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Who are men listening to in 2025? Join us in the pew this week for a conversation with longtime friend and guest Pete Burak, Vice President of Renewal Ministries. So many young men who desire discipleship are drawn to online influencers because they are validating that desire with a distorted version of masculinity. What they're really longing for is the radical call of Jesus—the only One who can truly transform a man's heart. Following Jesus means going all in. It means rejecting a lukewarm heart and letting Him radically transform your life as a man of God. Masculinity isn't toxic. It's holy—when Jesus is at the center. Check out Renewal Ministries and the awesome ways they're helping folks pursue true greatness. https://www.renewalministries.net/ Follow Pete on social media! https://www.instagram.com/peteburak https://www.facebook.com/pete.burak/ https://x.com/PeteBurak10 Follow Renewal Ministries on social media! https://www.instagram.com/renewalministries https://www.facebook.com/CatholicRenewalMinistries/ Learn more about our pilgrimage: Walk in the Footsteps of Pope St. John Paul II with John
Today's Gospel is from Matthew 19 and tells the story of how a rich young man asked Jesus what he had to do to gain eternal life. Pope St. John Paul II said this question is an essential and unavoidable question for the life of every person. To find out why, listen to more in today's reflection from Fr. Kubicki.
Zbigniew Brzezinski was a key architect of the Soviet Union's demise, which ended the Cold War. A child of Warsaw—the heart of central Europe's bloodlands—Brzezinski turned his fierce resentment at his homeland's razing by Nazi Germany and the Red Army into a lifelong quest for liberty. Born the year that Joseph Stalin consolidated power, and dying a few months into Donald Trump's first presidency, Brzezinski was shaped by and in turn shaped the global power struggles of the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. As counsel to US presidents from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama, and chief foreign policy figure of the late 1970s under Jimmy Carter, Brzezinski converted his acclaim as a Sovietologist into Washington power. With Henry Kissinger, his lifelong rival with whom he had a fraught on-off relationship, he personified the new breed of foreign-born scholar who thrived in America's “Cold War University”—and who ousted Washington's gentlemanly class of WASPs who had run US foreign policy for so long.Brzezinski's impact, aided by his unusual friendship with the Polish-born John Paul II, sprang from his knowledge of Moscow's “Achilles heel”—the fact that its nationalities, such as the Ukrainians, and satellite states, including Poland, yearned to shake off Moscow's grip. Neither a hawk nor a dove, Brzezinski was a biting critic of George W. Bush's Iraq War and an early endorser of Obama. Because he went against the DC grain of joining factions, and was on occasion willing to drop Democrats for Republicans, Brzezinski is something of history's orphan. His historic role has been greatly underweighted. In the almost cinematic arc of his life can be found the grand narrative of the American century and great power struggle that followed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies
Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”Former Border Patrol Deputy Agent JJ Carroll pulls back the curtain on America's darkest secret: government-facilitated child trafficking at our border. With 24 years of frontline experience, Carroll delivers a harrowing account of how our federal agencies became active participants in the largest child sex trafficking operation in modern history.The numbers are staggering and the implications horrifying. Upwards of 550,000 unaccompanied children crossed our border under the Biden administration—and all were subsequently lost in the system. Carroll explains how critical safeguards like DNA testing and background checks for sponsors were deliberately removed, creating a pipeline that delivered vulnerable children directly into the hands of traffickers and predators.What makes this crisis particularly disturbing is the complicity of trusted institutions. Religious organizations including Catholic Charities received billions in federal funding to transport migrants from the border into America's interior with minimal oversight. Meanwhile, Congressional leaders show shocking indifference when presented with evidence of trafficking, suggesting deeper corruption than most Americans are willing to acknowledge.Visit JJCarrell.com to learn more and watch his testimony to congress! Read Jacks latest Blog on Substack: "Awakened by Beauty, Commissioned for Battle, Seeking Adventure"For Discussion:Reflect on Personal Integrity and Moral Courage: America's status as the world's leading consumer of child pornography contributes to the broader crisis of child sex trafficking, warning that young men addicted to porn risk losing their hearts and the country itself. Drawing from John Paul II's Theology of the Body, which emphasizes the sacred dignity of the human person and warns against reducing others to objects of use, how can young men examine their own habits—such as exposure to pornography—and cultivate the courage to reject it, thereby standing against the exploitation of children? (Reference: John Paul II, Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body, Audience 24-29 on lust and objectification.)Protecting the Innocent as a Faith Imperative: JJ describes horrific abuses in trafficking, including children being "raped to death" for profit. Connect this to a profound spiritual decay in society. In Matthew 18:6, Jesus warns that it would be better to have a millstone tied around one's neck than to cause a little one to stumble. How might men discern their role in confronting institutional complicity—such as in religious organizations or government policies—and take concrete steps to protect children's innocence in their communities?From Awareness to Action in a Window of Opportunity: With the election of Donald Trump we have a "narrow window" to address the crisis. Christian men, there is an urgency to rebuild a society that values innocence. Consider Proverbs 31:8-9: "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute." As young men sensing "something's wrong" in culture, how can you move beyond voting or passive awareness to bold, faith-driven actions against child sex trafficking and pornography, such as volunteering with anti-trafficking groups or educating peers?Support the show
In this episode, Deacon Charlie sits down with Chase Crouse, founder of Hypuro, a Catholic fitness ministry that integrates physical discipline with spiritual growth. Chase shares his inspiring journey from a nominal Catholic upbringing to a profound reversion sparked by Matthew Kelly's Rediscover Catholicism. He discusses how fitness became a cornerstone of his spiritual life, drawing from St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body and the concept of active and passive purgation to frame exercise as a modern form of asceticism.Hypuro Fithttps://www.hypurofit.org/Speed Round Fitness Ratings (Scale: 1–10, 10 being awesome):Ozempic: 5 (situational; depends on medical need).Weighted Vests: 3 (overhyped, useful for some but not essential).Pilates: 5 (better than nothing, but Chase hasn't tried it).CrossFit/Functional Fitness: Varies (10 for great coaches, -10 for poor ones; coach quality critical to avoid injury).Infrared Sauna: 6–7 (enjoyable, not essential).Cold Exposure: 7–8 for athletes needing recovery, lower for general muscle-building goals.Hyrox: 8 (fun and challenging, especially as a team event).P90X: 3–4 (dated but better than nothing).
Friends of the Rosary,Today, August 14, is the Memorial of St. Maximilian Mary Kolbe (1894-1941), a Polish Franciscan, friar, priest, and martyr of Auschwitz, who founded a movement of Marian consecration called Militia of the Immaculata, With his preaching and writing, he undertook an intense apostolic mission in Europe and Asia.Imprisoned in Auschwitz during the Second World War, he offered himself in exchange for a young father of a large family who was to be executed, Francis Gajowniczek.When the captors couldn't kill him from starvation in the concentration camp, they ended his life with a lethal injection on August 14, 1941.In 1927, he established an evangelization center near Warsaw called Niepokalanow, the "City of the Immaculata." By 1939, the City had expanded from eighteen friars to an incredible 650, making it the largest Catholic religious house in the world.To better "win the world for the Immaculata," the friars utilized modern printing and administrative techniques, enabling countless catechetical and devotional works, a daily newspaper with a circulation of 230,000, and a monthly magazine with a circulation of over one million.Maximilian started a shortwave radio station and planned to build a motion picture studio—he was a true "apostle of the mass media." He established a City of the Immaculata in Nagasaki, Japan, in 1930, and envisioned missionary centers worldwide.Maximilian was a ground-breaking theologian. His insights into the Immaculate Conception anticipated the Marian theology of the Second Vatican Council and further developed the Church's understanding of Mary as "Mediatrix" of all the graces of the Trinity, and as "Advocate" for God's people.Pope St. John Paul II canonized him in 1982 and proclaimed him a "martyr of charity" and "Patron Saint of Our Difficult Century." Francis Gajowniczek was in attendance.He is a patron of journalists, families, prisoners, the pro-life movement, and the chemically addicted.Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New York• August 14, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
In this episode of The Zach Show, award-winning journalist Philip Shenon, author of Jesus Wept, takes us inside the Vatican's most turbulent century. From Pope Pius XII's meeting with Hitler and his controversial silence during the Holocaust, to Pope John XXIII's revolutionary Vatican II reforms, we trace the Church's battles over power, mercy, and truth. Shenon unpacks Hans Küng's assault on papal infallibility, the decades-long rivalry with Joseph Ratzinger, and explosive evidence tying John Paul II and Benedict XVI to global abuse cover-ups. We also explore the Vatican's Cold War alliance with the CIA, Francis's “Who am I to judge?” moment, and whether Vatican Intelligence still plays in the shadows. Guest bio: Philip Shenon is an award-winning investigative journalist who spent over two decades at The New York Times, covering stories from the Pentagon to the CIA. He's the bestselling author of The Commission (the inside story of the 9/11 investigation) and Jesus Wept, an exposé on the modern Catholic Church. This is only the first half of the episode on how to disappear. To get the full episode (audio and video), exclusive AMAs, and more, subscribe to The Zach Show 2.0 today: https://thezachshow.supercast.com/ PHIL SHENON LINKS:Website: https://www.philipshenon.com/Jesus Wept: http://bit.ly/3JevgKUX(Twitter): https://x.com/philipshenonAll Books by Shenon: https://amzn.to/4mDBZfI THE ZACH SHOW LINKS: The Zach Show 2.0: https://thezachshow.supercast.com/Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3zaS6sPYouTube: https://bit.ly/3lTpJdjWebsite: https://www.auxoro.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/auxoro If you're not ready to subscribe to The Zach Show 2.0, rating the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts is free and massively helpful. It boosts visibility, helps new listeners discover the show, and keeps this chaos alive. Thank you: Rate The Zach Show on Spotify: https://bit.ly/43ZLrAtRate The Zach Show on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/458nbha
Is your life full of noise, stress, and spiritual disconnection? You're not alone. Join us in the pew this week as John and Victor dive into the chaos that often fills our lives, and the despair that can follow. They unpack how addiction, stress, and misplaced priorities lead us away from peace and into deeper confusion. But there's hope. Through honest reflection, spiritual discipline, and authentic community, we can begin to reclaim order in our lives. Listen as John and Victor speak plainly about their own past, and the practical ways they were able to move from chaos to clarity, and from despair to hope. Learn more about our pilgrimage: Walk in the Footsteps of Pope St. John Paul II with John
Zbigniew Brzezinski was a key architect of the Soviet Union's demise, which ended the Cold War. A child of Warsaw—the heart of central Europe's bloodlands—Brzezinski turned his fierce resentment at his homeland's razing by Nazi Germany and the Red Army into a lifelong quest for liberty. Born the year that Joseph Stalin consolidated power, and dying a few months into Donald Trump's first presidency, Brzezinski was shaped by and in turn shaped the global power struggles of the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. As counsel to US presidents from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama, and chief foreign policy figure of the late 1970s under Jimmy Carter, Brzezinski converted his acclaim as a Sovietologist into Washington power. With Henry Kissinger, his lifelong rival with whom he had a fraught on-off relationship, he personified the new breed of foreign-born scholar who thrived in America's “Cold War University”—and who ousted Washington's gentlemanly class of WASPs who had run US foreign policy for so long.Brzezinski's impact, aided by his unusual friendship with the Polish-born John Paul II, sprang from his knowledge of Moscow's “Achilles heel”—the fact that its nationalities, such as the Ukrainians, and satellite states, including Poland, yearned to shake off Moscow's grip. Neither a hawk nor a dove, Brzezinski was a biting critic of George W. Bush's Iraq War and an early endorser of Obama. Because he went against the DC grain of joining factions, and was on occasion willing to drop Democrats for Republicans, Brzezinski is something of history's orphan. His historic role has been greatly underweighted. In the almost cinematic arc of his life can be found the grand narrative of the American century and great power struggle that followed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
Zbigniew Brzezinski was a key architect of the Soviet Union's demise, which ended the Cold War. A child of Warsaw—the heart of central Europe's bloodlands—Brzezinski turned his fierce resentment at his homeland's razing by Nazi Germany and the Red Army into a lifelong quest for liberty. Born the year that Joseph Stalin consolidated power, and dying a few months into Donald Trump's first presidency, Brzezinski was shaped by and in turn shaped the global power struggles of the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. As counsel to US presidents from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama, and chief foreign policy figure of the late 1970s under Jimmy Carter, Brzezinski converted his acclaim as a Sovietologist into Washington power. With Henry Kissinger, his lifelong rival with whom he had a fraught on-off relationship, he personified the new breed of foreign-born scholar who thrived in America's “Cold War University”—and who ousted Washington's gentlemanly class of WASPs who had run US foreign policy for so long.Brzezinski's impact, aided by his unusual friendship with the Polish-born John Paul II, sprang from his knowledge of Moscow's “Achilles heel”—the fact that its nationalities, such as the Ukrainians, and satellite states, including Poland, yearned to shake off Moscow's grip. Neither a hawk nor a dove, Brzezinski was a biting critic of George W. Bush's Iraq War and an early endorser of Obama. Because he went against the DC grain of joining factions, and was on occasion willing to drop Democrats for Republicans, Brzezinski is something of history's orphan. His historic role has been greatly underweighted. In the almost cinematic arc of his life can be found the grand narrative of the American century and great power struggle that followed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/world-affairs
Zbigniew Brzezinski was a key architect of the Soviet Union's demise, which ended the Cold War. A child of Warsaw—the heart of central Europe's bloodlands—Brzezinski turned his fierce resentment at his homeland's razing by Nazi Germany and the Red Army into a lifelong quest for liberty. Born the year that Joseph Stalin consolidated power, and dying a few months into Donald Trump's first presidency, Brzezinski was shaped by and in turn shaped the global power struggles of the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. As counsel to US presidents from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama, and chief foreign policy figure of the late 1970s under Jimmy Carter, Brzezinski converted his acclaim as a Sovietologist into Washington power. With Henry Kissinger, his lifelong rival with whom he had a fraught on-off relationship, he personified the new breed of foreign-born scholar who thrived in America's “Cold War University”—and who ousted Washington's gentlemanly class of WASPs who had run US foreign policy for so long.Brzezinski's impact, aided by his unusual friendship with the Polish-born John Paul II, sprang from his knowledge of Moscow's “Achilles heel”—the fact that its nationalities, such as the Ukrainians, and satellite states, including Poland, yearned to shake off Moscow's grip. Neither a hawk nor a dove, Brzezinski was a biting critic of George W. Bush's Iraq War and an early endorser of Obama. Because he went against the DC grain of joining factions, and was on occasion willing to drop Democrats for Republicans, Brzezinski is something of history's orphan. His historic role has been greatly underweighted. In the almost cinematic arc of his life can be found the grand narrative of the American century and great power struggle that followed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biography
Zbigniew Brzezinski was a key architect of the Soviet Union's demise, which ended the Cold War. A child of Warsaw—the heart of central Europe's bloodlands—Brzezinski turned his fierce resentment at his homeland's razing by Nazi Germany and the Red Army into a lifelong quest for liberty. Born the year that Joseph Stalin consolidated power, and dying a few months into Donald Trump's first presidency, Brzezinski was shaped by and in turn shaped the global power struggles of the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. As counsel to US presidents from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama, and chief foreign policy figure of the late 1970s under Jimmy Carter, Brzezinski converted his acclaim as a Sovietologist into Washington power. With Henry Kissinger, his lifelong rival with whom he had a fraught on-off relationship, he personified the new breed of foreign-born scholar who thrived in America's “Cold War University”—and who ousted Washington's gentlemanly class of WASPs who had run US foreign policy for so long.Brzezinski's impact, aided by his unusual friendship with the Polish-born John Paul II, sprang from his knowledge of Moscow's “Achilles heel”—the fact that its nationalities, such as the Ukrainians, and satellite states, including Poland, yearned to shake off Moscow's grip. Neither a hawk nor a dove, Brzezinski was a biting critic of George W. Bush's Iraq War and an early endorser of Obama. Because he went against the DC grain of joining factions, and was on occasion willing to drop Democrats for Republicans, Brzezinski is something of history's orphan. His historic role has been greatly underweighted. In the almost cinematic arc of his life can be found the grand narrative of the American century and great power struggle that followed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/national-security
TRADCAST EXPRESS - Episode 213 Topics covered: The Great Apostasy: Catholics are required to believe a massive number of Catholics will fall away from the true Faith before Christ returns, and even the Novus Ordo Catechism of John Paul II affirms this. But what is the nature of this Great Apostasy, how does it relate to the Papacy, and... are we living through it at present? Links: Traditional Catholic teaching on the Great Apostasy: found in The Catechism of the Council of Trent (see page 84) Novus Ordo teaching on the Great Apostasy: found in Catechism of the Catholic Church (see n. 675) Cardinal Henry Edward Manning's research on the Great Apostasy, the Pope, and the Antichrist presented in "The Persecution and ‘Death' of the Church: The Testimony of Scripture and Tradition", Novus Ordo Watch (Jan. 18, 2024) Collection of authoritative quotes of magisterial documents: The Catholic Teaching on the Papacy Pope Pius VII, Encyclical Diu Satis (1800) Pope Pius IX, Encyclical Nostis et Nobiscum (1849) Pope Pius IX, Encyclical Inter Multiplices (1853) Pope Pius VI, Apostolic Constitution Super Soliditate (1786) Pope Pius IX, Apostolic Letter Iam Vos Omnes (1868) Pope Leo XIII, Encyclical Satis Cognitum (1896) Pope Pius XI, Encyclical Mortalium Animos (1928) "Cardinal of Barcelona Bans Lecture on Christ the King", Gloria.TV (Jan. 14, 2025) Pope Pius XI, Encyclical Quas Primas (1925) Sign up to be notified of new episode releases automatically at tradcast.org. Produced by NOVUSORDOWATCH.org Support us by making a tax-deductible contribution at NovusOrdoWatch.org/donate/
8/6/25 - St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, born Edith Stein (1891–1942), was a brilliant Jewish philosopher who became a Catholic nun and martyr at Auschwitz. Raised in a devout Jewish family in Germany, Edith lost her faith in her teens and became an atheist while studying philosophy under Edmund Husserl, becoming one of the leading minds in phenomenology. Her conversion began after reading the autobiography of St. Teresa of Ávila, leading to her baptism in 1922. In 1933, she entered the Discalced Carmelite Order and took the name Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, offering her life as a sacrifice for her people and for peace. Arrested by the Nazis and sent to Auschwitz, she was martyred on August 9, 1942. She was later canonized by Pope St. John Paul II in 1998 and declared a co-patroness of Europe.
We appreciate you spending some of your valuable time with us. We are once again returning to the audiences of St. John Paul II that make up "Theology of the Body". In this show we are going to let JP II take us back in time to when Jesus gave "The Sermon on the Mount". In that sermon the beloved pope says Jesus was appealing to the human heart. The same human heart created by God in Adam and Eve, the same human heart that beat in the hearts of 1st century Jews and the same heart that beats in each of us today.
Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”What if your body was designed to tell a cosmic love story? In this profound exploration of human sexuality, Jack unveils how our creation as male and female reflects something far deeper than biology—it mirrors the very nature of God's Trinitarian love.The episode introduces the Claymore Battle Plan, a revolutionary framework helping men navigate today's confusing cultural landscape. Rather than offering superficial solutions, this approach digs into three fundamental realities: the human heart's deepest longings, the irreplaceable role of marriage and family, and our essential connection to Christ and the Church. These aren't arbitrary religious concepts but the very foundation of human flourishing.Drawing from Pope John Paul II's theology of the body, Jack explains how our physical design reveals profound spiritual truth. "The body, and it alone, is capable of making visible what is invisible—the spiritual and divine," he quotes. This understanding transforms everything about how we see ourselves and our relationships. When husband and wife unite and bring forth children, they participate in a "tiny created reflection of Trinitarian love"—where two become one and create a third.The breakdown we see in society—from inner-city violence to the emptiness of modern political leadership—stems directly from losing this foundational understanding. Without recognizing the sacramental nature of our bodies and relationships, we're left with a culture that uses people and loves things instead of the reverse.Join our growing community of men seeking something deeper than what modern culture offers. Download the Claymore Battle Plan at jp2renew.org, connect with others for discussion, and discover how becoming a person of love transforms not just your life, but rebuilds society from its foundations.Discussion Questions with Scripture and Catechism References· How does the creation of humanity as male and female reflect the Trinitarian love of God, and what does this reveal about the purpose of our bodies?Reference: Genesis 1:26–28; Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) 355–357: “God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him, male and female he created them… Being in the image of God, the human individual possesses the dignity of a person, who is not just something, but someone.”· Jesus points to “the beginning” to explain God's design for marriage (Matthew 19:3–8). How can returning to God's original plan for humanity help us navigate moral and sexual confusion in the modern world?Reference: Matthew 19:3–8; CCC 1603–1605: “The intimate community of life and love which constitutes the married state has been established by the Creator and endowed by him with its own proper laws… God himself is the author of marriage.”· John Paul II describes the body as having a “spousal meaning” that expresses love and self-gift. How can understanding this truth shape the way we view sexuality and relationships?Reference: Genesis 2:24–25; CCC 2331–2336: “Sexuality, by means of which man and woman give themselves to one another through the acts which are proper and exclusive to spouses… is ordered to the conjugal love of man and woman.”· The chapter describes marriage as a “primordial sacrament” that reflects God's Trinitarian life and love, ‘from the beginning'. How can married couples live out this sacramental calling in their daily lives, and what impact might this have on their families and communities?Reference: Ephesians 5:25–32; CCC 1613–1617: “By its very nature [marriage] is ordered to the good of the couple, as well Support the show
Bishop Tony Percy says no one likes a ‘one tone' life, but at times our experience is exactly this: we feel disillusioned from time to time. In 1981 Pope St. John Paul II decided to teach us about the meaning and value of human work and see the spiritual rhythm of it. Work is a participation in God's creative work. Work is worship
“Don't be afraid of your heart—God's working there.” Fr. Colin Fricke joins Men of the Hearts podcast hosts Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee to share how he discerned his call to the priesthood through the grace of the sacraments, unexpected encouragement from the Archbishop of Detroit, and appreciating the joys of everyday life. He reflects on how these blessings and more helped him grow in confidence and freedom, ultimately leading him to say “yes” to God's call.(0:25) Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew kick off the episode with a joyful welcome to Fr. Colin Fricke, a priest of the Archdiocese of Detroit who serves at St. Anastasia. The trio swaps stories about recent summer activities, including fireworks, parish life, and addressing the ongoing need for vocations in the Archdiocese of Detroit.(1:24) Fr. Colin shares how he celebrated the 4th of July with his family in Grand Rapids, where he enjoyed fireworks, sparklers, and wiffle ball with his nieces and nephews. He talks about the blessing of spending time with loved ones and witnessing their joy. He then talks about the joy he finds in playing volleyball, which leads to a discussion about how simple passions like sports can become powerful tools for evangelization.(8:34) Fr. Colin begins his vocation story by recalling the moment he watched a priest elevate the Eucharist at Mass and thought to himself, “I want the big Eucharist.” At the time, he didn't fully understand what that meant, but looking back, he recognizes it as one of the first seeds of his vocation to the priesthood. He then talks about growing up in Grosse Pointe, attending Mass regularly, and being inspired at his Confirmation to start reading the Bible. (16:00) Fr. Colin describes himself in high school as reserved and uncertain about his identity. In college, he began going to confession more regularly and discovered healing through that sacrament. While studying at Siena Heights University to become a teacher, Fr. Colin became involved in campus ministry, where others would occasionally suggest that he consider the priesthood. One day, while walking up the stairs to his dorm, he interiorly heard, “You should be a priest,” a moment that reignited the call he had sensed as a child.(22:00) After college, Fr. Colin began teaching in Catholic schools. He reflects on how the experience gave him a front-row seat to the joy of children, a gift that helped him understand how God sees us and invites us to be ourselves. As he continued teaching, Fr. Colin began reading St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body, where he learned about authentic love, the beauty of the human person, and the gift of masculinity in service to others.(34:00) Fr. Colin started spending more time in Eucharistic adoration, especially at Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish, where he encountered a faithful group of praying mothers who encouraged him. He also received encouragement from an unexpected source: The Archbishop of Detroit, after visiting Fr. Colin's school, sent the young man a personal letter encouraging him to consider the priesthood.(38:30) Father Colin entered seminary in 2014, joining a class of men that included many of his friends today. Seminary was both a confirmation of his call and a time of deep personal growth. He learned to be more emotionally honest, to recognize and process his anger, and to live with greater freedom. He offers his advice to young men discerning and closes the episode with prayer.
What really makes for lasting love and deep intimacy—whether in marriage or in our relationship with God? In this episode, Dr. Greg explains why the “spark” isn't the true measure of a healthy sex life and how intentional, self-giving love leads to deeper joy. Drawing on wisdom from St. John Paul II and modern research, he offers a fresh perspective on love, marriage, and the spiritual life. Key Topics: Why “the spark” of spontaneous desire isn't the gold standard for lasting intimacy The difference between desire and pleasure in a healthy sex life What research reveals about spontaneous vs. responsive desire The connection between conjugal love and spiritual growth How anxiety and anticipation can hinder authentic pleasure Practical ways to move from fleeting desire to intentional, self-giving love St. John Paul II's insights on love, desire, and the human person Learn More: Article on the “Desire Imperative” – a secular perspective on the difference between spontaneous desire (“the spark”) and responsive desire Love and Responsibility by St. John Paul II – timeless wisdom on love, desire, and the human person Blog: Prioritizing Daily Life: The Power of Boundaries – practical ways to create space for prayer and what matters most Podcast Episode #189: Social Sabbatical – learning the rhythm of silence and a deeper cadence of prayer Discernment of Spirits – understanding how to recognize God's voice in your life Catholic Mindfulness – training your mind for peace Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn
Thank you for lending us your ears and allowing us to share more of St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body. July 25th is the anniversary of a document that was instrumental to JP II's writings ... Humane Vitae by Pope Paul VI. In our time together we hope to share how important that document was and still is by featuring some archival content from our valued partner, Colby Allen as well as wise and insightful discussions from Adele and the Founder and President of the DesOrmeaux Foundation, Mrs. Brenda DesOrmeaux. So lean-in with us as this powerful team explains why history not only calls Humane Vitae an important Theological Document but a prophetic lens that showed us the consequences of separating procreation from conjugal love. Links mentioned in the show:https://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-vi_enc_25071968_humanae-vitae.html
Questions answered this episode:I've broken free from porn and masturbation since returning to the Church, but now I experience arousal during deep prayer. It distracts and disturbs me—how can I pray through it without shame or confusion?My kids ask: If Mary conceived by the Holy Spirit, did the Spirit become physical—like a sperm? How do I explain this?As a virgin in an art class drawing nude figures, I feel shame, fear, and temptation. How can I see the body with purity and maturity without falling into lust or fantasy?Resources:COURSE SCHEDULEJPII Legacy Foundation WebsiteWhat to Do With Your Sexual Needs YouTube VideoSexual Needs Into Prayer YouTube Video---Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.---
George Carinal Pell was a famous Australian Catholic cardinal who died just a week after his friend Pope Benedict XVI. Get Your Copy of his “George Cardinal Pell: Pax Invictis” here: https://ignatius.com/george-cardinal-pell-gcpbh/ Tess Livingstone is the author of the definitive biography of George Cardinal Pell and recently we were blessed to sit down with her in person to discuss the life, work, and imprisonment of this influential cardinal. She details his upbringing and imprisonment as well as his work with Pope Francis, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope St. John Paul II. Finally, she gives some insight into the personhood of Cardinal Pell and some lesser-known stories about vocation journey and interactions with the poor. We continue to pray for the repose of the soul of Cardinal Pell and are grateful for his many years of service to the Church. SUBSCRIBE to our channel and never miss an episode of the Ignatius Press Podcast. You can also listen to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Follow us on social media: Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/IgnatiusPress Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignatiuspress Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignatius_press/ Music from Pexels, Gregor Quendel. https://www.classicals.de/legal
Join us for a powerful episode of Respect Life Radio as we welcome Greg Schlueter—author, speaker, and cultural leader—on a mission to restore faith, family, and freedom. Greg directs communications for the Institute of American Constitutional Thought and Leadership and leads Image Trinity, a vibrant movement strengthening marriages and families. He co-hosts the dynamic podcast IGNITE Radio Live with his wife, sparking conversations that move hearts and minds. We'll explore his recent Crisis Magazine article, The Age of Fragility: Reclaiming Resilience in a Culture of Victimhood, where he challenges the rise of victim culture and calls for a bold return to virtue and strength. He recalls early influence of the keeping relationships at the heart of his and his family's structure that was molded through the teachings of John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. In order to live in the truth, embracing our need for community and encouraging our growth in maturing our understanding of the power of emotions to be rightly ordered. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with Greg Schlueter—devoted husband, father of seven (one in heaven), and author of The Magnificent Piglets of Pigletsville, Twelve Roses, and Slaying Giants. To read the full article visit: https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/the-age-of-fragility-reclaiming-resilience-in-a-culture-of-victimhood
Welcome back to part 2 of our series on adoption. St. John Paul II said "adoption is a reflection of God's Love" and in this show Jared and Brittany Normand are back again to share more of their families inspiring image of God's Love. Listen in as the Normand's discuss their journey of adopting their 2 sons and how that experience profoundly impacted their marriage and the lives of their biological children.
Questions answered this episode:I'm a prosecutor working with men who've abused women. I speak to them about porn, objectification, and Love and Responsibility. What else should I say to reach hearts already hardened by violence?My boyfriend isn't a virgin, but I am. He's repented, but I still feel sad and conflicted. Am I allowed to grieve what we'll never share?If marriage helps us grow in holiness, why does Scripture say the unmarried are more focused on God? Did Jesus contradict marriage by calling Peter away from his wife?Resources:Event in Rome LinkCOURSE SCHEDULEJoin us on one of our pilgrimages!TOBI Event Calendar---Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.---
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they talk about seeing other people as a child of God, created in His Image and Likeness! Resources: Givenness - St. John Paul II St. John Paul II and Pastoral Ministry As a Gift - SpiritualDirection.com Finding Peace in the Storm - Dan Burke Into the Deep – Dan Burke Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits - Dan Burke The Contemplative Rosary - Dan Burke and Connie Rossini A Catholic Guide to Mindfulness - Susan Brinkmann OCDS Avila-Institute.org/events - website Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation EWTN Religious Catalogue – online
Pope St. John Paul II reminds us that the Catholic "breathes with both lungs east and west." There are actually 21 different, ancient and venerable ways to be Catholic
Episode 183 - This episode explores the life, impact, and legacy of Pope St. John Paul II, highlighting his early influences, his role in the Catholic Church, and his significant contributions to theology and human dignity. The discussion covers his early life in Poland, his priestly formation, his pivotal role during Vatican II, and his papacy, emphasizing his writings and teachings that continue to resonate today.Hosts: Nathanael Rea & Guest Host Anthony Basso
Join hosts Karen Potter and Theo McManigal in this powerful episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast as they welcome renowned Catholic speaker and author Christopher West of the Theology of the Body Institute. In this inspiring conversation, Christopher unpacks the Theology of the Body, shares his personal story, and explores how Christian parents can raise their children with a biblical understanding of sexuality in today's oversexualized culture.
We appreciate you spending some time to discuss a very important topic here at the DesOrmeaux Foundation, adoption. This show is titled, Adoption and the mystery of sonship and we will be discussing St. John Paul II"s take on why adoption is the reflection of God's love. To better break this topic open Adele, Becki and Tom are joined by Jared and Brittany Normand of St. Martinville, LA. The Normans have 2 adopted sons and their inspirational story will guide us to a better understanding of why JP II considered adoption to be an act that was close to God's heart.
Questions answered this episode:I've been reflecting on how God uses our wounds to reveal His glory. Could our scars remain in our glorified bodies, like Christ's, as signs of His redemptive love?I feel emotionally and spiritually neglected in my marriage. How can I love my wife like Christ when she won't respond?I converted to Catholicism after a painful sexual past and porn addiction. How do I heal and trust God's plan for my future?Resources:Event in Rome Link---Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.---
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they talk about givenness and how we are called give ourselves to each other! Resources: Givenness - St. John Paul II St. John Paul II and Pastoral Ministry As a Gift - SpiritualDirection.com Finding Peace in the Storm - Dan Burke Into the Deep – Dan Burke Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits - Dan Burke The Contemplative Rosary - Dan Burke and Connie Rossini A Catholic Guide to Mindfulness - Susan Brinkmann OCDS Avila-Institute.org/events - website Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation EWTN Religious Catalogue – online
Pope St. John Paul II reminds us that the Catholic "breathes with both lungs east and west." There are actually 21 different, ancient and venerable ways to be Catholic
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they reflect on St. John Paul II's meditation on givenness. Don't miss out as they discuss how to give ourselves to each other, especially in holy matrimony!
Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”What epic tale have we fallen into, and what role are we meant to play? This question lies at the heart of our exploration of authentic masculinity and spiritual warfare in a chaotic world.Drawing from the wisdom of St. John Paul II, Henry David Thoreau, and even Sam Gamgee from Lord of the Rings, we examine the profound crisis facing today's young people. In a culture where 50% of teen girls report persistent sadness and 30% have considered suicide, something has clearly gone terribly wrong. Yet within this darkness, we're witnessing young men awakening to the realization that they were created for something more.The Claymore sword—the heavy, two-handed weapon made famous in Braveheart—represents our approach to spiritual combat. Unlike the emasculated vision of manhood promoted by our culture, we recognize that authentic masculinity requires courage, strength, and a willingness to fight for what matters. But as St. John Paul II taught, the first battle must be fought on the battlefield of our own hearts—between love and lust, between selfishness and self-giving.Download the Claymore Militus Christi Battle Plan and join us in reclaiming what it means to be a man. Share this episode with someone and discuss the questions together: What tale have we fallen into, and what role will you play in it?Jacks Latest Blog Young Men United in the Eucharist: Heroically Rebuilding the Three Necessary SocietiesFollow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2RenewalSubscribe to our Newly Resurrected YouTube Channel!Sign up for our Newsletter: https://jp2renew.org/Discussion questions:What are some moments in your life when you felt a deep longing for truth, meaning, or purpose? How did you respond to that desire?“You will seek me and find me; when you seek me with all your heart, I will be found by you, says the Lord.”—Jeremiah 29:13–14Sam Gamgee asks, “I wonder what sort of tale we've fallen into?”—do you feel like your life is part of a larger story? If so, who is writing it, and what role might you be playing?“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”—Ephesians 2:10In a world full of noise, opinions, and competing truths, where do you go—or where could you begin to go—to seek what is truly good, beautiful, and true? “And you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”—John 8:32The chapter mentions the “line between good and evil running through every human heart.” Where in your own life do you feel that tension most, and what helps you stay grounded in the fight for the good?“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”—Matthew 26:41Support the show
Did you know Scepter has a collection of several dozen free ebooks? We do! This is an excerpt from one of the free ebooks! This one is titled Work as Fulfillment: In the Thought of St. John Paul II and was written by John Coverdale.
Feeling stuck, trapped, or frustrated with yourself? In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Dr. Greg Bottaro unpacks what true interior freedom really means—and why so many of us struggle to experience it. Drawing on Catholic mindfulness, St. John Paul II's rich teaching on human freedom, and years of clinical experience, Dr. Greg breaks open why we do the things we don't want to do, how hidden patterns keep us from the good we desire, and what it actually takes to become who God created us to be. This is an invitation to go deeper than surface-level self-help and begin building the kind of freedom that leads to holiness, health, and real human flourishing. Key Topics: The difference between capacity for freedom and acting in freedom Why we do the things we don't want to do—and can't do the things we want The subconscious patterns that hijack our choices Moving from automatic habits to conscious, virtuous action How our daily choices shape who we become Learn More: CatholicPsych Mentorship Program: Get one-on-one support for the areas where you feel stuck. Free consultations available. Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat: An 8-week course to bring your faith and your spirituality in line with the way your brain works. The Mindful Catholic by Dr. Greg Bottaro Letter to Families from Pope John Paul II (1994) Discernment of Spirits Course: An 8-week course to learn how to understand what God is saying to you. Setting the Stage: Early Plays of St. John Paul II: Featuring “Our God's Brother” and other plays written by Karol Wojtyła (St. John Paul II). Related Being Human episodes: Ep. #228: The Joy of Inconvenience: A Conversation with Comedian Tom Shillue Ep. #175: Rethinking Formation: Preparing Priests for the Future with Fr. Sam Kachuba Ep. #180: The Psychology of JP2: A Bold Proposal Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn
Msgr. Roger J. Landry Chapel of St. Leonard Wawel Cathedral, Krakow, Poland Beginning of the Tertio Millennio Seminar Votive Mass of the Holy Spirit July 7, 2025 Is 61:1-3.6.8-9, Ps 104, Jn 14:23-26 To listen to an audio recording of today's homily, please click below: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/7.7.25_Homily_1.mp3 The following points were made in the homily: […] The post Responding to the Holy Spirit like St. John Paul II, Votive Mass of the Holy Spirit, July 7, 2025 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.
• Continence in Marriage – Why would some spouses adopt lifelong continence—living as “brother and sister”—instead of periodic abstinence, must both freely agree, and how does it square with openness to children and the call to holiness?• Infatuation & Healing – After 15 years and five kids, my wife confessed an intense infatuation with a friend. I fear my own lust and past contraceptive choices played a role. How can we heal our marriage and what prayers or litanies can re‑align our desires with God?• Jeremiah's Girdle – In Jeremiah 13:11 God likens Israel to a waistband clinging to loins. Is there a deeper Theology‑of‑the‑Body meaning hidden in this striking image beyond the literal prophecy?Resources: JPII Legacy Foundation WebsiteReferenced ACW Episode John Paul II Healing CenterJohn Paul II Healing Center EventsDesert Stream Ministries Restore the Glory Podcast List of trusted counselors & psychologists---Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.---
So many of us from divorced or dysfunctional families never learned how to deal with pain and suffering in a healthy way. As a result, we usually either numb the pain or get stuck in bitterness. But what if you could not only learn how to navigate pain in a healthy way, but actually draw meaning from your pain and emerge stronger? That's what we discuss in this episode, plus:The shocking diagnosis Jack received at 11—and how it rewired his entire futureWhy suffering always pushes you into one of three paths (and how only one leads to freedom)The 3 ways to find meaning in suffering and the obstacles that prevent itIf you're suffering, perhaps because of your parents' divorce or the breakdown of your family, this episode is for you.Get Jack's Course or FREE Class: RISE: Drawing Meaning from Suffering Through the Lens of St. John Paul II, Victor Frankl and JesusBook a FREE Mentorship Session with JackGet Dakota's FREE Guide, The Biggest Fitness Mistakes to AvoidGet Joey's Book or FREE chapters: It's Not Your FaultJocko Willink "GOOD" (Viral Video)ShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!
I want a husband who only has eyes for me. Am I wrong for feeling hurt and insecure when men—especially married ones—speak lustfully about other women?I love my fiancée, but I feel guilty when my body reacts sexually during affection. Am I letting things go too far, or is this out of my control?My marriage feels one-sided and painful. I feel used in sex and emotionally unseen. Despite trying everything, I'm losing hope—what should I do?Resources:COURSE SCHEDULE---Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.Questions answered this episode:---Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.---
Today, Father Gale and Kate speak with Lakin Denny, our favorite local artist, about her love of beauty, John Paul II, and Jesus.
The Body and Communion – Wholeness in Flesh and Relationship Wholeness Series, Episode 4 Episode Summary: What if your body wasn't just a tool for work or a source of shame, but a sanctuary—a vessel of memory, worship, and communion? In this episode, we explore the profound connection between our physical bodies and our spiritual lives. From a grandfather's Sunday jacket to St. Francis calling his body “Brother Ass,” we rediscover the body not as an obstacle to holiness but as a companion on the journey. Drawing from Aquinas, John Paul II, and modern psychology, this talk weaves theology, discipline, and delight into a new vision of embodied wholeness. Whether it's fasting or feasting, movement or rest, this episode offers a vision of the body as a living altar, capable of carrying burdens, expressing love, and becoming holy through small, daily acts. We don't need perfect bodies. We need present ones—offered, disciplined, and led gently toward communion with God, others, and ourselves. Questions for Prayer, Journaling, and Reflection: On the Body as Memory and Offering: What memories—joyful or painful—does your body carry? In what ways have you used your body as an offering in love? How can you begin to see your body as a kind of "sacrament"? On “Brother Ass”: How do you treat your body: as a racehorse, a machine, or a faithful donkey? What might change if you viewed your body with affectionate realism rather than frustration or pride? In what ways does your body carry Christ to others? On Food and Fasting: When do you eat from hunger, and when from habit or emotion? What small, daily food-related disciplines could help train your soul? How might you make meals more sacramental and less rushed? On Movement and Strength: How do you move your body each day? Is it with purpose, joy, or obligation? What physical discipline helps you show up for others with energy and readiness? How might your next workout or walk be offered as a prayer? On Dance and Expression: When was the last time you let your body express something wordless—through dance, art, or play? What emotions might you need to move through rather than just talk about? How could rhythm, music, and movement restore wholeness in your life? On Sleep and Rest: Do you see rest as laziness, or as worship and trust? What rhythms of silence or sleep do you need to reclaim your peace? Where is God calling you to surrender the illusion of control and rest in His love? Let this episode be your invitation to wholeness not just in thought or feeling—but in flesh and bone, sweat and stillness, hunger and dance. Subscribe to the podcast. Share it with someone who needs to be reminded: your body is not the problem. It might just be the path.
Send us a textIn this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with George Weigel — Catholic theologian, longtime papal biographer, and one of today's most respected voices on faith, culture, and public life.George joins me to discuss his newest book, Pomp, Circumstance, and Unsolicited Advice, a collection of commencement speeches and university lectures he's given over the years. But this conversation isn't just about academia — it's a wide-ranging reflection on wisdom, holiness, mentorship, and what it means to live the faith boldly in today's world.Drawing from his years of experience, including his close friendship with Pope St. John Paul II, George offers both timeless advice and personal stories that challenge and inspire.This episode offers engaging insights for anyone seeking to grow in holiness, embrace their Catholic identity, and navigate the world with clarity, courage, and conviction.Topics Covered:How Pomp, Circumstance, and Unsolicited Advice came to beWhat makes a great commencement address — and why they still matterThe best advice George ever received — and how it shaped his lifePersonal stories from his friendship with Pope St. John Paul IIThe role of humor, humility, and faith in offering guidanceWhat young Catholics need to hear today as they step into an increasingly secular worldHow all of us, regardless of vocation, are called to holiness in ordinary lifeWhy truth, reason, and faith remain inseparable in Catholic witness
If spiritual beauty is deeper and more important, does aesthetic beauty still have value? And why do we emphasize it with fashion or makeup?After embracing modesty through TOB, I feel convicted not to wear a revealing bridesmaid dress for a Catholic wedding. How do I honor my conscience without offending my cousin?Sex feels clinical and disconnected while trying to conceive. Am I wrong to want emotional connection even when we're being practical?Resources:TOBI Event CalendarLove & Responsibility YouTube Series---Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.---
Dr. Christopher West serves as President of the Theology of the Body Institute near Philadelphia and as Professor of Theological Anthropology in its jointly sponsored master's program with Pontifex University. Christopher is one of the world's most recognized teachers of John Paul II's Theology of the Body. He's written many books including Our Bodies Tell God's Story: Discovering the Divine Plan for Love, Sex, and Gender. To recieve 20% off of Christopher's book "Our Bodies Tell God's Story," go to https://shop.corproject.com/collections/books/products/our-bodies-tell-gods-story-discovering-the-divine-plan-for-love-sex-and-gender-paperback and enter the code "OURBODIES" at checkout. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Living in Divine Communion: The Heart of Spiritual Health In this episode, we explore the foundation of spiritual health—not as a religious add-on, but as the very core of what it means to be fully human. Drawing from Scripture, the theology of John Paul II and Benedict XVI, and the ache of the modern soul, we reflect on how our deepest wounds and longings are not problems to fix but invitations into divine communion. We examine what happens when we try to create ourselves apart from God—and how returning to our true identity as beloved sons and daughters brings clarity, peace, and wholeness. Through stories, reflection, and practical wisdom, this episode invites you to abide in Christ, reorder your desires, and live from the inner room where God dwells. Spiritual wholeness isn't about perfection—it's about presence. Not about doing more—but about dwelling more deeply in the love of the One who made you. At the end of the episode, you'll find 10 journaling prompts and reflection questions to help you live out what you've heard. Let this be more than a listen—let it be a turning point. “Do I approach prayer as a relationship or a task?” Reflect on your experience of prayer. Is it a checklist, or an encounter with Someone who loves you? “What do I most deeply desire?” Trace your strongest longings—are they leading you closer to God or away from Him? “Where am I trying to create or prove myself rather than receive my identity from God?” Explore the pressure you may feel to be self-made. What would it look like to rest in being God's beloved? “Do I live as though I am chosen and loved by God—or as though I must earn love and prove worth?” Consider the emotional tone of your daily life—performance-driven or grace-rooted? “What spiritual lie do I hear most often—and what truth does God speak instead?” Identify one recurring falsehood (e.g., “I am unlovable” or “God is distant”) and counter it with Scripture. “Where am I off course by ‘just one degree' in my spiritual life?” Is there a small misalignment—like distraction, a neglected habit, or spiritual drift—that could, over time, distance you from your true destination? “What do I do when I feel disillusioned or disappointed? Write honestly about times you've been let down or hurt. Where can healing begin? “How do I abide in Christ throughout my day?” Make a list of practices or reminders that help you stay rooted in Him—from Scripture, silence, music, to sacrament. “Where do I resist God's love or hide from it?” Reflect on places of shame, fear, or control. What would it mean to allow God into those places? “In my life right now, where am I being called to surrender, not try harder?” Ask: Is this a moment for discipline—or a moment for deeper trust?
In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, we explore key questions about Catholic doctrine and Scripture. Topics include the Church's teaching on Purgatory, the meaning of “under the earth” in Scripture, and Pope St. John Paul II's quote on free will and the greater good. Jimmy discusses who the Church Fathers are and how to read them, how doctrinal development fits with the end of public revelation, and biblical support for the resurrection of the dead and Christ's second coming. He also addresses whether a priest can deny communion to someone kneeling and whether baptism removes both sin and attachment to sin. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:00 – What is the Catholic teaching on Purgatory, and is there a “middle space” between Heaven and Hell for souls? 12:52 – In the verse “every knee shall bend… under the earth,” what does “under the earth” refer to—could it mean Hell? 20:49 – How should one understand Pope St. John Paul II's quote: “The greater good is maintained when someone uses his freedom wrongly than when he is forced to do what is good”? 28:45 – Who are the Church Fathers, and how can someone begin reading them alongside Scripture for deeper understanding? 32:30 – How can the Church's claim that public revelation has ceased be reconciled with the idea that doctrine continues to develop? 41:58 – What Bible verses support the Catholic teachings on the resurrection of the dead and the second coming of Christ? 49:26 – Is it within a priest's authority to deny communion to someone who chooses to receive kneeling? 52:51 – Does the sacrament of baptism remove not only sin but also attachment to sin?
As the world falls apart — and we prep for our Buckley mega-episode with Sam Tanenhaus — we're unlocking this fun episode from late last year. Subscribe at Patreon.com/knowyourenemy to never miss an episode like this one. And please listen to Jesse's insane, hilarious, freakishly prescient (and fake) podcast Tech Talk. A palette cleanser for subscribers: we watched Reagan (2024), with our intrepid producer, Jesse Brenneman. Even better, the movie is based on the 2006 book, The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism, by Paul Kengor — who just happens to have been Matt's close mentor as an undergraduate student. Reagan clocks in at over two hours and twenty minutes, and it's a wild, even fantastical ride that offers a revealing glimpse into the conservative psyche and a faithful rendition of the most hagiographic version of the Reagan mythology, especially his personal responsibility for ending the Cold War and finally putting the Soviet Union on the ash heap of history.Sources:Reagan (2024)Paul Kengor, The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism(2006)— God and Ronald Reagan: A Spiritual Life(2004)— A Pope and a President: John Paul II, Ronald Reagan, and the Extraordinary Untold Story of the 20th Century(2017)Edmund Morris, Dutch: A Memoir of Ronald Reagan (1999)