Podcasts about catholic podcast

Are headlines, podcasts, and politics consuming your attention? Fr. Mike Schmitz encourages us to step away from the constant noise of news, politics, and our phones and turn instead to Scripture. In the Bible, we encounter the wisdom, truth, and peace that no news cycle can provide.

Many Catholics call God "Father," but few truly experience the depth of His fatherly love in their daily lives. Dr. Sri explores how Scripture—especially the opening chapters of Genesis—reveals the heart of our Heavenly Father: a Father who delights in us, provides for us, sees our deepest needs, protects us, blesses us, and invites us to share in His mission. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

Chris Bartlett shares a What Would Taylor Do segment & discusses his recent conversation with a phone scammer that went way different than you would expect! Taylor talks about managing conflict within friendships & shares a story of when he felt closest to the parents of Jesus. Subscribe/Rate Never miss out on the craziness of each episode by hitting the subscribe button RIGHT NOW! Help other people find the show by taking a few moments to leave a review in your podcasting app. Thanks! YouTube Check out the show and other exclusive videos on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/fortecatholic Connect

Mary and Jerry discuss how military families can prepare for deployment and readjust when a spouse returns, drawing on Jerry's four Navy deployments and a demanding year of workups on the USS Enterprise. They emphasize getting paperwork and finances in order (will, power of attorney, SGLI, joint accounts, budgeting), having hard conversations about worst-case scenarios, and maintaining an emergency fund for inevitable breakdowns like appliances and cars. They share practical ways to stay connected, including videotaping a deployed parent reading children's books, numbering letters in the pre-internet era, and creating continuity through shared routines like reading the same book and praying together. They highlight the importance of community support, honest communication about roles and chores, getting counseling when needed, and recognizing the challenges of reintegration, especially when the returning spouse tries to take charge or feels disengaged. Connect with us and our podcast on Instagram @themaryandjerrypodcast Support the work of the show and get bonus content by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=17005526

What do children most deeply long for from their fathers? Dr. Sri kicks off a 3-part series on fatherhood by discussing the crisis of fatherhood in our culture and explaining what true fatherhood looks like. Today, drawing from Scripture, Dr. Sri reveals how God the Father provides the perfect model of authentic fatherhood. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

This week on Trailer Parked Theology, Josh and Kristi share a takeaway from a recent marriage retreat that challenged one of the most common images used to explain Christian marriage: the triangle. They explore how sacramental marriage is about far more than two individuals independently pursuing God.Together they unpack a richer vision of marriage as a living icon of Christ's love for the Church, where spouses become instruments of God's grace for one another and for the world.The conversation then shifts into 1 John 2:7-11, where John speaks of an "old" commandment that is somehow also "new." Josh and Kristi explore how Jesus fulfilled the commandment of love, transforming it from instruction into lived demonstration through His life, death, and resurrection.Episode HighlightsThe popular "marriage triangle" analogySacramental marriage as an icon of Christ and His ChurchHow spouses help lead one another to heavenThe difference between the "old" and "new" commandment in 1 JohnHow Jesus demonstrated perfect love rather than simply teaching itWhy growth often begins when God reveals our blind spotsLearning to receive correction with humility and gracePractical ways to see God's presence in everyday lifeScripture Discussed1 John 2:7-11 Support the show

Mary and Jerry answer listener questions about meeting each other's families, blending traditions, and navigating in-laws as newlyweds. Jerry recalls being silently “glared at” by Mary's many brothers when he picked her up in his '66 Mustang, while Mary shares her anxious first trip to Oklahoma and meeting Jerry's grandmother at a small farmhouse gathering where strict kitchen rules, cows, cow pies, and competitive dominoes made a lasting impression. They describe traditions they kept—dominoes, St. Nicholas Day ornaments, Spekulatius cookies, German donuts at Easter, and simple chocolate bunnies—and discuss setting boundaries and communicating around holiday plans, especially with distance, divorce, and caregiving needs for Courtney. They reflect on lessons and sayings from their parents, service-focused faith, and how flexibility helps families stay connected over 38 years of marriage. Connect with us and our podcast on Instagram @themaryandjerrypodcast Support the work of the show and get bonus content by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=17005526

The homily is far more than a simple sermon or inspirational talk—it is a sacred moment in the liturgy where God desires to speak directly to our hearts. Dr. Sri explains how the homily prepares us for a deeper encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist. For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

In this special "mini-sode" of Can I Getta Amen, Kristi and Tonia sit down with Heather Khym at the 2026 Abide Conference to talk about podcasting, prayer, burnout, self-reliance, and what it truly means to abide in Christ.Heather shares the story behind her Abiding Together podcast, how friendship sparked ministry, and the unexpected way God called her into ministry.If you've ever struggled with hearing God's voice, trusting Him in difficult seasons, or slowing down in a culture of busyness, this one's for you. So, whether you're serving in ministry, raising a family, struggling with overwhelm, or simply trying to grow closer to God, this conversation will remind you that abiding in Christ is where true fruitfulness begins.Episode Highlights The origin story of Abiding Together How friendship became ministry  Why podcasting can help people feel less alone  The dangers of self-reliance in ministry and daily life  Learning to trust God through suffering and uncertainty  What it really means to “abide” in Christ  Finding peace in prayer and silence Find out more about Abide Catholic Women's Conference here:  https://www.abidewomensconference.org/Listen to the Abiding Together Podcast here: https://www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/Support the show

Every long marriage has a season where one of you is sinking and the other is staring off into the distance, completely oblivious. Today we talk about ours — and how to recognize yours before the unraveling begins. Mary used to have a recurring nightmare during the hardest years of our marriage. She was sinking in quicksand, reaching for Jerry, and the more she struggled the deeper she went. He just stood there, looking off into the distance. That nightmare was a window into what was actually happening between us — the gradual uncoupling, the gentle tug on the thread of our marriage that, once pulled, was unraveling everything. If your marriage feels like a garden that hasn't been watered in a while, this episode is for you. We share the warning signs we missed and the small daily acts of weeding and watering that pulled us back from the brink. Connect with us and our podcast on Instagram @themaryandjerrypodcast Support the work of the show and get bonus content by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=17005526

What if the places in your life that feel stagnant, dry, or broken are exactly where the Holy Spirit wants to meet you? Jesus promised that rivers of living water would flow from the hearts of those who believe in Him — a promise fulfilled through the Holy Spirit. Dr. Sri explains how God's living water flows into our deepest wounds to bring healing and transformation. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

Let's go all the way back to the beginning — the blind date that shouldn't have worked but did. From walks along the Annapolis waterfront to chocolate milkshakes at Chick and Ruth's Deli, we share what attracted us to each other, what red flags we overlooked, and what young Mary and young Jerry didn't know about love and marriage that we wish someone had told them. If you're dating, newly engaged, or just want a reminder of why you said yes in the first place, pull up a chair. Connect with us and our podcast on Instagram @themaryandjerrypodcast Support the work of the show and get bonus content by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=17005526

Why praise is deeply Catholic The Mass as a “sacrifice of praise” Catechism 2649 and the meaning of praise prayer How praise renews the mind and calms anxiety Scripture reflections on praise, including Acts 16 Personal testimonies of God working through praise Simple ways to begin praising God daily The connection between praise, peace, and spiritual renewal Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows:Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulusSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In moments of uncertainty, disappointment, and confusion, it's common to  wonder in our hearts, "Lord, are you really there?" Dr. Sri encourages us by unpacking Jesus' promise in the Great Commission: “I am with you always.” He explains how Christ remains present to us at all times through His Church, Scripture, the sacraments, and especially the Eucharist. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

In this episode, my wife, Pamela Rivera, joins me for a heartfelt conversation about how motherhood changes when our prayer life and interior life begin to deepen. Pam encourages listeners to embrace humility, rediscover the beauty of silence, and make space for the Lord to speak in the quiet moments of Adoration. Sometimes what our souls need most is less noise and more time in God's presence. In this conversation, we explore: Why pride stands in opposition to the feminine genius How trust in God's providence grows when we take courageous leaps of faith Whether marriage is more like a football team or a track team—and why the difference matters Plus, I sit down with my own mother to ask one simple question: “What was I like as a kid?” We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)

Hallmark Christmas Movies | Mary & Jerry Podcast In this episode, Mary & Jerry lean into cozy season vibes—pajamas and all—and chat about Hallmark Christmas movies. They share why they wanted to talk about them now, after a fun surprise from this past Christmas season: their Instagram Christmas movie reviews ended up going viral. Connect with us and our podcast on Instagram @themaryandjerrypodcast Support the work of the show and get bonus content by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=17005526

Real ministry is not built on polished content... it is built when we are willing to share our very selves. In this roadside reflection episode, Kara finally shares what Fred and her recent writing project has been (with Ascension Press) and reflects on a personal passage from St. Paul in 1 Thessalonians 2:8–9: “So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves…” This conversation dives into vulnerability, discipleship, authentic ministry, loving others even when it is difficult, and what it means to hope for others. Also, the audio quality is a little different this episode. Life and family obligations have made studio recording difficult lately, so I pray this “roadside reflections” is okay! Enjoy some Brother Francis and Veggie Tales in the background. Follow Draw Near on social media and join us as we continue building a community centered on prayer, authentic faith, discipleship, and drawing near to God and one another. For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near by Grace on all Social Media: YouTube Instagram Facebook! Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :) Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Olivia Hepworth, youth minister at St. Ann Parish in Gulf Breeze and co-founder of Live Well Water, talks with Chez Filippini about how her family's love of surfing and a childhood prayer led to a mission providing clean water and wells in rural Nicaragua, her unexpected call into parish ministry, and the way small, faithful steps can become something far bigger through God's grace.

Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows:Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulusSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 Can people who practice other religions be saved? Dr. Sri grounds his answer to this complex question in the theological virtue of hope, thereby preventing us from falling into two common extremes—despair or presumption. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

Empty Nesters 2.0 | Mary & Jerry Podcast S3E1 Season 3 is here—and a lot has happened since you last saw us. Mary & Jerry celebrate 40 years since they met (yes, Top Gun was involved), share what it was really like having their kids and grandkids move in for nine months, and unpack Jerry's major career change after 40 years in defense. Mary also reveals what it took to get her newest book (on the gifts of the Holy Spirit) through theological editing, and they give you a peek into their “Empty Nester 2.0” reset—decluttering battles, DIY painting plans, and the ongoing war on cookbooks. Plus: a no-construction miracle road trip, a marriage night in Michigan, and the return of the not-so-newlywed game. Connect with us and our podcast on Instagram @themaryandjerrypodcast Support the work of the show and get bonus content by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=17005526

Distraction, dryness, boredom, and discouragement are common in prayer. In this special pilgrimage episode, Dr. Sri stands in the home of St. Catherine of Siena—just outside the room where she spent years in deep prayer. Drawing from her wisdom, Dr. Sri explores why prayer can feel so difficult and what to do about it. For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

Josh Rosa joins Oscar to unpack the mindset needed to overcome life's “mountains.” From stepping beyond comfort zones to rejecting performative faith, he explores how real transformation begins with action—not just emotion. This conversation challenges listeners to stop waiting, start moving, and trust that God meets them in the climb. Joshua Rosa, of Dominican descent, is a co-founder of Agnus Dei Ministry, a published author, Catholic speaker, and passionate follower of Christ. He also hosts the Made for This Mountain podcast. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)

He is Risen! And so is the podcast! We accidentally gave podcasting up for Lent (whoops!) but we're back with an update on our busy Spring, some thoughts on Holy Week & Taylor shares how he was recently tortured! Subscribe/Rate Never miss out on the craziness of each episode by hitting the subscribe button RIGHT NOW! Help other people find the show by taking a few moments to leave a review in your podcasting app. Thanks! YouTube Check out the show and other exclusive videos on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/fortecatholic Connect

What makes the Gospel reading at Mass so different from every other reading in Scripture? Dr. Sri invites us to look more closely at the beauty, reverence, and meaning behind the Gospel proclamation in the Liturgy of the Word. From standing and singing Alleluia to the procession of the Book of the Gospels and the sign of the cross traced on our minds, lips, and hearts, every detail reveals the central place of Jesus' life in our faith. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

What would you do if the person you loved most was in danger—and there was no time to think? Today on the Equip Cast, I sit down with Chris Vander Woude to tell the story of a quiet, faithful father who answered that question with his life. Tom Vander Woude wasn't famous. He wasn't flashy. He was a husband, a dad, a farmer, a Navy pilot—and a man who spent his life showing up in ordinary ways. Until one extraordinary moment, when he gave everything to save his son Joseph. In this conversation, you'll hear how a hidden life of prayer, love, and fatherhood prepared Tom for heroic sacrifice—and why his story is stirring hearts around the world today, even to the point that the Church is considering opening a cause for canonization. This is a story about love, courage, faith, and what it really means to live your life as a gift. [01:45] Chris's faith journey [04:23] Introducing Tom Vanderwoude (Chris's father) [09:00] Joseph is born (Down syndrome) [11:59] How Joseph changed the family [15:32] Cultural reflection on special needs & abortion [16:22] Tom's philosophy: no limitations on Joseph [17:34] Tom gives his life for Joseph [23:20] Community response & funeral [26:17] Long term impact of Tom's story [29:21] Possible cause for canonization [39:52] The Tom Vanderwoude Guild [44:21] How Joseph has been affected [45:51] Tom's hidden life: prayer & marriage [50:44] Encouragement to take a leap of faith [51:41] How to connect & learn more Check out the Tom Vander Woude Guild. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

What does the resurrection story in Luke 24, the road to Emmaus, reveal about the Mass? Dr. Sri invites us to see how the disciples' journey on the road to Emmaus mirrors our own spiritual lives—filled with hope, confusion, joy, and sorrow. More importantly, it reveals what God truly desires from us at every Mass: not perfection, but presence. Not routine, but relationship. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

Can love in marriage really last? I believe it can—and not because we're strong enough or compatible enough, but because God meets us there. Staying in love isn't something we just grit our teeth and manage. It's something we learn through prayer. Prayer with the Lord shapes our hearts, and that same habit of prayer teaches us how to truly behold, listen to, forgive, and love our spouse. In this Coaches Corner, I review the book Spousal Prayer by Deacon James Keating. It's a small, powerful book that connects marriage and prayer in a way that's both deep and incredibly practical. We talk about why young people fear staying in love, how prayer brings us into the reality of love, and why marriage itself can become a living, breathing prayer. Whether you're married, preparing couples, or walking with families in ministry, this episode is meant to equip you—and remind you that lasting love is not only possible, it's sacramental. [00:13] Book - Spousal Prayer [01:05] Why This Book Works [02:09] Three Chapters Overview [03:06] Behold Listen Repent [03:36] Prayer Depth and Beauty [04:34] Practical Art Prayer [06:11] Love Prayer and Reality [08:44] Forgiveness and Healing [09:25] Appendix ARRR Method [09:44] Who Should Use This [10:33] Final Quote and Wrap [11:29] Share Your Thoughts Check out the book Spousal Prayer. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Happy Easter! In this joyful season, as we celebrate the beauty of our faith, we're also reminded of our human brokenness, and how at times, that brokenness can reflect poorly on the Church. Fr. Mike Schmitz encourages us not to get discouraged nor walk away, whether we're new to the Church or have been Catholic our whole lives, but instead to refocus on what makes our faith truly unique, Jesus Christ, fully present in the Eucharist: Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity.

As we approach Divine Mercy Sunday, many of us feel an unspoken pressure in our spiritual lives: Am I doing this right? From prayer to parenting, vocation to discernment, we can approach our faith with anxiety, striving for perfection rather than resting in God's love. Dr. Sri reminds us of a powerful truth revealed in Divine Mercy—God is not waiting to evaluate you; He's already inviting you. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

Msgr. John Esseff reflects deeply on the meaning of Holy Thursday, focusing especially on Jesus' washing of the disciples' feet and the institution of the Eucharist. The post A Special Holy Thursday Reflection – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Msgr. John Esseff reflects deeply on the meaning of Holy Thursday, focusing especially on Jesus' washing of the disciples' feet and the institution of the Eucharist. The post A Special Holy Thursday Reflection – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Bishop Wack continues the podcast's pastor series by sharing the stories and virtues of his favorite priest and bishop saints—from St. Peter and St. John Vianney to St. Philip Neri and St. Vincent de Paul—and how they inspire his own ministry and the life of the Church today.

The "Good Thief" was actually mocking Jesus earlier on Good Friday, so what changed? Dr. Sri explores his dramatic conversion and what it reveals about human weakness, repentance, and the limitless mercy of God. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

In this Holy Week reflection, Oscar looks back on the Lenten journey—its highs and lows—and considers how God meets us in all of it. As beloved sons and daughters, we can trust that he responds to every effort we make. But how are we called to respond in return? We're not made to avoid suffering, but to embrace it with gratitude and grace, trusting that even our hardships have purpose. This week, as we walk more closely with Jesus, we remember that we're already strapped into the ride of his love. The question is: will we trust him enough to pull the cord and follow where he leads? We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)

Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Michael Iskander, best known for his role as King David in House of David, for a powerful conversation on faith, vocation, and the journey toward God. They reflect on David as a flawed man after God's own heart, exploring what it means to live faithfully, trust God's mercy, and simply do the “next right thing.” Michael also shares his journey to Catholicism, including his experience growing up in Egypt amid persecution and the moments that led him to a deeper relationship with God. Michael also shares his “five stones” for spiritual battle, which serve as a practical and powerful roadmap for staying grounded in the spiritual life: The Rosary The Eucharist Sacred Scripture Fasting Monthly Confession Don't miss this inspiring conversation and be sure to check out Season 2 of House of David, streaming March 27 on Prime Video.

What if being united to God begins with being cut open? In this episode of Draw Near, we explore Romans 11 and the powerful image of being “grafted” into God. Using the biblical metaphor of the olive tree, St. Paul reveals something profound about the spiritual life: union with God is living, dependent, and deeply transformative. Grafting is no gentle process. It requires cutting, exposure, and vulnerability before new life can take hold. And the same is true in our relationship with God. He does not simply improve us from the outside; he works within us, cutting away what is hardened so that we can receive his life more fully. We reflect on how God is the root who sustains us, how we are invited to remain in him, and what it means to bear interior fruit fruit that comes not from our own strength, but from grace. Drawing connections to Ezekiel 36 and the promise of a new heart, this episode invites you to consider how God may be at work in the hidden places of your life; and what areas of your own life have you hardened? If you've ever wrestled with vulnerability, struggled to trust God in the midst of difficulty, or wondered how real transformation actually happens—this conversation is for you. Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :) Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

What if the moment Jesus is condemned to death is actually the moment He reveals who He truly is? As we prepare for Palm Sunday, Dr. Sri takes a deep dive into Gospel of Matthew and the dramatic trial of Jesus before Caiaphas. Far from a simple courtroom exchange, this scene is steeped in prophecy, symbolism, and divine revelation. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

St. Patrick's story is one of suffering, conversion, and mission. Enslaved as a teenager, he encountered God in hardship and later returned to Ireland to preach Christ. This episode reflects on the Lorica of St. Patrick—a powerful prayer of spiritual strength and protection—and its invitation during Lent: to rise each day not by our own strength, but through the strength of the Trinity and the life of Christ. Rooted in the Cross, surrounded by the communion of saints, and sustained by Christ's presence, we are reminded: we do not walk alone. For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media: YouTube Instagram Facebook! Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :) Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

The raising of Lazarus is more than a miracle—it's climactic sign that reveals Jesus' love that leads Him to the Cross. Dr. Sri explains how this miracle is a turning point in the Gospel and how it shows us Jesus' deepest love for His friends. Just as Jesus calls Lazarus to come out, he continues to calls each of us by name to step out into new life. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

In this episode of the Art of Catholic Podcast, Matthew Leonard sits down with Catholic Scripture scholar Curtis Mitch to unpack the doctrine of original sin and what actually happened in the Garden of Eden. They explore the biblical account of Adam and Eve, what the Church really teaches about the Fall, and how original sin affects every human person today.

What is the role of feelings in romantic relationships and marriage? Dr. Sri explains that while emotions play an important role in relationships, they cannot be the foundation of love. Instead, real love requires commitment, clear judgment, and growth through challenges. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

God created sensual desire. It is powerful, beautiful, and good. But what happens when that desire becomes detached from love and commitment? Dr. Sri continues unpacking Pope John Paul II's profound insights on the key difference between authentic love and subtle forms of mutual use. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

What's happening in the human heart when we feel that sudden “spark” of attraction? Dr. Sri turns to the wisdom of St. John Paul II and his profound work Love and Responsibility to helps us to understand how to navigate our attractions so that they lead to authentic love—rather than lust and use. For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

When someone gets chosen instead of you, how should you respond? Fr. Mike Schmitz reminds us that God has a unique plan for each and every one of us. When others are blessed by being chosen, there is often a hidden burden that comes with it. We tend to see the blessing, but we forget the weight that accompanies it. Instead of giving in to jealousy or self-pity, remember this: everyone has their own story. If God didn't choose you for what you were hoping for, it's not because you were overlooked, it's because He has something different, and perhaps even better, in store for you.

As Lent begins, the Church invites us into the mystery of Christ's temptation in the desert. Drawing from the wisdom of Thomas Aquinas, Dr. Sri explores why Jesus allowed Himself to be tempted—and what His victory reveals about humility, spiritual maturity, and confidence in the Father's mercy. For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

Falling into the same sin again and again? Don't let the devil fool you, there is hope! Fr. Mike Schmitz warns us of the lies of the devil and encourages us to go immediately to confession when we sin. Don't get discouraged, but have the humility to confess your sins and the hope that Christ can transform you! If in weakness you sin, in freedom, claim the Lord.

Lent is coming—but is your plan just about doing more, or about letting Jesus go deeper? Dr. Sri unpacks Jesus' powerful words from the Sermon on the Mount and shows how Lent isn't meant to be a checklist of prayers and sacrifices, but a pathway to interior transformation. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

What's in our heart that refuses to celebrate when good things happen to someone else? Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on the story of the man healed on the Sabbath. Many focus on the fact that Jesus healed on the Sabbath, though technically allowed, but Fr. Mike invites us to look deeper. The real issue isn't the law. It's the heart. More than Jesus performing the miracle, what this story exposes is that sometimes we fail to value the suffering of others, or even the joy of others, because they simply don't matter enough to us.

Did Judas think he was actually helping Jesus fulfill His mission by betraying Him? Was Judas pre-destined to become the traitor of the Lord? Fr. Mike Schmitz asks these bold questions and unpacks what Scripture says about the person of Judas Iscariot. By evaluating his motivations and his lack of cooperation with the grace given to him, Fr. Mike details what a tragedy it is that he never became St. Judas.