoke? In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob explore the sacred mystery—and human drama—of a papal conclave. But first: baseball, astronauts, Marvel movies, and pierogies.   Father Dave shares a powerful conversation with retired astronaut and U.S. Air Force General Kevin P. Chilton, who received the Eucharist in space. The hosts also discuss the lesser-known fact that Buzz Aldrin took communion on the moon, blending space exploration with sacred devotion.   Meanwhile, Deacon Bob reflects on being left out of both that interview and a May the 4th Star Wars-themed baseball game (yes, stormtroopers and all), and offers a spoiler-free review of Marvel's new film Thunderbolts.   The hosts unpack the process of the papal conclave, exploring how the Holy Spirit leads (without micromanaging) the selection of a pope. They also respond to the controversial AI-generated image of Donald Trump dressed as pope—shared by official White House social media—and call for reverence during this pivotal moment in Church history. As always, the episode blends solemnity with laughter—from memories of first Communions and unforgettable Masses to hot takes on sports, politics, and pilgrimage.  Resources Mentioned  In Person interview with Astronaut Kevin Chilton – Faith and Reason  The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty  “Buzz Aldrin Took Holy Communion on the Moon. NASA Kept it Quiet” by Erin Blakemore for History.com.    

Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss the excitement of the NBA playoffs and NFL draft—and Franciscan University's Night of Joy. Deacon Bob shares what it was like to watch Star Wars in the theater again in celebration of its 20th anniversary. They also touch on the Holy Father's funeral, the ongoing preparations for the next pope's conclave, and the significance of St. Joseph the Worker and the value of work.

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob reflect on their Easter celebrations and awakening to the news of Pope Francis' passing on April 21. They reflect on the pope's humility, his heart for the marginalized, and his unshakeable love for Jesus as well as liturgical celebrations initiated by him and significant moments in his pontificate. They conclude by sharing Pope Francis' last Easter blessing.

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss Rory McIlroy's thrilling victory at the Masters and their failed attempt to attend a baseball game. They also reflect on the profound beauty of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil, encouraging everyone to participate fully. They also touch on Franciscan University alumni events, inspiring student stories, and the role of priests and deacons. They conclude with an invitation to support Franciscan University's Giving Day and Dcn. Bob's excitement about preaching at the upcoming “Night of Joy.”

Join Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob on They That Hope as they celebrate Alex Ovechkin breaking Wayne Gretzky's goal-scoring record and discuss the thrilling conclusion of the college basketball season. They share humorous anecdotes about meeting famous people, the Haribo sugar-free gummy bear reviews, and the Minecraft movie. They also reflect on the beauty of Palm Sunday and explore how we can integrate faith in everyday life with insights from Arthur Brooks. Plus, don't miss out on their plans for a live podcast from a baseball game next week!

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss the start of the baseball season, March Madness, role-playing games, and Dcn. Bob's son receiving a hockey puck from Sidney Crosby. Fr. Dave shares some beautiful things he experienced in Austria last week. They also delve into a profound discussion on Jesus' encounter with the woman caught in adultery, meditating on his merciful response.

Father Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss March Madness, Bob's mission trip to Belize, Fr. Dave's pilgrimage to Rwanda, and look ahead to this Sunday's Gospel about the Prodigal Son.  Tune in to find out if Bob actually went in—or at least near— the ocean!

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss their upcoming mission trips to Belize and Rwanda, reflecting on the impact of missions on students and communities. They delve into a light-hearted critique of the worst sports teams to cheer on as a fan, recounting frustrating fan experiences. They pay tribute to the late actor Gene Hackman and reflect on President Trump's recent speech and the challenges of bipartisan politics. They close They That Hope with the Transfiguration Gospel reading, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the glory of the Lord in daily life.

In this episode, Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob start with Fr. Dave's experience at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C. They discuss the attempt to banish the “tush push” in the NFL and the rising popularity of phone booth boxing. They also talk about the Trump-Zelenskyy conflict at the White House and the reinstatement of the federal death penalty. Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob offer personal reflections on faith and leadership. The episode concludes by highlighting a new Lenten initiative featuring Gospel readings and prayers. Don't miss the engaging discussions brought to you by faithandreason.com and osvpodcasts.com. Catch more episodes at theythathopepodcast.com.

In this episode of They That Hope, Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob start with updates on hockey and baseball, including the Yankees' new grooming policy and the adoption of “robo umps.” They also humorously tackle the greatest James Bond villain ever—Amazon Alexa—following Amazon's acquisition of Bond rights. They touch on Trump's executive order on IVF and its implications from a Catholic perspective. They pray for Pope Francis' health and address the challenges of Lent and fasting. Finally, they share signs of hope and encourage listeners to engage in their faith journeys thoughtfully.

It was an all-star weekend!  Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss the Four Nations Tournament (former NHL All-Star Game), NBA All-Star Weekend, Saturday Night Live's 50th Anniversary, the new Captain America movie, Rwanda, and the meaning of "ordo amoris."

Fr. Dave turned 60!  He and Dcn. Bob talk about the Super Bowl, NBA trades, anxiety in young people, and the importance of Christian unity.

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob are disappointed about the upcoming Super Bowl matchup (but will probably watch anyway).  They discuss the relationship between faith and science, their birthdays (Bob's was last Sunday, Fr. Dave's is this Saturday), the March for Life, and the U.S. Bishops' most recent statement on immigration.

It is our 200th episode!  Fr. Dave is “trapped” in Florida, and Dcn. Bob is recovering from being sick.  They discuss the Notre Dame loss, NFL upsets, Trump's inauguration, the ceasefire in Gaza, and a week of great liturgical feasts including the Conversion of St. Paul.

Though their favorite NFL teams are out of the playoffs, Fr. Dave is excited about Notre Dame making it to the college championship!  Dcn. Bob baptized his grandson last week. Fr. Dave led a pilgrimage to Guadalupe.  They also talk about Blessed Miguel Pro, the fires in California, Ordinary Time, and introduce a new segment to the podcast to celebrate the jubilee year, “Signs of Hope.”

The Jubilee of Hope has begun!  In their first podcast of the New Year, Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss the college football and NFL playoff picture, Bob's broken rib, SEEK 2025, the attack in New Orleans, and how the media is changing its coverage of Pope Francis.

Dcn. Bob got to be in the tunnel of a Buccaneers game, but Fr. Dave got a private audience with the pope!  They talk about sports, insane money in baseball, Red One, how friars celebrate Christmas, and reflect on what it means that Jesus is Emmanuel, “God with us.” Make this the best Christmas ever for children growing up in poverty around the world by donating a Box of Joy®. Your gift will surprise a child with what could be their first Christmas gift! Each box is filled with toys, clothing, school supplies, a rosary and a story about Jesus. Donate a Box of Joy at boxofjoy.org. Box of Joy is a ministry of Cross Catholic Outreach.

In this SUPERCUT episode, you can enjoy all of Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob's commentary on Pope Francis' encyclical, Dilexit nos, in one fell swoop. Make this the best Christmas ever for children growing up in poverty around the world by donating a Box of Joy®. Your gift will surprise a child with what could be their first Christmas gift! Each box is filled with toys, clothing, school supplies, a rosary and a story about Jesus. Donate a Box of Joy at boxofjoy.org. Box of Joy is a ministry of Cross Catholic Outreach.

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss why they love to talk about sports as much as they do, stories from Thanksgiving, movies they saw over the weekend, and the first week of Advent.  They also finish their reflections on Pope Francis' document, “He Loves Us.” Make this the best Christmas ever for children growing up in poverty around the world by donating a Box of Joy®. Your gift will surprise a child with what could be their first Christmas gift! Each box is filled with toys, clothing, school supplies, a rosary and a story about Jesus. Donate a Box of Joy at boxofjoy.org. Box of Joy is a ministry of Cross Catholic Outreach.

Today's episode is brought to you by the letter F!  Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob talk about football, femurs, faith, food, friars, friends, and (Pope) Francis. Happy Fhanksgiving!

Fr. Dave stayed up to watch the Mike Tyson fight, and Dcn. Bob is glad he didn't.  They talk about NBA, NFL, college football, Bob's visit to the shrine of Our Lady of Champion, Fr. Dave's visit to Washington D.C., and continue their reflections on Pope Francis' document, “He Loves Us.”

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss the NFL, the undefeated Cavaliers, Franciscan Men's Soccer winning their conference (Bob's son is on the team), Trump's election victory, what happens next for Kamala, films by Martin Scorsese (mostly inaccurate), and continue their reflections on Pope Francis' document, “He Loves Us.”

Dcn. Bob is thrilled that baseball is finally over!  He and Fr. Dave talk about the NFL, NBA, Bronny, Disney World, and the election, and begin to discuss Pope Francis' latest encyclical, “He Loves Us.”

The World Series is set!  It will be Yankees vs. Dodgers in an historic showdown.  Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob also talk about professional and college football, Bob's new book, Donald Trump at McDonalds, “subversive Catholicism,” Pope St. John Paul II, and Blessed Karl of Austria.

Fr. Dave visited an aircraft carrier at sea!  He and Dcn. Bob talk about the MLB playoffs, college and professional football, Pete Rose, and how to have hope in the last weeks before the election.

Dcn. Bob met Captain Kirk! He and Fr. Dave talk about the “Brady vs. Baker” fight, MLB playoffs, and going to Hamilton with students.  They also offer prayers for those affected by the hurricane this past weekend.

Fr. Dave's Broncos beat Dcn. Bob's Buccaneers, yet they remain good friends!  They discuss other NFL results, Shohei Ohtani's “50/50” season, World Series predictions, violence in the Middle East, and the Vatican's recent approval of Medjugorje devotion.

Dcn. Bob calls in from Kansas City!  He and Fr. Dave talk about the NFL, concussions, last week's presidential debate, and active shooter drills.  They conclude by reflecting on the promise of Jesus, “I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

This episode is essentially a therapy session to console Fr. Dave after the shock loss of Notre Dame football. He and Dcn. Bob also discuss the NFL (Bucs win!), the baseball game they almost went to, 9/11, James Taylor, and the Exaltation of the Cross.

Dcn. Bob finally found something worth watching in baseball!  He and Fr. Dave talk about the opening weekend of college football, a pregnant Paralympian, being trapped in space, and the legacy of St. Teresa of Calcutta.

It's back to school time!  Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob talk about classes resuming at Franciscan University, NFL kickoff weekend, steroid baseball, identity politics, and what it means to be a “community of believers.”

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob recap the highs (Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone) and lows (Raygun) of the 2024 Olympics! They also talk about Taylor Swift, politics, Alaska, and sacred art.

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob conclude their analysis of the seven deadly sins.  In this episode, they discuss lust, gluttony, and wrath.  **PARENTAL WARNING** This episode contains open discussion about mature subjects.  Headphones recommended.  

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob are back in the studio together!  They catch up on a crazy two weeks of Olympic scandals, political mishaps, and amazing conference experiences.

Fr. Dave and Heather Khym team up for a very special crossover episode, recorded with a live audience at the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis!

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob talk about soccer, tennis, the tragic shooting at the Trump rally, a book about ADHD, jubilee pilgrimages, and the conclusion of Pope Francis' new edict, “Hope Does Not Disappoint.”

 Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob talk about the scandal in MLE (Major League Eating), the new basketball Olympic Dream Team, politics, and Pope Francis' new edict, “Hope Does Not Disappoint.”

In a slow sports week, Dcn. Bob is excited that Bronny James gets to play with his dad in the NBA. Fr. Dave has a different opinion. They also discuss the Olympics, the presidential debate, and the upcoming 2025 Jubilee Year

 Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob talk about sports, weddings, the Priests, Deacons, Seminarians Retreat, fatherhood, Steubenville Youth Conferences, and the Eucharistic Revival Pilgrimage that came to Steubenville last weekend. This episode is sponsored by Catholic Charities USA.  Help Catholic Charities serve your neighbors in need. Join us at www.WeAreThere.US

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob are thrilled that USA beat Pakistan in the World Cup of Cricket, though neither of them know anything about that sport. They talk about the U.S. Open, NBA and NHL finals, Fr. Dave's pilgrimage to Assisi, challenges in the Diocese of Steubenville, local tragedies, and claiming victory in Jesus Christ. This episode is sponsored by Catholic Charities USA.  Help Catholic Charities serve your neighbors in need. Join us at www.WeAreThere.US

While Fr. Dave is leading people on a pilgrimage to Assisi, we bring you this compilation episode of our discussions on Sloth, Envy, Pride, and Greed.  Don't worry: Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob know that there are three more deadly sins, and will discuss those in future shows.  For now, enjoy this supercut! This episode is sponsored by Catholic Charities USA.  Help Catholic Charities serve your neighbors in need. Join us at  www.WeAreThere.US

 Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob catch up on the NBA, NHL, WNBA, MLB, and even the UFL! They also discuss Trump, pilgrimages, and the pope's interview on 60 Minutes.

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob talk about imprisoned golfers, fist fights at NASCAR, commencement speeches, and Christ the King Chapel.

 Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob talk about NBA and NHL finals, Mother's Day (belated), graduation at Franciscan, and the feasts of the Ascension and Pentecost.  

Dcn. Bob is excited that the Cavaliers have made it to the semi-finals, and Fr. Dave brings up close finishes in auto- and horse-racing.  They also talk about finals week, the upcoming graduation at Franciscan, and vocations (it was Fr. Dave's 28th anniversary last Saturday).

Fr. Dave visited Mexico City, and Bob's son got engaged! They talk about NBA and NHL playoffs, the baseball uniform controversy, protests on college campuses, Franciscan's response to new Title IX changes, and Our Lady of Guadalupe.

This past weekend, Fr. Dave got to fulfill a life-long dream by attending the Masters Tournament. He and Dcn. Bob talk about the NBA playoffs, the sin of gluttony, and Pope Francis' latest document on human dignity. theythathopepodcast.com osvpodcasts.com

For all his talk about seeing the “totality” of the solar eclipse last Monday, Fr. Dave didn't even go! Thankfully, Dcn. Bob did. They talk about the end of March Madness, Banana Ball, the NAIA's decision not to allow biological males in women's sports, Divine Mercy, and a retreat for mothers and daughters.