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You've heard of the Spiritual Exercises. You've probably heard of Ignatius' autobiography. But have you heard of the Constitutions of the Society of Jesus? Unless you're a Jesuit, you probably haven't. It's a series of documents often dismissed as too legalistic, necessary but not relevant to daily life. But that's not true—and our guest today, Fr. Bart Geger, SJ, professor at the Boston College's school of theology and ministry, will make that case. The Constitutions are foundational to the Ignatian tradition, to how Jesuits understand their mission: that being the service of the greater glory of God. The Constitutions, then, are important for all of us who stand in this Ignatian legacy, for all of us who also hope to serve God's greater glory. The Constitutions touch on the formation of Jesuits specifically, but also point each of us toward spiritual wisdom for our own unique vocation. Why talk about the Constitutions today? Fr. Bart has recently completed work on a new edition, which provides all of us with an opportunity to revisit this important text. As Fr. Bart writes in the introduction: “Knowledge of the Constitutions is…necessary in order to understand recurring themes and controversies in the Society's history. Far more importantly, however, the book is vital to correctly interpret the spiritual doctrine of Ignatius himself, especially his ideas about how to discern God's will, and the particular ideals and virtues that he desired—and still desires—for all who embrace the principle and foundation upon which all his doctrine stands.” In short, if we believe the riches of Ignatian spirituality are vital and relevant for today's world, then we'd do well to better understand the institutional framework with which Ignatius entrusted this legacy to be lived out. If you'd like to get a copy of Fr. Bart's new edition or learn more about the project, head over to the Institute of Jesuit Sources: https://jesuitsources.bc.edu/the-constitutions-of-the-society-of-jesus-a-critical-edition-with-the-complementary-norms-paperback/
Do we know how to pray? The Catechism depicts Moses learning how to pray and uses this as an example of prayer and relationship with God. The Catechism goes on to talk about David and his experiences with prayer and the Psalms. As Fr. Mike points out, “humility is the foundation of prayer,” and we need honesty, trust, and a willingness to engage in order to pray and approach God as he is. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2574-2580. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As Fr. Mike suggests, the battle for purity is never more difficult than in our own day. With God's grace, we can prevail and find freedom from our temptations. Fr. Mike explains that we win this battle through chastity, purity of intention, purity of vision, and prayerful reliance on the Lord. He tells us how to pray for a pure gaze that allows us to see our brothers and sisters as God sees them. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2520-2533. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Gratitude is the proper response of children toward their parents. Out of this gratitude comes respect. When we are children at home, this respect includes “true docility and obedience.” Fr. Mike emphasizes respect for parents doesn't expire when we leave home as adults. Grown children are responsible for caring for and supporting their parents in their old age. As Fr. Mike stresses, this can be the simple but often overlooked phone call to mom or dad. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2214-2220. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As Fr. Mike reads from Nehemiah today, we hear about how the hearts of the people of Israel were moved as Ezra reads the book of the law of Moses to them. In our reading of Esther, we have the beginning of the crisis that will unfold throughout the book as Haman, backed by the king, seeks to destroy the Jews. Today's readings are Nehemiah 8, Esther 3 and 13, and Proverbs 21:5-8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
The Church's mission of evangelization depends on the faithful witness of her members. Christian goodness and fidelity authenticate the Gospel. As Fr. Mike relates, people are attracted to admirable but everyday Christian witnesses. Through such lives of quiet holiness, the Church is built up and brought to greater fullness. This episode closes with a few summary “nuggets” about the moral life in the Church. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2044-2051. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Each of us is called to holiness. As Fr. Mike puts it, we're all called to the “heights of holiness.” No matter our station in life, we're meant for ever greater union with Christ, devoting ourselves to the love of God and neighbor. The path of holiness also entails the Cross, self-denial, and the sacrifice that ultimately leads to peace. And as Fr. Mike reminds us, even if we stumble or fail, we know that we can, time after time, “begin again.” Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2012-2016. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As Fr. Mike begins the book of Lamentations, we read about Jeremiah's sorrow as he witnesses the siege and suffering of Jerusalem. In the book of Jeremiah, we hear a word of comfort from the Lord to Baruch. Today's readings are Jeremiah 45-46, Lamentations 1, and Proverbs 17:21-28. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Welcome to the first episode of The Catholic Mass here on the SSPX Podcast. We're excited to get started on this – what will probably be about a year long series – examining the theology, the history, rubrics, the changes in the Mass, and so much more. But why spend so much time on one topic? As Fr. Paul Robinson will tell us in this first episode, because the Mass is the center of our Faith, and even though we're doing an extended series, it really is inexhaustible. We can always dive deeper into the mysteries contained in this, the greatest catechism that the Church offers us. And so we'll do as much as we can to share this with you. This is free to listen to, and always will be, but if you can help with a one time or a small monthly recurring donation, you'll be making sure that we can continue this work of producing good Catholic content on a regular basis. See all the episodes, and download resources: https://sspxpodcast.com/mass We'd love your feedback on this series! podcast@sspx.org - - - - - - View on YouTube: https://youtu.be/X4RUozUhO3s - - - - - - - Please Support this Apostolate with 1-time or Monthly Donation >> - - - - - - - Explore more: Subscribe to this Podcast to receive this and all our audio episodes Subscribe to the SSPX YouTube channel for video versions of our podcast series and Sermons FSSPX News Website: https://fsspx.news Visit the US District website: https://sspx.org/ - - - - - What is the SSPX Podcast? The SSPX Podcast is produced by Angelus Press, which has as its mission the fortification of traditional Catholics so that they can defend the Faith, and reaching out to those who have not yet found Tradition. - - - - - - What is the SSPX? The main goal of the Society of Saint Pius X is to preserve the Catholic Faith in its fullness and purity, to teach its truths, and to diffuse its virtues, especially through the Roman Catholic priesthood. Authentic spiritual life, the sacraments, and the traditional liturgy are its primary means of bringing this life of grace to souls. Although the traditional Latin Mass is the most visible and public expression of the work of the Society, we are committed to defending Catholic Tradition in its entirety: all of Catholic doctrine and morals as the Church has always defended them. What people need is the Catholic Faith, without compromise, with all the truth and beauty which accompanies it. https://sspx.org
"Holiness consists simply in doing God's will, and being just what God wants us to be."~ St. Thérèse of LisieuxThis Whole Life returns to its roots! In episode 46, Kenna is joined by Fr. Marc Foley, OCD, author of the seminal work that led to this very podcast: The Love That Keeps Us Sane: Living the Little Way of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Together, Kenna and Fr. Marc delve into the complexities of human nature and God's work in the midst of our messy thoughts, emotions, and relationships. As Fr. Marc explains, St. Thérèse of Lisieux is far more relevant to our 21st century experience than we might initially think. In preparation for our upcoming book study (episodes 47 & 48) on The Love That Keeps Us Sane, Fr. Marc shares insights from his extensive psychological and spiritual experience, emphasizing the value of patience with oneself while working toward greater virtue. The discussion covers topics such as resisting the temptation to create a perfect persona, managing the balance between acceptance without complacency, and interpreting human experiences from a spiritual perspective. We live in a fallen, and often insane, world; it is the love of God lived through us every day that keeps us sane.Fr. Marc Foley, O.C.D. entered the Discalced Carmelites in 1967 as a lay brother and was ordained a priest in 1981. He studied psychology at the Catholic University of America and continued on to receive a Master of Divinity. He later earned M.S. and CAS degrees in Pastoral Counseling at Loyola College in Baltimore. Fr. Foley has served as a parish priest, a postulant director, a director of formation, and a professor. Fr. Marc is currently the prior of the Carmelite monastery in Washington, D.C., a spiritual director, an author, and the publisher of ICS Publications. Get ready for our book study on The Love That Keeps Us Sane by Fr. Marc Foley, OCD: Order your copy here Episode 46 Show NotesChapters:0:00: Introducing Fr. Marc Foley, OCD11:13: Human nature in conflict with itself17:48: Radical Acceptance without Complacency23:01: Temptations as a path to virtue, not just vice32:13: Pay attention to what you desire and you'll find out what you're avoiding42:50: There's no step too big, but a step can be too small50:12: How St. Thérèse's life speaks to us todayQuestions for Reflection & Discussion:What is one thing that stuck out to you from this episode?How have you experienced your own "human nature in conflict with itself"?When have you been discouraged by your failures? When has God's grace broken through and consoled you in your despair?How are your desires an indication of what you might be avoiding?What might St. Thérèse be able to teach you about your own "cloister" life with the people you interact with most?Thank you for listening! Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.Check us out on Instagram & FacebookInterested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for IntegrationMusic: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.
Scripture unmasks your illusions. Religion, family, friends, ideas, institutions, nations, individuals, “isms” of every school—all your human ideals and beliefs are a lie. Unfortunately, you can't sleep around with your lies and remain faithful to the Master. You do, in fact, have to make a choice. Note my use of the word “fact.” So, please, step in front of the bus or return to the safety of your lies. That is how this works. Go ahead—I insist—lie to yourself. It's better for you. Enjoy your environmentally safe lifestyle. Don't forget to vote. There you go. See? You are a good person. Your hands are clean. God bless you. You should be a guest on “The View.” Notice, I said god bless you. I did not mention the text. I was talking about your god, not the God of Scripture. Anyone who can't see the true face of their idolatry or who tries to apologize for it or the idolatry of this age in any way is morally bankrupt.It's true. I'm not lying. The West is having its moment—it's painful to watch and definitely long deserved, but the pain, at least for now, is located in the weakest part of the body. But you cannot dull the pain of facts with the stupor of your idols forever. MENE, MENE, TEQEL, UPHARSINYour narratives certainly feel good. Family is dear to you, and personal relationships mean everything to you. You take courage in speaking truth to power and in the freedom to disagree, to be different—that's the American way, Fr. Marc. What a great story. You should work for Disney. Thanks be to the Scriptural God: the Bible is not your story. Let alone a story.It's a text with consonants totally foreign to your colonial brain, laid out in a particular order, in a language concocted from the many Semitic languages of the many peoples you still number among your enemies, you fool.It's funny how you love all your idols, your religion, your atheism, family, friends, institutions, and your “democratic values,” but you still somehow manage to hate the same enemies you were commanded to love. As Fr. Paul used to say in the classroom, God is merciful, but I am not God. You would do well to forgo your stupid ideals and, instead, study Arabic alongside biblical Hebrew. Then you will see with your eyes and hear with your ears what the Scriptural God said in his original Semitic syntax, sparing both you and the poor the tyranny of your self-serving flotillas.Allahu Akbar. (Episode 316) ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This week, a few listeners reached out to wish me well on my sabbatical or to ask what I plan to do with my free time. First, please be assured that I will not be eating ice cream. Second, as my oldest Palestinian cousin Tina said while doing manual labor at St. Elizabeth, “I'll sleep when I'm dead.” In her honor, let's make good use of the time because the days are definitely evil. Teaching is about conveying facts from the text, not your ideas about the text, let alone your institutional narratives. On a personal level, you want to talk about “narrative” or “narrative context” because you want to give yourself importance. On an institutional level, if you take just five minutes to stop gossiping about or psychoanalyzing each other, you'll discover that your obsession with “narrative” is all about the Benjamins. You fund the Tower of Babel; thus, it is utterly disgusting. “And that,” Fr. Paul explains this week, “is the price we are paying in so-called Judeo-Christianism.”Just watch Tik-Tok, Habibi. Thankfully, the God of Scripture is not mocked in his syntax. What is written cannot be undone—for those who have ears. The canonical syntax of the original, consonantal Hebrew text is a fact unless you want to go back and dream about your facts while sleeping with the New York Times. Sleep well. Make-believe stories—even the scary ones—are for children. Lexicography, on the other hand, is the transmission of facts. Facts are common and accessible to all—they stare back at you from the page—just like canonical syntax. As Fr. Paul has said for decades, Biblical-Semitic consonants are situated on the scroll, like the organs of your body. No NATO narratives are required. So before launching into the exciting developments I mentioned last week, Fr. Paul will spend some time explaining, once and for all, why the syntax of the Hebrew canon—and not the Septuagint—is our canonical reference for word study in the Biblical text. (Episode 315) ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Fr. Mike examines the consequences of the sin of our first parents, Adam and Eve. He discusses that even though they committed a personal sin, it affected all of human nature. As Fr. Mike states, “Original sin broke the world.” Additionally, we explore the idea that although we are good, we are still broken. Fr. Mike also discusses how each and every one of us has an inclination towards evil and sin known as concupiscence. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 402-406. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Together, with Fr. Mike, we continue our exploration of the Church's teachings on the nature of the Holy Trinity. We examine three main ideas. The first is the unity of the Trinity, that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all one God. The next is the Divine Persons as distinct from one another: one God, three distinct persons. As Fr. Mike states, “The Son is not the Father, the Father is not the Son, and the Holy Spirit is not either.” Finally, Fr. Mike discusses the relation between each person of the Holy Trinity. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 253-256. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As Fr. Dan Riley, ofm, begins a three-month sabbatical, he joins Stephen Copeland, the co-author of "Franciscan Lectio," to describe their journey west as a model of movement for all of us. Music, "Rise Up Shepherd and Follow," by Kim and Reggie Harris (used with permission). Produced Jan. 21, 2024. Podcast #284. For more information about Mt. Irenaeus, visit www.mountainonline.org.
“Don't be afraid to make a mistake. And sometimes you need to make a choice without having all the data or all the evidence.” Fr. David Cybulski joins Fr. Craig on Men of the Hearts to share his vocation story. After obtaining a master's degree, working in Arizona, and unsuccessfully applying to seminary in the Diocese of Phoenix, Fr. David moved home to Detroit and entered seminary at the age of 31. (0:04) Fr. Craig welcomes listeners to this month's episode and introduces Fr. David Cybulski. The priests reminisce about their seminary days and discuss homily prep, singing at Mass, and their Christmas experiences. (12:59) Fr. David begins to share his vocation story. He explains that he was raised Catholic, attended Catholic school, and became an altar boy in fourth grade. Although a priest told Fr. David, “You're gonna be a priest one day,” he did not really consider priesthood at the time and stopped altar serving while in high school. While studying engineering at the University of Michigan, Fr. David continued to practice his faith due to the influence of his family. (28:43) After obtaining his master's degree, Fr. David moved to Arizona and worked at a company called Intel. He recalls, “I thought I had it made.” As Fr. David's church lacked other young parishioners, he joined the group College Youth for Catholic Truth and learned more about his faith. Fr. David became a weekly adorer at a new perpetual Adoration chapel after his pastor said, “If you really believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, can't you spend one hour a week with Him?”(36:39) After seeing a friend apply to seminary, Fr. David found that “I've got this tug all of a sudden that's coming back.” He heard the CEO of his company say, “Never be afraid of being wrong,” and realized, “I have to pursue this.” Fr. David applied to seminary in the Diocese of Phoenix, but the right doors did not open for him to enter. He moved back to Detroit and entered seminary at the age of 31. (52:34) Advice to a discerning man: Fr. David reiterates his former CEO's statements, “Don't be afraid to make a mistake. And sometimes you need to make a choice without having all the data or all the evidence.” He adds, “And I've always advocated for if a guy has an inkling coming outta high school, he should go right in… those years won't be wasted. They're probably the best formation you can actually have.” Fr. David closes the episode in prayer.
We know we can pray anywhere at any time, yet certain places are more favorable for prayer. There are also certain rhythms of prayer in the life of the Church that foster regular attention to the Lord. As Fr. Mike emphasizes with the Catechism, we can't pray always “if we don't pray at specific times.” Today Fr. Mike encourages us to find our place and time for prayer. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2691-2699. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Do we know how to pray? The Catechism depicts Moses learning how to pray and uses this as an example of prayer and relationship with God. The Catechism goes on to talk about David and his experiences with prayer and the Psalms. As Fr. Mike points out, “humility is the foundation of prayer,” and we need honesty, trust, and a willingness to engage in order to pray and approach God as he is. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2574-2580. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
In recent weeks, I have stressed the fact that each time you hear biblical Hebrew or see a Semitic triliteral in the Bible, like it or not, you are hearing or seeing a cross of the many Semitic languages extant at the time of the Bible's writing. Like it or not, each time you hear or see biblical Hebrew, you are also hearing and seeing Arabic. The word “extant” is derived from the Latin, extans, which means “to stand out.” In English, it has come to mean “still in existence” or “surviving,” like the teaching of Scripture under the boot of Hellenism, written in a concoction of the many Semitic languages that the proto-colonial, Alexander the “small,” tried to “unhouse” in his conquest of everyone. So why all this talk about the Amalekites in biblical literature when one need look only to human history, to Alexander, to Hiroshima and Nagasaki, or for that matter, current events, to learn about Cain's building project and its legacy of “unhousing?”The literature—the text—not the history of Scripture, is instruction, a “cautionary tale,” an exhortation. All of us must teach this fact. We must teach it to our fundamentalist Christian friends—those who built a wall in my mom's hometown, in Bethlehem of Palestine—in defiance of St. Paul, who said:“For he himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall.” (Ephesians 2:14)In the parable of Scripture, the Amalekites, the enemies of the literary characters Israel and Judah, are the descendants of the characterEsau (Genesis 36:12, 16). As Fr. Paul explains in his most recent book, Decoding Genesis 1-11:“Early in Genesis, we hear the author using the appellation of sadeh,that is, the earth as life supporting (2:5, 19, 20), and then applying it to the living area of the Amalekites, well before the story of Ephron the Hittite (Genesis 23) and the story of the two brothers Esau and Jacob (Genesis 25, 27). In other words, early on in chapter 14, the author magisterially preempts the hearers from concluding that the special story about their ancestor, Abram, and his superman feats, makes them different from other peoples, especially their sworn adversaries.” (Tarazi, p. 197)So why does God command the annihilation of the Amalekites? (1 Samuel 15:2-3)‘Amaleq, is an interesting word in Hebrew. Don't waste time looking it up in a colonial dictionary; you will not find anything useful. melek, in both Arabic and Hebrew, is the triliteral MLK and means “king.” Did you catch my nonviolent irony? I hope so. In any case, the biblical character ‘Amaleq, which begins with the letter ‘ain, has the same root as melek. In Arabic, the word for “giant” is ‘amlaq.So, in the story, these powerful giants are introduced through Samuel as Saul's first test of obedience. There is a parallel tale about Joshua and the Amalekites in Exodus. It's a parable. A mashal. A dark saying. A riddle. It's a metaphoric text contained within an epic storyline, not an historical instruction manual. Pretend you are watching Avengers Endgame. When you leave the movie theatre, ask yourself, is the moral of this story an advisory on how to become Thanos and kill half of all inhabitants in the land? This is not a trick question.Who, pray tell, is the King of Glory, Saul? Who rescued you from Egypt when you could not fight? Who overcame Agag, king of the giants, a people whose strength was beyond your might? Who saved Joshua and Moses in Exodus? Who is the King of Israel, Saul? Again, this is not a trick question.“Because you have rejected the word of the Lord,” taking the spoils of a victory that you did not win, and claiming things that do not belong to you, the Lord “has rejected you from being king.” (1 Samuel 15:23)“Then Saul said to Samuel, ‘I have sinned; I have indeed transgressed the command of the Lord and your words because I feared the people and listened to their voice.” (1 Samuel 15:24)Of course, you did, Saul, because the people demand spoils, security, barriers, and dividing walls in the land—the land—which, like the spoils you took, does not belong to you; it is the property of the Lord. In total view of the biblical epic, long before the story of Ephron the Hittite, (let alone Saul or Joshua), Abraham came from the same sadeh as the Amalekites—from the same earth as life supporting.We human beings refuse to accept our fate as ‘afar,—as people taken from and returning to the dust. This fate, Fr. Paul explains: “Will be unexpectedly redressed in Genesis 23 via 'ephron, (Ephron) the (outsider) Hittite who will prove to be the Lord God's medium for establishing ḥebron, the place of brotherhood, the gathering place of Abraham's descendants, which ironically will end as the inheritance, not of Joshua, but of Caleb, “the (outsider) dog” (keleb, KLB, Arabic, kalb), in the Book of Joshua (14:13-15).” (Tarazi, p. 174)Caleb, the triliteral KLB. In Arabic, kalb, the dog, the barbarian, the unclean thing—the standard bearer for brotherhood in the Book of Life. Let's hope so. Richard and I discuss Luke 5:8-9. (Episode 509) ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
St. Augustine acknowledges the many insights and interpretations of Scripture. He distinguishes between the factual truth of biblical events and the deeper truths conveyed through the narratives. As Fr. Gregory Pine and Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk explain, our human limitations mean we lack perfect understanding when reading God's Word. Because of this, St. Augustine advocates approaching Scripture with humility. Today's readings are Book 12, Chapters 22-27. To get your copy of the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/catholicclassics or text "CONFESSIONS" to 33-777. Please note: The Confessions of St. Augustine contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As Fr. Mike suggests, the battle for purity is never more difficult than in our own day. With God's grace, we can prevail and find freedom from our temptations. Fr. Mike explains that we win this battle through chastity, purity of intention, purity of vision, and prayerful reliance on the Lord. He tells us how to pray for a pure gaze that allows us to see our brothers and sisters as God sees them. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2520-2533. If you have found this podcast to be helpful in your faith life and would like to help us continue bringing this Catholic media to as many people as possible, please consider making an ongoing financial gift at ascensionpress.com/support. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Gratitude is the proper response of children toward their parents. Out of this gratitude comes respect. When we are children at home, this respect includes “true docility and obedience.” Fr. Mike emphasizes respect for parents doesn't expire when we leave home as adults. Grown children are responsible for caring for and supporting their parents in their old age. As Fr. Mike stresses, this can be the simple but often overlooked phone call to mom or dad. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2214-2220. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As Fr. Mike reads from Nehemiah today, we hear about how the hearts of the people of Israel were moved as Ezra reads the book of the law of Moses to them. In our reading of Esther, we have the beginning of the crisis that will unfold throughout the book as Haman, backed by the king, seeks to destroy the Jews. Today's readings are Nehemiah 8, Esther 3 and 13, and Proverbs 21:5-8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
The Church's mission of evangelization depends on the faithful witness of her members. Christian goodness and fidelity authenticate the Gospel. As Fr. Mike relates, people are attracted to admirable but everyday Christian witnesses. Through such lives of quiet holiness, the Church is built up and brought to greater fullness. This episode closes with a few summary “nuggets” about the moral life in the Church. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2044-2051. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Each of us is called to holiness. As Fr. Mike puts it, we're all called to the “heights of holiness.” No matter our station in life, we're meant for ever greater union with Christ, devoting ourselves to the love of God and neighbor. The path of holiness also entails the Cross, self-denial, and the sacrifice that ultimately leads to peace. And as Fr. Mike reminds us, even if we stumble or fail, we know that we can, time after time, “begin again.” Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2012-2016. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As Fr. Mike begins the book of Lamentations, we read about Jeremiah's sorrow as he witnesses the siege and suffering of Jerusalem. In the book of Jeremiah, we hear a word of comfort from the Lord to Baruch. Today's readings are Jeremiah 45-46, Lamentations 1, and Proverbs 17:21-28. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As Fr. Jim's suffering increased he felt himself more and more becoming childlike and enveloped by God's loving embrace.Continuing the newly produced and digitally restored version of Lessons from the School of Suffering, the audio book, originally published to tape, then converted to CD and now released digitally as part of Heart to Heart's 30th Anniversary.Produced by Nathaniel Stubblefield for Heart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryHeart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryInspire Believers. Evangelize Seekers. Foster Disciples.--https://htoh.us/subscribehttps://htoh.us/donate
We welcome writer and director Cary Solomon to discuss his newest work which Fr. McTeigue calls a true must-see, Nefarious. Cary details the unbelievable spiritual attack during the making of the film, and the great response among lay and clergy alike. As Fr. McTeigue says, "If you don't take evil seriously, you can't take God seriously." Nefarious | Official Website Sarah Cain's Interview with Cary & Chuck - "Spiritual & Earthly Battles" Cardinal Burke's Endorsement of Nefarious Mister Frost (1990) - IMDb When Atheism becomes vulgar--Aleteia Read Fr. McTeigue's Written Works! Visit Fr. McTeigue's Website | Herald of the Gospel Questions? Comments? Feedback? Ask Father!
Cynthia enjoys another conversation with a fellow flyfishing guest, but we promise that they didn't talk about fishing this time! Social media is the topic today with Fr. Paul Jannakos. Why do we as Orthodox Christians need to guard ourselves and put boundaries in place when it comes to the internet in general? Is there a place for social media in our lives? As Fr. Paul says, “...from an Orthodox standpoint, we cannot help but to recognize how dangerously demeaning and dehumanizing our “internet use” has grown. We hope you enjoy this frank discussion and the tips that are shared. Fr. Paul Jannakos was born in E. St. Louis Ill. In September of 1976 he began his studies as a pre-theological student at St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary in NY, also taking courses at Concordia College/NY in Bronxville. In 1980 he graduated from Concordia College with a B.A. in Music. He graduated in 1983 with a M. Div. degree from St. Vladimir's and was married to Michelle (Julylia) Jannakos in Cleveland Ohio, the year before, in 1982. Fr. Paul was ordained to the holy priesthood on March 3rd, 1985 by Bishop Boris in Chicago at Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral. He is currently the Rector of St. Luke Orthodox Church in Palos Hills and the Chancellor of the Chicago diocese of the OCA. Fr. Paul is also a licensed Psychotherapist with Ethos Counseling in Oak Brook IL. He loves to compose music, garden, and fly-fish.
Fr. Mike examines the consequences of the sin of our first parents, Adam and Eve. He discusses that even though they committed a personal sin, it affected all of human nature. As Fr. Mike states, “Original sin broke the world.” Additionally, we explore the idea that although we are good, we are still broken. Fr. Mike also discusses how each and every one of us has an inclination towards evil and sin known as concupiscence. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 402-406. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
Friends, today we share Fr. Stephen Gadberry's keynote talk from the recent Good News Conference in Orlando, Florida. As Fr. Gadberry explains, every baptized Christian shares in Jesus' offices of priest, prophet, and king. In this talk, Fr. Gadberry focuses on the priestly role and discusses the responsibility of every Christian to pray and work in union with Christ for the sanctification of the world. Links Good News Conference NOTE: Do you like this podcast? Become a patron and get some great perks for helping, like free books, bonus content, and more. Word on Fire is a non-profit ministry that depends on the support of our listeners…like you! So be part of this mission, and join us today!
Together, with Fr. Mike, we continue our exploration of the Church's teachings on the nature of the Holy Trinity. We examine three main ideas. The first is the unity of the Trinity, that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all one God. The next is the Divine Persons as distinct from one another: one God, three distinct persons. As Fr. Mike states, “The Son is not the Father, the Father is not the Son, and the Holy Spirit is not either.” Finally, Fr. Mike discusses the relation between each person of the Holy Trinity. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 253-256. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
As Frédéric Vasseur heads to Ferrari, Andreas Seidl head to Sauber, Andrea Stella steps up at McLaren and Jost Capito departs Williams, Mark Hughes, Scott Mitchell-Malm and Edd Straw convene to explain what's happening and why. Come and see us live! For more information on our first ever live show in London visit https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/pod-live/the-race-f1/ Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook Check out our latest videos on YouTube Download our brand-new app on iOS or Android Click here to join The Race Members' Club and have the opportunity to ask a question on the show Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Friends, today we share Fr. Mike Schmitz's keynote talk from the recent Good News Conference in Orlando, Florida. As Fr. Mike explains, joy is a choice, just like love. We can either chase the feeling or choose the reality. Joy comes from the fact that you know that God is here and that you are known and loved by him. The Christian life is a pursuit of the One who loved us first, the One in whom we find our true joy. Links Good News Conference
Friends of the Rosary: Today, we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries recorded at St. Catherine of Sienna, in Greenwich, Connecticut, prior to the funeral mass for María Blanca, Blanki. A group of friends of María Blanca, including Fr. Miguel Bernal, participated faithfully in the prayer of the Rosary. As Fr. Miguel said during his homily, "the largest source of unhappiness is trying to find life without God." "For Maria Blanca, the entire earthly life was living and dying for God," he added. "And now, Maria Blanca lives eternally — that's what we celebrate as Christians today." "Now we have someone — Maria Blanca — enjoying the presence of God and who is interceding for us," Fr. Miguel said. Ave Maria! Jesus, I Trust In You! + Mikel A. | RosaryNetwork.com, New York • October 29, 2021, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
What does it mean to pray always? Does it mean to pray without ceasing? As Fr. Jim notes, St. Luke is giving us a little hint. The goal isn't to pray without end, but to be consistent and to persevere in prayer, regardless of the outcome.from Luke 18:1-8...The Lord said, "Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says.Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen oneswho call out to him day and night?Will he be slow to answer them?I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily.But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?"Read the full scripture: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101622.cfm
As Fr. Mike reads from Nehemiah today, we hear about how the hearts of the people of Israel were moved as Ezra reads the book of the law of Moses to them. In our reading of Esther, we have the beginning of the crisis that will unfold throughout the book as Haman, backed by the king, seeks to destroy the Jews. Today's readings are Nehemiah 8, Esther 3 and 13, and Proverbs 21:5-8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
The readings this morning are a tough bunch. Talking about money is never easy, but it's so vital that we set our hearts on the things that matter. As Fr. Michael Mayo tells us: Jesus isn't after a line item in our budgets. He's after our hearts. If you like what you see, we hope you'll join us in person if you're in the area. Learn more about us: https://linktr.ee/servantsanglican https://www.servantsanglican.org/ Want to get involved? Download our app.
As Fr. Mike begins the book of Lamentations, we read about Jeremiah's sorrow as he witnesses the siege and suffering of Jerusalem. In the book of Jeremiah, we hear a word of comfort from the Lord to Baruch. Today's readings are Jeremiah 45-46, Lamentations 1, and Proverbs 17:21-28. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
What would our work loads look like if we put as much time actually doing the work as we do creating excuses for avoiding the work at hand? More importantly, what would our communities look like if we actually put as much time doing the Lord's work as we do creating excuses in sin? The calling of Moses provides insight into this common human inclination to argue, make excuses, and wrangle out of responsibility to the work the Lord provides. When Moses provides a litany of excuses, the Lord provides the plan, the mouth, and the words, eliminating all excuses. As Fr. Timothy Lowe suggests, the question is whether to submit, and the rest is details, trusting in the Lord's provision.
The book of Revelation is the only book in the Bible that promises a blessing to those who read, hear, and, most importantly, heed what it says. This shows how important our Lord's Revelation to John is, whether you're a Christian in first century Smyrna or twenty-first century America. Now the type of importance the book has depends upon how we view it. Does it just have historical significance, or is there future significance as well? Is it allegory, or reality? As Fr. Ward breaks down for us, there are essentially four main views of Revelation held at different times by different factions in the Church, and while parts of Revelation could point to each of those views, no one view is able to completely interpret a book so profound.
As Fr. Sergio Fita prepares to return to Spain after serving many years at St. Anne in Gilbert, he shares his parting gift, Jesus and You, Woman: Ignatian Retreat for Woman Under the Guidance of Edith Stein. It is a way for women to grow closer to Jesus through contemplative meditation This episode is brought to you in part by Crowning Glory Tea Room.
As Fr. Shane reflects on the death of his father, we discuss the gift of faith in the midst of grief.
In season two of the "Finding Home" podcast series, Irish American Archives Society Executive Director Margaret Lynch interviews an array of Clevelanders with specialized knowledge and stories about the history of the Irish in Cleveland. This episode features an interview with Father Thomas Mahoney. As Fr. Thomas Mahoney recounts, the various branches of his immigrant family converged in the mid-19th century in St. Augustine Parish on what was then known as Cleveland's South Side. The parish received its first resident pastor in 1867, moving into its present location at W. 14th and Howard Streets in 1896. Fr. Mahoney's grandparents contributed a stained glass window dedicated to each of their mothers. Mahoney reflects on the role of the church as immigrant parishioners grappled with unsteady employment, the temptations of drink, and the early deaths of children.
Where Is God? As Fr. John Pietropaoli led a group of seminarians through a course on western civilization, one of their leitmotifs came from Gerard Manley Hopkin's magnificent poem “As Kingfishers Catch Fire.” Inspired by this poem, Fr. John Pietropaoli, LC, reflects on Faith. 2:45 Love Reciprocated Back: A Summer of Professions for the Steeves Family Last summer, the Steeves family's three eldest children professed their first vows. In this article, read about how Mark and Georgette Steeves' vocation to Regnum Christi has been integral in their role as parents accompanying their children through their individual discernment processes, and, ultimately, to their first professions last summer. 9:32 This Pilgrim's Progress... For Meg Bohn, it has been a privilege and a blessing over the years to accompany our High School Juniors to Washington DC for what has become known as the DC Pilgrimage. In this blog, Meg shares how each and every student on the pilgrimage encapsulated virtue.
Jesus tells us that we need to stop living by "an eye for an eye" and instead start loving our enemies. As Fr. Jim reminds us, this is much easier said than done, even in our "enlightened" age [emphasis mine].Matthew 5:38-48Jesus said to his disciples:“You have heard that it was said,An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.When someone strikes you on your right cheek,turn the other one as well.If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic,hand over your cloak as well.Should anyone press you into service for one mile,go for two miles.Give to the one who asks of you,and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.“You have heard that it was said,You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.But I say to you, love your enemiesand pray for those who persecute you,that you may be children of your heavenly Father,for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good,and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have?Do not the tax collectors do the same?And if you greet your brothers only,what is unusual about that?Do not the pagans do the same?So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.”Gospel Study: Fr. Jim WilligGospel Narration: Fr. J Michael Sparough, SJNarration: Lili Fuller Narration Producers: Lili Fuller and Joe SofrankoPrimary Music: Michael KramerProducer: Nathaniel Stubblefield
As Fr. Dave and Fr. Tony think back on memories of Christmases past, they remind us that God is eager to be with us in everything. Sometimes we forget to ask, but He will always come when we invite him in. He is eager to be with us, and when He's with us, life is a lot less scary and a lot more joyful.
Obedience is the topic of today's live, interactive Bible study. As Fr. Mitch explains, obedience is doing what God asks of us even though we'd rather not do it. We don't have to love what we're doing, just love God.
As Fr. Mitch explains, it's through the struggles and problems of life that we come to know God. Through the chatter and confusion, we must listen to what God is telling us, for he is the source of all solutions.
Most Americans know Tchaikovsky as the composer of the delightful dances contained within the Nutcracker Ballet. As Fr. John Strickland shows, however, there is much more to be heard in their melodies, and little that was delightful about the emotionally agonized life behind them. Using selections from a variety of works, he explores how the romantic agony came for Tchaikovsky in his boyhood and thereafter never departed. Special attention is given to an analysis of the famous Sixth Symphony, nicknamed Pathetique. First performed just days before the composer's abrupt death, the work brings the generation of the romantics to a heart-rending and emblematic conclusion.
As we continue our short series learning about contemplative spiritual practices, we approach the ancient practice called examen. As Fr. Dennis Hamm once wrote, Examen is like “rummaging for God—going through a drawer full of stuff, feeling around, looking for something that you are sure must be there.” This morning we consider how we might rummage for God, and how we might invite him to rummage through our life, so we might become more like Christ.
How many of us have truly learned how to listen to God? As Fr. Mitch explains, God is always speaking to us, but the way we listen can create unanticipated problems we must address to hear and understand Him properly.
The rich young ruler comes to Jesus asking for assurance of eternal life. Jesus shows him the way, but - like so many of us - stuff clouds our judgment. As Fr. Alex Farmer reminds us, we have to hold everything with open hands, ready to lay it down for the sake of following Jesus. If you like what you hear, we invite you to learn more about us: https://www.servantsanglican.org/ https://linktr.ee/servantsanglican
As Fr. Mike reads from Nehemiah today, we hear about how the hearts of the people of Israel were moved as Ezra reads the book of the law of Moses to them. In our reading of Esther, we have the beginning of the crisis that will unfold throughout the book as Haman, backed by the king, seeks to destroy the Jews. Today's readings are Nehemiah 8, Esther 3 and 13, and Proverbs 21:5-8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As Fr. Mike begins the book of Lamentations, we read about Jeremiah's sorrow as he witnesses the siege and suffering of Jerusalem. In the book of Jeremiah, we hear a word of comfort from the Lord to Baruch. Today's readings are Jeremiah 45-46, Lamentations 1, and Proverbs 17:21-28. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Dan and Richard Leider discuss the importance of a realistic and nuanced perspective on death and mortality. As Fr. John Dunne put it, "If it is that we are to die, how are we called to live?"We are collecting questions for a bonus listener mailbag episode! Please submit any questions you want to ask Fr. Dan and/or Richard through this form.Resources:Writing Your Own Eulogy IntegrationObserver Editorial: Don't make us write obituaries.David Brooks on résumé and eulogy virtues (video version)St. Ignatius' deathbed meditationQuestion submission form
Fr. Dan and Richard Leider discuss the importance of kinship and accompaniment. As Fr. Greg Boyle describes it, “Kinship—not serving the other, but being one with the other. Jesus was not ‘a man for others'; he was one with them. There is a world of difference in that…”We hope that you can take the opportunity to reflect on a time when you were accompanied well, and on how you can accompany others in the future.Resources:Accompaniment IntegrationLifeLine ExerciseBryan Stevenson on the importance of "staying proximate"Galilean Journey: The Mexican-American Promise by Fr. Virgilio Elizondo
As Fr. Shane recently discovered during a youth ministry trip to the Rocky Mountains, guys tend to avoid talking about their emotions and movements of the heart. Yet when men are willing to enter into their vulnerabilities, the results are impressive. Check out this discussion on how all areas of our interior life need to be integrated and well-ordered.
The Sacred and the Profane By Larry Beane From time to time, Lutherans mock other Lutherans for being overly careful regarding dealing with consecrated elements so as to avoid their profanation. In one recent discussion, a Lutheran pastor wrote: I understand being reverent, but some of the specific piety is overkill, to the point where the point of the meal is missed. Do you really think if a morsel of bread is dropped to the floor, God in heaven is angry? Of course, it's revealing that he sought to minimize the offense by describing the “morsel” not as the body of Christ, but as “bread.” As if we were talking about an errant crumb from a Subway Spicy Italian six-inch sub instead of the flesh of the Creator of the Universe - well, if you believe that sort of thing, I suppose. And for the record, nobody suggested that this had anything to do with God's wrath. I have often read mockery directed toward fastidiousness regarding the consecrated elements, as if such caution was something to be avoided or held up to ridicule. How different from our fathers in the faith, including Drs. Luther and Bugenhagen (in an incident quoted by Edward Frederick Peters, The Origin and Meaning of the Axiom: “Nothing Has the Character of a Sacrament Outside of the Use” [Fort Wayne, Indiana: Concordia Theological Seminary Press, 1993], p. 191): [In 1542, in Wittenberg] a woman wanted to go to the Lord's Supper, and then as she was about to kneel on the bench before the altar and drink, she made a misstep and jostled the chalice of the Lord violently with her mouth, so that some of the Blood of Christ was spilled from it onto her lined jacket and coat and onto the rail of the bench on which she was kneeling. So then when the reverend Doctor Luther, who was standing at a bench opposite, saw this, he quickly ran to the altar (as did also the reverend Doctor Bugenhagen), and together with the curate, with all reverence licked up [the Blood of Christ from the rail] and helped wipe off this spilled Blood of Christ from the woman's coat, and so on, as well as they could. And Doctor Luther took this catastrophe so seriously that he groaned over it and said, “O, God, help!” and his eyes were full of water. I wonder how many modern pastors would mock Luther - or even one of their contemporary brethren - for licking the spilled blood of Christ from the communion rail. And this was not the only time Dr. Luther licked up the spilled blood of the Lord. As Fr. William Weedon wrote back in 2007, referring to a sixteenth century account by Johann Hachenburg: Or consider how, when he spilled the chalice and it fell to the floor, he carefully set the chalice back on the altar and got on his hands and knees and lapped it up off the floor like a dog - upon which the congregation burst into tears. I believe that our sense of the separation between the sacred and the profane has degraded since the days of our fathers in the faith. And this is understandable. For us 21st century Americans, we routinely see churches that look less like churches and more like strip malls or concert halls. Church music is increasingly secularized. Vestments are often downplayed, and the sense that worship is “set apart” from the common, ordinary life is increasingly minimalized and marginalized, if not outright combined and conjoined. It makes one cringe to hear pastors and well-catechized laity refer to the consecrated elements as “bread” and “wine” instead of what they are by virtue of the miracle of encountering our Lord's Word: the very body and blood of Christ. Of course, they are also bread and wine. It is a both/and and not an either/or. But in the same way that one would speak of one's own child as one's “son” or “daughter” as opposed to describing him as “some kid.” Of course, your own child is “some kid,” but what would cause a parent to speak in this way, ignoring the more sublime reality to settle on a technically-true generality? But I believe that we are seeing a much more general trend in the failure to discern the sacred from the profane. I recently had a commenter on my Facebook timeline use a certain expression of profanity that was very crass and vulgar. When I asked him to refrain, given that I'm a pastor and that I do have ladies and children who will see it, he was rather agitated. What I found most amazing is that he is a proud Southerner. And traditional Southern culture is one of chivalry. Southern men of every socioeconomic level are traditionally raised to show deference to ladies and to children - especially by a desire to assist and to refrain from giving offense. Southern men can indeed curse with the best of their Yankee counterparts - and they do. But it has always been a hallmark of our region to make a distinction in matters of speech and manners. And when a man doesn't make such a distinction, it is supposed that he “wasn't raised right.” And of course, I'm being a bit tongue-in-cheek, as all regions of the country used to display such deference. It has always been stressed in Southern culture. And this sense of distinction is what holiness is - to set apart, to remove one's sandals on holy ground, to bow to the ground before God, and to adorn the places where God physically appears differently than one would decorate a common, ordinary living area. The distinction between the sacred and the profane has been muddled in our modern age, and especially in the last couple decades. Words that used to be off-limits on broadcast television are routinely used. Topics addressed in commercials are now wide-open, with no sense that some things should not be discussed in front of children. My Southern friend worded his defense of using any level of profanity whenever and wherever he liked in a curious way. I asked him if he would use such language in front of his mother, or his children, or in church, or at Bible class. His response was telling: If I had children I would encourage them to speak how they feel not what is excepted [sic], freedom of speech is freedom of speech there is no exception and I would expect my children and grown adults to be comfortable speaking their minds freely!! I'm not for everyone and as far as church is conscerned [sic] wherever my feet are planted is my church and God is always my guide. Of course, if he had children, he might see things differently, but then again, maybe not. I often hear parents saying the most vulgar things in front of even very small children, and it is distressing that from a young age, children are not learning boundaries. They are taught that the way we conduct ourselves in the gym, the playground, or the locker-room is the same as we carry ourselves in church, at a funeral, or at a formal dinner. Interestingly, he openly makes no distinction between a holy place, like a church, and “wherever [his] feet are planted.” In his worldview, God doesn't make such distinctions either. Moreover, in the larger culture, the way we treat women is the same way that we treat men - because after all, there is no distinction between the sexes. All religions are also the same. To most people, bread that has been consecrated is just like bread that hasn't been. A church building is no holier than a parking garage (because God is everywhere). On a side note, this downplaying of, and opposition to, distinctions is a hallmark of Gnosticism. This point is driven home in the Fr. Peter Burfeind's book: Gnostic America: A Reading of Contemporary American Culture & Religion according to Christianity's Oldest Heresy. We are increasingly unable to make distinctions and to discern between that which is common and that which is holy. For us Lutherans, as sacramental Christians whose confession is that Christ is physically present in the blessed elements, we really need to double down in what we say and do with regard to that which is holy, lest we contribute to the trend of profanation, and thereby give the impression that we don't believe what our Lord clearly told us in the Words of Institution. And if we're not going to be cautious with the holy things - as much as we would be cautious with caustic chemicals or high voltage electricity - then what do we really believe about what holiness is? Or more basic than that, what do we believe regarding what Jesus teaches us? Maybe that is the question we really need to be addressing: What do we believe?
One of the greatest sources of our suffering is the lies we tell ourselves. We sometimes hide from the truth because we are ashamed. As Fr. Zacharias of Essex says, "Shame is the lack of courage to see ourselves the way God sees us." This homily from the beginning of Lent in 2019 is a reflection on John 1.43-51.
As Fr. Scott continues to convalesce, we offer another talk from our archives, this time on understanding and studying Scripture. https://archive.org/download/LetsTalkCatholic/LTC-055RR-UnderstandingScripture.mp3
As Fr. Yohanna talks to us about Fr. Louka Sidarous' spiritual life, we are shown that there is an immense power in prayer and in reading the Bible. Fr. Yohanna recounts that despite being very ill, Fr. Louka continued to immerse himself in the scriptures and spread the Word. Tune in to hear more about his journey.Fr. Yohanna Nassif – September 20, 2020Christ the Savior American Coptic Orthodox ChurchDiocese of Los Angeleswww.thegoodsavior.org
This Hank Unplugged podcast features a wide-ranging conversation with Fr. Themi Adamopoulo. Fr. Themi is a former atheist, rock star turned missionary priest serving in one of the poorest countries in the world, Sierra Leon. As Fr. Themi puts it in his conversation with Hank, “Fame is empty, but Christianity has no expiration date.” Listen to find out why these two former atheists now share a passion to serve Christ that is unshakeable in this energetic and inspiring conversation. Topics discussed include: the contemporary Saint Nektarios and the pain of Christians being persecuted by fellow Christians (2:30); why Hank has experienced persecution by becoming Orthodox, and do Orthodox Christians need to do a better job of evangelism? (7:00); the false dichotomy between faith and works that the West finds itself stuck with (10:00); Themi's work against the biggest scandal the world faces today: poverty (15:50); the history of belief regarding the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist/Communion (22:30); the importance of perpetuating Christian traditions, while also adapting for cultural differences (29:10); Themi's past as a Marxist, atheist rock star in the Australian rock band The Flies and how he eventually converted to Christianity (34:50); the dangers of ego in academia (44:00); the Western tendency to embrace reason at the cost of mystery (46:45); mystical experiences of Christ (50:30); Themi explains from his own experience how fame is empty, but Christianity has no expiration date (54:10); every day thousands of children die in Africa. How do we shift our global priorities to stop this and show that we value human life? (1:04:30); Themi explains the popularity of the prosperity gospel preached in many Pentecostal churches in Africa (1:09:00); why Christians helping the poor is a nonnegotiable (1:12:20); their shared belief that true Christian faith is a transformational journey rather than a mere transactional moment (1:16:30).
Father Thomas Naval proclaims the Gospel (Matthew 16:13-20) and breaks open the word. Fr. Thomas then, at the 7:30 mark, introduces Patrick Coffin, who will lead our parish mission, Recharge!, on Saturday, September 9, at 7PM. As Fr. Thomas says, Recharge! is "an opportunity for us to move one step closer to who God wants us to be." For more information, see link here. Words for your Way from Santiago de Compostela Catholic Church in Lake Forest, California.
October is the month of the Rosary and so in this week's programme, the Sacred Space Team chat about the origins of the Rosary, why it is both a beautiful and a powerful prayer and they pray the joyful mysteries of the scriptural rosary. We also have our usual notices, prayer intentions and saints of the week. The full programme is available HERE.The Scriptural RosaryLast Friday we celebrated the feast of the Holy Rosary. The month of October is dedicated to the Holy Rosary. According to an account by fifteenth-century Dominican, Alan de la Rocha, Mary appeared to St. Dominic in 1206 after he had been praying and doing severe penances because of his lack of success in combating the Albigensian heresy. Mary praised him for his valiant fight against the heretics and then gave him the Rosary as a mighty weapon, explained its uses and efficacy, and told him to preach it to others:"Be of good cheer, Dominic, the remedy for the evils which you lament will be meditation on the life, death and glory of My Son, uniting all with the recitation of the angelic salutation (Hail Mary) by which the mystery of redemption was announced to the world. This devotion, which you are to inculcate by your preaching, is a practice most dear to My Son and Me. The faithful will obtain by it innumerable advantages and shall always find Me ready to aid them in their wants. This is the precious gift which I leave to you and to your spiritual children." (HT to ScripturalRosary.org HERE).Saint Pope John Paul II, in Rosarium Virginis Mariae, said: The Rosary is “at heart a Christocentric prayer” (RVM 1). In other words, Jesus is at the centre or heart of the Rosary. We can see this with the Hail, Mary prayer. The Holy Name of Jesus is at the heart of every Hail, Mary we say. Saint John Paul II says: “With the Rosary, the Christian people sits at the school of Mary and is led to contemplate the beauty on the face of Christ and to experience the depths of his love” (RVM 1). Isn't that beautiful! Every time we pray the Rosary we sit at the school of Mary and she, our beloved Mother, helps us to contemplate the beauty of the face of Christ. What do we mean by contemplate? The Catechism teaches us that when we recite vocal prayers like the Rosary in a prayerful manner, “Prayer is internalised to the extent that we become aware of him ‘to whom we speak'” (CCC 2704). In other words, we are drawn deeper in prayer by praying the words of the Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be etc. and meditating or thinking about the mysteries of the Rosary so that we experience the love of God deep within ourselves. Every Rosary we pray with love and devotion making our best effort to unite our hearts with our Blessed Mother draws us closer to God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. As Fr. John Mockler has reminded us a number of times, the Rosary is the most powerful prayer we can pray after the Mass. In fact, the Rosary is a continuation of the Mass because in the Mass we celebrate the Paschal Mystery, in other words, the life, death and resurrection of Jesus and the Rosary is a meditation on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.The talk on the Rosary and the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary prayed by the Sacred Space Team is excerpted from our programme HERE. The text of the Scriptural Rosary for each of the Mysteries is available HERE.
As Fr. Joseph leaves St. George Church and heads west to St. Joseph's, he muses on past "Sons of St. George" and wonders if there really ever was a "Redneck in Ramallah."
As Fr. Tom comes close to the end of this series, he explores with us the name of Jesus as Pastor and Bishop.
As Fr. Tom continues his series on the Names of Jesus, he examines the word "Power" and how it applies to Christ.
TRANSCRIPT Back in 1994, during the pontificate of St. John Paul II, a question arose in the secular media that was circulating in Catholic circles. In sum, the question was this: Can a Catholic disagree with Church teaching and still be a "good" Catholic? John Paul rightly said, "Of course not!" The media jumped all over this conflict and, of course, conducted a poll of Catholics who already believed the error because of their horrible catechesis. They announced that most American Catholics did believe they remained good Catholics even while rejecting Catholic teaching. So grab a seat and look at these numbers we have gleaned from various polls and surveys from the past few years. Only about 1 in 4 Catholics attend Mass weekly Among the weekly attendees, only 13% agree that contraception is immoral More than 2 out of 3 support homosexual "marriage" 51% believe abortion should be legal in most or all circumstances 7 in 10 do not believe in the Real Presence of Our Lord in the Eucharist The overall percentage of Catholics relative to the total population drops to 1 out of 5 For every convert, 10 leave the Church Such is the miserable condition of the Church today. One of those points we'd like to focus on is the horrible poll results about the Real Presence. Without the Eucharist, there is no Catholic Church. It's just that simple. Church Militant has been churning out theological content for 16 years and has an extensive library of such programming on our Premium channel. The monthly cost of a Premium subscription is only $10, a figure we have never increased. Without the Eucharist, there is no Catholic Church. And there are hundreds of hours of solid Catholic teaching at your fingertips, on demand, wherever you want it. Specifically, regarding the Blessed Sacrament, we have 13 hours of programming available in the fourth season of our flagship show, The One True Faith. We have another six hours of apologetics on the Eucharist in our Basic Training classes. We have a special one-off episode on the question of the Real Presence in a program we call It is or It Isn't, where we approach the question from simply a logical and philosophical standpoint. And then, of course, we have our first full documentary, God's Lamb, where we stitch together the theological truth of the Real Presence by appealing to Scripture, stretching all the way back to the Garden of Eden. All of that and much more on the Eucharist is available whenever you want to view it for just $10 a month for your Premium subscription. Last November, the U.S. bishops caused quite a stir at their annual Baltimore meeting by doing one thing and not doing another. What they did not do was end sacrilegious Holy Communion by pro-abort Catholic politicians. In other words, they did not obey canon 915 — completely skipping over it and ignoring it as they have for decades. What they did do was almost equally as scandalous. In an effort to cover for their weakness and cowardice in ducking the question of sacrilege, they launched a three-year effort to teach about the Real Presence — you know, what they should have been doing for the past 60 years. They allocated $28 million to the effort! There are lots of events planned and brochures and fliers and meetings and gatherings — the entire typical bureaucratic response to a problem of faith. As Fr. Chad Ripperger succinctly said, "Why don't the bishops first just prevent sacrilegious reception before they set out on a three-year, $28 million effort to tell us how important the Eucharist is?" Fair point. The bishops have identified the heart of the problem, even while revealing their sorry failures over the past 60 years to teach. But why wait for the bishops' dog-and-pony show to roll into town? Do you want knowledge and information on the Eucharist? Do you want it from a historical, philosophical, scriptural and theological point of view — or all the above? You've come to the right place. Church Militant is committed to presenting the teachings of the Church, teaching them in a clear, decisive, irrefutable and, of course, easily understood fashion. The truths of the Holy Catholic Faith must be intellectually accessible to everyone at all times. The laity must step up and own responsibility for their own spiritual welfare. There has been way too much failure in this regard, almost all of it the fault of the bishops. So we'd like to ask you to become a Premium member today. It's just $10 a month — much less than you'd spend on a couple of cups of coffee a week, and infinitely more valuable. In the face of the colossal failure on the part of Church leaders, the laity must step up and own responsibility for their own spiritual welfare. All this week (the last week of the summer), we are going to be highlighting the treasure trove that is the Premium channel of Church Militant. It's 100% faithful to the Magisterium. It's easily understood and, most importantly, reveals aspects of Church teaching you've likely never heard before. The spiritual war that the world is involved in right now demands that Catholics know their Faith down cold. This is a fantastic way to begin. Again, please just click on the link and sign up today for your monthly Premium subscription.
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