Podcasts about church life

Send us a text In this episode of the Healing the City podcast, Pastor Eric continues his conversation with Bob Lefevre. They talk about Bob's experience cooking for the Village, how much he enjoys it, and what he's learned about preparing meals for large groups. The conversation also turns to music—specifically Bob's deep love for worship. They close by reflecting on Bob's steady posture of prayer and the way it shapes his life and relationships. Support the show"Healing the City" is a profound and dynamic weekly podcast that dives into the complexities of creating healthier communities. Featuring the voices and perspectives of the esteemed members of the Village Church, each episode is thoughtfully crafted to address the challenges and opportunities for meaningful change in our cities. With a holistic approach to healing, the podcast explores a wide range of topics, from soul care and spiritual direction to mental health and community involvement. It provides listeners with insightful and thought-provoking perspectives on the issues facing our cities, as well as practical steps they can take to make a difference. Join hosts Corey Gilchrist, Eric Cepin, Ashley Cousineau, Jessica Dennes, Michael Cousineau, Mark Crawford, and Susan Cepin as they navigate the complexities of our communities with wisdom, grace, and a deep commitment to positive change. Through their engaging discussions, listeners will be inspired to become active participants in healing the city and creating a brighter, healthier future for all. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comThe Village Church meets at 10a and 5p on Sundays1926 N Cloverland Ave, Tucson AZ 85712Mail: PO Box 30790, Tucson AZ 85751

On our last episode, I welcomed two of our Sullivan Undergraduate Saints Fellows to talk about the pilgrimage through France that our cohort completed at the start of summer. The final destination on that pilgrimage was Lourdes. As follow up to that episode, I want to share with all of you a relatively short reflection on thirst. In particular, I want to talk about a pilgrim's thirst. But in the end, I really want to talk about the waters of Lourdes. Follow-up Resources:Read this episode in article form at OSV Magazine under “A thirsty American pilgrim drinks his fill at Lourdes” by Leonard J. DeLorenzoThe Song of Bernadette, by Franz WurfelLearn more about the Sullivan Undergraduate Saints Fellowship“Pilgrimage and the Urgent Question of Faith,” by Leonard J. DeLorenzo, essay in the Church Life Journal“A pilgrimage of sacred art,” by Leonard J. DeLorenzo, article in Our Sunday Visitor Newsweekly“Encountering Christ on Pilgrimage, with Joan Watson,” podcast episode via Church Life TodayChurch Life Today is a partnership between the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame and OSV Podcasts from Our Sunday Visitor. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Watch on YouTube Topics: Medications, Teens, Counseling, Church Life, Suicide, Siblings, Difficult Conversations, Borderline, Adult Children, Weddings Hosts: Brian Perez, Dr. Jill Hubbard, Dr. Jim Burns Caller Questions & More: Dr. Jill discusses the importance of evaluating medication over time because the risk may start to outweigh the benefit. My 17yo son is hanging out with guys who have threatened suicide; The post New Life Live: July 3, 2025 appeared first on New Life.

Join us as our Teaching Pastor, Adam Vinson, continues through our post-Acts study and discussion of the Gospel. Notes from today can be found at the link below. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wa3gWOiA_IDgkcqKLhQN7UMtQIgY1x0e/view

Freedom Livestream - June 29, 2025SERIES: People Get ReadyTITLE: A Model for Church Life (Part 2)SPEAKER: Erin JamiesonYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give GROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMissions: freedomkw.com/missions Serve: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

Send us a text We say God can have it all… but what about the parts we keep hidden? In this episode, Pastor Jason explores the story of King Azariah (also known as Uzziah) and the “surrender gap” that blocked the blessing of God—not just in his life, but in his community.With honesty, humor, and hope, this message challenges us to examine the “keep out” signs in our hearts. Whether it's pride, fear, or comfort, anything we withhold from God can hinder His work in us and through us.But surrender isn't about shame—it's about healing. And when we let go, God begins to bless others through the very places we once held back.

Pastor Jeff Cranston continues his conversation with Pastor Jason of Crossway Church as they dive deeper into what makes the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination distinct. They explore how the Alliance approaches communion and baptism, what a typical Sunday service looks like, and how its leadership structure supports both local autonomy and global mission.

In this insightful episode of "Father and Joe," Joe Rockey and Father Boniface Hicks delve into the complex yet enriching journey of cultivating trust and fostering meaningful relationships with ourselves, others, and God. They explore the intricacies of trust—how it's built step-by-step through integrity, dependability, and consistency, and how it's intrinsically linked to vulnerability. The hosts candidly discuss the challenges around rebuilding trust, especially for those who have experienced trauma, and highlight the importance of being open to growth in relationships.Father Boniface provides a profound perspective on how our daily, seemingly simple interactions are rooted in unexpected levels of trust. Whether navigating a complex journey through a foreign market or simply shopping at a local store, trust silently governs many aspects of our lives. Joe emphasizes that understanding trust starts from within, analyzing our past interactions, and being conscious of the behaviors that foster or hinder relational growth.Listeners are invited to envision their relationships as a canvas, where the practice of mental preparation can be as impactful as the actions themselves. Drawing parallels from sports, Joe illustrates how champions attain mastery not only through physical prowess but through mental agility—foreshadowing their moves and understanding their counterparts' strategies. This analogy extends into relational dynamics, where understanding others' preferences can significantly enhance our interactions and emotional bonds.The conversation further deepens into self-reflection's role in improving relational and spiritual lives. It highlights Pope Francis's teachings on losing touch with our hearts due to societal distractions, advocating for a slower pace that allows for introspection. The two hosts reiterate the need for reflecting on questions of identity, purpose, and divine relationship to maintain a more fulfilled and engaged life.Father Boniface and Joe eloquently conclude that just as much—or even more—growth occurs through thoughtful reflection and genuine communication. They underline that life's challenges invite us to continuously learn, adapt, and nurture our relationships spiritually and interpersonally.This episode serves as a compelling reminder that opening our hearts and minds can transform relationships, weaving trust into the very fabric of our lives. By integrating these elements into our daily practices, we not only enrich our connections with others but also create more space for a profound union with God.Tags: Spiritual Direction, Relationship Building, Trust Development, Self-Reflection, God, Faith Journey, Mental Preparation, Personal Growth, Prayer Practice, Relationship Dynamics, Emotional Intelligence, Trust in Relationships, Vulnerability, Integrity, Dependability, Spiritual Growth, Building Trust, Emotional Connection, Mindfulness, Personal Relationships, Communication Skills, Trustworthiness, Self-Awareness, Reflection, Spirituality, Overcoming Trauma, Religious Guidance, Heartfelt Conversations, Everyday Trust, Relationship Skills, Emotional Growth, Connection with God, God's Will, Christian Faith, Relationship Analysis, Spiritual Practices, Church Life, Engaging Faith, God's Teachings, Podcast SeriesHashtags: #FatherAndJoe #SpiritualDirection #Trust #RelationshipBuilding #FaithJourney #SelfReflection #PersonalGrowth #Communication #EmotionalIntelligence #TrustInRelationships #Vulnerability #Integrity #Dependability #SpiritualGrowth #Mindfulness #PrayerPractice #ConnectionWithGod #ChristianFaith #EmotionalConnection #UnderstandingOthers #GodsWill #RelationalDynamics #ReligionAndFaith #HeartfeltConversations #PersonalRelationships #SpiritualPractice #EverydayTrust #RelationshipAnalysis #SelfAwareness #GodsTeachings #FaithAndLife #FaithPodcast #ReflectiveLiving #BuildingTrust #OvercomingTrauma #EmotionalGrowth #EngagingFa

Remember the first works and keep them fresh.

Freedom Livestream - June 22, 2025SERIES: People Get ReadyTITLE: A Model for Church Life (Part 1)SPEAKER: Erin JamiesonYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give GROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMissions: freedomkw.com/missions Serve: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

Watch on YouTube Topics: Age Diversity, Communication, Adoption, Adult Children, Church Life, Addictions, Enabling Hosts: Brian Perez, Dr. Jacqui Mack-Harris, Dr. Alice Benton Caller Questions & More: Dr. Jacqui shares from the book A New Kind of Diversity and instead of having conversations about our generational differences, we are becoming estranged. How should I respond when my husband gets The post New Life Live: June 18, 2025 appeared first on New Life.

Watch on YouTube Topics: Age Diversity, Communication, Adoption, Adult Children, Church Life, Addictions, Enabling Hosts: Brian Perez, Dr. Jacqui Mack-Harris, Dr. Alice Benton Caller Questions & More: Dr. Jacqui shares from the book A New Kind of Diversity and instead of having conversations about our generational differences, we are becoming estranged. How should I respond when my husband gets The post New Life Live: June 18, 2025 appeared first on New Life.

Arising from the McGrath Institute for Church Life, the Sullivan Undergraduate Saints Fellowship forms Notre Dame students as leaders in the study and spirituality of the saints. We launched this fellowship in 2025 with an inaugural cohort of 12 students selected from a pool of many, many applicants. As part of their fellowship, our saints fellows completed a course this past semester (with yours truly) on praying with the saints. Next year they will become leaders of other undergraduate students, as they form groups of students who pray together and serve together in a manner common to a saint each fellow selects. But in between the course they complete and the year of leadership they undertake, the whole cohort of 12 fellows, along with me and a chaplain, make a pilgrimage to immerse ourselves in the cultures that gave rise to particular saints––cultures which, in turn, these saints renewed and enriched. This year's pilgrimage was to France, specifically: Paris, Chartres, Lisieux, LeMans, Tours, and Lourdes. Today, two of our Sullivan Undergraduate Saints Fellows join me to talk about the meaning and significance of this pilgrimage with the saints. Macy Vance is a rising junior and Kate Apelian is a rising senior at Notre Dame, but really I should let them introduce themselves.Follow-up Resources:Learn more about the Sullivan Undergraduate Saints FellowshipCheck out the wildly popular “Saturdays with the Saints” lecture series“Pilgrimage and the Urgent Question of Faith,” by Leonard J. DeLorenzo, essay in the Church Life Journal“A pilgrimage of sacred art,” by Leonard J. DeLorenzo, article in Our Sunday Visitor Newsweekly“Saints who flew, with Carlos Eire,” podcast episode via Church Life Today“Encountering Christ on Pilgrimage, with Joan Watson,” podcast episode via Church Life Today“Saints, for Real, with Meg Hunter-Kilmer,” podcast episode via Church Life Today“The Theology of the Saints, with Katie Cavadini and Leonard DeLorenzo,” podcast episode via Church Life TodayChurch Life Today is a partnership between the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame and OSV Podcasts from Our Sunday Visitor. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Galatians 5:16-26 - Stephen Kerr - Evening Service

Episode Topic: The Feminine Genius and Catholic History“The Feminine Genius & Catholic History,” presented by Bronwen McShea, took place at the McGrath Institute for Church Life conference True Genius: The Mission of Women in Church and Culture at the University of Notre Dame in March 2025, developed by Abigail Favale, Ph.D., Professor of the Practice, Theology & Literature, at the McGrath Institute for Church Life.Featured Speakers:Bronwen McShea, Loyola University ChicagoRead this episode's recap over on the University of Notre Dame's open online learning community platform, ThinkND: https://go.nd.edu/3efa90.This podcast is a part of the ThinkND Series titled True Genius: The Mission of Women in Church and Culture. Thanks for listening! The ThinkND Podcast is brought to you by ThinkND, the University of Notre Dame's online learning community. We connect you with videos, podcasts, articles, courses, and other resources to inspire minds and spark conversations on topics that matter to you — everything from faith and politics, to science, technology, and your career. Learn more about ThinkND and register for upcoming live events at think.nd.edu. Join our LinkedIn community for updates, episode clips, and more.

Father Dave welcomes back Timothy O'Malley to discuss how we can better relate to Mary as our Blessed Mother. O'Malley is associate director at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame, and the author of the new book “A Fierce and Tender Love: 7 Meditations on Mary, Mother of God.”

It's the season of summer camps, vacations, and in Sean's case a time where he unplugs, prays, and listens to the Lord's direction for the next season. But if you're not out of town, then we'll see you on Sunday! But wait...do I have to go to church? Why is it important to physically attend? How does online church fit into modern worship, and what is the significance of spiritual community? Why go to church? "For the Bible tells me so."00:00  Invitation to River City Community Church01:07 Welcome to Reaching for Real Life01:34 Summer Sabbatical and Youth Camp02:24 Purpose of Sabbatical04:12 Summer in the Psalms Series04:41 Leading Worship and Coaching06:19 Importance of Church Attendance08:25 Defining Church and Community10:50 The Importance of Being Part of a Church Community12:10 New Testament Teachings on Church Attendance12:57 The Early Church: A Model of Commitment and Community16:21 Modern Challenges: Online Church and Community21:10 Encouragement to Engage in Church Life22:58 Invitation to River City Community Church24:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

It's the season of summer camps, vacations, and in Sean's case a time where he unplugs, prays, and listens to the Lord's direction for the next season. But if you're not out of town, then we'll see you on Sunday! But wait...do I have to go to church? Why is it important to physically attend? How does online church fit into modern worship, and what is the significance of spiritual community? Why go to church? "For the Bible tells me so."00:00  Invitation to River City Community Church01:07 Welcome to Reaching for Real Life01:34 Summer Sabbatical and Youth Camp02:24 Purpose of Sabbatical04:12 Summer in the Psalms Series04:41 Leading Worship and Coaching06:19 Importance of Church Attendance08:25 Defining Church and Community10:50 The Importance of Being Part of a Church Community12:10 New Testament Teachings on Church Attendance12:57 The Early Church: A Model of Commitment and Community16:21 Modern Challenges: Online Church and Community21:10 Encouragement to Engage in Church Life22:58 Invitation to River City Community Church24:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Hi everyone. For today's episode I do not have a guest joining me; instead, I am just going to share with you directly. You see, my dad died a few weeks ago and just last week we celebrated his funeral Mass. I've written a few books over the years and I dedicated one of those books to my dad, who raised me. That book is about fostering communion with our beloved dead. The beloved dead now include my dad. So what I wanted to do today is share with you a portion of the book in remembrance of my dad, specifically the book's brief epilogue where I highlight five pastoral priorities for this communal task of fostering communion with the dead. These are priorities for those of us who mourn, for those who accompany – or should accompany – those who mourn, for families, for parishes. The book's is title Our Faithful Departed: Where They Are and Why It Matters, published by Ave Maria Press in 2022. After I share the epilogue with its five priorities with you, I then read my dad's obituary, which I wrote. Follow-up ResourcesOur Faithful Departed: Where They Are and Why It Matters, by Leonard J. DeLorenzoOur Faithful Departed Discussion Guide, a free resource for parishes, schools, families and friends.“Heaven in the Midst of Death, with Laura Kelly Fanucci,” podcast episode via Church Life Today“Life is changed but something ended, with Stephanie DePrez,” podcast episode via Church Life Today“Life in Death in Life, with Robert Cording,” podcast episode via Church Life Today“Praying for the Dead, with John Cavadini,” podcast episode via Church Life TodayChurch Life Today is a partnership between the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame and OSV Podcasts from Our Sunday Visitor. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Watch on YouTube Topics: Anxiety, Church Life, Young Adults, Grief, Same-Sex Attraction, Teens, Stealing, GrandparentingHosts: Brian Perez, Dr. Sheri Denham Keffer, Dr. Jim BurnsCaller Questions & More:Dr. Sheri shares how worship music calms the vagus nerve if anxiety has fallen upon you. How do we handle our church being secretive about their finances and the names of the elders? I've The post New Life Live: May 30, 2025 appeared first on New Life.

Enforcer's Arise! You are called to enforce what Jesus purchased with His blood! Enforce the win! Fight the fight of faith correctly! Faith moves mountains, not fear. Jesus spoiled the enemy's plans. Don't let the victory be stolen from you! Peter and John were arrested for healing this man using the name of Jesus. Acts 3:6-8 It's not that they healed the man that caused the uproar, it's that they credited the name of Jesus as the healer! The devil is not affected by your works, it's that you credit the name of Jesus as your source! How did they enforce what was legally theirs? Acts 4:29-30 "Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak Your word with great boldness. Stretch out Your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of Your holy servant Jesus.” For other teachings on the name of Jesus: The Name of Jesus Never Loses it's Power https://youtu.be/KqnRADGTI_s?si=9fq5xosKPIvKTZ5H Unparalleled Authority and Power in the Name of Jesus https://youtu.be/dAL_Wl7lqAA?si=wdR2yXd22NC_-4Gj When You all on The Name of Jesus https://youtu.be/8AS9GmbkbIY?si=uKNacpjgT8HX9hlq Date of service, May 17th, 2025

Enforcer's Arise! You are called to enforce what Jesus purchased with His blood! Enforce the win! Fight the fight of faith correctly! Faith moves mountains, not fear. Jesus spoiled the enemy's plans. Don't let the victory be stolen from you! Peter and John were arrested for healing this man using the name of Jesus. Acts 3:6-8 It's not that they healed the man that caused the uproar, it's that they credited the name of Jesus as the healer! The devil is not affected by your works, it's that you credit the name of Jesus as your source! How did they enforce what was legally theirs? Acts 4:29-30 "Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak Your word with great boldness. Stretch out Your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of Your holy servant Jesus.” For other teachings on the name of Jesus: The Name of Jesus Never Loses it's Power https://youtu.be/KqnRADGTI_s?si=9fq5xosKPIvKTZ5H Unparalleled Authority and Power in the Name of Jesus https://youtu.be/dAL_Wl7lqAA?si=wdR2yXd22NC_-4Gj When You all on The Name of Jesus https://youtu.be/8AS9GmbkbIY?si=uKNacpjgT8HX9hlq Date of service, May 17th, 2025

What can Christians on the right and left continue to learn about the experience and discipleship of trans people and those with gender incongruence?Today we'll be looking into some of the tough questions of transgender anthropology and pastoral care. But instead of debating directly over the questions (Should we use preferred pronouns? What is just legislation? How do we talk to kids? To affirm, or not to affirm?), we concentrate on how to care for people.Our two guests today, while not in substantial theological disagreement about trans topics, bring to their different experiences, approaches, and relationships lots of much-needed nuance, and some timely new questions, to a conversation grounded in traditional Christian theology.Can we question aspects of trans-anthropology as needed, or question current rhetoric or practices, but in the cause of charity, honesty, and human flourishing rather than against it? How do the right and left get caught in echo chambers here? How do we affirm the flawed gifts of the human body, while engaging its most painful experiences? How can we learn better to love and trust people?Our guests today are Dr. Abigail Favale and Pieter Valk. Abby is a writer and professor in the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame. She has an academic background in gender studies and feminist literary criticism, and now writes and teaches on topics related to women and gender from a Catholic perspective. Her latest book is The Genesis of Gender: A Christian Theory. Pieter is a sought-after author and speaker on discernment, vocational singleness, and LGBT+ topics. Pieter is also the Founder and Director ofEquip, the leading coaching and training solution for theologically-traditional churches aspiring to be places where LGBT+ people thrive according to God's wisdom. He is also a teacher and diaconate explorer in the Anglican Church in North America.Pieter's Christianity Today article with stats from the Us Versus Us reportAbby's websitePieter's websiteRegister for a Living Church conferenceGive to support this podcastMentioned in this episode:Click here to learn more about the Transforming Leaders Program

On Sunday we got to hear from one of our missionaries, Nicole Mosher, on what adoption into the family of God looks like.  This new identity of adopted sons and daughters affects every part of our lives.   It means we can't find identity in our giftings or what we can do for God anymore. We simply rest in His unconditional love, and yield to His perfect leadership. We get to labor alongside Him from that place of security.   It means that we can overcome any earthly circumstance, not with our own strength or wishful thinking, but because of who our Father is. It is only as we stay connected to His heart, and receive everything we need from Him, that we will see the kingdom expand in us and around us.    Link to Sermon Guide & Activations: 05.18.25 Sermon Guide

On June 1, 1925, the Supreme Court declared, “The child is not the mere creature of the State; those who nurture him and direct his destiny have the right, coupled with the high duty, to recognize and prepare him for additional obligations.” Pierce firmly established the liberty of parents to direct the lives of their minor children without interference by the government.You've listened to our Left Panel's discussion of Pierce – now, it's the Right Panel's turn! Today, we speak with Michael Farris, founding president of ParentalRights.org and former CEO and president of Alliance Defending Freedom; Melissa Moschella, professor of practice and philosophy at Notre Dame University's McGrath Center for Church Life; and Emilie Kao, Vice President of Alliance Defending Freedom.The EPPiC Broadcast is hosted by Michael Ramey, president of the Parental Rights Foundation. You can sign up for email alerts to keep yourself informed on parental rights news at https://parentalrightsfoundation.org/get-involved/.Support the show

Watch on YouTube Topics: Addictions, Self Awareness, Autism, Church Life, Depression, Feelings, Aging Parents, Loneliness, Grief, Suicide Hosts: Brian Perez, Marc Cameron, Dr. Alice Benton Caller Questions & More: Marc discusses how to overcome what masters you.  Is it better for me to put my 18yo grandson with autism on private Christian insurance or use assistance from the government?  How do The post New Life Live: May 19, 2025 appeared first on New Life.

In our previous episode of Church Life Today, I was joined by Professor Christie Kleinmann of Belmont University, who talked with me about her fascinating and truly original course on Strategic Public Relations for the Inklings (specifically, C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, and Dorothy Sayers). This is a follow up to that previous excellent episode where things get even better because today I am joined by three of Professor Kleinmann's undergraduate students.Ryleigh Green is a senior at Belmont University who was part of the C. S. Lewis group in Professor Kleinmann's class.Jed Mangrum is a sophomore at Belmont who was part of the Tolkien group.And Adriana Alosno is a junior at Belmont who was part of the Dorothy Sayers group.I've done a lot of podcast episodes over the years, and this one is one of my favorites. Enjoy.Follow-up Resources:Learn more about The Inklings Project. Interested in applying as a fellow for 2026–26? Check out the call for applications here (due July 1, 2025). Check out the Dorothy Sayers Instagram account from the Sayers group in Prof. Kleinmann's course.Check out the C. S. Lewis Instagram account from the Lewis group in Prof. Kleinmann's course.Check out the J. R. R. Tolkien Instagram account from the Tolkien group in Prof. Kleinmann's course.Find syllabi from Inklings Project fellows in our free syllabus repository.Read and subscribe to the “Inklings Quarterly.”Church Life Today is a partnership between the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame and OSV Podcasts from Our Sunday Visitor. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Episode Topic: The Church's Vision for WomenThirty years ago, in both Evangelium Vitae and his Letter to Women, Pope John Paul II issued a clear call for the genius of women to be “more fully expressed in the life of society as a whole, as well as in the life of the Church” (Letter to Women 10). Throughout his papacy, in fact, he emphasized women's “prophetic character,” calling on them to be “witnesses” and “sentinels” — guardians of the sacred gift of life and the order of love (Mulieris Dignitatem 29; Homily at Lourdes 2004). “The Church's Vision for Women,” presented by Angela Franks, took place at the McGrath Institute for Church Life conference True Genius: The Mission of Women in Church and Culture at the University of Notre Dame in March 2025, developed by Abigail Favale, Ph.D., Professor of the Practice, Theology & Literature, at the McGrath Institute for Church Life.Featured Speakers:Abigail Favale, professor, University of Notre DameAngela Franks, St. John's Seminary, BostonRead this episode's recap over on the University of Notre Dame's open online learning community platform, ThinkND: https://go.nd.edu/f9588d.This podcast is a part of the ThinkND Series titled True Genius: The Mission of Women in Church and Culture. Thanks for listening! The ThinkND Podcast is brought to you by ThinkND, the University of Notre Dame's online learning community. We connect you with videos, podcasts, articles, courses, and other resources to inspire minds and spark conversations on topics that matter to you — everything from faith and politics, to science, technology, and your career. Learn more about ThinkND and register for upcoming live events at think.nd.edu. Join our LinkedIn community for updates, episode clips, and more.

“Habemus Papam.” We have a pope. We have a papa. We have a father.  The announcement of a new pope is a startlingly joyous and even spellbinding moment, when not just the faithful but also many who seemingly have no interest in the Church stop and cheer together. What is being proclaimed? What is the significance of the pope for the Church and, through the Church, for the world? What are we all struck by when the announcement echoes through the arms of St. Peter's square to every corner of the world?John Cavadini joins me today to talk about the announcement of the election of Pope Leo XIV. We hope this conversation offers you something a little different than what the typical news commentary on this historic occasion offers. Church Life Today is a partnership between the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame and OSV Podcasts from Our Sunday Visitor. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

This week on Respect Life Radio, hosts Emma Ramirez and Jennifer Torres welcome Sr. Mary Grace and Sr. Veritas of the Sisters of Life—a contemplative and active Roman Catholic community of women religious. In addition to the traditional vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, the Sisters of Life take a unique fourth vow: to protect and enhance the sacredness of human life. Founded in 1991 by Cardinal John O'Connor in New York, their mission includes serving women vulnerable to abortion, offering them the support and resources needed to choose life for themselves and their children. The Sisters also lead weekend retreats, evangelization efforts, outreach to college students, and post-abortion healing ministries centered on the mercy and healing of Jesus Christ. In today's episode, Emma, Jennifer, Sr. Mary Grace, and Sr. Veritas discuss Into Life, a 12-part video series produced by the McGrath Institute for Church Life. Inspired by the Sisters' work with pregnant women, the series explores how to deeply listen to others, recognize the beauty of each individual, and accompany others into God's life and freedom. Learn more at https://intolifeseries.com.

Pastor Travis Hearn brings a powerful and cinematic message to Impact Church titled “Living a Life of Sacrifice.” With raw honesty and heartfelt storytelling, he invites us into the legacy of his mother—Toni—a woman who gives up her own dreams, works four jobs, and sacrifices everything just to be present for her son. But this isn't just her story—it becomes a mirror for all of us. In this message, Pastor Travis calls you to something deeper: not just believing in Jesus, but fully belonging to Him. As he unpacks Romans 12:1, you'll be challenged to offer your life—not in part, but in full—as a living sacrifice. Worship, he says, isn't just what happens on a Sunday stage, it's what happens when your life hits the altar on Monday morning. If you've ever felt unseen, broken, or out of place, this message reminds you—you're not overlooked, you're set apart. Through the promise of Psalm 91 and the boldness of Daniel, you'll be inspired to stop conforming and start transforming. Because when you see God's mercy clearly, giving Him everything won't feel like loss—it'll feel like the only thing that makes sense.

Watch on YouTube Topics: Self Worth, Affairs, Depression, Dating, Church Life, Weddings, In-laws, Physical Abuse Hosts: Brian Perez, Dr. Jill Hubbard, JJ West Caller Questions & More: JJ discusses why you should challenge yourself without letting the challenge define your worth.  What's the next step for me if my husband had a 10yr affair, and I didn't handle it The post New Life Live: May 6, 2025 appeared first on New Life.

Welcome back to A History of Christian Theology! This week, Chad talks with Dr. Abigail Favale about her book "The Genesis of Gender: A Christian Theory" with Ignatius Press. Dr. Favale's book came out in 2022 and has received excellent reviews, and while the topic is not one we often discuss on the podcast, Chad thought it would make for an interesting conversation, and he was absolutely right! Dr. Favale currently works at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame, where she is a professor and writer. Her topics of interest revolve around matters of women and gender from a Catholic Perspective. In today's episode, she and Chad discuss the philosophy and theology of gender and different ways we approach it. Thanks to Dr. Favale for taking the time to join us! We hope you enjoy!Buy "The Genesis of Gender"Subscribe to our Patreontwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

Have you ever thought about becoming a brand expert for C. S. Lewis or J. R. R. Tolkien? On the one hand, these seem like authors who need no introduction. On the other hand, how many people today really know the work of these towering 20th Century authors, beyond what made its way onto the silver screen? And what about one of the authors closely associated with them – Dorothy Sayers – who is far from well known in the general public but whose work is of similar creative and literary quality with her more famous friends and interlocutors?Maybe you haven't ever thought about launching a public relations campaign for one of these authors for the sake of a modern audience of young adults, but my guest today has. She is Christie Kleinmann, Professor of Public Relations at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. Professor Kleinmann is one of a dozen fellows in our second annual cohort of the Inklings Project, run out of the McGrath Institute for Church Life. Along with the other eleven fellows who come from colleges and universities across the United States and in four foreign countries, Professor Kleinmann developed and offered a new course this spring that draws the work of the Inklings into her own area of expertise: strategic public relations. The students in her course were divided into three semester-long groups, which each took as their “clients” one of these three Inklings: Lewis, Tolkien, and Sayers. Today, Professor Kleinmann joins me to talk about the project of her course, the relevance of the Inklings, and the creativity of her students.This is the first of a two-episode set. The second episode will feature three of Professor Kleinmann's students, one from each of the three Inklings groups. Follow-up Resources:Learn more about The Inklings Project. Interested in applying as a fellow for 2026–26? Check out the call for applications here (due July 1, 2025). Check out the Dorothy Sayers Instagram account from the Sayers group in Prof. Kleinmann's course.Check out the C. S. Lewis Instagram account from the Lewis group in Prof. Kleinmann's course.Check out the J. R. R. Tolkien Instagram account from the Tolkien group in Prof. Kleinmann's course.Find syllabi from Inklings Project fellows in our free syllabus repository.Read and subscribe to the “Inklings Quarterly.” Church Life Today is a partnership between the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame and OSV Podcasts from Our Sunday Visitor. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

It looks sweet going down... but it's destructive once it sinks in. In Tasty Little Lies, Pastor Travis Hearn takes you on a raw, eye-opening journey through the hidden danger of gossip — the "choice morsels" we crave, but that rot the soul from the inside out. Gossip is spiritual food poisoning. It's a slow leak in the tire of your friendships, your team, and your church—and left unchecked, it leaves you stranded and broken. When we gossip, we aren't just talking — we're partnering with hell. This isn't just a sermon. It's a rescue mission for your soul — and it starts with one decision: Put the tasty little lies down... or be devoured by them.

Let's talk.

Topics: Discontentment, Hope, In-laws, Estrangement, Adult Children, Physical Abuse, Trust, Church Life, Separation, Intimacy Hosts: Brian Perez, Marc Cameron, Dr. Alice Benton Caller Questions & More: Marc explains the difference between hoping and wishing, and he shares ways to deal with discontentment in marriage.  How can my husband and I connect with our granddaughters? Our daughter-in-law has alienated us from them.  I was choked and beaten The post New Life Live: April 21, 2025 appeared first on New Life.

When we say the name “God”, have we assumed too quickly that we know what we mean? We use that word quite regularly, without much strain or prolonged consideration, as if the meaning of the word were self-evident. But what if you had to explain – indeed, translate – the word “God” into a language that had no such concept? That would force you, I think, to really reckon with what you mean and what you assume when you use that word: the name, “God”. That is not merely an intellectual exercise; that was in fact the experience of the 16th and 17th Century Jesuit missionary, Matteo Ricci. His primary mission was to China, where he strove to bring and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those who often had not only a different language but also a different imaginary landscape than that which European Christians were accustomed to.In our episode today, the eminent scholar of the Sino-Western Exchange, Professor Anthony Clark, talks with me about Matteo Ricci, evangelization, inculturation, and the legacy of dialogue. Anthony Clark is Professor of Chinese History at Whitworth University, where he also holds the Edward B. Lindaman Endowed Chair, and he directs the Oxford Lewis-Tolkien Program, the Rome History and Culture Program, the area of Asian Studies, and the Study in China Program. He joins me today, in studio, while visiting Notre Dame to deliver a lecture titled “In the Footsteps of Dialogue: China and the Legacy of Matteo Ricci.” Follow-up Resources:Find out more about Professor Anthony Clark at his website: https://anthonyeclark.squarespace.com/China's Saints: Catholic Martyrdom During the Qing (1644–1911), by Anthony Clark“China's Religious Awakening after Mao,” by Ian Johnson, article in Church Life Journal“Religion in China, with Ian Johnson,” podcast episode via Church Life TodayChurch Life Today is a partnership between the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame and OSV Podcasts from Our Sunday Visitor. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

By his wounds. His wounds are the source of healing. Our wounds are the wounds that are healed by his wounds. Our wounds may even become the source of healing for others because we have been healed by his wounds. What an unimaginable mystery. Wounds heal. Healing from wounds. Have we considered the magnificence or the near-unbelievability of this reality?Let's put that question another way: “By what means may I understand and experience Christ's wounds not just in juridical terms, as the providential means by which God chose to ‘take away' sin, but as the living source of a remedy by which sin is cured and humanity's wounds, my wounds, are healed?” By what means may I understand and experience that? Indeed, that is the central question in the book my guest today has authored. The book is Healing Wounds, and the author is Bishop Erik Varden, a Cistercian monk who is bishop of Trondheim, Norway.In addition to Healing Wounds, Bishop Varden is author of other works like Chastity: Reconciliation of the Senses and The Shattering of Loneliness: On Christian Remembrance. Bishop Varden joins me today in studio during a longer teaching and lecturing visit to the University of Notre Dame.Follow-up Resources:Healing Wounds, by Bishop Erik VardenChastity: Reconciliation of the Senses, by Bishop Erik VardenThe Shattering of Loneliness: On Christian Remembrance, by Bishop Erik VardenChurch Life Today is a partnership between the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame and OSV Podcasts from Our Sunday Visitor. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Welcome to part 3 – our final episode in this series on how to “do church”! In parts 1 &2, we discussed and explored lots of aspects of church culture, from how to dress, to how to act, to how talk the talk! Today, we’re hearing from you! You sent in lots of great questions […]

As parent-centric and state-centric visions of education do battle in American politics and academia, it is easy to lose sight of the fundamentals that underlie this conflict. In this episode, our host is joined by Dr. Moschella, fellow of the Austin Institute and champion of parental rights. Aiming at the center of this divisive topic, they discuss how parents' responsibility for childrens' development necessitates that parents, and not the state, retain ultimate authority over their education and formation. As Dr. Moschella makes clear in her research, the case for parental rights has both moral and empirical grounding. Melissa Moschella is Professor of the Practice in Philosophy at the University of Notre Dame's McGrath Institute for Church Life. Her work spans the fields of ethics, political philosophy, and law, and her areas of special expertise include natural law theory, biomedical ethics, and the family. For those interested in learning more, the paper discussed is "Natural Law, Parental Rights, and the Defense of "Liberal" Limits on Government: An Analysis of the Mortara Case and its Contemporary Parallels," published in the Notre Dame Law Review: https://scholarship.law.nd.edu/ndlr/vol98/iss4/5/ She is also the author of several books, including: To Whom Do Children Belong? Parental Rights, Civic Education and Children's Autonomy https://www.amazon.com/Whom-Children-Belong-Education-Childrens/dp/1316605000#:~:text=Rigorously%20argued%20yet%20broadly%20accessible,in%20line%20with%20their%20values Ethics, Politics, and Natural Law: Principles for Human Flourishing https://undpress.nd.edu/9780268209261/ethics-politics-and-natural-law/

Welcome to part 2! In this series, we're exploring and discussing church culture. Today, we’re talking about about issues of church etiquette and decorum, including… How to dress for church Is breastfeeding in church OK? How to conduct yourself in the worship service and Sunday School so as not to be a distraction. We’re also tackling […]

Today, we're embarking on a three part series on “doing church,” so to speak. It's not so much about theology, it's more about church culture. For those who weren't raised in church and became Christians as adults, walking into church for the first time can be unfamiliar and daunting. But even if you were raised […]

How should Catholics think about UFOs? How can the Church respond to evolving scientific discoveries? What are the boundaries for Catholic belief?These are the kinds of questions at the heart of a new documentary short film produced by The McGrath Institute for Church Life. "Edge of Belief: UFOs, Technology & The Catholic Imagination," explores the outer limits of belief.Today, the film's producer, who is also my friend and colleague, Professor Brett Robinson, joins me to talk about this project: its aims, its audience, and its intrigue. Follow-up Resources:"Edge of Belief: UFOs, Technology & The Catholic Imagination," “The Next Wave of Artificial Intelligence and Our Humanity, with Stephanie DePrez,” podcast episode via Church Life Today“A Very Short Introduction to the History of Catholic Debates about the Multiverse and Extraterrestrial Intelligence,” by Paul Thigpen, article at Church Life Journal“What Can Catholic Theology Say about Extraterrestrials,” by Chris Baglow, article at Church Life JournalChurch Life Today is a partnership between the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame and OSV Podcasts from Our Sunday Visitor. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Topics: Anger, Breakdown, PTSD, Church Life, Counseling, Separation, Boundaries, Adult Children, Brain Issues, Learned Helplessness Hosts: Brian Perez, Dr. Jacqui Mack-Harris, Becky Brown Caller Questions & More: Dr. Jacqui warns us not to look for external resources to solve internal issues; don't blame others before you look inside of yourself to find out what is upsetting you.  Is there a pathway back to being a pastor? The post New Life Live: March 14, 2025 appeared first on New Life.

Gloria Purvis is an author, commentator, public scholar, and the host and executive producer of The Gloria Purvis Podcast. Through her media presence, she has been a strong Catholic voice for life issues, religious liberty, and racial justice. She was Our Sunday Visitor's Catholic of the Year for 2020.She presented a powerful video series entitled Racism, Human Dignity and The Catholic Church through the Word on Fire Institute. She was part of a groundbreaking, exclusive interview with Pope Francis with a delegation from America Media.Most recently, she delivered one of the keynote speeches at the historic National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, Indiana. She is the Inaugural Pastoral Fellow at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at Notre Dame University and recently received Honorary Doctorates in Humane Letters from the University of Portland in Oregon and Salve Regina University in Rhode Island. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Catholic Charities USA. We talked today about our Christian responsibility not only to avoid acting unjustly, but also to actively oppose injustice.Listen to an extra segment on our Patreon page.

Topics: Anxiety, Grandparenting, Anger, Forgiveness, Communication, Adult Children, Living Together, Father Issues, Church Life, Loneliness Hosts: Brian Perez, Dr. Alice Benton, Marc Cameron Caller Questions & More: Dr. Alice challenges us to ask what our future self will appreciate that we chose to do today. Little bits of time invested into our recovery will help even when progress feels slow and small.  My 10yo granddaughter has The post New Life Live: February 24, 2025 appeared first on New Life.