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On this week's episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac are joined by Mark Francis, C.S.V., who was a seminary classmate of Pope Leo (then known as Bob Prevost) at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago in the late 1970s. Father Mark is the provincial of the Chicago province of the Viatorian community, and he describes Pope Leo as a thoughtful and sensitive leader—even in their seminary days. Zac, Ashley, and Fr. Mark discuss: Pope Leo's formation at C.T.U., where he learned alongside women and engaged with social justice issues How Pope Leo's language skills, governing experience and global perspective will be key assets in his papacy Why efforts to put Pope Leo in a box are doomed to fail Links for further reading: Jesuitical Storytelling Retreat Podcast: Inside Pope Leo XIV's first week Pope Leo XIV, in first U.S. appointment, names San Diego's new bishop Pope Leo's first audience: God's love is generous, not calculating Pope Leo's Chicago roots: a conversation with Cardinal Cupich Leo XIV: An American pope for the end of American empire? You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow. You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical. Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media at americamagazine.org/subscribe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jeremiah 30-31 are chapters often quoted and sung because of their beautiful images of divine closeness, renewal, and the posthumous figure of Rachel crying in prayer for the return of her exiled children. Dr. Malka Simkovich, who spent more than a decade teaching in Christian settings, always overlooked these prophecies as significant for the Jewish story, having long ago been adopted by the Christian world as the foreshadowing of their ‘new testament' (Jer. 31:30-32). In this conversation, she highlights the importance of these chapters for the Jewish narrative in this challenging moment, and thinks out loud with us about what it means for the Jewish world to enter a new chapter of history, devoid of divine metaphors and full of embrace for one another. Dr. Malka Z. Simkovich is the Editor-in-Chief of the Jewish Publication Society and Visiting Professor at Yeshiva University's Revel Graduate School for Jewish Studies. She has written several award-winning books on Second Temple Judaism and hundreds of articles. Simkovich served as the Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies at Catholic Theological Union from 2014–2024, and speaks regularly to audiences across North America and beyond on topics related to the Hebrew Bible, Jewish history, and contemporary Jewish-Christian relations. This is a special podcast miniseries produced by Matan and hosted by Dr. Yosefa Fogel Wruble which will drop each week of the Omer counting between the holidays of Pesach and Shavuot. In each episode, a Bible scholar explores an iconic biblical text in light of the changing Israeli, Jewish, and world realities.
Listen to Fr. Peter Galadza, PhD, Professor Emeritus (as of 2020) in the Faculty of Theology of the University of Saint Michael's College (USMC) in the University of Toronto, being interviewed by Rev. Dr. Andrew Stirling. In this episode, they discuss the impact and influence of Scripture throughout Peter's life, from his practices as a priest to how he has helped his family discover the power of Scripture and how it can be applied in a practical manner in everyday life. Read the transcript: biblesociety.ca/transcript-scripture-untangled-s10-ep5---Learn more about the Canadian Bible Society: biblesociety.caHelp people hear God speak: biblesociety.ca/donateConnect with us on Instagram: @canadianbiblesocietyWhether you're well-versed in Scripture or just starting out on your journey, The Bible Course offers a superb overview of the world's best-selling book. This eight-session course will help you grow in your understanding of the Bible. Watch the first session of The Bible Course and learn more at biblecourse.ca. ---Fr. Peter Galadza, PhD is Professor Emeritus (as of 2020) in the Faculty of Theology of the University of Saint Michael's College (USMC) in the University of Toronto, and recently retired Director of the Sheptytsky Institute of Eastern Christian Studies at USMC. In 2022 he held the Basil H. Losten Visiting Professorship in Ukrainian Church Studies at the Catholic University of America (CUA).In 2003-2004 Fr. Galadza was a research fellow at Harvard University's Dumbarton Oaks Byzantine Research Center in Georgetown, Washington, DC. He was subsequently elected President of the international academic association, Societas Orientalium Liturgiarum.In 2004, his book, The Theology and Liturgical Work of Andrei Sheptytsky, appeared in the series, Orientalia Christiana Analecta, edited by Robert Taft, SJ. Galadza is the author of more than 65 articles, and editor of several other books. His contribution to liturgical scholarship is the subject of an entire chapter, “La riforma liturgica nel pensiero di P. Galadza,” in a monograph by Marcel Mojzeš, Il movimento liturgico nelle Chiese bizantine: Analisi di alcune tendenze di reforma nel XX secolo, Bibliotheca “Ephemerides Liturgicae” Subsidia 132 (Rome: Edizioni Liturgiche, 2005), pp. 221-28. In March 2025, on the occasion of Galadza's 70th birthday, CUA Press published a commemorative collection of papers by more than 20 scholars, including Andrew Louth, dedicated to Galadza. The volume, Eastern Catholic Theology in Action: Essays in Liturgy, Ecclesiology and Ecumenism, focuses on the three areas in which he has worked most extensively. During the 1999-2000 academic year, Fr. Galadza served as dean of the L'viv Theological Academy in Ukraine (presently the Ukrainian Catholic University), for which he was awarded an archpriest's pectoral cross by then Bishop Lubomyr Husar. He was ordained to the presbyterate in 1981 by Patriarch Josyf Slipyj.Fr. Galadza earned his PhD at the University of Toronto, his MA in Liturgy from Notre Dame University and his MDiv from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.His wife, Olenka, is a high school teacher and iconographer. They have three children, Daniel, Marika and Ivanka.
In her highly anticipated return to the podcast, Dr. Malka Simkovich takes us on a journey through the rich and complex world of Second Temple Judaism, drawing from her acclaimed book Discovering Second Temple Literature. We begin with the extraordinary discoveries of the Cairo Genizah and the Dead Sea Scrolls, and explore why these moments of preservation are so central to understanding the period. We then unpack the deep identity tensions faced by the Jewish people—especially in communities like Alexandria—as they navigated dual roles as both imperial citizens and members of a semi-sovereign Judea. Dr. Simkovich clarifies the role of sects during this era, showing how minority movements like the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes related to the mainstream Jewish population, and challenges the assumption that sectarianism defined the age by highlighting the resilience of a shared Jewish identity. The episode also features a deep dive into the fascinating literature that expanded upon biblical texts, including a close look at the non-canonical Testament of Abraham. Finally, we end with a preview of Dr. Simkovich's latest book, Letters from Home, and discuss what inspired it and the conversation she hopes it will spark.---*This episode is dedicated to the refua shelema of our dear friend Yaakov ben Haya Sarah Malakh---• Bio: Dr. Malka Z. Simkovich is the Editor-in-Chief of the Jewish Publication Society and Visiting Professor at Yeshiva University's Revel Graduate School for Jewish Studies. Her first book, The Making of Jewish Universalism: From Exile to Alexandria, was published in 2016, and her second book, Discovering Second Temple Literature: The Scriptures and Stories That Shaped Early Judaism, was published with JPS in 2018 and received the 2019 AJL Judaica Reference Honor Award. Her third book, Letters From Home: The Creation of Diaspora in Jewish Antiquity, was published in June 2024. She is also the author of over a hundred published articles, including pieces that have been published in journals such as the Harvard Theological Review, the Journal for the Study of Judaism, the Jewish Review of Books, Tablet, and The Christian Century. A Leon Charney Fellow at the Yeshiva University Center for Israel Studies, a Sacks Scholar for the Rabbi Jonathan Sacks Foundation, and a Kogod Research Fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute, Simkovich served as the Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies at Catholic Theological Union from 2014–2024, and speaks regularly to audiences across North America and beyond on topics related to the Hebrew Bible, Jewish history, and contemporary Jewish-Christian relations.---• Get her books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Malka-Z.-Simkovich/author/B084JHCV8Q?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1746991336&sr=8-2&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c1f5bf2f-1e29-4536-8420-48672ac2ff47---• Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Rod Ilian, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Vasya, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!
Preaching for Palm Sunday, Anne Arabome, SSS offers a reflection on what makes Holy Week holy: "The holiness of Holy Week is in our story, writ large in the passion and triumph of Jesus of Nazareth. This week calls us to focus our gaze on Jesus and to follow him closely along the way. If we do so, we discover an immense treasure: a life of total self-giving that trumps selfishness; a gift of self-sacrificing love for the weakest and most vulnerable among us; a fullness of life that neither death nor despair can threaten, steal, or destroy."Sister Anne Arabome, SSS, is a member of the Sisters of Social Service in Los Angeles, California. She has served as the Associate Director of the Faber Center for Ignatian Spirituality at Marquette University and recently founded the Sophia Institute for Theological Studies and Spiritual Formation in Namibia. She holds a PhD in Systematic Theology from the University of Roehampton, UK, and a Doctor of Ministry in Spirituality from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/04132025 to learn more about Anne, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.
Steven Millies, professor of public theology and director of The Bernardin Center at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, joins Lisa Dent to discuss President Trump’s new appointment of Ambassador to the Vatican.
In this episode of Deacons Pod, the Paulist Deacon Affiliates speak with Fr. Robin Ryan, CP, author of the new Paulist Press book "Life is Changed, Not Ended: An Introduction to Christian Eschatology." Christian eschatology is the study of the "last things" including death, immortality of the soul, resurrection, and the end of time. Fr. Ryan's book ends with a reflection on Julian of Norwich's teaching about hope grounded in the love of God as exemplified by the passion of Christ, and considering the mystery of suffering. A member of the Passionists, Fr. Ryan is professor of systematic theology and director of the Master of Arts in the theology program at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. He also is author of the Paulist Press books "God and the Mystery of Human Suffering" and "Gazing on the Face of Christ: A Christ-Centered Spirituality." ABOUT THE SHOW: Deacons Pod is a podcast for everyone. But, it's especially created to inspire and give hope to people on the “threshold of faith”: Those who are thinking about going to Church and those who are thinking about leaving Church. Deacons Pod is hosted by the Paulist Deacon affiliates. The podcast is a production of the Paulist Fathers. More at deaconspod.com
Preaching for the Feast of the Holy Family. Ellen Romer Niemiec offers a reflection on mutuality: "In a time when it may seem safest to preserve ourselves as individuals and avoid the risk of vulnerability, may we heed God's radical invitation to love one another deeply and courageously. May we choose to trust that when we act out of love for one another, that love will be shared in return and enkindle in us the desire to only love more deeply." Ellen Romer Niemiec currently serves in enrollment management at Catholic Theological Union, where she is also pursing a Doctor of Ministry. She has pastoral experience in retreats, international immersions, non-violence work in correctional facilities, program development, and spiritual direction. She has written prayers and other spiritual reflections for Wisdom's Dwelling, Catholic Health Association, GIA publications, FemCatholic, and America Media. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/12292024 to learn more about Ellen, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.
This episode is sponsored by Eden Beit Shemesh. Contact Rina Weinberg at info@edenbeitshemesh.com for more details. Noam Taragin, son of our previous guest Rabbi Moshe Taragin, was seriously injured in Lebanon. We ask to pray for his quick healing: Noam Avraham ben Atara Shlomit.In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we talk to Malka Simkovich—a scholar of Jewish history, the editor-in-chief of the Jewish Publication Society, and a three-time 18Forty guest—about previous Jewish diasporas. We tend to think of “Israel-diaspora relations” as a modern phenomenon. But, as Dr. Simkovich reminds us, that situation existed well over 2,000 years ago, when some Jews returned to the Land of Israel following the Babylonian exile while others remained abroad. In this episode we discuss:What are the differences between the notions of golah, diaspora, and galut?Did ancient diaspora Jews have a political equivalent to “supporting Israel”? How should Jews live when in a partial state of exile?Tune in to hear a conversation about the “proto-messianic mindset” throughout Jewish history and today. Interview begins at 8:58.Dr. Malka Simkovich is the director and editor-in-chief of the Jewish Publication Society and previously served as the Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies and Director of the Catholic-Jewish Studies program at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She earned a doctoral degree in Second Temple and Rabbinic Judaism from Brandeis University and a Master's degree in Hebrew Bible from Harvard University. She is the author of The Making of Jewish Universalism: From Exile to Alexandria (2016), Discovering Second Temple Literature: The Scriptures and Stories That Shaped Early Judaism (2018), and Letters From Home: The Creation of Diaspora in Jewish Antiquity, (2024). This is her third time speaking on 18Forty.References:18Forty Podcast: “Malka Simkovich: The Mystery of the Jewish People”18Forty Podcast: “Malka Simkovich: The Secrets of Second Temple Judaism”Letters from Home: The Creation of Diaspora in Jewish Antiquity by Malka Z. SimkovichThe Antiquities of the Jews by JosephusThe Elephantine Papyri in English: Three Millennia of Cross-Cultural Continuity and Change by Bezalel PortenRosh Hashanah 18bBen SiraZechariah 8:19Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/18forty-podcast--4344730/support.
What is the Church for? Does the Church have a mission? Or, does the mission have a Church? What is your understanding of God? Fr. Stephen Bevans, SVD, raises these questions in this week's edition of Deacons Pod. Fr. Bevens is author of the new book "Community of Missionary Disciples: The Continuing Creation of the Church" from Orbis Books. A professor emeritus at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, Fr. Bevans is a missionary of the Society of the Divine Word. ABOUT THE SHOW: Deacons Pod is a podcast for everyone. But, it's especially created to inspire and give hope to people on the “threshold of faith”: Those who are thinking about going to Church and those who are thinking about leaving Church. Deacons Pod is hosted by the Paulist Deacon affiliates. The podcast is a production of the Paulist Fathers. More at deaconspod.com
Join us in this One on One interview with Robert Ellsberg and author,Stephen B. Bevans, SVD, as they discuss "Community of Missionary Disciples".https://maryknoll.link/fcxIn his latest book, Community of Missionary Disciples, missiologist Stephen B. Bevans offers a comprehensive, contemporary ecclesiology through a missionary lens. He unpacks the profound Catholic conviction that the church is missionary by its very nature as he considers what it means for the church to be on mission, in community, and together in discipleship.Stephen B. Bevans, SVD, is professor emeritus of mission and culture, Catholic Theological Union, Chicago. He is editor of the Brill series “Theology of Mission in Global Christianity” and serves on the editorial board of the International Review of Mission. His many books include An Introduction to Theology in Global Perspective, and Prophetic Dialogue: Reflections on Christian Mission Today (with Roger P. Schroeder) both also available from Orbis Books.Community of Missionary Disciples is available at 25% off through 31 August 2024
On this weeks podcast we are joined by Fr Ed Foley OFM Cap who is Professor Emeritus of Liturgy and Music at the Catholic Theological Union who introduces us to Blessed Solanus Casey, a Capuchin friar whose cause for canonisation is underway. Born in America in 1870 from Irish parents, the sixth of sixteen children, Solanus Casey is one of the simple, humble and authentic saints who is an example of how holiness is accessible to everyone, while staying close to our roots and embracing our limitations. Fr Ed takes us through his life and challenges while sharing how the humble doorman who not only answered the door but ultimately came to be the reason came to the door. When he was beatified in 2017, 70,000 gathered in Detroit for the ceremony for this gentle, ordinary guy. Official website about Blessed Solanus CaseyOSV - Solanus Casey: a model for the value of caringGod's holy doorman: Fr Solanus Casey 1870-1957
On this weeks podcast we are joined by Fr Ed Foley OFM Cap who is Professor Emeritus of Liturgy and Music at the Catholic Theological Union who introduces us to Blessed Solanus Casey, a Capuchin friar whose cause for canonisation is underway. We have our regular run through liturgical odds and ends including up coming saints of the weeks and some notices. This week in particular John made reference to the 2024 National Novena at Knock which you can find out about more here. In part three of the podcast we have our reflection on Mark 6:7-13 for the weekly Sunday gospel where Jesus sends out the disciples on the road and urging them to "Take nothing with you". Blessed Solanus CaseyBorn in America in 1870 from Irish parents, the sixth of sixteen children, Solanus Casey is one of the simple, humble and authentic saints who is an example of how holiness is accessible to everyone, while staying close to our roots and embracing our limitations. Fr Ed takes us through his life and challenges while sharing how the humble doorman who not only answered the door but ultimately came to be the reason came to the door. When he was beatified in 2017, 70,000 gathered in Detroit for the ceremony for this gentle, ordinary guy. Official website about Blessed Solanus CaseyOSV - Solanus Casey: a model for the value of caringGod's holy doorman: Fr Solanus Casey 1870-1957
Preaching for the Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, Kathleen O'Brien offers a reflection on basking in God's abundance: "Whether you are in the beginning stage, budding stage, or at the end, Jesus reminds us that God is always present along the journey and abundance is always before us– let us be surprised by abundance! It's natural for us to want to be in control and cling tightly to the imagined end result. But Jesus challenges us to give up control and to be present to God in this unfolding." Kathleen O'Brien currently lives in Berkeley, CA where she works for the Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers in the Mission Formation Department. After serving three years as a Maryknoll Lay Missionary teaching English in China at Jilin Agricultural College and Jilin Catholic Seminary, she attended Catholic Theological Union in Chicago where she obtained a master's degree in systematic theology. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/06162024 to learn more about Kathleen, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.
The apostle Paul was a busy man. As well as traveling, preaching, arguing, getting imprisoned, and surviving shipwreck, he also wrote a lot of letters. Over half the books in the Christian scriptures are commonly attributed to him, and anyone involved in an argument over matters of Catholic teaching is likely, at some point, to quote Paul. This can make things complicated, since some statements attributed to Paul appear to contradict each other. For instance, one passage from 1 Timothy says that women should not exercise authority over men. But elsewhere Paul commends women deacons and leaders, such as Phoebe and Prisca. This raises all kinds of questions, including questions about the origins of these books. Did Paul really write all the letters in the Bible that have been attributed to him—the letters to the Romans, to the Hebrews, to the people of Corinth, and so on? On this episode of the podcast, guest Ferdinand Okorie, C.M.F. talks about the authorship of the Pauline epistles. Okorie is editor-in-chief of U.S. Catholic, a member of the Claretian Missionaries, and vice president and academic dean at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, where he is also an assistant professor of New Testament studies. He is the author of Favor and Gratitude. Reading Galatians in Its Greco-Roman Context (Fortress Press, 2020), as well as numerous scholarly articles. You can learn more about Paul, and read some of Okorie's writing, in these links. “What church leaders can learn from St. Paul about race and diversity,” by Ferdinand Okorie, C.M.F. https://uscatholic.org/articles/202006/what-church-leaders-can-learn-from-st-paul-about-race-and-diversity/ “Paul through the eyes of a classicist,” a U.S. Catholic interview https://uscatholic.org/articles/201204/putting-paul-in-his-place-examining-the-apostle-through-the-eyes-of-a-classicist/ “What future did Paul see for his letters?” by Joel Schorn https://uscatholic.org/articles/200908/what-future-did-paul-see-for-his-letters/ “Getting to know Paul,” a U.S. Catholic interview https://uscatholic.org/articles/200807/getting-to-know-paul/ “Who decided what books are in the Bible?” by Alice Camille https://uscatholic.org/articles/201809/who-decided-what-books-are-in-the-bible/ Glad You Asked is sponsored by the Claretian Missionaries. https://www.claretians.org/
What do we mean when we talk about the importance of prayer? What is prayer? Is it mainly the words we say to God about our concerns, our needs, our hopes, our desires? What is the difference, if any, between saying prayers and being prayerful? Today, I'm sharing a conversation with a wise Franciscan priest who has been practicing prayerfulness for over 50 years. Albert Haase, OFM, is a preacher, teacher, and spiritual director. A former missionary to mainland China for over eleven years, he is the award-winning author of ten books on popular spirituality and the presenter on five bestselling DVDs. He holds a PhD in historical theology from Fordham University and an MDiv from Catholic Theological Union. He is currently serving as chaplain at Cedarbrake Retreat Center near Austin, Texas.____________________________________________________Connect with Alan on LinkedIn or learn more about Unhurried Living programs on their website. Learn more about Unhurried Leaders membership.
Preaching for the Fifth Sunday of Easter, Lisa Mersereau offers a reflection on remaining in God's love from her perspective as a hospice chaplain: "The stories I hear about how a dying person has maintained a prayer life are as amazing as God is. Many reflect upon how God is with them and how they know God is with them in their final illness. There is an unwavering belief that there's mutual love flowing between them and God. By Jesus saying, 'Remain in me, as I remain in you,' we can interpret that as, 'Know that love is present to you now and will be forever as I remain in you and you remain in me.' This is one of the many things I have learned at the bedside of my patients." Lisa Mersereau, CT is a graduate of Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, IL, with a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies degree. Recently, she became a Certified Thanatologist with the Association for Death Education and Counseling by being certified in Thanatology: Death, Dying, and Bereavement. Lisa is employed at Uni Care Hospice in Escondido, CA as a Chaplain and Bereavement Coordinator and is an active ministry volunteer at Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala. She happily lives in the San Diego area. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/04282024 to learn more about Lisa, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.
Amber Walling from the Central Minnesota Catholic staff and Kevin LaNave, peace and justice coordinator at Christ church Newman Center in St. Cloud talk with Father Ed Foley. Father Foley is the Duns Scotus Professor Emeritus of Spirituality and Retired Professor of Liturgy and Music at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. Father Foley is currently directing a $1.25 million dollar grant from the Lilly Endowment on preaching and neuroscience. He also serves his Capushin community as the Vice-Postulator for the Canonization cause for Blessed Solanus Casey.
Vanessa White is Associate Professor of Spirituality and Ministry, and Director of the Certificate in Black Theology and Ministry, at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She holds a dual appointment at Xavier University of Louisiana's Institute for Black Catholic Studies. She belongs to several academic societies, among them the National Black Storyteller Association, the American …
Preaching for Easter Sunday, Dr. C. Vanessa White offers a reflection on the power of women's voices proclaiming the Good News then and now: "If women doubt their value, this telling and retelling of the resurrection story reaffirms the power of a women's voice - for it was Mary's voice that first testified to the Resurrection and whose story continues today...On this day, can we, like Mary, run and share the news of Jesus' presence in our world? In spite of our doubts and fears, do we have the strength, the fortitude, the faith to go out like Mary and the disciples and share the news that Jesus has risen? This Good News can change our hearts and change the world, if only we believe." Dr. C. Vanessa White is Associate Professor of Spirituality and Ministry as well as the Director of the Certificate in Black Theology and Ministry at Catholic Theological Union. She received her Doctor of Ministry and Master of Theological Studies degrees from Catholic Theological Union, with additional post-graduate work at Xavier University of Louisiana and Loyola University Chicago. She is also a member of the faculty for Xavier University's Summer Institute for Black Catholic Studies in New Orleans where she teaches in both the Master's degree and Continuing Education and Enrichment Program. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/03313024 to learn more about C. Vanessa White, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.
In the Judeo-Christian tradition, God often makes Godself known through sound: be it a voice from a burning bush, a resounding clap of thunder or the blast of a trumpet. “God is revealed through sound,” affirms Ed Foley, O.F.M. Cap. “I think of a homily as sound theology,” he adds, “it's acoustic engagement.” When preparing to preach, Ed, the Duns Scotus Professor Emeritus of Spirituality and a retired professor from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, first writes his homilies word for word in poetic form. Then, he meticulously annotates his manuscript, like a conductor's score. “Where's the crescendo?” he asks himself. “Where's the pause? When do the trumpets come in?” Practice extends beyond the art of the homily, permeating life itself. It is, perhaps, a vital Christian practice as we enter the Easter season of Christ's resurrection. “The followers of Jesus practiced resurrection,” Ed says in his homily on “Preach” for the Mass of the Day this Easter Sunday. “Their dogged commitment to living an Easter spirituality and pass it on from one generation to the next, usually at great cost, is why we stand missioned to practice resurrection again today,” But, even though prudent preparation is necessary, there must always be enough room to veer from the script when you're standing in front of a congregation. “Improvisation is not shooting from the hip. We learned this from people, from standup comics, improvisation is taking what somebody gives you and doing something with it. It's preparation,” Ed says. “The text is not the performance, just like a script is not a play, a score is not music.” Read the Scripture readings for the Mass of the Day on Easter Sunday, The Resurrection of our Lord Get daily Scripture reflections and support “Preach” by becoming a digital subscriber to America Magazine “Preach” is made possible through the generous support of the Compelling Preaching Initiative, a project of Lilly Endowment Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On Take the Stage, presented by Haley Marketing, we bring you the BEST speakers, coaches, trainers, and strategic partners from across the staffing and recruiting industry every other week. More than your standard interview, each conversation is built off of a specific session or topic these industry thought leaders bring to conferences and audiences around the country. KEY MOMENTS On this episode of Take the Stage, Brad Bialy is joined by Tom Kosnik, the staffing industry's leading expert offering a unique combination of business consulting acumen and experience to independent staffing firms. They discuss the importance of developing a true pricing strategy and how to analyze markups. Tom emphasizes the need to collect and analyze data on pay rates, bill rates, and burdens. He also explains how to create a financial model and run a financial analysis on every account to ensure profitability. They touch on the challenge of differentiating the staffing industry and the value it provides. Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies for running a successful staffing firm. ABOUT THE SPEAKERS Brad Bialy (LinkedIn) Brad Bialy has a deep passion for helping staffing and recruiting firms achieve their business objectives through strategic digital marketing. For over a decade, Brad has developed a proven track record of motivating and educating staffing industry professionals at over 100 industry-specific conferences and webinars. As a visionary leader, Brad has helped guide the comprehensive marketing strategy of more than 300 staffing and recruiting firms. His keen eye for strategy and delivery has resulted in multiple industry award-winning social media campaigns, making him a sought-after expert and speaker in the industry. Tom Kosnik (LinkedIn) Tom Kosnik is the staffing industry's leading expert offering a unique combination of business consulting acumen and experience to independent staffing firms. Tom advises on all aspects of running a staffing firm including organizational performance; change management; strategic planning; financial analysis; compensation plan design; process and profit improvements and business value enhancement to help staffing firms across the country improve operations and the bottom line. In 1995, Tom started the Presidents' RoundTable program to improve leadership capabilities of independent staffing firms' management through creative idea generation, sharing, collaborating and addressing industry challenges. The RoundTables have expanded to include CFOs, COOs, and CMOs. Tom is the only consultant for independent staffing firms with a degree in Organizational Development (M.A. from Bowling Green State University) and a B.A. in psychology from Seattle University. He has a Masters of Divinity degree from Catholic Theological Union and is also certified with the Center for Creative Leadership. This specialized educational and professional background equips him with a unique skill set for guiding independent staffing firms.
Episode 73 of Messy Jesus Business podcast, with guest host, Rev. Adam Bucko Podcast: Play in new window | Download Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Email | RSS | More For Love of the Broken Body book cover IN THIS EPISODE In the latest episode of Messy Jesus Business podcast, guest host Rev. Adam Bucko interviews Sister Julia Walsh FSPA about her new spiritual memoir, For Love of the Broken Body. Their conversation explores the story of the accident that shaped Sister Julia's experience as a novice with the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. She speaks about how she felt called to share her powerful story. "In alignment with my vow of poverty, I felt like I couldn't keep this story to myself," Sister Julia admits. Rev. Adam and Sister Julia also explore how brokenness is a normal and sacred part of being human and how all people can give who they are for the sake of the common good. They explore vocational discernment, vulnerability, Sister Julia's experience in finding a publisher for the book, the messiness of maturing in faith, trusting in God, and sharing life in community. Download a free reflection guide to accompany Sister Julia's memoir, For Love of the Broken Body, here. ABOUT THE GUEST HOST Father Adam Bucko has been a committed voice in the movement for the renewal of Christian Contemplative Spirituality and the growing New Monastic movement. He has taught engaged contemplative spirituality in Europe and the United States, and authored Let Your Heartbreak be Your Guide: Lessons in Engaged Contemplation, and co-authored Occupy Spirituality: A Radical Vision for a New Generation and The New Monasticism: An Interspiritual Manifesto for Contemplative Living. Committed to an integration of contemplation and just practice, he cofounded an award-winning non-profit, the Reciprocity Foundation, where he spent 15 years working with homeless youth living on the streets of New York City, providing spiritual care, developing programs to end youth homelessness, and articulating a vision for spiritual mentoring in a post-religious world. He currently serves as a director of The Center for Spiritual Imagination at the Episcopal Cathedral of the Incarnation in Garden City, New York, and is a member of “The Community of the Incarnation,” a ‘new monastic' community dedicated to democratizing the gifts of monastic spirituality and teaching contemplative spirituality, in the context of hearing and responding to the cry of the poor and the cry of the earth. Adam leads The Buddhist-Christian Community for Meditation and Action along with his wife, Kaira Jewel Lingo, a Buddhist teacher and former nun in the community of Thich Nhat Hanh. ABOUT Sr. JULIA WALSH FSPA Sister Julia Walsh FSPA Sister Julia Walsh is a Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration and part of hercongregation's formation team, serving women who are discerning their vocation. Along with another Franciscan Sister, she co-founded The Fireplace, an intentional community and house of hospitality on Chicago's southside that offers spiritual support to seekers, artists, and activists. She has an MA in Pastoral Studies from Catholic Theological Union and is a spiritual director and secondary teacher. As a creative writer, educator, and retreat presenter she is passionate about exploring the intersection of creativity, spirituality, activism, and community life. A regularly published spiritual writer, Sister Julia's work can be found in publications such as America, Living Faith Catholic Devotional, and Living City. She hosts the Messy Jesus Business blog and podcast and is the author of FOR LOVE OF THE BROKEN BODY (Monkfish, March 2024). Rev. Adam Bucko with Sr. Julia Walsh FSPA MESSY JESUS BUSINESS is hosted by Sister Julia Walsh. Produced and edited by Colin Wambsgans. Email us at messyjesusbusiness@gmail.com BE SOCIAL:https://www.facebook.com/MessyJesusBusiness Facebook: https://www.facebook.
According to new guidance released this week by the Vatican, “irregular” unions should not be denied the right to receive God's blessing. Pope Francis' guidance did not, however, amend church doctrine on marriage. Reset speaks with Steve Millies, associate professor of public theology and director of Bernardin Center at the Catholic Theological Union Mary Donnelley, board president at Dignity Chicago and Chris Pett, former national Dignity president to learn more.
The anticipated joy of Christmas unfolds against a backdrop of pain and violence this year. “I think one of the most important things in these extremely troubled times is that we do have the lights, both metaphorically and physically,” says Barbara Reid, O.P. “Our most important gift and our most important approach, not only to the advent and Christmas season, but to our lives overall, is never to let hope dim.” [Take a quick listener survey: Tell us what you love about “Preach” and what you'd like us to change] On the Christmas episode of “Preach,” Sister Barbara Reid, President of the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and Carroll Stuhlmueller, C.P. Distinguished Professor of New Testament Studies at the C.T.U, preaches on the readings for Christmas Mass during the Day. In conversation with Ricardo after the homily, Barbara reflects on how she maintains Christmas joy in her preaching without shying away from the grim realities of the world, and encourages listeners to read Scripture commentaries from “perspectives that are postcolonial, Latino/a, Black Catholic, Asian, and Asian American.” Read the full text of this week's homily and Scripture readings. Get daily Scripture reflections and support "Preach" by becoming a digital subscriber to America Magazine. “Preach” is made possible through the generous support of the Compelling Preaching Initiative, a project of Lilly Endowment Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Host Fr. Michael Trail invites Kimberly Lymore on to the program to talk about the Tolton Pastoral Ministry Program at Catholic Theological Union (CTU).
Lisa Hendey and Barb Szyszkiewicz enjoy a conversation on the “spirituality of messiness” at the Archdiocese of Los Angeles Religious Education Congress with Sr. Julia Walsh, FSPA, author of the forthcoming spiritual biography For Love of the Broken Body: A Spiritual Memoir (April 2024). Julia Walsh is a Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration and part of her congregation's formation team, serving women who are discerning their vocation. She co-founded The Fireplace, an intentional community and house of hospitality on Chicago's southside that offers spiritual support to seekers, artists, and activists. She has a MA in Pastoral Studies from Catholic Theological Union and is a spiritual director and secondary teacher. As a creative writer, educator, and retreat presenter she is passionate about exploring the intersection of creativity, spirituality, activism, and community life. Sister Julia's work can be found in publications such as America, Living Faith Catholic Devotional, National Catholic Reporter, Living City, The Christian Century, Chicago Sun-Times, and St. Anthony Messenger. She hosts the Messy Jesus Business blog and podcast and is on Twitter and Instagram as @JuliaFSPA. A lover of the outdoors, she sometimes can be found studying wildflowers near Elgin, Iowa, her hometown. Show Notes Links: Messy Jesus Business Instagram and Twitter - @JuliaFSPA For Love of the Broken Body: A Spiritual Memoir
Read and Sign our Petition to Proclaim the Full Resurrection Story on Easter Sunday: https://futurechurch.org/petition Preaching for the 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Caitlin Morneau offers a reflection on reclaiming connectedness: "Forgiveness is fundamentally an individual act, but with social implications. Every harm has repercussions, rippling impacts through time and community. Really living into the fullness of forgiveness means moving toward as full a reclamation of human dignity and communion as possible. When this becomes the way in which we move and live and have our being, suddenly seven times seventy becomes far more attainable — not a heroic act for the few. But we cannot do it alone. We need to encourage one another daily. And build up systems (legal and otherwise) that create vessels for mercy and grace to shape the labor of justice itself." Caitlin Morneau serves as Director of Restorative Justice at Catholic Mobilizing Network (CMN), the national Catholic organization working to end the death penalty and promote restorative justice through education, advocacy and prayer. Caitlin is a Bernardin Scholar at Catholic Theological Union where she is completing a MA in Ministry with a concentration in Spirituality and holds an MA in Conflict Transformation from the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding at Eastern Mennonite University. Caitlin is a facilitator of peacemaking circles and trained in restorative community conferencing. She lives in Alexandria, VA with her husband, two children, and black lab. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/09172023 to learn more about Caitlin, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.
Martin Rodriguez sits down with Roger Schroeder, professor of intercultural studies and ministry at Catholic Theological Union. Schroeder reflects on his experiences in mission, identifies his contributions to missiology, and shares his hopes for its future.
Sr Chioma Ahanihu, SLW preaches for the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary, offering a reflection on Mary's capacity to bring about peace and unity, if we - like her - say 'yes' to God: "May today's feast remind us of our own Yes to God's call as consecrated people of God in our different spheres of life. May we be the voice for the voiceless and the less privileged in our society. May this feast of Assumption bring peace and joy in our homes, communities and world at large." Sr. Chioma Ahanihu, SLW is a member of Sisters of the Living Word in Chicago, Il. Born and raised in Nigeria, she has lived in the US for the past 2 decades. Sr. Chioma earned a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Misericordia University, a Masters in Social Work from the Catholic University of America and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies degree from Catholic Theological Union, Chicago IL. She is a candidate in the Doctorate in Ministry Program with a concentration in Spirituality at CTU. She is currently the Director for the Center of the Study of Consecrated Life at CTU. Prior to that, she ministered with Catholic Charities of Chicago Archdiocese as a Psychotherapist and Parish Social Worker. Her primary areas of interest as a Practical Theology scholar and minister are related to today's Consecrated Life, Reconciliation, Spirituality, Immigration and Racism. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/08152023 to learn more about Sr Chioma, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.
DescriptionThere is a weightiness to preaching that differs from every other kind of speaking. The message isn't our own. The impact isn't up to us. It's power comes from without, by grace lives within, and cannot be tamed, controlled, or cajoled. As the Spirit blows where it wills, the preacher waits on the Lord. This is the burden of preaching. But it's not a burden that rests heavy, only to crush, but a weight imbued with the Spirit that can (and must) be carried as the Preacher grows in trust of one greater, in trust of God, Father/Son, and Holy Spirit. As I spoke with today's guest, my dear friend Fr. Andriy Chirovsky, he shared about the weight and burden that comes along with Catholic preaching. I was riveted and I think you will be too. It challenged me out of thinking that I'm doing much of anything when I give talks and has encouraged me to wait on the Lord, beg for his mercy, and plead with God to speak to his people. Can't wait for you to hear this episode with my good friend, Fr. Andriy. The Right Reverend Mitered Protopresbyter Andriy Chirovsky, who prefers to sign his name as “Andriy, sinner-priest,” was ordained to the priesthood by the Confessor of the Faith, the patriarch of the Ukrainian Greco-Catholic Church, Josyf Cardinal Slipyj in 1980. He has had extensive pastoral and academic experience across the United States and Canada, and has preached and lectured throughout North America, Eastern and Western Europe, and Australia. He founded the Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky Institute of Eastern Christian Studies in 1986 at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and was its first Director for 16 years. The author of several books and numerous articles, Fr. Andriy has now retired from academic work due to his health. He is currently pastor of St. Paul Ukrainian Greco-Catholic Mission Parish in Flagstaff, AZ, where he lives with his wife, Halyna (yes, there are married priests in the Eastern Catholic Churches) and has founded East by Southwest Ministries, through which he is developing a series of podcasts on various aspects of the Theology, Spirituality, and History of the Eastern Churches, with an emphasis on East-West Ecumenism, and when appropriate, a good dose of humor as well. LinksFor more information about the Better Preach Podcast visit: www.ryanohara.org/betterpreachBetter Preach Podcast is now on YouTube. Here's a link to the channel. Better Preach is a proud member of Spoke Street, a Catholic Podcast Network that amplifies the voice of the Creator through fostering content that invites. Check out Ryan's FREE course on “sharing your faith as a Catholic.”Follow Ryan on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, or Facebook Join the Better Preach email list. I made this podcast with help from Riverside FM. Want to try it out for your podcast? Here's a link to get you started.
Fr. Adam MacDonald, SVD, Divine Word Missionary, looks back with gratitude and learnings through his 12 years of serving in vocation ministry. Recently, he was asked to move back to Chicago to serve as the local superior at the congregation's Theologate Formation House at Catholic Theological Union in Hyde Park. How do discernment, shared wisdom, and servant leadership play important roles in this transition time? Society of the Divine Word/Divine Word Missionaries Website: https://www.divineword.org/ Vocations Website: https://www.svdvocations.org/ Formation House: https://www.svdvocations.org/discernment-formation/steps-formation/theologate-formation CAVA WEBSITE: https://www.vocationscava.org/
In this episode J.J. and Dr. Simkovich dig into the differences between the Pharisees and the Saducees, and air some more second temple laundry. Dr. Malka Z. Simkovich is the Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies and the director of the Catholic-Jewish Studies program at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She is the author of The Making of Jewish Universalism: From Exile to Alexandria (2016), and Discovering Second Temple Literature: The Scriptures and Stories That Shaped Early Judaism (2018), which received the 2019 AJL Judaica Reference Honor Award. Simkovich's articles have been published in the Harvard Theological Review and the Journal for the Study of Judaism, as well as on online forums such as The Lehrhaus and the Times of Israel. She is involved in numerous local and international interreligious dialogue projects which help to increase understanding between Christians and Jews.
In this episode, Gretchen Crowder interviews Beth Knobbe. Beth Knobbe lives an intentional single life and is passionate about sharing her faith with others. While enjoying a successful career in business, Beth discerned the call to ministry and earned a Master of Divinity degree from Catholic Theological Union. She now serves with Catholic Relief Services, engaging local leaders to take action in support of vulnerable communities around the world. Prior to her role at CRS, she served as a campus minister at the Sheil Catholic Center at Northwestern University. Beth is the author of two books: Party of One: Living Single with Faith, Purpose, and Passion and Finding My Voice: A Young Woman's Perspective. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!------You can find Beth at bethknobbe.com.If this episode hits home and you feel you have your own story to share, email Gretchen at lovedasyouarepod@gmail.com.Follow along and contribute to the conversation @lovedasyouarepod on Instagram.Find more from Gretchen Crowder @gdcrowder as well as at gretchencrowder.com
Preaching on the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity, Laurie Brink, O.P., offers a reflection on allowing God to remake us in God's image: "Instead of trying to make God in our image, perhaps we could take a cue from the Trinity, and allow love, grace, and fellowship to remake us in God's image. Let's start by hearing voices—the voices of people in need, the hurting, the forgotten, and the quaking and crying Earth. Then at the invitation and inspiration of the Trinity, let's join the dance!" A Dominican Sister of Sinsinawa, Laurie Brink, O.P., is Professor of New Testament Studies at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, and New Testament Book review editor for The Bible Today. She teaches courses in the Gospels, Acts, NT Letters, and Early Christian literature. Her current research and pedagogical interests include contextualization and hermeneutics particularly the intersection of science, theology, and religious life. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/06042023 to learn more about Laurie, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.
Dr. Malka Z. Simkovich is the Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies and the director of the Catholic-Jewish Studies program at Catholic Theological Union, often the "only Jew on campus." As such she has become an important spokesperson for Jewish-Chrisitan relations and a bridge to greater understanding of Jewish experience. An expert in Second Temple judaism, her research and writing have added to the knowledge of what it was like to be a Jew in those times, and the lessons we can learn from their challenges. Join Rabbi Matanky for a wide-ranging conversation about both modern challenges and their ancient precursors.
Human beings have grappled with the question of why God allows suffering since before the origins of Christianity. It is a perennial conundrum for anyone who believes in a deity or deities. In many ancient cultures, including those of the Greeks and the Egyptians, belief in a multitude of gods may have made it a little easier for humans to find an answer to this question. But passages from these cultures' sacred and mythological texts suggest that people still were not satisfied—and still cried out for the gods to explain. For Christians, and others who believe in one all-good and all-powerful deity, the problem feels almost insoluble. If God is truly good and truly omnipotent, shouldn't God be able to prevent war, genocide, murder, rape, abuse, and natural disasters? And why would this God let terrible things happen to good people? This is the question that Job asks in the Hebrew scriptures. God responds, but for many readers, the answers provoke more questions. Today, when we ask this question, we don't expect to find an easy answer. Nor do we want to. Facile attempts to explain away or justify pain and suffering are often not only weak and insufficient––they are also profoundly annoying. On this episode of the Glad You Asked podcast, hosts Emily Sanna and Rebecca Bratten Weiss talk to Father Robin Ryan, C.P. about why God allows suffering. Ryan is a professor of systematic theology and the director of the master of arts in theology program at Catholic Theological Union. He is the author of God and the Mystery of Human Suffering (Paulist Press) and has written extensively on the theology of redemption. You can learn more about the Catholic approach to this topic in these links. “Where there is pain, there is God.” A U.S. Catholic interview https://uscatholic.org/articles/201602/where-there-is-pain-there-is-god/ “What the agony in the garden says about human suffering” By Annemarie Scobey-Polacheck https://uscatholic.org/articles/201905/what-the-agony-in-the-garden-says-about-human-suffering/ “Being a companion through the mystery of suffering” By Julia Walsh https://uscatholic.org/articles/201610/being-a-companion-through-the-mystery-of-suffering/ “Suffering is a reality to explore, not ignore, pope says” By Cindy Wooden https://www.ncronline.org/vatican/vatican-news/suffering-reality-explore-not-ignore-pope-says Glad You Asked is sponsored by the Claretian Missionaries. https://www.claretiansusa.org/
Many Catholics, as well as Christians from other denominations, have a habit of talking about God as though God were masculine or even male. Some Catholics will even affirm that they believe God is masculine, and that referring to God as anything other than masculine is theologically questionable or even sinful. After all, two of the three divine persons of the Trinity are specifically designated with male names: the Father and the Son. Jesus called God “Father” and taught his disciples to pray accordingly. And in a faith tradition with all-male leadership, people may be accustomed to thinking that the masculine is essentially superior. But does this mean God is male or masculine? Or that Catholics are obliged to think of the divine exclusively in masculine terms? On this episode of the podcast, hosts Emily Sanna and Rebecca Bratten Weiss talk to Dominican Sister Barbara Reid about whether God has a gender and how considerations about gender identity are connected with our talk about God. Reid is the president of Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She has written numerous books, including feminist interpretations of scripture, and has been honored for her pioneering work in feminist Biblical studies. You can read more about this topic in these links: “Does God have a gender?” by Sister Barbara E. Reid, O.P. https://uscatholic.org/articles/202303/does-god-have-a-gender/ “How we read Scripture can help or hinder efforts toward gender equality” by Sister Barbara E. Reid, O.P. https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2015/11/16/how-we-read-scripture-can-help-or-hinder-efforts-toward-gender-equality “Reimaging God: An interview with author Jessica Pegis” A U.S. Catholic interview https://uscatholic.org/articles/202301/reimaging-god-an-interview-with-author-jessica-pegis/ “Stop (only) calling God ‘he'” by Meghan Murphy-Gill https://uscatholic.org/articles/201812/stop-only-calling-god-he/ “Can we call God ‘Mother'?” by Katherine Attanasi https://uscatholic.org/articles/201406/can-we-call-god-mother/ “Consider a different meaning of ‘God the father'” by Emily Sanna https://uscatholic.org/articles/202206/consider-a-different-meaning-of-god-the-father/ Glad You Asked is sponsored by the Claretian Missionaries. https://www.claretiansusa.org/
Episode 62 of Messy Jesus Business podcast, with Sister Julia Walsh. Podcast: Play in new window | Download Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Email | RSS | More Afra Pourdad portrait "Whoever is in front of us we are called to love." -Sister Christa Parra IN THIS EPISODE For this episode of Messy Jesus Business podcast, Sister Julia Walsh chats with an old friend, Sister Christa Parra, IBVM. Sister Christa shares her vocation story and how she became a Catholic Sister. Though she served in Peru before joining the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and went to Catholic Theological Union, her desire to serve people where they are led her to accompany the people at the US-Mexico border, specifically in Ciudad Juárez. “I want to be able to live with the people and be involved in their daily lives, and to sit with them in their struggles and their joys," says Sister Christa. Sister Christa also tells some of the tragic stories happening to women and refugees in Juárez (and a warning to listeners: many of these stories contain terrible violence and suffering). But always, Sister Christa tells us, the humanity of the people living there, Mexican and refugees, shines through. Also, Christa tells Julia that while she and her fellow workers give the refugees a chance to regroup before the next stages of their journeys, but they also form a community with each other and become a family. Sister Christa adds, “When our families come to us all we can do is love them, provide them basics, and also to learn from [them] because our siblings teach us how to accompany.” ABOUT THE GUEST Sister Christa Parra is a member of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary. She is part of an intercongregational intercultural community in El Paso, Texas and a third generation Mexican-American from a small border town in Arizona. A graduate of Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, she earned a Master of Divinity and Certificate in Hispanic Theology and Ministry in 2016. She loves serving our brothers and sisters in Christ and presently does so through a pastoral accompaniment role at a shelter in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua. *To donate directly to Sister Christa and the IBVM's ministry in Ciudad Juárez: https://ibvm.us/support-us/make-a-gift/general-donation/ Under the "Designation Tab" choose Ministry FundUnder "Leave a comment" type "Migrant Ministry in Ciudad Juarez" *To learn more about and donate to Annunciation House in El Paso go to: https://annunciationhouse.org/ *Facebook page for Casa Eudes in Juárez: https://www.facebook.com/micasaeudes *Website for Centro Santa Catalina in Juárez: https://centrodesantacatalina.org/ *Sister Christa's page at Catholic Women Preach: https://www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preacher/christa-parra *Sister Christa's speech at Catholic Theological Union's 2016 graduation ceremony: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qgzYaYL5v0 MESSY JESUS BUSINESS is hosted by Sister Julia Walsh. Produced and edited by Colin Wambsgans. Email us at messyjesusbusiness@gmail.com BE SOCIAL:https://www.facebook.com/MessyJesusBusiness Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MessyJesusBusiness Twitter: @messyjesusbiz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/messyjesusbusiness SUPPORT US: https://www.patreon.com/messyjesusbusiness LISTEN HERE:
When Young Thomas Merton first awakened to prayer during his student years at Columbia University, he turned to the writings of St. John of the Cross for contemplative wisdom. Near the end of his life when Merton summed up his teaching on prayer in his book Contemplative Prayer, John of the Cross appeared again as one of his most important sources. This presentation examines how Merton based his approach strongly upon some aspects of John's teaching while creatively weaving it together with a vast array of other sources. Mary Frohlich, RSCJ, is a Professor Emerita at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago after teaching there from 1993 to 2020. She is a noted scholar of Carmelite spirituality, with numerous published essays on Teresa of Avila, Thérèse of Lisieux, and John of the Cross as well as on broader issues in the tradition. Her book Breathed into Wholeness: Catholicity and Life in the Spirit was published by Orbis in 2019, and she is currently working on another to be entitled The Heart at the Heart of the World. She now resides in Cambridge, MA, and focuses primarily on ecospiritual issues.
Preaching for the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Karen Ross offers a reflection on the radical vision God has for God's people: "Since God is an active God working in and through the lives of those who suffer, we can be assured that this new world is not only possible, but that she is already on her way. May we have the grace and bravery not only see this light amidst the darkness, but be that light to guide the way for others." Karen Ross, PhD (she/her/ella) is a graduate program director, theology and ethics professor, and yoga and mindfulness instructor. She currently works at Catholic Theological Union as the director of the Pathways@CTU program, which seeks to engage young people- especially those from marginalized communities- in co-creating the church of tomorrow. She received her PhD in theology and ethics from Loyola University Chicago, and her research focuses on feminist ethics and Catholic sexuality education, particularly of young women and girls. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/01222023 to learn more about Dr. Ross, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.
In this edition of the 18Forty Podcast, we are privileged with the return of Dr. Malka Simkovich—Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies and director of the Catholic-Jewish Studies program at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago—who helps us explore Second Temple Judaism and how it relates to Jewish life today. By diving deep into the Jewish past, Malka enables us to understand the narratives and commitments that have allowed the Jewish people to persist through the most existential challenges. In this episode we discuss: What was the relationship between the ancient Jews and the surrounding dominant cultures? How did the Jewish world respond to the destruction of the Second Temple? What are the differences between Jewish and Christian notions of truth? Tune in to hear a conversation about the central practices and distinctions that have marked and preserved the Jewish people across the millenia. Interview begins at 25:53.Dr. Malka Simkovich is the Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies and director of the Catholic-Jewish Studies program at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She earned a doctoral degree in Second Temple and Rabbinic Judaism from Brandeis University and a Masters degree in Hebrew Bible from Harvard University. She is the author of The Making of Jewish Universalism: From Exile to Alexandria (2016), and Discovering Second Temple Literature: The Scriptures and Stories That Shaped Early Judaism (2018).References:Malka Simkovich on 18Forty: The Mystery of the Jewish People Tzidkat HaTzadik by Tzadok HaKohen of Lublin“God's First Love: The Theology of Michael Wyschogrod” by Meir Y. SoloveichikOutside the Bible: Ancient Jewish Writings Related to Scripture edited by Louis H. Feldman, James L. Kugel, and Lawrence H. Schiffman
David Jackson 84, married. Former Catholic priest 50 years. M.A. in Scripture from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, M.Div. from Sacred Heart School of Theology, Hales Corners, Wi. Published JESUS GARDENS ME on Amazon.
Episode: In this episode, Dr. Malka Z. Simkovich takes us on an exciting tour of Second Temple Literature, giving us a sense of the stories, personalities, and history that shaped this […] The post Malka Z. Simkovich – Discovering Second Temple Literature first appeared on OnScript.
Join Garry and JoAnn as they reflect together on what it is to choose the path of transformation and not of transaction in relationships, sharing a trajectory of growth in relation to God and others as they seek to bring peace to the planet and one another. For a video version of this episode, see: https://youtu.be/FCHHS6ONP1s From Garry and JoAnn's interview: Garry: “I come from a perspective at this junction in my life where I see everything as gift, that I didn't deserve, or wasn't entitled to, or there wasn't something I merited. It was purely gratuitous, God loving and manifesting God's self in creation. It seems to me that if we want to live in that image and likeness, we have to model that perspective as best we can in all our relationships. I certainly see that in our, my relationship to JoAnn, that who she is and the wonderful person that she is, has been gifted to my life to share and experience. There is a great sense of gratitude for that, but also a humility that, in the same way I didn't deserve to be born into this world; it was gratuitous. The same is true in relationship to another human being who, is on the same journey that I'm on. I have the opportunity to walk that journey in a spirit of love, that love constantly challenges us to let down our guard and open further and to love deeper and experience more completely all the gifts that God shares with us. It is incredibly humbling because it's the avenue by which as we move on our spiritual journey, we've been doing that together as a couple.” JoAnn: “When we talk about choosing each other in marriage, it's true, I chose Garry, Garry chose me. But then in faith, we also believe that God chose us for each other. And when you have a gift mentality or modality, it's a different kind of way you receive. If you go and acquire something, that's different, but if you get something as a gift that has a receptivity to it that is completely different. It requires gratitude, openness and humility because the giver saw something in you that needed that gift. So I think that there's a whole receptivity in seeing another person in any relationship you have as being a gift to you in your life at that time, at that moment. And it makes a difference in how you interact. I think that idea of gift is a crucial kind of mindset.” JoAnn: “Change is inevitable and some changes, I think, are the result of life circumstances. … There's a letting go and an embracing of what's next. And I really think that's part of the marriage journey and any long-term relationship. Letting go of what was and embracing what's next. Garry mentioned that continual conversion, which is rooted in an openness to be willing to let go of whatever barriers to spiritual growth you're harboring and allow God to do the work needed to change you. And that's part of that long-term marriage dance too. … We have a shared common trajectory in that we both want to grow deeper and deeper in relationship with God and with each other.” Garry: “The idea of (being) naked before God, we're not as generous as naked beings in front of other human beings, cuz we don't wanna appear vulnerable or weak or flawed, so we guard ourselves. But in a marriage that's working, I think the other person serves as a mirror. There are parts that I need somebody who can mirror back to me that which I can't see, so that in seeing what I can't see, I might be able to grow through it, or love my way through it as I like to see it.” JoAnn: “Transformation and relationship: You enter into the full unity, that's about relationship and God revealing God to us, and that means that it's transformational rather than transactional. … I think it's about revelation and relationship and not simply redemption. When I'm trying to tick off the boxes of doing all the right things to merit God's love, then I start watching other people and seeing if they're ticking off the right boxes too, and now I become judgmental. So it's better to be vulnerable and let God work whatever changes are necessary inside, being open to transformation and not worrying about if I exacted the right transactions this week.” JoAnn: “Initially growing up, I thought that Francis was the easy Saint, because he's a nice guy who loves nature. Oh, that's great. I can follow that. But then I realized that Francis is pretty challenging because Francis … tries to love as God loves. That's a pretty challenging way to be—that's not the easy saint.” Garry: “I do love that, but Francis didn't get it all right either; just like the rest of us don't get it all right. We try to find a model and a way of living our lives that will bring about the hope for fulfillment that we all desire. He helped open us to the idea of being willing to suffer on behalf of God, and especially suffer with those who are suffering in this world. We are called as Franciscans to reach out to those people as best we can to ease their suffering and to know that they don't walk in this world alone. Francis modeled that and was loved for that, and God worked through him because of that.” Garry: “Then there's the huge challenge for all of us, whether it be you Sister Michelle or JoAnn or I, what is mine to do? What is ours to do to help bring about God's desire for God's people? And that would be his world as well, which he loves. There are so many beautiful things in creation; they were created out of that same love that created us out of love. So how do we encounter our world in a manner that we might be conduits for that transformation that JoAnn was talking about? And how do we heal this world, this time and space in God's wondrous creation? What is our role in bringing about both peace and restoration to our planet and that same peace and restoration to one another?” For a full transcript, please include episode number and email: fslfpodcast@fslf.org. References: Qualities, attitudes and actions important for marriage and relationships to work: Drawing from the interview, Garry and JoAnn name continual conversion, gratitude, receptivity, humility, love, openness, mutual encouragement, common trajectory of growth in relationship with God and with others, shared vulnerability, choose path of transformation and not transaction in relationship, forgiveness, make room for other to be who they are, life-long learning, common spiritual yearning, poverty, suffer with the suffering, bring peace to the planet and to one another/others. Continual Conversion in Franciscan Spirituality: Consider this video by Darleen Pryds, Ph.D. of the Franciscan School of Theology (FST), entitled: “Emotional Range and On-Going Conversion: Franciscan Joy,” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4etRlkWhlhg – video #35 of the Franciscan Vision Series (see below for general link). Conversion, another meditation: Grows out of self-knowledge; we tend to like dramatic conversions like the story of St. Paul. For Francis (and most people), conversions may have dramatic events, but it is more a process or journey. As one's outward life becomes humbler and simpler, one's inner life becomes richer. -Peace and Good through the year with Francis of Assisi, Pat McCloskey, OFM, cf. p. 67. Why Did God Become Human? by Dr. Daniel Horan, OFM, John Duns Scotus professor of spirituality at Catholic Theological Union, Chicago: this video (#23) is from the Franciscan Vision Series; here's a link to the playlist of many fine explorations of Franciscan Spirituality, including #23: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhm41W5jlZZQtwlhsoiM37SGFMN7Kh5QR Hebrews 11:1: “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for.” Franciscan Poverty: See this introductory text by Brother Bill Short, OFM, in an excerpt from his book “Poverty and Joy”: d2y1pz2y630308.cloudfront.net › 11001 › documents Canticle of the Creatures, by Francis: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/franciscan-spirit-blog/st-francis-and-his-canticle ; the full text is at: https://www.franciscantradition.org/clare-of-assisi-early-documents/related-documents/franciscan-documents/the-canticle-of-brother-sun-1225/569-ca-ed-1-page-392
Hi family, thanks for joining us for this special, podcast-exclusive interview. Today we are going to talk to Julie Welborn. Julie Welborn is an anointed woman of God who has a unique gift for creating peaceful environments where healing and restoration can take place. She has extensive experience in all aspects of ministry, particularly serving youth and young adults. Julie spent ten years as a program director for LINK Unlimited (an educational nonprofit that serves African American high school youth in the Chicago area) and seven years as a youth minister for the Faith Community of Saint Sabina. Since then, Julie operates her retreat consulting business and has coordinated retreats and workshops across the country, where her stirring oratory has touched, challenged, encouraged, and moved. Julie worked in the Office of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Chicago during 2011-2016. She served as the Director of Catholic Identity from 2014-16. Julie currently serves as Associate Pastor of Youth and Family Life at LaSalle Street Church in Old Town. In addition, she operates Perfect Peace Consulting LLC, where she facilitates retreats, workshops, and speaks at various events. Julie holds a Doctorate of Ministry, a Master of Divinity and a Certificate in Biblical Spirituality from Catholic Theological Union; a Master of Arts in Communication from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a Bachelor of Arts in Theater from Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Today we are going to be encouraged to find retreat with God. The content shared during the Faith on the Journey broadcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to treat or diagnose any mental health condition. Due to the content of this broadcast, some of the content can be triggering. If triggered, please seek professional support. Viewer discretion is advised. Subscribe/Rate Never miss an episode by hitting the subscribe button RIGHT NOW! Help other people find our community by taking a few moments to leave a review in your podcasting app. Thanks! Connect with Faith on the Journey Subscribe to our email list at faithonthejourney.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faithonthejourneycounseling/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/faithonthejourneycounseling Youtube: Faith on the Journey. Click https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLbmB8oL-hfU6bVW9kEIcFQ to subscribe. Faith on the Journey is a Christian company that specializes in Bible-based trauma healing resources. We offer Christian counseling and healing groups. Learn more by visiting faithonthejourney.org. Connect with Julie at www.drjuliewelborn.com The music for this show is provided by Bensound.com. Host: Jocelyn J. Jones Produced by: Hannah Lynn Miller Guest: Julie Welborn --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/jocelyn-jones8/support
In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we talk to Dr. Malka Simkovich, Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies and director of the Catholic-Jewish Studies program at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, about Second Temple Judaism and how it can help us understand what it means to be a Jew in our own time. Dr. Simkovich explores the significance of belief and observance over the history of the Jewish people. •What is the role of mystery in how we understand covenant and chosenness?•What is the relationship between religious life in the ancient world and the Jewish practice we know today? •How does belief facilitate the continuity of the Jewish tradition throughout time? Tune in to hear a conversation about the history and mystery of the Jewish nation.Interview begins at 27:40Dr. Malka Simkovich is the Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies and director of the Catholic-Jewish Studies program at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She earned a doctoral degree in Second Temple and Rabbinic Judaism from Brandeis University and a Masters degree in Hebrew Bible from Harvard University. She is the author of The Making of Jewish Universalism: From Exile to Alexandria (2016), and Discovering Second Temple Literature: The Scriptures and Stories That Shaped Early Judaism (2018). References:The Formation of the Talmud: Scholarship and Politics in Yitzhak Isaac Halevy's Dorot Harishonim by Ari BergmannIntroduction to the Mishnah by MaimonidesHow Do We Know This?: Midrash and the Fragmentation of Modern Judaism by Jay M. HarrisFrom Text to Tradition, A History of Second Temple and Rabbinic Judaism by Lawrence H. SchiffmanStrauss, Spinoza & Sinai: Orthodox Judaism and Modern Questions of Faith edited by Jeffrey Bloom, Alec Goldstein, and Gil StudentResponse to Michael Wyschogrod by David NovakThe Making of Jewish Universalism: From Exile to Alexandria by Malka Z. SimkovichDiscovering Second Temple Literature: The Scriptures and Stories That Shaped Early Judaism by Malka Z. Simkovich Heritage and Hellenism: The Reinvention of Jewish Tradition by Erich S. GruenDiaspora: Jews amidst Greeks and Romans by Erich S. Gruen
Pope Francis clearly considers synodality to be crucial for the reform of the church. Since his election, he has convened two synods on the family, the synod on Youth and Young People, and the synod on the Pan-Amazon region. And now he has called for a synod on synodality. But what is a synod? And what is synodality? According to Kim Daniels, co-director of the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life at Georgetown University, and a member of the Vatican Dicastery for Communication, synodality has to do with listening, coming together, and accompaniment. These are all ideas that have been central to Pope Francis' ministry and leadership. In today's episode of Field Hospital, Mike and Jeannie talk to Kim about what synodality means for the church, and how parishes are putting it into action. They also discuss the backlash against, and misunderstandings about, synods and synodality in the Church today. LINKS: Woman to Know: Kim Daniels https://catholicwomensforum.org/staff/women-know-kim-daniels/ "Want to understand synodality? Look to Africa" By Mike Lewis https://wherepeteris.com/want-to-understand-synodality-look-to-africa/ “For the synod to succeed, the church must listen to all of us” By Milton Javier Bravo https://uscatholic.org/articles/202203/for-the-synod-to-succeed-the-church-must-listen-to-all-of-us/ “Panelists say solidarity, synodality can heal divisions in US Church” By John Lavenburg https://cruxnow.com/church-in-the-usa/2022/03/panelists-say-solidarity-synodality-can-heal-divisions-in-u-s-church "US Bishops Speak on the Synodal Process" By Rachel Amiri https://wherepeteris.com/us-bishops-speak-on-the-synodal-process/ "Synodality: A New Way of living as a Church"By Daniel Amiri https://wherepeteris.com/synodality-a-new-way-of-living-as-a-church/ This episode of Field Hospital is supported by Catholic Theological Union. https://ctu.edu/
Episode 1, Season 6 of Messy Jesus Business podcast, with Sister Julia Walsh. "When you are in a place of paradox, you're on holy ground." - Sister Julia Walsh LISTEN HERE: IN THIS EPISODE: In this very special episode of Messy Jesus Business podcast, Sister Julia Walsh takes on the role of podcast guest, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the conceptualization of Messy Jesus Business Podcast. Podcast editor Charish Badzinski serves as host for this episode, and together she and Sister Julia explore the lessons of the past 49 episodes, and what it means to say yes to the mess. Sister Julia explains how the program got its start and its name. She also gets the chance to respond to the questions she frequently asks her guests, including offering her thoughts on what radical discipleship means to her, and what she thinks is especially messy. During this episode, we also hear from past guests who pop in to in the join the celebration, as well as podcast listeners who share what listening to Messy Jesus Business means to them. And lastly, Sister Julia gives a sneak peek into possible future topics she'd like to explore in the next 50 episodes. Please note that the Messy Jesus Business team is taking a break over the summer to plan the next 50 episodes, and the podcast will return with fresh content this fall. ABOUT THE GUEST: Sister Julia Walsh is a Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration and part of a new generation of Catholic Sisters. She's often writing and podcasting about the messiness of following Jesus and being Catholic and doesn't hesitate to ask important questions. She can often be found visiting jails, leading retreats, companioning spiritual seekers, advocating for peace, teaching about social justice, praying in the chapel or camping in the woods. Sister Julia has been frequently featured in the media, and is widely published. Julia Walsh grew up on a goat farm in a small community in Northeast Iowa with her parents: Kevin and Elsie, and three siblings. She attended college in Iowa, starting at Wartburg College in Waverly, then ultimately transferring to Loras College to discern her vocation. While a student at Loras in Dubuque, Iowa Julia studied abroad in South Africa and realized her passion for social justice, equality and Gospel living. In 2003 she graduated from Loras College magna cum laude with a BA in History, Secondary Education and Catholic Studies. After graduation Julia interned with the Iowa Catholic Conference in Des Moines, Iowa, and then moved to California and joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. As a Jesuit Volunteer, Julia worked with young parents and their children transitioning from homelessness to healthy interdependence at Waking the Village/Tubman House in Sacramento, California. Her experiences in South Africa, as an intern with the Iowa Catholic Conference and in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps helped her to develop her passions for Gospel-centered systemic change. In 2006 Julia entered the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, (FSPA) based in La Crosse, Wisconsin. She entered the novitiate and received the name Sister in 2007. She professed first vows in 2009 and perpetual vows in 2015. Sister Julia began her teaching ministry at Catholic high schools in Chicago where she lived and served from 2008 to 2012. In 2012, Sister Julia moved to La Crosse, Wisconsin to be closer to her community's motherhouse and minister at Aquinas High School, where she served as a theology teacher until 2016. In the fall of 2016, Sister Julia joined the staff of Marywood Franciscan Spirituality Center on Trout Lake in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, where she presented programs and retreats and served as a freelance writer. In August 2017, Sister Julia graduated from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago with a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies. Sister Julia returned to Chicago in August 2019 and became a certified spiritual director though the Claret...
This special bonus episode is coming to you Live (ish) from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. Marcia & Shannon take deep dive into the Easter chapter of our new book, Fat Luther, Slim Pickin's: A Black Catholic Celebration of Faith, Tradition, and Diversity (Ave Maria Press, 2022), just in time for the Easter season. It's the (second) greatest miracle ever to happen on Easter!Special thanks Steve Millies and Peter Cunningham at the Bernadin Center at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago for making this event a reality.To learn more about CTU go to www.ctu.edu for information on ministry formation, degree programs, continuing education, and so much more!Pick up a copy of Fat Luther, Slim Pickin's from Ave Maria Press. Use the code FATLUTHER through December 31, 2022 to get 20% off your purchase along with free shipping.Follow Us Podcast - Instagram & Twitter: @psbbpodcast, Facebook: "Plaid Skirts & Basic Black"Marcia - Instagram & Twitter: @stylishlyciaShannon - Instagram: @teamquarterblack, Twitter: @teamquarterblkSupport Our PodcastBuy Merch! - psbbpodcast.myspreadshop.comPatreon - www.patreon.com/psbbpodcast