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Dcn. Edgar: The Second Sunday of Lent To support our podcasts, go to https://www.givecentral.org/customizable-online-giving/1467/event/44043Holy Family is a vibrant Catholic parish located in Southwest Orlando, serving the communities of Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Isleworth, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Horizon West, and Metrowest. We're also just minutes away from Orlando's theme parks—Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—and the Orlando Convention Center.
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson of Pepperdine University discuss cantos 13-17 of Dante's Purgatorio--the purging of envy and wrath. Check out our 51 question and answer guide (35 pages!) to the Purgatorio. Check out our YOUTUBE page which has our episodes in playlists!Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson joins Deacon Harrison Garlick to discuss Cantos 13–17, covering the terraces of envy (Canto 13) and wrath (Cantos 14–17), with a strong focus on the central discourses in the middle of the Comedy. In Canto 13, the envious have their eyelids sewn shut with iron wire, a contrapasso that forces them to rely on others and recognize interdependence. Wilson explains: “envy is to look cross-eyed on another's blessings... to look askance,” and the disembodied voices proclaim examples of generosity (Cana, “I am Orestes,” “Love them from whom you've suffered evil”), teaching a mindset of abundance over scarcity (Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson). Sapia humbly confesses her envy and malice, contrasting with the divisive souls in Inferno.Cantos 14–15 transition to wrath, with visions of meekness (Mary and Joseph seeking Jesus, a tyrant sparing a youth, Stephen forgiving his stoners) and Virgil's discourse on goods: exhaustible earthly goods versus inexhaustible spiritual ones. Wilson notes: “envy stems from a mindset of scarcity versus Mary's mindset of abundance... able to supply where it looks like there's not enough in the world” (Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson). The pivotal Canto 16 (the exact midpoint of the Comedy) features Marco Lombardo's sermon on free will: “If the present world has gone astray, the cause is in you, look at yourselves” (Marco via transcript). Wilson calls it “the clearest sermon that Dante has about what's wrong with the world,” emphasizing that sin arises from misused free will, not fate or stars, and critiques the separation of temporal and spiritual powers.Canto 17 concludes the wrath terrace with Virgil's discourse on love as the root of all action (“Neither Creator nor creature was ever without love... natural or of the mind” – Virgil via transcript), which can be misdirected, deficient, or excessive. Wilson highlights the shift from reason to grace: “reason can't do it alone... you need this other kind of intervention” (Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson). The cantos underscore Purgatorio's hopeful pedagogy: purgation reorders love through grace, habituation, and contemplation, moving from misdirected to deficient love in preparation for the excessive attachments above. Wilson stresses the urgency: “the Purgatorio shows humanity in motion, dynamic humanity... it has the immediacy... that is an urgency to it” (Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson).Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Great Books Podcast04:06 Exploring Dante's Purgatorio07:20 The Great Books Program at Pepperdine University10:18 The Significance of Purgatorio13:27 Understanding Envy in Purgatorio16:17 Contrary Virtues: Generosity and Kindness19:22 The Role of Sight and Blindness in Envy22:15 Dante's Moral Lessons on Envy25:14 Comparative Analysis with Inferno30:33 Dante's Poetic Structure and Contrapasso32:15 Comparative Analysis of Characters in Inferno and Purgatorio33:54 The Role of Good and Bad Examples in Moral Education34:14 The Shift from Temporal to Eternal Mindsets34:20 Understanding Canto 14: The Importance of Examples39:35 Canto 15: The Inquiry into Goods and Wrath49:58 Canto 16: The Purging of Wrath and Examples of Virtue51:35 Ecstatic Visions and Penitent Souls52:19 The Tyrant's Moment of Virtue53:28 Humanity in Purgatorio54:38 The Role of Mary in Purgatory56:02 Saint Stephen's Example of Forgiveness57:12 Virgil's Limitations as a Guide59:12 The Nature of Freedom in Purgatory01:03:07 The Importance of Canto 1601:04:37 Understanding Freedom in Dante's Context01:07:32 The Role of Law and Governance01:14:39 Self-Reflection and the State of the World01:23:48 Exploring Wrath in Purgatory01:30:57 Understanding the Structure of PurgatoryKeywords: Dante's Purgatorio, Cantos 13-17, spiritual growth, virtues and vices, education, great books, Dante analysis Dante's Divine Comedy, Purgatory, Virtues and Vices, Free Will, Theology, Morality, Literature, Catholic Teaching, Spiritual Journey
Dcn. John: The Second Sunday of LentTo support our podcasts, go to https://www.givecentral.org/customizable-online-giving/1467/event/44043Holy Family is a vibrant Catholic parish located in Southwest Orlando, serving the communities of Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Isleworth, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Horizon West, and Metrowest. We're also just minutes away from Orlando's theme parks—Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—and the Orlando Convention Center.
Sermon by Dcn. Robert Polen2nd Sunday of LentPut to Death SeriesDiscussion Questions:How has envy been defined both among the ancient Greeks and in the Christian tradition? What is the difference between envy and greed?Using the story of Joseph and his brothers, what is the “lifecycle” of envy? Where have you seen this “lifecycle” at work?What lies does envy like to tell us? What lies are you tempted to find most believable?How does envy put us to death?How does the jealous God save us from jealousy?How, by the Spirit, do we put envy to death?
Dcn. Nathan Dearen, March 1, 2026.
Send a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt, for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the second Sunday in Lent: Genesis 12:1-9; Psalm 33:12-21; Romans 4:1-17; John 3:1-16. They discuss the call of Abraham, trusting in God, and Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus.Notes:--Death Resurrection and the Life to Come audio playlist--Reader's Theater Scripts--Lenten resources from Advent Anglican--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Lent 1--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectBible Project episodes of imagery of EdenLent: The Season of Repentance & Renewal, by: Esau McCaulley0:59 Collect9:59 Genesis 12:1-937:04 Psalm 33:12-2142:25 Romans 4:1-1749:33 John 3:1-16 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.
"Entering the Wilderness" Restored, Lent 2026, Matt. 4:1-11, The Rev. Dcn. J.D. Meeder. Our sermon series, Restored, will trace the saving work of Jesus Christ and the healing that flows from union with him. The healing he brings touches every part of us—spirit, soul, and body—because he himself is our Restorer and our Life. During this first week of Lent, we are looking at Jesus' time in the wilderness being tempted by the devil. Learn more about Lent at redeemergso.org/lent
The Rev. Dcn. Cariño Casas joins us this morning in her capacity as Executive Director of CMJ USA, the Church's ministry among Jewish people. She helps us see Jesus's heart for the people of his homeland and invites us to encounter our Jewish neighbors in a new way. If you like what you hear, we hope you'll join us in person if you're in the area. Learn more about us:https://linktr.ee/servantsanglicanhttps://www.servantsanglican.org/
A message from Rev. Dcn. Melissa Lewkowicz during the Ash Wednesday service.
2-15-2026 - Dcn. Sebastian Spencer - God's Law and Sinful Thoughts by Church of St. Peter
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Donald Prudlo, the Warren Chair of Catholic Studies at the University of Tulsa, discuss the Ante-Purgatory, the foot of Mount Purgatory (Cantos 1-5).Check out our guide on Dante's Purgatorio (out soon!)Visit Dr. Jason Baxter's website and use "Ascend" in the promo code for 20% off his Purgatorio audiobook.Thanks for the Center for Beauty and Culture at Benedictine College for their support!The conversation with Dr. Prudlo and Deacon Garlick on Cantos 1–5 of Purgatorio opens with the dramatic shift from the despair of Inferno to the hope and refreshment of Purgatory.In Canto 1, Dante and Virgil emerge from Hell onto the shores of Mount Purgatory at Easter dawn, where Dante humbly invokes Calliope, the Muse of epic poetry, signaling his project as “the Christian epic” (Dr. Donald Prudlo). They meet Cato the Younger, a pagan suicide saved by special grace, who embodies the four cardinal virtues and serves as Purgatory's guardian. Prudlo emphasizes the shock: “Cato the pagan, the suicide is going to heaven. And we have got to confront that or we're going to miss so much of what Dante has to tell us here” (Dr. Donald Prudlo). The ritual of washing with dew and girding with the humble reed contrasts the broken plants of the suicides in Hell and symbolizes the beginning of true humility and ascent.Cantos 2–5 introduce the late-repentant souls and the mountain's structure. In Canto 2, an angelic boat ferries souls singing “In exitu Israel de Aegypto,” a psalm of liberation that Prudlo calls “a multifaceted song” evoking Exodus, baptism, and community (Dr. Donald Prudlo). Casella's song of Dante's own poetry enchants the group until Cato rebukes their idleness.Cantos 3–5 explore excommunicated sinners like Manfred (“even under a curse like mine, no one's ever so lost that eternal love cannot come back, as long as hope has any sprouts of green” – Manfred via transcript) and the slothful Belacqua, who banters with Dante like old friends. Prudlo highlights the power of last-minute mercy and intercession: “Mary is the last refuge of sinners” (Dr. Donald Prudlo). The cantos teach that Purgatory is a place of communal hope, where grace reaches even the unlikely, and purification begins with humility, prayer, and rightly ordered love—setting the stage for the active ascent through the terraces.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dante's Purgatorio04:42 The Importance of Reading Purgatorio08:02 Themes of Emancipation and Freedom10:57 The Role of Cato in Purgatorio13:49 Cato's Significance and Political Implications17:00 Cato as a Precursor to Christ19:51 Dante's Literary Techniques and Inspirations22:56 Contrasting Ulysses and Dante25:36 Cato's Death and Its Symbolism28:52 The Nature of Purgatory and Salvation31:51 Cato's Virtues and Their Relevance34:49 The Relationship Between Cato and Christ37:48 Conclusion and Reflections on Purgatorio50:03 Understanding Cato's Role in Purgatorio52:43 The Heartbreaking Choice of Cato54:39 Rituals and Purification in Purgatory01:00:18 The Arrival at Purgatory01:06:34 The Significance of Water in Salvation01:12:09 Virgil's Role and the Nature of Guidance01:24:57 Manfred: A Case of Late Repentance01:29:38 The Role of Intercessory Prayer in Purgatory01:34:00 Understanding Mount Purgatory and Its Significance01:40:15 The Character of Belacqua and Themes...
Episode 1016 (14:38) In this episode: Dcn. Brett is preaching; Valentines Day; Romance goes only so far; Learning how to love; Forgiving and letting go; Example of his dog, Nova, who demands to be taken out in the middle of the night; God wants our hearts Music: "Choose Life" (Lyrics & music generated by AI: Chat GPT and Suno.com) Audio Produced on Logic Pro Music: Suno.com Related Web Sites: My Website Podcast PageAll Previous Episodes
In this homily, delivered on February 15, 2026, Dcn. Peter reflects on the truth that our origin is a gift, that we are called to make a gift of ourselves now, and that we are promised a life of self-gift in heaven. However, very often, people fall short of living out this beautiful dynamic of self-gift. Instead, they turn to lust, which grasps instead of receives, uses others instead of loving them, and ultimately turns one in on oneself in selfishness. Dcn. Peter speaks three truths of hope to those who may be struggling with lustful sins. He then invites those who have been married outside the Church to have their marriage convalidated, that is to say, to make a new consent within the Church, so that they can receive Holy Communion and live in the sacramental graces of marriage. He ends with the challenge to read Genesis 2 and ask the Father to reveal even more deeply the gift character of our existence.
Send a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt, for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the first Sunday in Lent: Genesis 2:4-9, 15-17, 25-3:7; Psalm 51; Romans 5:12-21; Matthew 4:1-11.They discuss the season of Lent, the Fall, David's Psalm of penitence, and the temptation of Jesus.Notes:--article about ashes in Lent--Marissa's reflections on Memento Mori--Ideas about the narrative of David & Bathsheba--Lenten resources from Advent Anglican--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Lent 1--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectBible Project episodes of imagery of EdenLent: The Season of Repentance & Renewal, by: Esau McCaulley1:08 Collect1:43 Genesis 2:4-9, 15-17, 25-3:722:42 Psalm 5137:58 Romans 5:12-211:08:06 Matthew 4:1-11 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.
Sermon delivered by Dcn. Andrew Masters on Sunday, February 15, 2026.View Transcript:https://bit.ly/Sermon_2026-02-15_Quinquagesima-Sunday_Dcn-Andrew
Dcn. Nathan Dearen, February 15, 2026.
Dcn. Kashmar preaches on 2/8/26. Worship Aid: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings020826.cfm
Dcn. Coughlin preaches on 2/8/26. Worship Aid: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings020826.cfm
Join us for the first hour of the Sharathon, here at WSFI 88.5 FM and WSFV 88.7 FM Catholic Radio! The Sharathon is a series of live shows, featuring guests from the local community, and is an opportunity for listeners to donate to WSFI Catholic Radio for much-needed infrastructure and technological improvements. In this first hour, Dcn. Frank De Frank gives a reflection on Lent and our resolve to strengthen our relationship with Christ. Elizabeth Yore describes the current situation of human trafficking in our nation. WSFI volunteer, Charlie Bagden, explains the current needs here at WSFI. To make a tax-deductible donation to WSFI Catholic Radio, please call us at 224-206-8455, donate safely online at wsficatholicradio.org/support-wsfi/donate/, or mail your offering to: P.O. Box 885 Libertyville, IL 60048
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dr. Jason Baxter and Dcn. Harrison Garlick come together to introduce Dante's Purgatorio and Dr. Baxter's new translation!We are reading Dante's Purgatorio for Lent. Join us!Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!Check out our LIBRARY of written guides to the great books!DISCOUNT: Check out Dr. Jason Baxter's website and enter "Ascend" to receive **20%** off the Purgatorio audiobook read by Dr. Baxter!Check out Dr. Baxter's Substack article on his new translation.And thank you to the Center of Beauty and Culture at Benedictine College for promoting this reading of the Purgatorio!Dr. Baxter first describes the Center for Beauty and Culture at Benedictine College as a fellowship program (Angelico Fellows) that immerses students in beauty across the arts, music, literature, and theology—through concerts, museums, and pilgrimages—to foster interiority and the conviction that “beauty can save the world.”The conversation then contrasts Purgatorio with the Inferno: while the latter is dark, lurid, and focused on judgment, Purgatorio is a place of hope, mercy, transformation, and “eternal New Year's resolutions,” where repentant souls engage in spiritual exercises to purify their tarnished mirrors, learn authentic love and prayer, and prepare for Paradise. Baxter likens the shift to moving from heavy metal to Schubert, emphasizing greenness, brightness, and unexpected mercy.Baxter explains that his translation began as a personal quest for mastery—going word-by-word to internalize Dante like memorizing a piano piece—but evolved into a philosophy capturing Dante's “fugue” of style: ascending, prolix syntax with lofty classical allusions layered over humble, earthy words that reflect Franciscan humility and incarnational Christian poetics. Examples include goats ruminating on the “foco d'amore” (fire of love) amid elevated star imagery, or Statius calling Virgil's Aeneid “una mamma” (translated “mommy”).He describes Purgatorio as spiritual surgery—painfully removing the soul's “carcinogenic” elements through grace-filled cooperation—and a map for configuring to Christ beyond mere sin avoidance. Baxter advises first-time readers to pause at puzzling images or word choices, ask “why would Dante do that here?,” trust their instincts, and consider his audiobook for the text's soundscape, while Deacon Garlick stresses the canticle's role as a spiritual guide that mirrors one's own maturation toward God.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ascend and Dante's Purgatorio03:43 The Center for Beauty and Culture05:40 Understanding Dante's Purgatorio07:54 The Nature of Purgatorio14:54 Dante the Pilgrim vs. Dante the Poet19:32 The Spirituality of Translation20:14 The Philosophy of Translation30:02 Dante's Christian Poetics34:22 Exploring Dante's Poetic Style36:51 Juxtaposition in Dante's Imagery41:42 The Concept of Spiritual Surgery44:49 The Journey of Holiness48:13 The Role of...
Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt, for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the last Sunday of Epiphany: Exodus 24:12-18; Psalm 99; Philippians 3:7-14; Matthew 17:1-9.They discuss biblical imagery surrounding the transfiguration.Notes:--Feasting on Hope: How God Sets a Table in the Wilderness, by: Rev. Hannah Miller King--Lenten resources from Advent Anglican--Part 1 and Part 2 of Marissa's discussion of deconstruction in light of 1 Cor 3--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Epiphany--2019 Book of Common Prayer--The Chronological Bible-The Connecting Scripture BibleThe Bible ProjectBible Project discussion of the mountain imageryEpiphany: The Season of Glory, by: Fleming Rutledge1:03 Collect14:10 Exodus 24:12-1826:09 Psalm 9930:53 Philippians 3:7-1437:34 Matthew 17:1-9 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.
Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt, with guest Rev. Hannah Miller King, for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the fifth Sunday of Epiphany: 2 Kings 22:8-20; Psalm 27; 1 Corinthians 2:1-16; Matthew 5:13-20.They discuss Josiah's discovery of the Law & the prophet Huldah's message, David's desire for God's presence; Paul's contextualized preaching & Jesus as the one who comes not to abolish but to fulfill.They also chat about Hannah's forthcoming book: Feasting on Hope: How God Sets a Table in the Wilderness. Connect with Rev. Hannah on Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, or Substack.Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Epiphany--2019 Book of Common Prayer--The Chronological Bible-The Connecting Scripture BibleThe Bible ProjectBible Project discussion of the BeatitudesEpiphany: The Season of Glory, by: Fleming Rutledge0:57 Collect2:28 Introducing guest Rev. Hannah Miller King20:07 2 Kings 22:8-2034:11 Psalm 2744:49 1 Corinthians 2:1-1657:11 Matthew 5:13-20 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.
Episode 1013 (13:43) In this episode: Dcn. Brett is preaching; The calling of the first Disciples; They immediately joined Jesus; We desire God as our most deepest longing; Instead of asking what I want to do, ask what God wants us to do; Jesus encounters us personally Music: "Fishers of Men" (Lyrics & music generated by AI: Chat GPT and Suno.com) Audio Produced on Logic Pro Music: Suno.com Related Web Sites: My Website Podcast PageAll Previous Episodes
In this homily, delivered on January 25, 2026, Dcn. Peter preaches on the power of God's Word. He begins by considering Isaiah's prophecy and stating that it doesn't seem to be true in daily living. Are we going to say that the Bible (and therefore, God) is lying? Dcn. Peter explains that Isaiah's prophecy actually is true because Jesus is Who He says He is, which means that reality is transformed. He then affirms that the Word of God has power and challenges the congregation to pick a Scripture and pray it at least once during the week when something difficult happens so that Jesus and the power of the Word of God can transform that difficult situation.
Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the fourth Sunday of Epiphany: Micah 6:1-8; Psalm 37:1-11; 1 Corinthians 1:18-31; Matthew 5:1-12.They discuss Micah's displacement of religiosity with justice, mercy & humility, the Psalmist's cultivation of faithfulness in the face of wickedness, Paul's explanation of the foolishness of the cross, and Jesus' teaching on the Beatitudes. Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Epiphany--2019 Book of Common Prayer--The Chronological Bible-The Connecting Scripture BibleThe Bible ProjectBible Project discussion of the BeatitudesEpiphany: The Season of Glory, by: Fleming Rutledge1:40 Collect2:21 Micah 6:1-826:17 Psalm 37:1-1140:28 1 Corinthians 1:18-3153:23 Matthew 5:1-12 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.
In 2009, Michael “The Internet Monk” Spencer predicted the collapse of American Evangelicalism within 10 years. Using this frame of reference, Dcn. Seraphim Rohlin joins the Areopagites to discuss a 2024 Christianity Today article titled “The Loosening of American Evangelicalism.” What is going on with this most visible of American religious groups?
Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the third Sunday of Epiphany: Amos 3:1-11; Psalm 139:1-18; 1 Corinthians 1:10-17; Matthew 4:12-22.They discuss Amos' call for repentance, the Psalm's vision of a connected all-powerful God, Paul's rebuke of teacher-identity-driven divisions, and Jesus' early ministry.Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Epiphany--2019 Book of Common Prayer--The Chronological BibleThe Bible ProjectEpiphany: The Season of Glory, by: Fleming Rutledge1:08 Collect3:07 Amos 3:1-1123:20 Psalm 139:1-1833:35 1 Corinthians 1:10-1753:37 Matthew 4:12-22 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.
Dcn. Coughlin preaches on 1/18/26. Worship Aid: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings011826.cfm
Sermon delivered by Dcn. Colin Moore on Sunday, January 18, 2026.View Transcript:https://bit.ly/Sermon_2026-01-18_The-Second-Sunday-after-Epiphany_Dcn-Colin
This homily is the second reflection in the Called by Name: Relationship, Identity, and Mission series. Preached by Dcn. Chris Haberberger, it focuses on the unshakable Christian identity revealed in baptism. Beginning with the simple but searching question, “Who are you?”, the homily examines the many labels we use to define ourselves—our work, relationships, achievements, and affiliations—and the anxiety that arises when those identities shift or disappear. While these roles matter, they are ultimately fragile and unable to bear the full weight of the human heart. Drawing from the Gospel of John, Dcn. Chris proclaims the central truth of the Christian faith: through baptism, we are not metaphorically but truly made sons and daughters of God. This identity is not achieved through performance or self-construction, but received as a gift of God's love. From this secure identity flows true holiness, freedom, and vocation—not as anxious striving, but as a trusting response that can finally say, “Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.” This reflection prepares the way for the final homily in the series, which will focus on mission as the fruit of relationship and identity.
"Who Do You Say I Am?"; Epiphany; Matt. 16:13-19; The Rev. Dcn. J.D. Meeder.
Dcn. Tullio: Baptism of the LordTo support our podcasts, go to https://www.givecentral.org/customizable-online-giving/1467/event/44043Holy Family is a vibrant Catholic parish located in Southwest Orlando, serving the communities of Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Isleworth, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Horizon West, and Metrowest. We're also just minutes away from Orlando's theme parks—Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—and the Orlando Convention Center.
Dcn. John: Baptism of the LordTo support our podcasts, go to https://www.givecentral.org/customizable-online-giving/1467/event/44043Holy Family is a vibrant Catholic parish located in Southwest Orlando, serving the communities of Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Isleworth, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Horizon West, and Metrowest. We're also just minutes away from Orlando's theme parks—Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—and the Orlando Convention Center.
Dcn. Edgar: Baptism of the LordTo support our podcasts, go to https://www.givecentral.org/customizable-online-giving/1467/event/44043Holy Family is a vibrant Catholic parish located in Southwest Orlando, serving the communities of Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Isleworth, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Horizon West, and Metrowest. We're also just minutes away from Orlando's theme parks—Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—and the Orlando Convention Center.
Dcn. Edgar: Baptism of the LordTo support our podcasts, go to https://www.givecentral.org/customizable-online-giving/1467/event/44043Holy Family is a vibrant Catholic parish located in Southwest Orlando, serving the communities of Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Isleworth, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Horizon West, and Metrowest. We're also just minutes away from Orlando's theme parks—Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—and the Orlando Convention Center.
How did Plato influence St. Augustine? Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Chad Pecknold of the Catholic University of America discuss Plato's influence on St. Augustine.Check out our account on X for daily postings on the great books!Check out our library of written guides to the great books!Check out FIRE ON THE ALTAR by Dr. Chad Pecknold.The discussion begins with the historical evolution of Platonism—from the original Academy of Socrates and Plato, through Middle Platonism (with figures like Plutarch and Apuleius), to the late or Neoplatonism of Plotinus and others—showing how it became increasingly religious, mystical, and hierarchical in the Roman Empire, complete with daemons (intermediary spiritual beings) and a strong emphasis on the soul's ascent to the divine.St. Augustine, after years as a Manichaean and skeptic, encountered Platonic texts (likely including Plotinus) in Milan around 385–386 AD through Christian Platonists like Bishop Ambrose and Simplicianus. These writings played a crucial role in his intellectual conversion: they revealed a transcendent, immaterial God as Being itself, the eternal Word/Logos, and the soul's capacity for contemplative ascent beyond the material world—ideas strikingly parallel to the prologue of John's Gospel.Yet St. Augustine recognized Platonism's crucial limitation: it allowed him to "catch the fragrance" of God but not to "feast" through union, because it lacked the Word made flesh—the incarnate Christ as the true mediator who bridges the gap between the divine and humanity, solving the problem of mediation and purification that Platonism itself raised but could not resolve.Ultimately, Pecknold presents Platonism as a providential praeparatio evangelica—a promise that raises the restless heart's longing for God, truth, beauty, and eternal happiness—but one fulfilled only in Christianity. St. Augustine adopts and transforms Platonic elements (such as the ideas/forms residing in the divine mind, now identified with the Logos/Christ, and the soul's ascent through purification) while critiquing its errors, especially its inadequate mediators and inability to address incarnation, bodily resurrection, and grace. In this way, St. Augustine shows that Plato comes closest among philosophers to Christianity, yet only the Word made flesh satisfies the hunger Plato so powerfully articulated.Plato on St. Boethius is up next week!
Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the second Sunday of Epiphany: Exodus 12:21-28; Psalm 40:1-11; 1 Corinthians 1:1-9; John 1:29-42. They discuss the the Passover, the Lord's faithfulness, Paul's epistle to the Corinthians, and Jesus' initial encounters with the disciples. Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Epiphany--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectEpiphany: The Season of Glory, by: Fleming Rutledge1:15 Collect2:25 Exodus 12:21-2821:43 Psalm 40:1-1130:45 1 Corinthians 1:1-944:16 John 1:29-42 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, host Dcn. Harrison Garlick, along with guests Alec Bianco and Sean Berube, explore St. Basil the Great's letter To Young Men, on the Right Use of Greek Literature, passionately arguing that Christians—especially young men—should actively read pagan classics like Homer, Plato, and Hesiod. Check out thegreatbookspodcast.comCheck out our LIBRARY OF WRITTEN GUIDES to the great books.Drawing on personal testimonies, the trio explains how these pre-Christian texts strengthened their own faith, trained natural virtue, sharpened Scripture reading, and revealed seeds of the Logos planted by divine providence. Through vivid analogies—leaves preparing fruit, bees gathering honey, and despoiling the Egyptians—they, supported by St. Jerome's defense, contend that pagan literature is not a threat but a providential gift that grace perfects, forming the soul, evoking wonder, and equipping believers to engage the world with confidence and love.SummaryThe conversation highlights how pagan texts address universal human questions—virtue, meaning, fate, and the divine—preparing the soul for revelation, much as leaves nourish fruit on a branch or mirrors help the immature soul see itself. St. Basil's analogies are unpacked: pagan literature as a shallow pool for beginners, bees selectively gathering honey from flowers, and the need to discriminate good from harmful elements through the standard of Christ. Examples include Odysseus's restraint with Nausicaa as a model of natural virtue and Socrates's near-Christian insights on non-retaliation. The guests stress that grace perfects nature, so training in natural virtue via pagan examples elevates rather than diminishes the supernatural call, challenging modern sloth and low expectations of human potential.Providence is a recurring theme: Hebrew faith and Greek reason converged under Roman order to prepare the world for Christ; parallels in myths (floods, giants, serpents) and the Hellenization of Scripture (Septuagint, New Testament in Greek) show God working through pagan culture. References to Tolkien, Lewis, and Justin Martyr's logos spermatikos underscore that truth found anywhere belongs to Christians. Music and athletics are explored as parallels—pagan modes and contests can form the soul when approached with discernment, just as Doric tunes sobered revelers in Pythagoras's story.The discussion shifts to St. Jerome's Letter 70, defending the use of secular literature against accusations of defiling the Church. Jerome cites Moses educated in Egyptian wisdom, Paul quoting pagan poets, and analogies like despoiling the Egyptians or David wielding Goliath's sword—Christianity takes the best of pagan thought and conquers paganism with it. His provocative image of shaving the captive woman (Deuteronomy) to make secular wisdom a “matron of the true Israel” illustrates stripping away seductive errors to reveal underlying beauty and truth.Ultimately, the episode frames engagement with pagan literature as an act of love: understanding providence, nurturing what is good, evangelizing by meeting souls where they are, and ascending toward the Logos who permeates all reality. The tone is confident and joyful, rejecting both puritanical fear and uncritical consumption in favor of prudent, Christ-centered discernment.KeywordsChristians read pagans, pagan literature Christians, St Basil pagan literature, St Basil Greek literature, why Christians read Homer, why Christians read Plato, classical education Christianity, great books Christianity, and pagan classics faith. Long-tail keywords to target specific searches are should Christians read pagan literature, why young Christian men read
Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the first Sunday of Epiphany: Isaiah 42:1-9; Psalm 89:1-29 or 89:20-29; Acts 10:34-38; Matthew 3:13-17.They discuss the Lord as the source of light and life, the themes of the season of the Epiphany, and Jesus' baptism.Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Epiphany--2019 Book of Common PrayerAsk NT Wright Anything podcast episode about John the Baptist's ministryThe Bible ProjectEpiphany: The Season of Glory, by: Fleming RutledgeThe Bible Project discusses Jesus' baptism in the wildernessThe Bible Project Classroom: the baptism of Jesus1:12 Collect7:20 Isaiah 42:1-920:20 Psalm 89:1-29 or 89:20-2934:46 Acts 10:34-3844:17 Matthew 3:13-17 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.
Dcn. Coughlin preaches on 1/4/26. Worship Aid: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings010426.cfm
Dcn. Kashmar preaches on 1/4/26. Worship Aid: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings010426.cfm
Episode 1010 (8:09) In this episode: Dcn. Brett Edmonson preaches; Reflections on Herod Antipas and Herod the great; We need to be cautious about spending time on protecting the various things in our lives; Some of the freest persons were our martyrs who trusted God's will Audio Produced on Logic Pro Music: Suno.com Related Web Sites: My Website Podcast PageAll Previous Episodes
This homily is the second reflection in a three-part Christmas–Epiphany series on the family. Given by Dcn. Chris Haberberger on the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, it focuses on the vocation of motherhood as God's chosen way of giving His Son to the world. The reflection highlights how God's self-revelation comes not in abstraction, but within the simplicity of a family. Mary's motherhood reveals the heart of Christian motherhood in every age: to give Jesus to the world by receiving Him, pondering Him in prayer, and responding with faithful love. Through the often hidden, daily sacrifices of mothers, homes become places where children first learn what it means to be loved, to belong, and to cry out to God as Father. Recognizing that many families carry wounds or unmet hopes, this homily emphasizes that Mary is not only a model but also a refuge. Christ gives her to us as our Mother, and through her tenderness God continues to bring peace, mercy, and healing into real families as they are. This reflection builds upon the previous homily on fatherhood and prepares for the final installment of the series on the mission of the family at Epiphany.
Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the second Sunday of Christmas: Jeremiah 31:7-14; Psalm 84 Ephesians 1:3-14; Luke 2:41-52. They discuss the Lord's generosity as seen in abundant feasting, provision of shelter & spiritual inheritance and consider 12 year-old Jesus' time in the temple. Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Christmas--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Supper of the Lamb: A Culinary Reflection, by: Robert Farrar CaponThe Bible ProjectChristmas: Season of Life and Light, by: Dr. Emily Hunter Mcgowin1:02 Collect1:44 Jeremiah 31:7-1420:06 Psalm 8430:38 Ephesians 1:3-1440:00 Luke 2:41-52 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.
"The Light Overcomes the Darkness"; Christmastide; John 1:1-18; The Rev. Dcn. J.D. Meeder.
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick, Dr. Tiffany Schubert of Wyoming Catholic College, George of the Chivalry Guild, and Banished Kent discuss Fitts 2 and 3 of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight!Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!Check out our 50 QUESTION-AND-ANSWER GUIDE to Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.Be sure to visit our sister publication, THE ASCENT, for Christian spirituality.Episode SummaryThe panel continues the Christmas reading of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, exploring Fitts 2 and 3 with Dr. Tiffany Schubert. The discussion covers the meditative passage of time, Gawain's elaborate armor and pentangle, his wilderness journey, arrival at the lord's castle, and the three bedroom temptations mirroring the lord's hunts. Themes of courtesy versus Christian prudence, the unexpected location of peril, and human imperfection dominate.Why Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Is Worth ReadingThis poem masterfully redirects chivalric expectations from martial heroism to internal trials of temperance and fidelity, using irony, humor, and subtle symbolism to expose the tensions within knighthood itself. As Dr. Schubert notes, it brings readers “back down into this world”—a murky, incarnate place of comfort and laughter where true danger often hides—while probing whether Christian virtue can govern or perfect courtly ideals. Rich in liturgical resonance, Marian devotion, and realistic grace, it humanizes the heroic quest, making it profoundly relevant for reflecting on temptation, fear, and humility during the Christmas season.Key Discussion PointsTime & Seasons: Opening meditation on cyclical yet forward-moving time; Gawain's lingering and All Hallows' departure as liturgical reflection on mortality.Armor & Pentangle: Lavish buildup of Gawain's gear and “endless knot” (five sets of five perfections, piety surpassing all) as outward ideal—quickly deflated as armor is removed.Mary Inside the Shield: Hidden source of strength and piety governing the public projection of perfection.Wilderness to Castle: Dismissal of monster battles; castle as surprising “answer” to Marian prayer—Providence working through murky, tempting paths.Second Christmas Game: Bertilak's exchange of winnings parallels the first deadly game, shifting peril to courtesy and domestic temptation.Three Temptations & Hunts: Parallel structure—doe (subtle), boar (fierce), fox (cunning); Gawain resists lust admirably but accepts/conceals girdle out of fear of death.Courtesy vs. Christian Prudence: Repeated bedroom returns (no Joseph-like flight) prolong exposure, allowing lady to exploit deeper flaw—courtesy overriding removal from sin.Confession Ambiguity: Post-girdle absolution raises questions of self-awareness and lingering human frailty.
Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the first Sunday of Christmas: Isaiah 61:10-62:5; Psalm 147:12-20; Galatians 3:23-4:7; John 1:1-18. They discuss the garden & restoration imagery of Isaiah, the guardianship metaphors of Galatians, and the way God's glory is fully revealed in Jesus Christ.Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Christmas--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectChristmas: Season of Life and Light, by: Dr. Emily Hunter McgowinNT Wright's Galatians course1:00 Collect6:56 Isaiah 61:10-62:526:56 Psalm 147:12-2031:17 Galatians 3:23-4:745:31 John 1:1-18 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, we are discussing Fitt 1 of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight with Dcn. Garlick, Dr. Justin Jackson of Hillsdale College, Chivalry Guild, and Banished Kent.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.Check out our WRITTEN GUIDE to Sir Gawain and the Greek Knight (posted soon!).Episode SummaryThe panel dives into the 14th-century Middle English masterpiece Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, exploring its mysterious single-manuscript survival, alliterative brilliance, and rich layers of meaning in Fit 1. From the Troy-to-Britain prologue to the shocking arrival of the Green Knight and the beheading game, the discussion uncovers dualities, temptations, and the clash between chivalric courtesy and Christian virtue that make this Christmas tale profoundly relevant.Why Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Is Worth ReadingThis poem stands as one of the greatest works of English literature because it masterfully blends adventure, humor, moral depth, and spiritual insight. As Dr. Jackson notes, it survived by miracle in a single tiny manuscript, yet offers the “greatest chivalric romance” alongside exquisite theological literacy. It probes timeless questions—how do pride, fear, courtesy, and faith collide in a fallen world?—without easy answers, forcing readers to wrestle with their own choices. Tolkien saw it as a meditation on seductive worldly culture versus Christian ethos; the guests highlight its realistic portrayal of human imperfection amid high ideals. Beautifully crafted (alliteration, bob-and-wheel, vivid imagery), often funny, and profoundly Christian, it humanizes the heroic while elevating humility and grace—perfect for Christmas reflection on mortality, temptation, and redemption.Key Discussion PointsManuscript & Poet: A unique survival with Pearl, Cleanness, and Patience; anonymous poet of astounding skill in alliterative revival.Historical Frame: Begins with Troy's fall and Aeneas (traitor in medieval legend) leading to Brutus and Britain—history as “bliss and blunder.”Arthur's Court: Young, vital Arthur is admirable yet “somewhat childish,” craving marvels or “life for life” combat.Guinevere's Gray Eyes: Symbol of wisdom/clarity, yet ambiguous; benchmark of beauty later challenged.Green Knight's Duality: Terrifying green giant vs. courtly noble—tempting fear/violence vs. courtesy/mercy.The Game: Explicitly “stroke for stroke,” not beheading; court's violent interpretation reveals failures.Tolkien's Lens: Tension between seductive chivalric/courtly culture and higher Christian virtue.Gawain's Intervention: Praised as humble, loyal self-sacrifice to shield Arthur.Notable QuotesDr. Jackson: “The poem is giving you two readings throughout, and then it wants to see which one are you going to appropriate.”Deacon Garlick: “This text captures my imagination… knowledge is an antecedent to love.”George (via Tolkien): “Gawain… as a matter of duty and humility and self-sacrifice.”Resources & RecommendationsTolkien's translation and scholarly editionJames Winny's facing-page translationDr. Jackson's Hillsdale online course lecture (watch after finishing the poem to avoid spoilers)Next episode: Fits 2–3 with Dr. Tiffany Schubert. Join the discussion on Patreon or X!
Episode 1006 (9:31) In this episode: Dcn. Brett preaches; Story of a friend who had some difficulties in her youth and how she has been restored since; The story illustrates the power of God's love restore us; Restoration is a common theme of Advent--to restore what was lost Music: Suno.com Related Web Sites: My Website Podcast PageAll Previous Episodes
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