Podcasts about cardinal ratzinger

Dr. Greg Popcak has tips for a peaceful thanksgiving celebration and Jennifer Bryson introduces us to Cardinal Ratzinger's favorite author. We also meet the real Sojourner Truth with Mary Cuff.

Send us a textDid Vatican II require the priest to face the people? Short answer: no.In this episode, we unpack *ad orientem*—what it is, what the Roman Missal actually says, and why the Church's worship faces the Lord.— EPISODE SUMMARY —Fr. Dan and Ken walk through the Church's teaching and practice on Mass orientation. We clarify common misconceptions about Vatican II, explain the idea of “liturgical East,” look at the Roman Missal rubrics that tell the priest when to turn and face the people, and review the year-2000 Vatican clarification that versus populum is an option—not an obligation. Pastoral takeaways: mutual openness, reverence, and a vertical focus on God.— KEY POINTS —• What “ad orientem” means: priest and people facing the Lord together  • “Liturgical East”: crucifix/tabernacle as our shared focus  • Vatican II: what it did—and did **not**—say about orientation  • 1964 instruction on freestanding altars: an option for celebration facing the people  • Roman Missal rubrics: why “turn to face the people” appears (and what that implies)  • 2000 clarification (CDW): facing the people is **not** obligatory  • Benedict XVI (Cardinal Ratzinger): avoid labels; seek the best realization of the liturgy  • Pastoral how-to: reintroducing ad orientem prudently and catechetically— QUOTES/REFERENCES —• Michael Lang, *Turning Towards the Lord* (foreword by Joseph Ratzinger)  • General Instruction / Roman Missal rubrics (on turning to face the people)  • CDW, 2000 clarification on celebration facing the people— CHAPTERS —00:00 Intro — Ad Orientem Unveiled: What Vatican II Really Taught01:04 Homily begins: Fr Dan Yasinski: What Vatican II didn't say03:08 What “Ad Orientem” means & it's historical significance 05:28 Why “Liturgical East” matters (crucifix & tabernacle as focus)06:21 Does the Church allow for Ad Orientem?09:53 Benedict XVI (Ratzinger): mutual openness, not labels11:38 Interview with Fr Dan Begins - Did Vatican ask priest to face the people?15:36 Q&A segment: What are the rubrics? 18:24 How are the rubrics over looked?19:58 Why are the instructions from the Vatican on Ad Orientem ignored?22:32 Responding to the critics of Ad Orientem worship27:27 Is Ad Orientem worship non-inclusive?30:46 Conclusion & invitation: “We turn to the Lord”If this blessed you, please follow/rate the show and share it with a friend.  Support the showSupport this show and get all future episodes by email atwww.kenandjanelle.com

This is the first of a two-part deep dive into how U.S. foreign policy stared down the political threat of Liberation Theology by promoting Evangelical Christianity in Latin America. The CIA and USAID, in league with Vatican conservatives like Cardinal Ratzinger, spent money and social capital on the suppression of this vital new movement which insisted that poverty is political and that faith without structural change is hollow.  By contrast, the Evangelical emphasis on individual sin, salvation, and personal prosperity aligned with Cold War and neoliberal interests.  Spiritualities engineered to serve empire don't just pacify the poor abroad—they come back to police democracy at home. The “Evangelical boomerang” shows up in shifting Latino religious demographics and voting patterns, while the “reverse boomerang” hints that Liberation Theology language—once condemned—now shapes Pope Leo's message in this time of rising fascism.  If MAGA mystics, prosperity preachers, and tech-bro shamans offer a gospel of self-aggrandizement, Liberation Theology counters with a message of shared material reality: no one owns the food, we share it; the Sabbath serves people, not power; love of God is inseparable from love for the poor.  Part 1 lays the intellectual and historical groundwork; Part 2 follows the covert money networks and then asks whether a newly emboldened Catholic social vision can stiffen global resistance to authoritarian capitalism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI issued Anglicanorum coetibus, a historic move that provided a unique new avenue for Christians from the Anglican world to join the Catholic Church while keeping elements of their liturgical patrimony. As the first head of the Personal Ordinariate in the United States and Canada, Msgr. Jeffrey Steenson shares his background as a bishop in the Episcopal Church, the meetings with then-Cardinal Ratzinger that laid the foundation for Anglicanorum coetibus, and what it was like to have a front row seat to this extraordinary moment in Christian history. NOTE: This conversation was recorded shortly before the appointment of Archbishop Sarah Mullally to the See of Canterbury, but we decided to leave the comments about the lengthy vacancy of that office in the episode because of their pertinence to the overall discussion. More about the Ordinariate: https://www.ordinariate.net More of our stories and resources: https://www.chnetwork.org Our Online Community: https://www.chnetwork.org/community Support our work: https://www.chnetwork.org/compass

Twenty-five years ago, the future Pope Benedict XVI released his pivotal work “The Spirit of the Liturgy,” and today we are blessed to be joined by Archbishop Cordileone and one of Pope Benedict's own students, Fr. Fessio. Get Pope Benedict XVI's The Spirit of the Liturgy: https://ignatius.com/the-spirit-of-the-liturgy-commemorative-edition-splcep/?searchid=2985996&search_query=spirit+of+the+liturgy   In today's episode, Fr. Fessio recounts the first time he learned about Cardinal Ratzinger writing “Spirit of the Liturgy” as well as his initial response reading the book. Archbishop Cordileone also outlines how this work has impacted his decisions in his own archdiocese. Finally, they highlight several practices that they believe every Catholic and parish should implement. Fr. Fessio and Archbishop Cordileone both agree that this is one of Pope Benedict's greatest works and that it can lead the way for a Liturgical renewal in the Catholic Church.   SUBSCRIBE to our channel and never miss an episode of the Ignatius Press Podcast. You can also listen to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Follow us on social media: Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/IgnatiusPress Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignatiuspress Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignatius_press/

What if the key to resilience wasn't about avoiding suffering—but learning to embrace it with grit, faith, and silence?In this episode of Decidedly, we sit down with Father Stephen J. Gadberry – Catholic priest, Air Force veteran, and ultra-endurance athlete – to uncover how tragedy, discipline, and devotion shaped his approach to decision-making and leadership. From losing his father and sister in a car accident at age eight, to serving in the military, to leading thousands in his parish, Father Stephen reveals how resilience is forged in silence and tested in service.We dive deep into the role of suffering in spiritual growth, the power of identity before mission, and why leaders must learn to “know where their mess is.” This conversation isn't about perfection – it's about the freedom that comes from honesty, faith, and radical perseverance. If you've ever wrestled with pain, purpose, or what it means to lead with integrity, this episode will shift how you see your own journey.KEY TOPICSHow childhood tragedy forged resilience and gritWhy silence is essential for strong decision-makingThe dangers of radical independence, and how to ask for helpVulnerability in leadership: why showing your mess frees othersFaith, perseverance, and the gift of sufferingIdentity before mission: why who you are comes before what you doHow to discern between God's will and personal preferenceWhy men are hungry for authentic guidance, and what leaders must do about itLessons from endurance racing, the military, and the priesthoodCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction03:15 Father Stephen's Childhood Tragedy and Early Faith07:45 How Grit Became the Theme of His Life10:30 Resilience, Independence, and Asking for Help14:20 Discernment: God's Will vs. Personal Preference18:00 Vulnerability and Leadership in the Church21:15 Why Men Are Craving Authentic Guidance25:00 Identity Before Mission: The Foundation of Leadership28:15 Making Hard Decisions and Setting Boundaries32:00 The Role of Coachability in Growth and Faith35:40 Training for the Leadville 100 and Lessons from Endurance Sports40:00 Competing on American Ninja Warrior to Preach the Gospel43:15 Wrestling with Psychedelics, Spirituality, and Discernment47:00 Father Stephen's Top Tip for Decision-Making: Silence#FaithAndResilience #DecisionMaking #CatholicPodcast #FatherStephen #GritAndGrace #LeadershipThroughFaith #ResilientLiving #SpiritualGrowth #IdentityBeforeMission #VulnerabilityInLeadership #DecidedlyPodcast #TrueFaith #PowerOfSilence #HealingThroughFaith #CatholicLeadershipCONNECT WITH USwww.decidedlypodcast.com Join us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/decidedlypodcast Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decidedlypodcast Shawn's Instagram: www.instagram.com/shawn_d_smith Sanger's Instagram: www.instagram.com/sangersmith MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At Decidedly Wealth Management, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.LEARN MOREwww.decidedlywealth.com SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY DECISION-MAKING TIP EMAILJoin us every Wednesday for more strategies to DEFEAT bad decision-making - one episode at a time!CONNECT WITH FATHER STEPHENInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherstephenjgadberry/?hl=en Father Stephen Gadberry, a native of the Arkansas Delta, is a Catholic priest for the Diocese of Little Rock, ordained in 2016. A U.S. Air Force veteran before studying philosophy at St. Joseph Seminary College and earning advanced theology degrees in Rome, specializing in St. Augustine and Cardinal Ratzinger.A fellow of the Word on Fire Institute, Father Stephen is active in Bishop Robert Barron's ministries. He appeared on American Ninja Warrior in 2018 and currently serves as pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Batesville and St. Cecilia's in Newport, as well as dean of the Northeast Arkansas deanery.

Drawing on insights from Cardinal Burke, Father Charles Murr, and testimonies from those close to Cardinal Ratzinger, John-Henry Westen and Dr. Maike Hickson revisit the long-disputed Third Secret of Fatima, questioning whether the Vatican's 2000 disclosure revealed the full message. Dr. Hickson links the Fatima message to Vatican II, post-conciliar turmoil, and today's decline in Eucharistic belief, stressing that Heaven's requests, the Five First Saturdays devotion, and the precise consecration of Russia, remain incomplete. Far from a past relic, Fatima stands as a living prophetic call, urging Catholics to respond before the warnings are fully realized.Sign up for the 1st Saturday Devotion Series: https://www.lifesitenews.com/opinion/100-years-ago-our-lady-made-this-request-time-to-start-now/U.S. residents! Create a will with LifeSiteNews: https://www.mylegacywill.com/lifesitenews ****PROTECT Your Wealth with gold, silver, and precious metals: https://stjosephpartners.com/lifesitenews +++SHOP ALL YOUR FUN AND FAVORITE LIFESITE MERCH! https://shop.lifesitenews.com/ ****Download the all-new LSNTV App now, available on iPhone and Android!LSNTV Apple Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lsntv/id6469105564 LSNTV Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lifesitenews.app +++Connect with John-Henry Westen and all of LifeSiteNews on social media:LifeSite: https://linktr.ee/lifesitenewsJohn-Henry Westen: https://linktr.ee/jhwesten Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe to the paper: https://simplecirc.com/subscribe/17820213Don't miss the extra story! Become a supporter at: https://catholicfamilynews.locals.com(Note: As Brian rightly noted, Cardinal Ratzinger was the head of the CDF, not the Secretary of State, apologies for the confusion! -Murray)Join Brian McCall and Murray Rundus as they discuss the death of Pope Francis, the need to pray for him, the upcoming events at the Vatican and the future conclaveDon't miss the extra story! Become a supporter at: https://catholicfamilynews.locals.comCulture:Brian- Merchant of Venice (And the Shadowplay book)Murray- Coronation Mass, Mozart (Karajan)#catholic #popefrancis #christianity

We are frequently asked, reminded, or even commanded to pray for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and religious life. But what if those prayers have already been answered in the negative? Perhaps it is time to quit wasting our breath on redundant prayers in spite of God's clear answer and instead pray, think, and experiment to see what ministry might look like in the future. Father William Grimm  shares some thoughts on this.Produced by Binu Alex About the Speaker: Father William Grimm, a native of New York City, is a missioner and presbyter who since 1973 has served in Japan, Hong Kong and Cambodia. A graduate of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York, he is the active emeritus publisher of UCA News. Now based in the United States, he regularly contributes columns, some of which have been collected in the UCA News e-book Spoutings. He is also the presenter of popular Sunday homilies telecast by UCA News each week. A collection of those homilies has been published as Dialogue of One. For news in and about the Church in Asia, visit www.ucanews.comTo contribute please visit www.ucanews.com/donateOn Twitter Follow Or Connect through DM at : twitter.com/ucanewsTo view Video features please visit https://www.youtube.com/@ucanews

This week we not only celebrate Pope Benedict XVI's birthday, but it is also the 20th anniversary of his election. Join Fr. Fessio as he gives a rare glimpse into the writings and teaching methods of a Pope who he believes will one day be declared a saint and doctor of the Church.   Fr. Fessio and Mark Brumley not only remember Cardinal Ratzinger's election, but they discuss his role in writing the Catechism and directing the Church in the 21st century. Finally, they reflect on the mission of Ignatius Press, which is largely informed by Pope Benedict, and they speculate on what the future may hold for the Church in the coming years.   Get Your Copy of Pope Benedict XVI's books at Ignatius.com: https://ignatius.com/authors/pope-benedict-xvi/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw--K_BhB5EiwAuwYoym__thMn8FCf9HVWDtHAx3Etl5PqUs_Ha130sdeXIJt3jVSieU4hbBoC9QMQAvD_BwE   Get Benedict XVI's Spirit of the Liturgy: https://ignatius.com/the-spirit-of-the-liturgy-commemorative-edition-splcep/?searchid=2105105   SUBSCRIBE to our channel and never miss an episode of the Ignatius Press Podcast. You can also listen to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Follow us on social media: Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/IgnatiusPress Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignatiuspress Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignatius_press/

In Lent we reflect upon sin in our lives. We might not notice, however, that besides being personal actions or failures, sin is also a pervasive reality from which we cannot escape even when we want to. Only Christ can free us from that reality and cleanse us for life with God.. Father William Grimm shares some thoughts on this.Produced by Binu Alex 
About the Speaker: Father William Grimm, a native of New York City, is a missioner and presbyter who since 1973 has served in Japan, Hong Kong and Cambodia. A graduate of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York, he is the active emeritus publisher of UCA News. Now based in the United States, he regularly contributes columns, some of which have been collected in the UCA News e-book Spoutings. He is also the presenter of popular Sunday homilies telecast by UCA News each week. A collection of those homilies has been published as Dialogue of One. For news in and about the Church in Asia, visit www.ucanews.comTo contribute please visit www.ucanews.com/donateOn Twitter Follow Or Connect through DM at : twitter.com/ucanewsTo view Video features please visit https://www.youtube.com/@ucanews

The bishops of the United States and even the pope have spoken against policies of the Trump administration that target people who have entered the country without authorization. Catholics in the administration have taken issue with those protests, a sign that the American bishops have failed to instill certain Gospel values in their flock. Father William Grimm shares some thoughts on this.Produced by Binu Alex 
For news in and about the Church in Asia, visit www.ucanews.com
To contribute please visit www.ucanews.com/donate
On Twitter Follow us : twitter.com/ucanewsAbout the Speaker: Father William Grimm, a native of New York City, is a missioner and presbyter who since 1973 has served in Japan, Hong Kong and Cambodia. A graduate of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York, he is the active emeritus publisher of UCA News. Now based in the United States, he regularly contributes columns, some of which have been collected in the UCA News e-book Spoutings. He is also the presenter of popular Sunday homilies telecast by UCA News each week. A collection of those homilies has been published as Dialogue of One. For news in and about the Church in Asia, visit www.ucanews.comTo contribute please visit www.ucanews.com/donateOn Twitter Follow Or Connect through DM at : twitter.com/ucanewsTo view Video features please visit https://www.youtube.com/@ucanews

It is often said that one can find God in nature, but few have explored the theology behind such a common statement. Join us as Fr. John Nepil talks with Andrew Petiprin about the theological lessons and underpinnings of mountain hiking, which he details in his new book To Heights and Unto Depths. This book and the ensuing conversation artfully weave together theological insights and real-world experience.   Fr. Nepil and Andrew examine the spiritual benefits of the outdoors, both the joys of reaching the summit and the lows felt during arduous hours hiking. They also discuss the modern crisis of manhood, the responsibility of leadership, and how the works of theologians such as Von Balthasar, Cardinal Ratzinger, and Luigi Giussani can reveal spiritual wisdom found on the trail. For those who love the outdoors or theology, this episode is a must watch!   Get your copy of To Heights and Unto Depths: https://ignatius.com/to-heights-and-unto-depths-thudp/   SUBSCRIBE to our channel and never miss an episode of the Ignatius Press Podcast. You can also listen to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Follow us on social media: Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/IgnatiusPress Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignatiuspress Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignatius_press/

Parrhesia, speaking truth to power, is an important part of the prophetic ministry of the Church. It is seldom popular among those at whom it is directed, as can be seen when an Episcopal bishop in the United States confronted the president of that country in a sermon that has provoked both praise and condemnation. Father William Grimm  shares some thoughts on this.Produced by Binu Alex About the Speaker: Father William Grimm, a native of New York City, is a missioner and presbyter who since 1973 has served in Japan, Hong Kong and Cambodia. A graduate of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York, he is the active emeritus publisher of UCA News. Now based in the United States, he regularly contributes columns, some of which have been collected in the UCA News e-book Spoutings. He is also the presenter of popular Sunday homilies telecast by UCA News each week. A collection of those homilies has been published as Dialogue of One. For news in and about the Church in Asia, visit www.ucanews.comTo contribute please visit www.ucanews.com/donateOn Twitter Follow Or Connect through DM at : twitter.com/ucanewsTo view Video features please visit https://www.youtube.com/@ucanews

Questions Covered: 02:00 – I'm in a Monday night Ignatius Bible study. We're talking about the giving of the keys to the kingdom. I've looked at Scripture and the Catechism; what is the limit of the pope's authority?  10:28 – I'm Catholic and have numerous hidden tattoos that are religious in nature. What is the Church's opinion/teaching on this?  13:07 – There seem to be some conflicting verses; death of Judas in Matt vs. in Acts. Joseph's father being Jacob vs. Hele. Are these misprints or contradictions, or is there an explanation for this?  23:56 – In terms of purgatory, there's a lot of differing opinions. Popular position / Cardinal Ratzinger said that they're so engulfed in love with Christ and encountering Him that they're burning and being purified. Since they're encountering Christ, our prayers don't do anything?  38:01 – Are canonizations of the Saints considered infallible?  44:14 – Can we only assign moral values to actions? What can we call bad?  50:29 – Some people use MT 10:28 to teach the idea of annihilation. How do I counter this? Would Rev 14 be a good rebuttal?  …

Since the Fall, the differences between men and women have been a source of tension and conflict, shaped by how we interpret the other through our own perspective. But this very tension is a pathway to holiness—a chance to discover the gift, beauty, and wonder of the other. In this episode, we lay the foundation for understanding the masculine and feminine genius so we can go deeper into gender complementarity as part of God's plan. Discussed in this episode: The surprising connection between masculinity, femininity, and holiness through conflict and tension; A free preview of a CPMAP certification lecture on the foundations of masculine and feminine genius; How John Paul II's concept of “feminine genius” offers profound insights into gender differences; Why our biology as male or female is foundational to understanding who we are; Cardinal Ratzinger's thoughts on how sexuality marks us physically, psychologically, and spiritually; Why the battle of the sexes and gender wars date back to the fall of Adam and Eve; How Marxist ideology and feminism have shaped modern views on gender and equality; Why “fractional complementarity” can lead to a distorted understanding of gender; The role of Mary and St. Joseph in forming Jesus through their respective geniuses; The dangers of conflating equality with sameness in the modern cultural landscape; Why the Church's anthropology is uniquely positioned to respond to gender confusion; Why understanding gender differences can lead to complementarity and heal relationships. Resources mentioned or relevant:  Mulieris Dignitatem by Pope St. John Paul II Letter to the Bishops of the Catholic Church on the Collaboration of Men and Women in the Church and in the World by Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI) Previous episodes on the Being Human Podcast:  Episode 201: Is Leadership of the Family a Man's Job? with Special Guest Barbra Bottaro Episode 200: Leaked Audio from a Groundbreaking Franciscan University Conference Keynote to Celebrate Our 200th Episode! Episode 99: Diversity, Gender, and the Genius of Women, w/ Simone Rizkallah Flight from Woman by Karl Stern The Catholic Genius of Integrated Masculinity and Femininity Maria Fedoryka at Hildebrand Conference The Anti-Mary Exposed: Rescuing the Culture from Toxic Femininity by Carrie Gress Doctrinal Note USCCB 2023 Female and Male He Resurrected Them edited by Jennifer Morel Need help? Schedule a free consultation to discuss your next best step;  Feeling called to help others? Learn more about our Certification program (CPMAP): CatholicPsych Model of Applied Personalism; Sign up for Being Human, our weekly newsletter, to stay up to date on the exciting developments at CatholicPsych; Visit our website to read the CatholicPsych blog, shop in the CatholicPsych bookshop, or discover other resources we have available; Download The Integrated App for access to free audio exercises, courses, prayer resources, and more; Become a member of the Integrated Life Community to get access to every course Dr. Greg has created, plus the opportunity to participate in Integrated LIVE's - weekly, Mentor hosted Q&As covering topics like boundaries, communication, trauma, forgiveness, and more! Follow:  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatholicPsych  Instagram: @catholicpsych  X: @CatholicPsych Contact us! Have a topic or a question you would like Dr. Greg to address on the podcast? Want to give some feedback about this episode? Email us at beinghuman@catholicpsych.com - we would love to hear from you! Rate, review, and subscribe Please help us in our mission to integrate the Faith with Psychology by hitting subscribe and also sharing this podcast with your friends. Please consider rating or leaving a review of our show. It helps us reach other Catholics just like you who want to become more integrated, whole, and happy human beings. For Apple podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate 5 stars, and choose “write a review.” Then type your sincere thoughts about the show! If you haven't already, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss out on any episodes. Subscribe to the podcast now!

We return to Jerusalem on the morning after Jesus's triumphal entry as he curses a fig tree. We'll learn why he did such a strange thing, why he insisted to Greeks that he himself was a grain of wheat, and what all of this reveals about the Garden of Eden - and ourselves. This episode is all about the “nature logic” of the Gospel, and the way the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is woven into the very fabric of the cosmos. In this episode You have to die before you can live. Jesus' paradoxical teaching about the "grain of wheat" may seem strange at first, but as St. Cyril of Alexandria, Pope Benedict XVI, and Larry Chapp point out, it's written all over the natural world for us to see plainly, foreshadowing the redemptive suffering of Jesus on the cross and echoing the eternal life and love of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 00:00 Introduction 01:02 Reading of Matthew 18: Jesus Curses the Fig Tree 01:41 Why is Jesus hungry? 02:31 The importance of a fig tree in the Gospel 03:42 God is working to restore paradise for all creation 04:41 The Garden of Eden and gardens in the Gospels 07:12 God is the gardener of salvation history. Examples in the Old Testament 08:27 Jesus' action is foreshadowed by the prophet Ezekiel 09:44 It was “not the season for figs” but God expects fruit anyway 10:11 Jesus teaches about the “dying seed” 12:19 St. Cyril of Alexandria and the “analogy of nature” 13:21 Cardinal Ratzinger explains the “mystery of the dying grain” 14:41 Larry Chap and the mystery of redemptive suffering 15:11 Reading of John 12 - “He who loses his life will save it” 16:43 Suffering on earth is an image of the inner life of the Trinity 17:17 Jesus “leaned obedience through what he suffered” 19:24 The Fathers of the Church took the Gospel's “nature logic” seriously 20:43 St. Clement of Alexandria: The Word of God is the pruning knife of the soul 22:20 Reading of Luke 13: Jesus' parable of the master's vineyard 23:46 Application of the parable 24:19 Conclusion Learn More For more content from Benedictine College, visit media.benedictine.edu The Extraordinary Story is a podcast about the life of Jesus Christ, who entered the maze of our world to transform it into a path to Him, today and always. The Extraordinary Story is produced by Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, and is written and hosted by Tom Hoopes.

Michael Lofton reviews Cardinal Hollerich’s incredibly ignorant comments that women’s ordination in the Catholic Church is not definitively settled. Michael shows that it is definitively settled per Pope John Paul II and then questions whether Cardinal Hollerich is still in full communion with the church in light of Cardinal Ratzinger’s comments on the subject.

Join Relevant Radio and Timmerie at the National Eucharistic Congress.   (1:43) The Eucharist as a Sacrament of transformation with Father Tim Grumbach on Trending with Timmerie. (14:41)   The 'Golden Bachelor' couple to divorce three months after their wedding.  Is there such a thing as a second chance at love?  Can you be single and content?  What can we learn from widows? (38:16)  Resources mentioned :  Travel to the National Eucharistic Congress with Relevant Radio http://relevantradio.com/indy   Lecture by Cardinal Ratzinger on Eucharist (Pope Benedict XVI) https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_20020602_ratzinger-eucharistic-congress_en.html   St. Peter Julian Eymard's “How to Get More Out of Holy Communion”: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/how-to-get-more-out-of-holy-communion/   Golden Bachelor' Couple to Divorce Three Months After Televised ABC Wedding https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/golden-bachelor-divorce-1235872921/

As Catholics, it’s easy to point out how divided Protestantism is, with all of its different denominations. But what about all of the divisions within Catholicism between “conservative” and “liberal” Catholics, Traditionalists, Charismatics, or a thousand other possible splits? As it turns out, the objection that Catholics are just as divided as Protestants isn’t a new one… and nor is the problem of unity within the one Church. So here’s how St. John Henry Newman, Cardinal Ratzinger, and St. Paul responded to this argument. …

Embark on an intellectual expedition as we welcome Julian Assele to the podcast, guiding us through the labyrinth of Christian personalism's surprising harmony with leftist ideologies. Transitioning from conservative Catholicism to Marxism, Julian breaks the mold, challenging the conventional political and religious dichotomies. He offers rich anecdotes from his own evolution, broadening our understanding of figures like István Mészáros and Cardinal Ratzinger, while simultaneously drawing connections between Marxist humanism and Eastern Orthodox views on anthropology. Our conversation serves as a beacon for those adrift in the sea of complex ideologies, promising insights that interweave theology, philosophy, and political economy.In a landscape where organized religion's standing is in flux, we traverse through the dense forests of secularization to shed light on the nuanced interplay between personalism and Christianity. Noting the diversity within the Orthodox and Catholic perspectives on issues such as racism and Christian Zionism, we bridge the gap between contemporary political leanings and ancient philosophical roots. Julian's narrative weaves the past into the present, revealing the overlooked threads of personalism that trace back to Greek cosmos and the early Christian's divine dilemmas, thus framing humanity's intrinsic value and divine potential through the prism of personalism.Rounding off our journey, we scrutinize the tapestry of societal structures, unearthing the philosophical undercurrents that have shaped our modern identity. Julian's intriguing perspective on the Catholic Church's grappling with modernity and socialism stages a dramatic tableau of contradictions and harmonies within religious and socio-political realms. As the episode draws to a close, we steer you towards Julian's own work where he fuses Marxist political economy with biblical exegesis, offering an invaluable treasure trove for listeners eager to further explore these critical intersections. Support the showCrew:Host: C. Derick VarnAudio Producer: Paul Channel Strip ( @aufhebenkultur )Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.Intro Video Design: Jason MylesArt Design: Corn and C. Derick VarnLinks and Social Media:twitter: @skepoetYou can find the additional streams on Youtube

Is Latin better or worse for the Mass? Sparks fly in this concluding episode of our study of Joseph Ratzinger's “The Spirit of the Liturgy.”Support the show

What's kneeling at Mass all about?  Find out with Fr. Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro as they read the final chapter of Joseph Ratzinger's “The Spirit of the Liturgy!”Support the show

The real meaning of “active participation” in the Mass.  Fr. Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro break down the first half of the last chapter of Joseph Ratzinger's “The Spirit of the Liturgy.”Support the show

What is a “rite,” and why are there so many? Fr. Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro untangle the meaning of different liturgical styles with the help of Joseph Ratzinger's “The Spirit of the Liturgy.”Support the show

Rock music:  is it good? Father Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro continue to unpack Pope Benedict's analysis of music in "The Spirit of the Liturgy".Support the show

How music almost killed—and saved—the Catholic Church. Fr. Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro discuss Joseph Ratzinger's account of the development of liturgical singing in “The Spirit of the Liturgy”.Support the show

Dr. Tom Curran continues to explore the concepts of encounter and receptivity, as referenced in Cardinal Ratzinger's book, The Divine Project. Tom teaches four levels of receptivity: 1. Neediness: “Notice me!” 2. Action: “Thanks for the compliment,” 3. Disposition: “I am available to receive,” 4. Mission: “I am available to be used by God!”

Dr. Tom Curran explores the concept of an event, as referenced in Cardinal Ratzinger's book, The Divine Project. Tom shares stories about recent tournaments, a hospitable steward, the humble and reverent recipient, and Holy Week.

Pope Benedict on MUSIC, both ancient and new.  Fr. Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian guide us through part 3, chapter 2, of Joseph Ratzinger's classic “The Spirit of the Liturgy.”Support the show

Why God loves art—and you should too.  Join Fr. Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro in their discussion of part III, chapter 1, of Joseph Ratzinger's “Spirit of the Liturgy”, on images and visual art.Support the show

Do Catholics overlook the Church's most important feast? Why the whole year hinges on March 25, as Fr. Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro continue to unpack Joseph Ratzinger's landmark book “The Spirit of the Liturgy”.Support the show

A daily news briefing from Catholic News Agency, powered by artificial intelligence. Ask your smart speaker to play “Catholic News,” or listen every morning wherever you get podcasts. www.catholicnewsagency.com - Pope Francis has invited Catholics to annually renew an act of consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary on March 25. The solemnity of the Annunciation on Saturday marks one year since Pope Francis consecrated Russia and Ukraine to the Blessed Virgin Mary in Saint Peter's Basilica with a prayer asking for peace in the world. At the end of his general audience on March 22, the pope recalled his historic act of consecration and called on parish communities and prayer groups to annually renew the Marian consecration. Pope Francis also urged people not to forget to pray for “martyred Ukraine, which is suffering so much.” https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253911/pope-francis-invites-catholics-to-renew-consecration-to-immaculate-heart-of-mary-on-march-25 A potential legal case against Pope Benedict XVI over his handling of abuse during his time as archbishop of Munich has been dropped. The accusations had been investigated in the wake of the Munich abuse report, which raised allegations that “there could be misconduct on the part of Church officials in positions of responsibility.” Cardinal Ratzinger, who would later become Pope Benedict XVI, served as archbishop of Munich and Freising from 1977 to 1982. The study criticized the late German pope's handling of four cases during his time in charge of the southern German archdiocese. On Tuesday, the public prosecutor's office said: “In each case, the investigations did not reveal sufficient suspicion of criminal activity on the part of those responsible for personnel, which is why the preliminary proceedings were discontinued.” https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253917/prosecutors-drop-case-of-alleged-cover-up-against-benedict-xvi A coalition of conservative organizations is taking legal action to obtain documents from the Department of Justice related to the surge in pro-abortion attacks on churches and pro-life pregnancy centers and a lack of prosecution from the agency. A lawsuit led by the Heritage Foundation and Advancing American Freedom accuses the DOJ of failing to provide them with documents requested through the Freedom of Information Act. The documents requested include all records and internal DOJ communication related to crimes against pro-life pregnancy centers and churches. Based on data compiled by CNA, there have been more than 100 attacks on churches and pro-life pregnancy centers since the May 2022 leak of the US Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health, which overturned the abortion protections guaranteed in Roe v Wade and Planned Parenthood v Casey. The DOJ has failed to prosecute the perpetrators in nearly all of the attacks. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253915/heritage-sues-doj-for-info-on-attacks-of-churches-pro-life-groups Today, the Church celebrates Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo. The 16th century bishop upheld the rights of Peru's indigenous peoples, and became one of the first canonized saints of the Americas. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-turibius-de-mogrovejo-186

Dr. Tom Curran interviews Fr. Joseph D. Fessio, S.J., founder of Ignatius Press, about the book The Divine Project: Reflections on Creation and the Church by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. Fr. Fessio shares personal stories of Pope Benedict XVI and Henri de Lubac.

Does anybody really know what time is? Father Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro try to unfold one of reality's greatest mysteries with the help of Joseph Ratzinger's “The Spirit of the Liturgy”.Support the show

Why churches should always be open. Father Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro continue to unpack “The Spirit of the Liturgy” by Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI).Support the show

Should we have lay lectors and altar servers at Mass? Fr. Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro address “lay participation” as they unpack chapter 3 of “The Spirit of the Liturgy.”Support the show

Patrick explains why the Catholic Church does not (and cannot) ordain women to the priesthood. Colby - Why can't women be priests? Patrick explains why the Catholic Church does not (and cannot) ordain women to the priesthood. He mentioned this article by Dr. Joyce Little. https://media.christendom.edu/1987/08/women-and-ordination/ Ben - Based on Cardinal Ratzinger's book, is it reasonable to want the Novus Ordo liturgy to be celebrated more respectfully? Joseph - When in the Eucharist prayer it says “Prayer for those who have fallen asleep in the light,” does that mean purgatory? Earnest - Pope Paul the 6th permitted the priest to not face the altar and let people receive in the hand. It was his fault. Mia - Do they kneel for the angus day during the Latin Mass? AND can I kneel during the 'lamb of God' Heidi - I received Communion in the late 70s and was told that it was fine to do it either way. Also I was told to not chew Jesus, is that right?

Life between heaven and earth: how the liturgy touches eternity.  Father Fessio continues to walk us through "The Spirit of the Liturgy" by his teacher, Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI).Support the show

The real meaning of "sacrifice," according to Pope Benedict. Father Fessio walks us, page by page, through chapter 2 of Joseph Ratzinger's masterpiece "The Spirit of the Liturgy."Support the show

What does the liturgy have to do with human happiness? Everything. Fr. Joseph Fessio, a former student and long-time friend of Pope Benedict XVI, leads an introduction to the pope's groundbreaking book “The Spirit of the Liturgy”.Support the show

Another contribution of Pope Benedict to Marian theology was his commentary on the third part of the secret of Fatima. In this conversation, Fatima scholar Kevin Symonds talks about Cardinal Ratzinger turned Pope Benedict XVI's contribution to understanding Fatima. Learn more about Kevin's writings: https://kevinsymonds.com/ Kevin's previous interview on How They Love Mary- https://howtheylovemary.fireside.fm/makingsense Join Fr. Edward on a pilgrimage: https://app.nativitypilgrimage.com/trip/?trip=72441 Follow Fr. Edward's Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvw7PL8ZDihyEMpy94b5-PA

0:00:  Question: Did Pope Francis Slight Pope Benedict in his Funeral Homily?0:36:   Pope Benedict died when we were out….Pope Francis gave a short homily during the funeral which you can find here. 1:10:  Did we watch live? 1:50:   Eulogies vs. homilies – what's the difference?    Mike talks about doing the eulogy for both of his parents.2:36:   Funeral Homilies take on a different focus.3:54:   Pope Francis did a homily.4:10:  Compare and despair.  Cardinal Ratzinger did Pope John Paul II's funeral homily.  You can find that here.5:00:  Maria: The homily reflected the Papacy and life of Pope Benedict.6:17:  Funeral was more for a retired Bishop of Rome more so than a reigning Pope.6:43:   We live in a polarized country and church.  The infighting gets more attention.7:56:  Pope Francis called us to pray for Pope Benedict.  And honored him in his Wednesday audience.8:42:   Critiques of Pope Benedict's liturgical style.9:02:   Pope giving a homily vs a Cardinal giving a homily for a Pope.9:19:  FD's Rules for Funeral Homilies.11:25:  Funeral of Justice Antonin Scalia12:00:   Mourning also happened when Benedict resigned.13:20:   Comparing this to Bishop's funerals who have retired.14:00:  Show note:  Terence Cardinal Cooke did in fact, “die in office” and in fact spent a good deal of his time as Archbishop of NY battling leukemia.14:48:   This is quite different from when Pope John Paul II died.15:17:  Maria:   Things were in the proper place.16:15:   Eulogy at the beginning of the funeral as opposed to the end of it.17:51:  Words of remembrance is the proper term.   Here's some guidelines.19:05:   Hard to prep for funerals.  Here's one of Mike's experiences with his father's funeral and some experiences from one pastor.20:55:  Funerals are great opportunities for Evangelization.21:30:   Church search goes to St Francis deSales in Akron.23:04   Readings for this weekend can be found here.

Pope Benedict XVI / Joseph Ratzinger passed away on December 31 at the age of 95 years old. His writing and teaching have been a major influence on my thinking. So in honor of his memory and gratitude for his example, this week's episode is a talk I gave on Pope Benedict XVI on Five Crises of Culture and the Intellectual sources of Secularism and the New Evangelization. I go through five intellectual themes/crises that Benedict identifies in the West “where the roots of Christianity are deep but who have experienced a serious crisis of faith due to secularization." Truth and the Dictatorship of Relativism Reason Progress Freedom Beauty I examine how he describes and explains the challenges of our age; how he addresses each of them on their own terms, and the proposes a Gospel response. One element of the crisis of faith is grounded in intellectual sources. We think, and too often live, like secularists and adopt often without thinking a secular framework. But secularism is not neutral. As Benedict argues, “We must develop and adult faith.” An "adult" faith is not a faith that follows the trends of fashion and the latest novelty; a mature adult faith is deeply rooted in friendship with Christ. It is this friendship that opens us up to all that is good and gives us a criterion by which to distinguish the true from the false, and deceit from truth. We must develop this adult faith; we must guide the flock of Christ to this faith. And it is this faith - only faith - that creates unity and is fulfilled in love.” In this talk I provide a lot of quotes and references. You can find show notes, links, and outline of the talk at www.themoralimagination.com Resources See the outline / handout of the talk below. Also see Amazon links to books I refer to in the talk below. I also provide Amazon link to the encyclicals, but you can get all the encyclicals for free at vatican.va There a lot of books listed and if you are unsure where to start I would suggest you begin with the following: Books: Jesus of Nazareth Vol 1, Milestones, and Last Testament Collection of more complex essays: Values in a Time of Upheaval Encyclicals Spe Salvi and Deus Caritas Est Short Readings: Here are some links Homily before the Conclave — “Dictatorship of Relativsm” Regensberg Address — on the crisis of reason in the west Cardinal Ratzinger on Europe's Crisis of Culture at Subiaco   Benedict XVI Paris Lecture Meeting with Representatives from the World of Culture   Additional Links mentioned in talk Roger Scruton: Beauty and Desecration   Roger Scruton: Kitsch and the Modern Predicament  I Grateful to Authenticum and Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish for the invitation to speak and for recording and providing me with the audio of this lecture. You can learn more about the Authenticum Lecture Series  OUTLINE/HANDOUT Benedict XVI—Five Crises of Culture and the Intellectual sources of Secularism and the New Evangelization Michael Matheson Miller The New Evangelization Re-Propose the Gospel "to those regions awaiting the first evangelization AND to those regions where the roots of Christianity are deep but who have experienced a serious crisis of faith due to secularization." Benedict XVI    Theme:  Think Like Christians Focus on Intellectual roots of secularization and the crisis of faith and the work of Benedict XVI We must not approach the social and political order in a purely secular manner.  Benedict is I think a model for new evangelization because he takes the situation of our current time on its own terms and then addresses it in light of reason and the Gospel. Paul VI: Evangelii Nuntiandi  "The conditions of the society in which we live oblige all of us therefore to revise methods, to seek by every means to study how we can bring the Christian message to modern man. For it is only in the Christian message that modern man can find the answer to his questions and the energy for his commitment of human solidarity."   John Paul II: Redemptoris Missio   “I wish to invite the Church to renew her missionary commitment.”  “…it is the primary service which the Church can render to every individual and to all humanity in the modern world, a world which has experienced marvelous achievements but which seems to have lost its sense of ultimate realities and of existence itself. "Christ the Redeemer," I wrote in my first encyclical, "fully reveals man to himself.... The person who wishes to understand himself thoroughly...must...draw near to Christ.... [The] Redemption that took place through the cross has definitively restored to man his dignity and given back meaning to his life in the world."   Benedict XVI “Throughout the centuries, the Church has never ceased to proclaim the salvific mystery of the death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, but today that same message needs renewed vigor to convince contemporary man, who is often distracted and insensitive… “For this reason, the new evangelization must try to find ways of making the proclamation of salvation more effective; a proclamation without which personal existence remains contradictory and deprived of what is essential. Even for those who remain tied to their Christian roots, but who live the difficult relationship with modernity, it is important to realize that being Christian is not a type of clothing to wear in private or on special occasions, but is something living and all-encompassing, able to contain all that is good in modern life.”  BXVI to Participants in the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization   “We…have this mission: to encounter our contemporaries so as to make His love known to them. Not so much by teaching, never by judging, but by being travelling companions. Like the deacon Philip, who – the Acts of the Apostles tell us – stood up, set out, ran towards the Ethiopian people and, as a friend, sat down beside them, entering into dialogue with the man who had a great desire for God in the midst of many doubts”  —Pope Francis: International Meeting  for Academic Centers and  Schools of New Evangelization   Five Crises of Culture and Key Themes in the Thought of Bendict XVI    1.     Truth and the Dictatorship of Relativism “How many winds of doctrine have we known in recent decades, how many ideological currents, how many ways of thinking. The small boat of the thought of many Christians has often been tossed about by these waves - flung from one extreme to another: from Marxism to liberalism, even to libertinism; from collectivism to radical individualism; from atheism to a vague religious mysticism; from agnosticism to syncretism and so forth. Every day new sects spring up, and what St Paul says about human deception and the trickery that strives to entice people into error (cf. Eph 4: 14) comes true. “Today, having a clear faith based on the Creed of the Church is often labeled as fundamentalism. Whereas relativism, that is, letting oneself be "tossed here and there, carried about by every wind of doctrine", seems the only attitude that can cope with modern times. We are building a dictatorship of relativism that does not recognize anything as definitive and whose ultimate goal consists solely of one's own ego and desires.”   Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, Mass Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice After fall of Soviet Union relativism did not die but combined with desire for gratification to form a potent mix.  (CF to Augusto Del Noce on the shift from Christian Bourgeois to Pure Bourgeois) Is Relativism Coherent? Denial of Truth is self-refuting Truth exists and is knowable But this does not mean we know it Relativism can be nothing other than a dictatorship Relativism leads to ideology St. Thomas Aquinas: Truth is conforming the mind to reality Josef Pieper: Seeing the World as it is and acting accordingly Gospel Response - In the homily where he speaks the Dictatorship of Relativism Benedict does not stop at intellectual refutation.  He responds with the person of Jesus.  He says: “We, however, have a different goal: the Son of God, the true man. He is the measure of true humanism. An "adult" faith is not a faith that follows the trends of fashion and the latest novelty; a mature adult faith is deeply rooted in friendship with Christ. It is this friendship that opens us up to all that is good and gives us a criterion by which to distinguish the true from the false, and deceipt from truth. We must develop this adult faith; we must guide the flock of Christ to this faith. And it is this faith - only faith - that creates unity and is fulfilled in love.”             Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, Mass Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice 2. Reason Regensburg Address Crisis of Reason—which is a crisis of politics which is a crisis of humanity We have limited reason to the empirical This is incoherent on its own terms because one cannot verify this claim empirically Must expand reason beyond the empirical otherwise it is not rational The problem goes beyond incoherence.  It leads to what C.S. Lewis has called “the abolition of man.”  Empiricist rationality takes all the fundamental human experiences – love, beauty, goodness, hope, mercy, forgiveness, compassion, and justice and relegates them outside the realm of reason. Love and justice then are no longer rational but pure emotion or chemical reactions.   But this is false. In contrast we have what Lewis calls “reasonable emotions,” what Karol Wojtyla (St. John Paul II) calls “spiritual emotions” and what Dietrich von Hildebrand calls “intelligible spiritual affectivity.” Love is not simply raw emotion or chemical reaction. It includes that because we are embodied persons, but it also is reasonable. This is why the tradition defines love as an “act of the will” that “seeks the good of the other.”   “Critical Thinking” Exercise    (Thanks to Professor Mark Roberts for this insight) __JS Bach was born in 1685 __JS Bach wrote beautiful music __Pope Pius XII was the Bishop of Rome __Pope Pius XII was a good Pope __Bell Bottoms were popular in the 1970s __Bell Bottoms are cool __ ____________________________________ __ Murder is Bad… And here we see the problems arise. First, the opposite of a fact is not an opinion. The opposite of a fact is a false proposition. Opinions are justified belief. Opinions could be classified as good or bad depending upon how reasonable they are. Opinions are true or false if they align with a true proposition. Second, as C.S. Lewis explains in The Abolition of Man, this type of exercise deforms our intellects and our moral sensibilities. He writes: It is not a theory they put into his mind, but an assumption, which ten years hence, its origin forgotten and its presence unconscious, will condition him to take one side in a controversy which he has never recognized as a controversy at all.”  “We make men without chests and expect from them virtue and enterprise. We laugh at honor and are shocked to find traitors in our midst.” “In a sort of ghastly simplicity we remove the organ and demand the function. We make men without chests and expect of them virtue and enterprise. We laugh at honour and are shocked to find traitors in our midst. We castrate and bid the geldings be fruitful.”   Limiting reason to the empirical has disastrous impact on politics and justice. The end of politics is (or should be) justice – but justice is not empirical.  As Ratzinger explains: “Politics is the realm of Reason, not of a merely technological, calculating reason, but of moral reason, since the goal of the state, and hence, the ultimate goal of politics, has a moral nature, namely peace and justice.” Limiting reason to the empirical relegates all questions about truth, beauty, goodness, justice, and morality to the realm of subjective opinion and emotion (Regensburg Address) Return to Plato's Thrasymachus: Justice is merely the right of the stronger: Power equals truth—or in our situation it is power, efficiency or consensus equals truth. “…the majority cannot be an ultimate principle since there are values that no majority is entitled to annul. It can never be right to kill innocent persons, and no power can make this legitimate.  Here too, what is ultimately at stake is the defense of reason.  Reason—that is moral reason—is above the majority.”  “Political Visions and Political Praxis”    Gospel Response: Faith purifies and heals reason. Reason must be expanded and additionally purified by Faith and the Church's teaching Faith can contribute to correct politics. It can “illuminate and heal” reason.   In the last century…it was the testimony of the martyrs that limited the excess of power, thus making a decisive contribution to the convalescence of reason” Joseph Ratzinger: To Change or to Preserve? Political Visions and Political Praxis   “Reason only becomes truly human when it is open to the saving forces of faith and if it looks beyond itself.”   Spe Salvi 23 Progress and Eschatology Myth of Progress—the kingdom of heaven on earth. o   Progress is good – we are called to complete creation. But we cannot be saved by progress o   The problem is a “faith in progress” and a kingdom of man, not the kingdom of God. o   Progress will lead, through new vision of reason, to total freedom. o   Eric Voegelin: “Immanentization of the Eschaton” Trying to create heaven on earth o   Real error is found in misunderstanding of nature of man. o   Politics built on false concept of progress are illusory and ultimately deny human freedom and man himself o   Progress unhinged from morality and the truth about man is dangerous. o   No longer about what I ought to do, but simply what I can do o   Modern concepts of Progress derive from limitation of reason and “new correlation between science and praxis.”    “Now this “redemption”, the restoration of the lost “Paradise” is no longer expected from faith, but from the newly discovered link between science and praxis. It is not that faith is simply denied; rather it is displaced onto another level—that of purely private and other-worldly affairs—and at the same time it becomes somehow irrelevant for the world. This programmatic vision has determined the trajectory of modern times and it also shapes the present-day crisis of faith which is essentially a crisis of Christian hope. Thus hope too, in Bacon, acquires a new form. Now it is called: faith in progress. For Bacon, it is clear that the recent spate of discoveries and inventions is just the beginning; through the interplay of science and praxis, totally new discoveries will follow, a totally new world will emerge, the kingdom of man[16]. He even put forward a vision of foreseeable inventions—including the aeroplane and the submarine. As the ideology of progress developed further, joy at visible advances in human potential remained a continuing confirmation of faith in progress as such.”  Benedict XVI, Spe Salvi paragraph 17                                                             Response: Hope Tempers and Orders Progress   Reflect on the Last Things 1.     Politics is the realm of reason—and it is concerned with the present, not the future. 2.     But man is not merely oriented to the present—man is destined for eternal life with God—beyond politics. 3.     As Christians we must keep the last things in our view. Death, Judgment, Heaven and Hell are real and death escapes no man.    True Hope: In place of the myth of progress which enslaves we need a true understanding of Christian Hope--True hope can only be found in God  Spe Salvi # 27   A Proper Eschatology helps us avoid Utopianism o   “A definitely ideal society presupposes the end of freedom” o   The only person who could actually do this is God—and even he doesn't do that:  God takes us seriously   cf Light of the World   “Within this human history of ours the absolutely ideal situation will never exist and a perfected ordering of freedom will never be achieved… the myth of the liberated world of the future in which everything is different and everything will be good is false We can only ever construct relative social orders which can only ever be relatively right and just.  Yet this very same closest possible approach to true right and justice is what we must strive to attain. Everything else, every eschatological  promise within history fails to liberate us, rather it disappoints and therefore enslaves us.    Joseph Ratzinger: Truth and Tolerance     “The right state of human affairs, the moral well-being of the world can never be guaranteed simply through structure alone, however good they may be.  What this means that every generation has the task of engaging anew in the arduous search for the right to order human affairs; this task is never simply completed.” Spe Salvi Politics has a place but as Christians we must remember that Politics is not the answer to our problems.    4.    Freedom  Truth and Tolerance: Freedom is the dominant theme of modernity. o   “Everybody wants to talk about freedom, but no one wants to talk about truth” o   If we can question truth – we should be able to question freedom Dominant idea: Nominalist concept of freedom severed from reason and truth.   “Diabolical Freedom” “An irrational will is not a free will” Freedom must be re-united to reason and oriented to truth   Response: Freedom is for Love The purpose and end of freedom is love – to seek the good of the other in self-donation Logos and Love Christian Hope leads us to Love in the person of Christ—Logos and Agape The purpose of Politics is peace and justice—and allowing the space for individuals and families to live out their freedom and responsibilities.  Man is not redeemed by science or progress. Man is redeemed by love.  Two themes have always accompanied me in my life…the theme of Christ and the living, present God, the God who loves us and heals us through suffering, and on the other hand, the theme of love…the key to Christianity.  Light of the World    “Love—caritas—will always prove necessary, even in the most just society. There is no ordering of the State so just that it can eliminate the need for a service of love. Whoever wants to eliminate love is preparing to eliminate man as such. There will always be suffering which cries out for consolation and help. There will always be loneliness. There will always be situations of material need where help in the form of concrete love of neighbour is indispensable” Deus Caritas Est 5.    Beauty  When Beauty is reduced merely to the subjective—merely in the eye of the beholder this undermines objective beauty.  This has profound effect on morality, politics, and liturgy.  It also takes the sublime insight that each person is unique and un-repeatable and has unique insight into a piece of art or a beautiful landscape and takes this sublime truth and turns it into the banal that everybody has his own opinion. Beauty is separated from reason and truth and reduced to subjective opinion and expression The crisis of beauty has led to the proliferation of ugliness, crassness, obscenity, pornography, violence, and disregard for children, women, and life itself.  In response Benedict offers a Catholic understanding of beauty instantiated in the liturgy and sacraments. “The only really effective apologia for Christianity comes down to two arguments, namely, the saints the Church has produced and the art which as grown in her womb. Better witness is born to the Lord by the splendor of holiness and art…than by clever excuses which apologetics has come up with to justify the dark sides which, sadly, are so frequent in the Church's human history.  If the Church is to continue to transform and humanize the world, how can she dispense with the beauty in her liturgies, that beauty which is so closely linked with the radiance of the resurrection?  No. Christians must not be too satisfied.  They must make their Church into a place where beauty—and hence truth—is at home.  Without this the world will become the first circle of Hell.”  Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger     Truth         -         Jesus Christ Reason             -          Faith Progress           -          Hope Freedom           -         Love Beauty              - Worship and Liturgy 

Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI died on December 31, 2022. To honor this late pope, we're rebroadcasting an earlier episode on his popular work Introduction to Christianity. We're dummies compared to Benedict, but this is our homage to his legacy. Santo subito!---Intimidated by Ratzinger? So are Nick and Austin, but they roll up their sleeves to unpack his renowned work, Introduction to Christianity. Is salvation possible? Only through excessive grace, baby! Using the Apostles' Creed as his starting point, Cardinal Ratzinger (aka Pope Benedict XVI) wrote Introduction to Christianity in 1968 to elucidate the foundations of Christianity for modern readers. It's rich with theology and history, but don't let that deter you from picking up this classic. It should be on your reading list!SHOW HIGHLIGHTSWhat does it actually mean to be a Christian?What is belief?How is salvation possible?What's hell like? How about heaven?What's the difference between a mindset of excess vs. scarcity?What does Christ's pierced side have to do with Eden?Are Christians overly obsessed with pain, suffering, and death?And why high school prom dances are awkward!LINKSIntroduction to Christianity by Joseph Cardinal RatzingerLeave us a Review!Take a few seconds and write a positive review on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts. This helps us move up in the rankings and reach more people!Connect with the PodcastHave a question, topic idea, gardening tip, anything? Email us at edenrevisitedpodcast@gmail.com. We'd love to give you a sprout out.

Friends of the Rosary: Pope Benedict XVI died at the age of 95 on December 31, 2022. His passing was announced this morning by the Vatican Press Office. "With sorrow, I inform you that the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican." On Wednesday, December 28, pope emeritus received the anointing of the sick. Pope Francis will preside at Benedict XVI's funeral on Thursday, January 5, 2023, at 9:30 am in St. Peter's Square. From Monday, January 2, the funeral chapel will be open in St. Peter's Basilica. Joseph Ratzinger, who would become Pope Benedict XVI, was born on April 16, 1927, in Marktl am Inn, Germany. On Tuesday, April 19, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was elected the 265th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, selecting the name Benedict XVI. Benedict XVI Authored Three Encyclicals: Deus Caritas est (December 25, 2005) – On Christian Love Spe Salvi (November 30, 2007) – On Christi Hope Caritas in Veritate (June 29, 2009) – On Integral Human Development In addition to his Papal letter, exhortations, message, and homilies, Joseph Ratzinger/Benedict XVI authored more than 60 books, including the widely read and highly praised three-volume “Jesus of Nazareth” series on the life and teaching of Christ. He was behind the preparation of the new the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the six years of intense work (1986-92). On Friday, April 8, Cardinal Ratzinger presided at Holy Mass in St Peter's Square for the funeral of Pope John Paul II. "If you follow the will of God, you know that in spite of all the terrible things that happen to you, you will never lose a final refuge. You know that the foundation of the world is love, so that even when no human being can or will help you, you may go on, trusting in the One that loves you.” ― Pope Benedict XVI “Each of us is the result of a thought of God. Each of us is willed. Each of us is loved. Each of us is necessary.” ― Pope Benedict XVI “The world offers you comfort. But you were not made for comfort. You were made for greatness” ― Pope Benedict XVI Ave Maria! Jesus, I Trust In You! + Mikel A. | RosaryNetwork.com, New York • December 31, 2021, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Welcome to Episode 77 of the Being Human Podcast: Gender Fluidity or Complementarity? (Part Three) This week, Dr. Greg begins to wrap up his series on gender and the complementarity of men and women. In this episode, he proposes a definition of “genius” (of a masculine or feminine type) and then breaks open the specific brain differences between men and women that lay a foundation for the particular genius of each.  Discussed in this episode: Defining what is meant by the feminine or masculine “genius”; How the differences in our brains as male and female give us a natural affinity towards certain skill sets; The unique ways men and women's bodies and brains order each towards the creation and protection of new life; How the particular gifts of each sex can also lead to particular weaknesses in each, and the specific qualities that men and women need to learn from each other; Ways our complementarity as men and women can lead us to become better versions of ourselves; How masculine and feminine “genius” qualities are above all human qualities meant to be integrated into our personhood;  Resources mentioned or relevant:   Listen to the first two episodes in this series: Episode #75 (Part One) and Episode #76 (Part Two);  The Female Brain and The Male Brain by Louann Brizendine; Letter to the Bishops of the Catholic Church On the Collaboration of Men and Women in the Church and in the World, by Cardinal Ratzinger; On the Masculine Genius, an article by Dr. Greg published in Humanum Quarterly Review; Learn more about complementarity and the masculine and feminine genius in Dr. Greg's relationships course: A Marriage Built to Last; Become a member of the Integrated Life Community to get access to every course Dr. Greg has created, AND the opportunity to participate in Integrated Life Intensives: time-limited, group experiences covering topics like boundaries, communication, trauma, forgiveness, and more!  Learn about IDDM (Mentorship), our new model of accompaniment; Need help? Schedule a free 15-minute consultation call with our staff to discuss how we can support you! Sign up for Being Human, our weekly newsletter, to stay up to date on the exciting developments at CatholicPsych; Download The Integrated App for access to free audio exercises, the Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat, courses, prayer resources, and more; Visit our website to read the CatholicPsych blog, shop in the CatholicPsych bookshop, or discover other resources we have available.  Contact us! Have a topic or a question you would like Dr. Greg to address on the podcast? Want to give some feedback about this episode? Email us at beinghuman@catholicpsych.com - we would love to hear from you!   Rate, review, and subscribe Please help us in our mission to integrate the Faith with Psychology by hitting subscribe and also sharing this podcast with your friends. Please consider rating or leaving a review of our show. It helps us reach other Catholics just like you who want to become more integrated, whole, and happy human beings. For Apple podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate 5 stars, and choose “write a review”. Then type your sincere thoughts about the show! If you haven't already, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss out on any episodes. Subscribe to the podcast now!

John-Henry digs into the questions surrounding Bishop Josef Clemens, former secretary of then Cardinal Ratzinger at the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, specifically his handling of a monastery sex abuse investigation and his suspected homosexuality. For further reading, check out Dr. Maike Hickson's report for LifeSiteNews: https://www.lifesitenews.com/blogs/recently-closed-sex-abuse-investigation-of-austrian-abbey-raises-questions-of-cover-up/ See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to Episode 75 of the Being Human Podcast: Gender Fluidity or Complementarity? In this week's episode, Dr. Greg opens up a new series focused on fleshing out a convincing Catholic response to the gender confusion in our culture today; he proposes an answer to an important question about the purpose of being created as male and female. (Note: Mature Content) Discussed in this episode: The impossibility of changing one's gender;  The philosophy of John Paul II and how it can serve as a foundation for understanding our bodies;  The teleological capacity of the human person;  What no one in the Church seems to be talking about in regards to our creation as men and women;  A proposal to the question of why we are made as male and female;  Fruitfulness as a consequence of every free, total, faithful gift given between a man and a woman;  How, as Catholics, we have the full spectrum of ways to arrive at truth available to us;  The need to coalesce around a vision of gender, sex, and the human person's purpose. Resources mentioned or relevant:  Read On the Masculine Genius, an article by Dr. Greg published in Humanum Quarterly Review;   Sign up for insider information about our new certification launching in the Fall! Watch Fruitfulness is Not a Pillar of the Theology of the Body by Dr. Greg on YouTube;  Read Letter to the Bishops of the Catholic Church On the Collaboration of Men and Women in the Church and in the World, by Cardinal Ratzinger;    Learn more about complementarity and the masculine and feminine genius in Dr. Greg's relationships course: A Marriage Built to Last;  Become a member of the Integrated Life Community to get access to every course Dr. Greg has created, AND the opportunity to participate in Integrated Life Intensives: time-limited, group experiences covering topics like boundaries, communication, trauma, forgiveness, and more!   Learn about IDDM (Mentorship), our new model of accompaniment; Need help? Schedule a free 15-minute consultation call with our staff to discuss how we can support you!  Sign up for Being Human, our weekly newsletter, to stay up to date on the exciting developments at CatholicPsych;  Download The Integrated App for access to free audio exercises, the Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat, courses, prayer resources, and more;  Visit our website to read the CatholicPsych blog, shop in the CatholicPsych bookshop, or discover other resources we have available.  Contact us! Have a topic or a question you would like Dr. Greg to address on the podcast? Want to give some feedback about this episode? Email us at beinghuman@catholicpsych.com - we would love to hear from you! Rate, review, and subscribe Please help us in our mission to integrate the Faith with Psychology by hitting subscribe and also sharing this podcast with your friends. Please consider rating or leaving a review of our show. It helps us reach other Catholics just like you who want to become more integrated, whole, and happy human beings. For Apple podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate 5 stars, and choose “write a review”. Then type your sincere thoughts about the show! If you haven't already, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss out on any episodes. Subscribe to the podcast now!