Podcasts about john paul ii

Do you have a relationships with the saints? In this two-part series, Jeff fouses on the concept of the 'communion of saints' and compares it to a 'spiritual mutual fund.' He explains the importance of the saints, their role in heaven, and how they intercede for us on Earth. With references to the Catechism and the teachings of St. John Paul II, Jeff delves into why the saints are essential along our faith journey. Snippet from the Show The Communion of Saints is a spiritual union of all the members of the Church. In Christ, we cannot be separated from each other. Email us with comments or questions at thejeffcavinsshow@ascensionpress.com. Text “jeffcavins” to 33-777 to subscribe and get Jeff's shownotes delivered straight to your email! Or visit https://media.ascensionpress.com/?s=&page=2&category%5B0%5D=Ascension%20Podcasts&category%5B1%5D=The%20Jeff%20Cavins%20Show for full shownotes!

ABOUT NEWT GINGRICH AND TRUMP'S TRIUMPH: AMERICA'S GREATEST COMEBACK #1 New York Times bestselling author Newt Gingrich takes readers inside the most significant political comeback in American history and explains where the Trump movement goes from here.Despite a nine-year effort to destroy him, President Donald J. Trump succeeded in a historic comeback victory in the 2024 presidential election. This was Trump's Triumph. Winning the popular and electoral votes, President Trump became the first president to be nonconsecutively re-elected since President Grover Cleveland. This all happened because President Trump was never a typical political candidate. He is the leader of a movement, which he recognized in the American people. To be clear: President Trump did not invent the Make America Great Again movement, he intuited it.Meanwhile, elites in media, academia, government, and politics learned a big lesson: Americans no longer trust them. President Trump assembled a massive coalition of Americans from all backgrounds who were tired of being told what to do, say, and believe. He made historic in-roads with voter groups which have not traditionally voted for Republicans. President Trump survived court cases, impeachments, outright lies - and two assassination attempts. All the while, the elites described a future which every day Americans did not want. The Joe Biden-Kamala Harris (and later Harris-Tim Walz) tickets represented three failures through which the American people were actively suffering: high inflation, a full-blown immigration crisis, and a prevailing elite ideology which they found at best confusing and at worst insane. Trump's Triumph puts all this into context, explains how President Trump overcame it all, and describes the future of the Make America Great Again movement. ABOUT NEWT GINGRICH Speaker Newt Gingrich is Chairman of Gingrich 360, a multimedia production and consulting company based in Arlington, Virginia. As former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Gingrich is well known as the architect of the "Contract with America" that led the Republican Party to victory in 1994, creating the first conservative majority in the House in 40 years. He was a Republican candidate for President of the United States in 2012. Gingrich is a Fox News contributor, podcast host (Newt's World), and syndicated columnist. He is the author of 43 books, including 18 fiction and nonfiction New York Times bestsellers. His latest books include Defeating Big Government Socialism and March to the Majority.Gingrich and his wife, Ambassador Callista L. Gingrich, host and produce historical and public policy documentaries. Recent films include "Journey to America," "The First American," and "Divine Mercy: The Canonization of John Paul II." Recognized internationally as an expert on world history, military issues, and international affairs, Newt Gingrich is the longest-serving teacher of the Joint War Fighting course for Major Generals. He also teaches officers from all six services as a Distinguished Visiting Scholar and Professor at the National Defense University. In addition, Newt Gingrich served as a Member of the Defense Policy Board. He was a member of the Terrorism Task Force for the Council on Foreign Relations, and he co-chaired the Task Force on United Nations Reform, a bipartisan congressional effort to modernize and improve the United Nations. The Gingrich's reside in McLean, Virginia and Naples, Florida, and have two daughters and two grandchildren. Link to his podcast Newt's World: Https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-newts-world-30589442/  Get the book: https://a.co/d/ekeOlAgBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

Catholics are often told to meditate. "Meditate" on the mysteries of the rosary, "meditate" on scripture - and yet, we are rarely told "how" to do it. Though many of the mystics and saints of our faith, names like St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, St. John Paul II, St. Catherine of Siena, and many more practiced what is called Lectio Divina, or Divine Reading. This is an incredible way to connect with God through scripture.

This show brings us back to St. John Paul II's audiences that make up the Theology of the Body. Join our team as they do a deep dive on a question that man has pondered since Adam and Eve: Why do we sin? This discussion will be guided by JP II's thoughts on how Jesus, in the sermon on the mount, pointed to a particular part of our bodies to be used as the guiding factor to control our tendency to sin.

Why can't I let go of a toxic past relationship and fully embrace attraction and presence in my marriage?What does it mean to die with dignity, and is it right to see death as something good or redeemed?How can I teach psychology through a Catholic lens and reveal God's beauty in the human mind?Resources:COURSE SCHEDULEJPII Legacy Foundation WebsiteEating the SunriseAsk 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.---

In this thought-provoking episode of Let Me Be Frank, Bishop Frank Caggiano is joined by Dr. Greg Bottaro, founder of The Catholic Psych Institute—also known as "The Catholic Psych Guy." Together, they explore the concept of relationality and its role in our lives. They discuss the long-standing notion that relationships are merely accidental to our essence, Bishop Frank and Dr. Bottaro draw on the insights of Pope St. John Paul II, understanding that this view is incomplete. Instead, they delve into the idea that relationality is intrinsic to who we are; that to be human is to be in relationship. Don't miss this deep dive into the intersection of philosophy, theology, and psychology, and what it means for how we understand ourselves and one another! #catholic #christian #faith

Welcome and thank you for spending some time with us today. In this episode we are unpacking a fascinating idea inspired by St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body. This is part 4 of our 4 part series on the Resurrection of the Body. Adele and Becki are joined by our contributing content partner Colby Allen to discuss topics like: What does it mean that heaven isn't just a destination but something more - will it be like a vacation or maybe it will be like moving from one location to another - or maybe a mix of both. Is eternity a restful retreat or are we gearing up for a whole new way of living we can't even imagine? The team will be exploring what it means for our bodies to enter the ultimate destination. Before we dive in a quick note: Today's show was produced remotely so the sound might be a little different than usual -- but rest assured the conversation is just as rich.

In this episode, we conclude our conversation on life transitions with Michelle's husband, Chris Benzinger. We focus on the second and third steps in walking through transitions: releasing with trust and redeeming with hope. We talk about God wanting to redeem our past, the need to let go of the ways we've failed, and how God wants to do something new in the future. We also reflect on the importance of ceremony to conclude a season, the four responses to a loss, and why we should share our hopes for the future with God.   Heather's One Thing - Return to the Heart: The Biblical Spirituality of St. Augustine's Confessions by Dr. Shane Owens Sister Miriam's One Thing -  Mediterranean Chicken Bowls Michelle's One Thing - Belovedness: Overcoming Your Inner Critic - A Lyrical Devotional by Sarah Kroger Chris' One Thing - Running a 5k with his daughter Lilly    Journal Questions: What was good about the previous season of my life? Am I grieving or still carrying hurts?  What is God specifically asking me to release from this past season?  In this next season of my life, what is one thing God is making new? What is one hope I have for this next season of my life?   Creative Prompt: Take a bookmark and decorate it with your hopes for the next season and place it in your Bible. It will serve as a reminder in the next chapter of your life.   Discussion Questions: Reflect back upon the past few years and choose one big or small transition in your life.  What is one thing you are grateful for in the past season of your life? What is God calling you to release with trust from that past season? As you look to this current season, what action can you take to ceremonialize the end of an old season and create the foundation for a new season? Are you able to name what you desire? Why or why not? How are you responding to loss in your current season of life? What is something new God is doing in the current season of your life?   Quote to Ponder: “Remember not the events of the past, the things of long ago consider not. See I am doing something new. Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:18)   Scripture for Lectio: “But now thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, and formed you O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; and you are mine.” (Isaiah 43:1)   Sponsor - Karol Coffee Co.: This week's sponsor is more than just a coffee company. Karol Coffee Co. was inspired by the life and work of one of the most beloved saints of the modern era: Karol Wojtyła, better known to the world as Pope St. John Paul II. His life was a testimony to courage, joy, and cultivating beauty that draws souls into union with Jesus and one other. From his days as a young priest in Nazi-occupied Poland to his years leading the global Church, St. John Paul II consistently called people to embrace truth, goodness, and beauty in every aspect of their lives. Karol Coffee Co. seeks to carry on that mission in a small but meaningful way — by bringing community, love, and joy into the heart of our everyday routines through coffee. Founded by Nate and Megan Whipple, a faithful Catholic couple rooted in mission, Karol Coffee Co. began humbly in 2022 as a simple garage-based roasting operation in Minneapolis, Minnesota. What started as a passion project quickly became something greater, thanks to the encouragement and support of fellow Catholics and coffee enthusiasts. In just a short time, their venture has grown into a thriving small business that now serves customers all over the country. In an age when many of our purchases inadvertently support massive corporations with values often at odds with our own, supporting small, Catholic-owned businesses has never been more important. Karol Coffee Co. offers an alternative: ethically-sourced, traceable coffees roasted with care and intention. Each batch is crafted not only for flavor but with the desire to honor the dignity of those who cultivate the beans and to support communities around the world. Their rotating coffee offerings include a range of carefully selected beans from notable coffee-growing regions with flavor profiles to suit a variety of preferences. Karol Coffee Co. makes it easier to keep your kitchen stocked with beans through bi-weekly or monthly subscription options. Fresh, delicious coffee delivered right to your door — no last-minute grocery runs or chain coffee stops required. But beyond the coffee itself, what makes Karol Coffee Co. truly remarkable is the heart behind it. Nate and Megan have built their business around community and mission. It's about more than just selling beans; it's about creating opportunities for people to encounter beauty, truth, and goodness in the midst of their everyday lives, and to share that with the people around them. They have a passion for creating opportunities for people of all backgrounds and walks of life to experience connection and unity through the shared love of coffee and beauty. We'd love for you to get to know them and become part of their growing community. You can visit their website at www.karolcoffeeco.com to explore their current offerings, sign up for a subscription, or learn more about the mission behind the brand. You can also follow along with them on Instagram @karolcoffeeco.  And if you're ever passing through St. Paul, Minnesota, be sure to visit their brand-new brick-and-mortar coffee shop. Their beautiful shop is a space where faith, community, and great coffee come together in a setting that feels like home. The walls are covered in paintings by local artists, as well as those of Megan herself (@meganwhippleart). You can even find a portrait of Pope Saint John Paul II painted by Megan (prints available on the Karol Coffee Co. website - https://karolcoffeeco.com/products/megan-whipple-art-karol-8x10-print). The shop offers a simple but complete food menu of organic and locally sourced food and a great variety of caffeinated and non-caffeinated drinks.  So whether you're looking to start your mornings with a little more purpose, support a Catholic business, or simply discover some truly great coffee, we wholeheartedly encourage you to check out Karol Coffee Co. Use code ABIDING for 10% your first order.   Timestamps:  00:00 - Karol Coffee Co. 01:36 - Intro 02:26 - Welcome 03:13 - Releasing with Trust 07:26 - Your Past Seasons 13:24 - Four Responses to Loss 16:55 - Our Responses to Losses in Life 25:56 - Redeem with Hope 27: 30 - Redemption in Our Lives 33:29 - One Things  

Questions answered this episode:Can we call God “Mother” without being heretical?Is my friend's bodybuilding lifestyle and public modesty truly compatible with Christian witness?How do I prepare for marriage without becoming anxious about its challenges?Resources:JPII Legacy Foundation Website⁠⁠⁠Join our Patron Community!⁠⁠⁠---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.---

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”Something is stirring among young people today. They feel a growing unease—a sense they've been deceived but can't quite articulate what's wrong. This profound conversation with Mark Schmitt uncovers the root of our cultural malaise and offers a path toward authentic freedom.We explore what happens when desires created good become twisted and distorted. Mark shares his personal journey from repression... to indulgence... to eventual freedom. Highlighting the moment everything changed for him he said: "If God is love, and love is self-giving, then the opposite isn't hatred—it's selfishness." This realization transformed his understanding of happiness and purpose.Here are three thought-provoking questions to discuss:How can the distortion of our natural desires lead to cultural and personal confusion, and what does it mean to “untwist” those desires in pursuit of authentic freedom?Mark Schmidt suggests that the opposite of love is not hatred but selfishness—how does this insight reshape our understanding of sin, especially in the context of modern struggles like pornography and indulgence?What role does radical trust and community play in healing from cultural malaise and reclaiming a sense of purpose, according to the vision laid out by John Paul II and St. Thérèse?Contact Jack: info@jp2renew.orgFollow Tom Hampson on SubstackFollow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2RenewalSubscribe to our Newly Resurrected YouTube Channel!On Rumble: JohnPaulIIRCIf you're interested in being a sponsor of the Become Who You Are Podcast, please email us at Info@JP2Renew.org Jack Latest Blog: Living on the Surface, Never Going Deep: Jenny, Jesus, Carl Jung and Bill WSupport the show

William A. Thomas, an expert on Marian theology talks about shrines to our Blessed Mother around the world, super saints for our times and academic work for Pope St. John Paul II.

Adventures and Anecdotes: Catching Up Over Flights and FunIn this episode, hosts Tyler, Monique, and Lara catch up on their recent activities and share engaging anecdotes from their lives. They discuss Sam's Club meetings, bartending jobs, and coordinating their matching shirts. The conversation transitions to their Mother's Day celebrations, detailing Monique's Mexican dinner, Laura's trip to Chicago for a college graduation, and Tyler's flight challenges from Salt Lake. They bring up amusing encounters with coworkers, flight attendant protocols, and industry gossip particularly surrounding Southwest Airlines. Special moments include Monique meeting a fan of their podcast and reminiscing about unique flight experiences like John Paul II's travels. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted discussion about what constitutes a vacation versus a trip.00:00 Casual Catch-Up at Sam's Club00:26 Podcast Talk and Murder Mysteries02:14 Technical Difficulties and Apologies03:09 Mother's Day Celebrations04:00 Zach's Graduation and Family Time08:21 Travel Adventures and Buddy Passes12:45 Flight Attendant Etiquette and Stories17:06 Commuter Bag Dilemma17:57 Flight Attendant Swap Drama19:16 Podcast Fan Encounter21:56 Southwest Airlines Policy Changes27:24 Vacation vs. Trip Debate31:32 Closing Remarks and Future PlansStaffTraveler Is offering a 10% code for any of our listeners who buy their eSIM.Use the Promo code ST10NONREVLOUNGE  https://share.stafftraveler.com/nrl-esim✈StaffTraveler is a great app that can assist your non-rev travels! Use it to find the loads for your non-rev travel! Use this to sign up:https://stafftraveler.com/nonrevlounge

We greatly appreciate that you are spending your valuable time with us. In the first 2 parts of the series we discussed how resurrection can bring hope to many and fear to others. In part 3 our team goes deeper into Christ's appeal to the resurrection as a common human experience. According to St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body resurrection is a human journey that has a beginning, a middle and an end. Listen in as we have some fun breaking down this concept by looking at how some movie plot lines successfully deliver resurrection like stories that do more than just entertain, they help the audience to re-create.

Alanna Burg & John Keenan from the Idaho Lay Dominicans join Morning Light today to continue the discussion on “The LORD's Day” from St. John Paul II.

Questions answered this episode:Can indulgences and scapulars make sense through the lens of Theology of the Body?How can I embrace lifelong celibacy after my wife left me?Are appearance-focused exercises inherently vain or can they be good?ResourcesCOURSE SCHEDULEEating the SunriseFill These HeartsSexual Needs Into Prayer YouTube VideoChastity: Reconciliation of the SensesGod Is Beauty Book---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.---

The university is uniquely Catholic in its origin, and yet currently, higher level education on elite campuses is a “red-hot mess,” according to George Weigel. In this episode, Andrew Petiprin sits down with George Weigel to discuss academia and the intellectual life, not simply as a theoretical enterprise left for those who dwell in an ivory tower, but as driver of culture and social life. They discuss the role of the Church in academia, the scholarly legacy of Pope St. John Paul II, the importance fighting the culture war, and the troubles facing the Western civilization. These topics are also the focus of Weigel's most recent book “Pomp, Circumstance, and Unsolicited Advice: Commencement Addresses and University Lectures,” where he tells students that true academic learning is carrying on the great Catholic tradition.   Get Your Copy of “Pomp, Circumstance, and Unsolicited Advice”: https://ignatius.com/pomp-circumstance-and-unsolicited-advice-pcap/?searchid=2246581&search_query=pomp+circumstance   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/

pWotD Episode 2929: Pope Leo XIII Welcome to Popular Wiki of the Day, spotlighting Wikipedia's most visited pages, giving you a peek into what the world is curious about today.With 363,646 views on Friday, 9 May 2025 our article of the day is Pope Leo XIII.Pope Leo XIII (Italian: Leone XIII; born Gioacchino Vincenzo Raffaele Luigi Pecci; 2 March 1810 – 20 July 1903) was head of the Catholic Church from 20 February 1878 until his death in July 1903. He had the fourth-longest reign of any pope, behind those of Peter the Apostle, Pius IX (his immediate predecessor), and John Paul II.He is well known for his intellectualism and his attempts to define the position of the Catholic Church with regard to modern thinking. In his 1891 encyclical Rerum novarum, Pope Leo outlined the rights of workers to a fair wage, safe working conditions, and the formation of trade unions, while affirming the rights to property and free enterprise, opposing both socialism and laissez-faire capitalism. With that encyclical, he became popularly called the "Social Pope" and the "Pope of the Workers", also having created the foundations for modern thinking in the social doctrines of the Catholic Church, influencing his successors. He influenced the Mariology of the Catholic Church and promoted both the rosary and the scapular. Upon his election, he immediately sought to revive Thomism, the theological system of Augustine of Hippo and Thomas Aquinas, wishing to make it the official political, theological, and philosophical foundation of the Catholic Church. As a result, he sponsored the Editio Leonina in 1879.Leo XIII is remembered for his belief that pastoral activity in political sociology is also a vital mission of the church as a vehicle of social justice and maintaining the rights and dignities of the human person. He issued a record eleven papal encyclicals on the rosary, earning him the title "Rosary Pope". He also approved two new Marian scapulars. He was the first pope to have never held any control over the Papal States, which had been dissolved by 1870, since Stephen II in the 8th century. Similarly, many of his policies were oriented toward mitigating the loss of the Papal States in an attempt to overcome the loss of temporal power, but nonetheless continuing the Roman Question. After his death in 1903, he was buried in the Vatican Grottoes. In 1924, his remains were transferred to the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 09:06 UTC on Sunday, 11 May 2025.For the full current version of the article, see Pope Leo XIII on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm neural Kendra.

This week on the Mark Levin Show, On Monday's Mark Levin Show, Antisemitism is pervasive, fueled by foreign governments like Qatar allegedly spending billions to influence U.S. media, politics, and organizations. Foreign-driven boycotts or threats against U.S. businesses, particularly targeting Jews, are unacceptable, and congressional action to stop this is not a First Amendment issue. The IGO Anti-Boycott Act (H.R. 867) merely extends the Anti-Boycott Act of 2018 signed by President Trump to international organizations. What causes antisemitism is antisemites. Qatar must stop pouring billions of dollars in blood money into our colleges and universities, and our other institutions, in a sleazy campaign to spread their anti-American fundamentalist ideology, brainwash our children, promote violent and riotous revolution in our country, and own our ruling class and its surrogates and mouthpieces. Later, Mark delves into the unfiltered thoughts of our host as he shares his unwavering stance on politics, loyalty, and the importance of truth. He emphasizes the need for unity among like-minded individuals to combat the threats facing our republic. With a passionate delivery, he discusses the perils of appeasement, the decline of journalism, and the significance of personal integrity. Iran's “civilian” nuclear program, housed in bunkers 350 feet underground, is not normal. How many nations that have civilian use for nuclear power are we negotiating with? Only Iran. Iran is not interested in civil nuclear power. The reason we don't want Iran to have nuclear weapons with ICBMs is because they keep threatening the U.S. The fifth-column isolationist ideology is a grave threat when they defend Iran. Also, Sen James Lankford has no idea what he's talking about on due process, while an analyst on MSNBC gets it right. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has become the first American Pope in the history of the Catholic Church - Pope Leo XIV. Prevost's election reflects his close alignment with Pope Francis's vision on issues like the environment, poverty, and synodality. We'll see what he does, but hopefully, he is more along the lines of John Paul II. His extensive missionary work in Peru and fluency in multiple languages were likely factors in his selection by the papal conclave. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Thursday's Mark Levin Show, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has become the first American Pope in the history of the Catholic Church - Pope Leo XIV. Prevost's election reflects his close alignment with Pope Francis's vision on issues like the environment, poverty, and synodality. We'll see what he does, but hopefully, he is more along the lines of John Paul II. His extensive missionary work in Peru and fluency in multiple languages were likely factors in his selection by the papal conclave. Later, President Trump's deal with Britain really is a very big deal. It's part of his strategy to open worldwide markets and create a more market-oriented global economy, which is why it is pro-capitalism and more free-market oriented. He imposed tariffs and reciprocity on other countries for leverage to force them to lower their tariffs and reduce foreign government subsidies of their businesses. Trump is creating the most open market system in modern world history. Afterward, Sen Tom Cotton calls in to explain that any new nuclear deal with Iran that does not involve the complete dismantlement of its nuclear program will not pass the Senate. Republicans agree with Trump that Iran needs to completely dismantle their program.  Finally, Rishi Arun, president of Temple University's Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), stated that it is their mission to destroy imperialism, the United States, and capitalism. Mohammed Khatib, from the designated terror organization Samidoun, said that liberating Palestine would be a step toward dismantling the United States. They seek the violent overthrow of America - they are at war with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Earlier today, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost emerged from the Vatican as the first American pope. Now known as Pope Leo XIV, he is the youngest pope to be elected since John Paul II in 1978.  Kennedy discusses the significance of the event and celebrates his role in the church.    Later, she transitions to critique President Joe Biden's tenure, cognitive decline, and criticizes his administration's policies.  Follow Kennedy on Twitter: @KennedyNationKennedy Now Available on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4311mhD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts U-Arkansas Prof. Albert Cheng and Pioneer's Mary Connaughton interview Ambassador Mary Ann Glendon, Harvard Law professor emerita and former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See. Ambassador Glendon reflects on her formative education, mentors, and how law and faith have shaped her worldview. She discusses her admiration for Western Civilization's intellectual and spiritual heritage—especially Cicero, Edmund Burke, and the harmony of Catholicism with reason. Ambassador Glendon offers insights from her memoir In the Courts of Three Popes, recounting her service under Popes St. John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis. She explores Vatican diplomacy, the Church's governance, the Vatican Bank, and key challenges facing the Church today, including the upcoming papal conclave. In closing, she reads a passage from her book, In the Courts of Three Popes.

In this episode, Madeline chats with Tyler Kropp, a software engineer for a consulting company. During their conversation, they discuss how he went to Purdue for computer science, his first forays into computers and programming, AP exams, how he ended up at Purdue, knowing your limits, what college computer science classes are like, insights into remote work, the importance of learning the faith in a way you understand, the necessity of beauty, getting involved in your parish community, and so much more!During the course of their conversation, they make many references which you can explore. Some of these references include Pope St. John Paul II's Letter to Artists.Feel free to like, subscribe, and share the episode! Follow us on Instagram! @sbltfpodcastDon't forget to go out there, and be a light to this world!

What happens when one of the greatest living Catholic philosophers takes on the rise of artificial intelligence? In this lively and deeply insightful episode, Dr. Greg Bottaro sits down with Dr. Peter Kreeft to explore what makes us truly human in an age of technology, why analogies and wonder matter more than ever, and how faith, philosophy, and psychology together can help us navigate a world increasingly dominated by machines.   Key Topics: Dr. Peter Kreeft's famous aversion to technology—and why he's learned to (mostly) make peace with it The surprising connection between artificial intelligence and the decline of analogical thinking Why quantity can never replace quality in art, beauty, or human experience How modern culture's obsession with image and efficiency is eroding our humanity The collapse of humanities education—and why it matters for the future of civilization Learn More: Dr. Peter Kreeft's book The Philosophy of Tolkien, The One and the Many, and Socrates Meets Jesus Brave New World by Aldous Huxley — the dystopian classic discussed in the episode Pensées by Blaise Pascal — a brilliant, accessible introduction to defending the faith John Paul II's Theology of the Body — key writings on human dignity and personalism Fr. Norris Clarke's The One and the Many — a foundational text in Thomistic metaphysics The Summit of Integration — learn more about the upcoming event (update with your event link) Being Human Podcast Archives — explore past episodes on culture, technology, faith, and human integration (update with your archive link) 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 spending some time with us today as we continue the discussion we started in our last show on the topic of Resurrection of the body as a common human experience. Using St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body as a lens here are some of the big takeaways we will be sharing today: the challenges around understanding how our bodies can be resurrected, can we practice for resurrection and can we experience resurrections, of sorts, before we die. Enjoy the episode and let us know what you think at HandbookFH1@gmail.com

Pope Francis passed away at the age of eighty-eight on Easter Monday. He was the first pope from Latin America, the first Jesuit pope, and the first pope to take the name “Francis,” after St. Francis of Assisi. What stood out in his twelve-year pontificate? How does his papacy compare with those of his immediate predecessors, Pope Benedict XVI and Pope St. John Paul II? What should we continue to champion from Francis' legacy as the Church charts her course into the future? Today we discuss Pope Francis' influence on both the Church and the world. A listener asks how to deal with regret from the past.  00:00 | Introduction 01:21 | Meeting Pope Francis 04:33 | Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI 06:36 | Pope Francis as first Latin-American pope 08:10 | Pope Francis as first Jesuit pope 10:22 | Pope Francis as first to be called “Francis” 11:09 | Master of the beau geste 13:36 | The Church as “field hospital” 15:16 | Resisting a “technocratic mindset” 19:01 | Clarifying the “universal designation of goods” 21:24 | Understanding the “two popes” 26:11 | Concerns about Francis's papacy 29:37 | Pope Francis's perception of the American church 32:25 | Honoring Pope Francis's legacy 33:50 | Listener question: How do I let go of regrets? 35:24 | Join the Word on Fire Institute Links: Pope Francis Resources: https://www.wordonfire.org/pope-francis/ Word on Fire Institute: https://institute.wordonfire.org/ NOTE: Do you like this podcast? Become a Word on Fire IGNITE member! Word on Fire is a non-profit ministry that depends on the support of our listeners . . . like you! So become a part of this mission and join IGNITE today to become a Word on Fire insider and receive some special donor gifts for your generosity.

Questions answered this episode:How do I overcome fear and insecurity about sex before marriage, especially since I'm a virgin and my fiancé isn't?How can I love someone well when she ended our relationship but I still care deeply for her?How do I reconcile Galatians 3:28 with TOB's teaching that we remain male and female in eternity?ResourcesCOURSE SCHEDULELove & 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.---

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!When 77-year-old priest Father Charles Murr gets behind the microphone, he doesn't just share memories – he unveils a chilling narrative about the systematic dismantling of Catholic tradition that he's witnessed since his ordination in 1977. What makes this conversation extraordinary isn't just the historical perspective, but Father Murray's personal proximity to pivotal Vatican events that changed the Church forever.The picture Father Murr paints is startling. From the glory days of America's Catholic education system where tuition cost just $15 per year and devoted nuns taught packed classrooms, to the bewildering exodus of 500,000 religious sisters and 10,000 Jesuit priests after Vatican II. His most explosive revelations concern alleged Freemason infiltration at the highest levels of Church governance – including the architect of the Novus Ordo Mass and the cardinal responsible for appointing bishops worldwide.Father Murr's firsthand account of Pope John Paul I's mysterious death after just 33 days in office reads like a spiritual thriller. As someone who drove Cardinal Gagnon to audiences with both John Paul I and John Paul II, his perspective on what happened behind closed Vatican doors offers rare insight into one of the Church's most perplexing moments. The connection between John Paul I's confrontation with corrupt officials and his sudden death raises questions that still linger today.Despite witnessing decades of institutional deterioration and what he calls "the greatest crisis in 2,000 years of Church history," Father Murr maintains a surprising optimism about the upcoming conclave. His assessment of the cardinal electors, particularly those from Africa and Asia, suggests that divine intervention could still turn the tide. For anyone seeking to understand why traditional Catholics view the coming papal election as a pivotal moment for civilization itself, this conversation provides essential context and unexpected hope.Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

The movie Conclave, stocked with A-list Hollywood talent, has attracted much more attention since the death of Pope Francis and the impending Conclave to choose his successor. But how closely does the movie mirror the actual secretive event that has taken place for centuries under the frescoed walls of the Sistine Chapel? For veteran Vatican journalist and author John Allen, the only truth that is in the movie is that "Cardinals do vote for the pope." Unlike the election of a new president of the United States which occurs every four years, electing a pope occurs only when the person occupying the throne of St. Peter dies. St. John Paul II was pope 27 years, a very long period of time. Pope Benedict XVI was pope eight years, and Pope Francis, twelve years. On this episode of Lighthouse Faith, coming to you from Rome in the shadows St. Peter's Basilica, Allen talks about what the movie got wrong, which is most of it, and some of which was true to form. He also elaborates on some of the top contenders from the College of Cardinals who are papabile, Pope-able. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Author and journalist, Patrick Novecosky, joins Fr. Mitch to discuss the many ways in which the life and pontificate of Pope St. John Paul II impacted the world.

FAN MAIL--We would love YOUR feedback--Send us a Text MessageThe death of Pope Francis has thrust the Catholic Church into its ancient process of selecting a successor, but this conclave comes with unique challenges. Unlike previous transitions, today's cardinal electors have had fewer opportunities to meet face-to-face, creating an atmosphere where many voters know surprisingly little about potential candidates.This fascinating episode breaks down the leading contenders to become the 267th successor to St. Peter, categorizing them into three broad ideological factions. The conservative bloc, approximately 50 cardinals strong, emphasizes doctrinal clarity and traditional teachings. Their frontrunners include Hungary's Cardinal Erdő, Guinea's Cardinal Sarah (who could become the first sub-Saharan African pope), Dutch Cardinal Eijk, and American favorite Cardinal Burke, though geopolitical considerations make an American pope unlikely.The liberal faction, smaller but influential, aligns with Francis's progressive vision. Their standard-bearers include the Philippines' Cardinal Tagle (nicknamed "Francis II"), Malta's Cardinal Grech, and Germany's outspoken Cardinal Marx. However, the most crucial role may belong to moderate cardinals who can bridge divides. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin leads this group, alongside promising candidates from Italy, France, and African nations.Geographic considerations add complexity to the selection process. With Catholicism booming in Africa and Asia but declining in traditional European strongholds, many believe the Church will continue moving away from Italian popes. Francis deliberately appointed cardinals from underrepresented regions, creating the most globally diverse College in history.Most revealing is the unpredictability of conclaves. No one expected the conservative John Paul II to emerge from a liberal College in 1978, nor Francis from a conservative group in 2013. As Catholics worldwide pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance over this sacred process, we're reminded that divine wisdom often transcends human calculations and expectations.Key Points from the Episode: • Conservative cardinals (approximately 50 electors) emphasize traditional teachings and oppose progressive reforms• Leading conservative candidates include Hungary's Cardinal Erdő (72), Guinea's Cardinal Sarah (79), Netherlands' Cardinal Eijk, and America's Cardinal Burke• Liberal cardinals (fewer than 45 electors) align with Francis's progressive reforms and outreach to marginalized communities• Liberal frontrunners include Philippines' Cardinal Tagle, Malta's Cardinal Grech, and Germany's Cardinal Marx• Moderate cardinals are crucial bridge-builders between factions with Vatican Secretary Parolin leading this group• Africa and Asia's growing Catholic population may influence selection toward candidates from these regions• Conclave outcomes remain unpredictable, as evidenced by previous surprise selections like John Paul II and Francis• Catholics worldwide pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance in this crucial decisionLet us pray for these cardinal electors, that they may have wisdom in their next election of the successor to the apostle Peter, and as always, let's keep fighting the good fight.Other resources: College of Cardinals websiteWant to leave a review? Click here, and if we earned a five-star review from you **high five and knuckle bumps**, we appreciate it greatly, thank you so much!

What kind of pope does the Church need today? In this episode, Greg argues against the modern expectation of a charismatic, media-savvy “influencer” pope, reflecting on how John Paul II's global brand set a new standard that shaped perceptions of Benedict XVI and Francis. Instead, Greg calls for a quiet, faithful steward who guards the truth, cleans up scandals, and focuses on the Church's core mission. A counterintuitive take for our media-driven age, this episode challenges listeners to rethink what makes a pope effective. Join us for a thoughtful exploration of the papacy's role in the 21st century. Support this ministry so more people can consider Catholicism! Website: https://www.consideringcatholicism.com/ Email: consideringcatholicism@gmail.com

All eyes have been on the Vatican for the past couple weeks, appropriately so as we are in the season of Easter.   On Let Me Be Frank, Bishop Caggiano reflects on the life of Pope Francis and prays for his soul . He also prays for the College of Cardinals, as they have an historic task ahead of them.   What is the task ahead? What is the schedule and program for the cardinals who have gathered in Rome for the conclave, which begins on May 7th?   Bishop Frank lays it all out for us, so we know (as much as we can know) what to expect in the weeks to come.   By the way, I recently read a beautiful tribute from Fr Raymond de Souza in The Catholic Thing about the liturgical rhythm of Pope Francis's death and his final days on earth. Fr de Souza pointed out that the past many popes have died “according to a liturgical rhythm”… Francis on Easter Monday, John XXIII on the day after Pentecost, John Paul II on Divine Mercy Sunday, Benedict XVI on the vigil of Mary Mother of God, and Paul VI on the Transfiguration. Please spread the word and tell your friends about Let Me Be Frank! And if you'd like to support the show, you can do that right here.   Pax Christi, Steve Lee The other guy on Let Me Be Frank LINKS  OTHER SHOWS The Tangent: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpeAxbil8_mgC4Ielq0_MRQ Restless: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1SbvGysG6C0mnQRAVcagkg Daily Gospel Reflections: https://www.youtube.com/@UCDXE8YpRhxNwsAiv_lrgBOg

Send us a textSPONSOR:   Briefcase MarketingCleveland Vocations Director Father Eric Garris shares his unexpected experience of being in on vacation in Rome and ending up at Pope Francis' funeral and his last public appearence on Easter Sunday.  What began as a trip to celebrate Easter with Cleveland priests studying abroad transformed into a historic moment as Father Garris found himself witnessing history firsthand and becoming a media expert of sorts for various American media outlets.  Fr Garris details:• Originally traveling to Rome for Holy Week and Carlo Acutis' canonization.• Distributed communion at St. Peter's during Holy Week Services.• He received news of Pope Francis' death while praying at John Paul II's tomb.• Joined other priests in the prayers for the dead in St. Peter's Square.• Attended the papal funeral alongside other Cleveland and Ohio priests.• Reflected on Pope Francis' commitment to being with his people until the end.• Discussed the universality of the Church gathering at such historic moments.• Noted how many young people came for canonization of Carlo Acutis but ended up like him attending a Papal funeral.• Emphasized trust in the Church's continuity as the conclave approaches.We also briefly touch on the upcoming papal conclave and set some parameters that the Cardinals might use to determine the next Pope.  The Pillar has thoughts, as does the National Catholic Reporter to give two perspectives from both extremes.SPONSOR:   Briefcase MarketingAt Briefcase Marketing, we create marketing that inspires action and delivers results.  We will:Clarify your message to attract the right audience.Streamline your website to convert more visitors into customers, donors or volunteers.Create consistency to build trust and deepen relationships across every marketing platform (Emails, Ads, Social Media, Etc).Check out just two of their  successful clients and their most recent client, Womankind who we know well.WomankindTheology of the Body CLESt. John Cantius ParishChurch Search is St Peter's Basilica in Rome.The week's readings on St. Peter and more.We'll be covering the upcoming conclave beginning May 7th in future episodes. If you have questions of faith, email mhayes@dioceseofcleveland.org.

What if I told you the battle for your soul starts the moment your eyes open?In this kickoff to our Daily Grind with God series, we challenge Catholic men to reclaim their mornings through the ancient spiritual weapon of the Morning Offering. This isn't about adding another item to your to-do list but about performing a simple act to start your day that can change everything. The world wants your attention from the second you wake up. So does God. Who gets your first thought?In this episode, we talk:How a simple prayer transforms chaos into missionWhat the Catechism and saints like St. Josemaría Escrivá and St. John Paul II say about sanctifying daily lifeWhy your morning routine determines whether you're leading your family—or being led by the noiseHow even one intentional prayer can rewire your day and sharpen your focusI walk you through the traditional Morning Offering and share flexible ways to make it your own—no excuses. I also challenge every man listening: Plant your flag for Christ the moment your day begins.Stop surviving your mornings. Start owning them—for Him.3 POWERFUL QUOTES FROM THIS EPISODE:“Are you man enough to start your day with God? Or are you letting the world set your agenda?”“Plant your flag for Christ—before your feet even hit the floor.”“Your morning offering turns your daily grind into a mission for God's Kingdom.”KEY TAKEAWAY FOR CATHOLIC MEN:Make a Morning Offering every day this week before you do anything else. Offer it for a specific intention: your wife, your kids, your priest, the souls in purgatory. Begin your battle with God at your side.REFERENCES & RESOURCES MENTIONED:Traditional Morning Offering PrayerCatechism of the Catholic Church, 2634 and 898Psalm 5:3 — “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice…”St. Josemaría Escrivá — Living daily life for GodSt. Francis de Sales — Preparing the soul for peace each morningSt. Pope John Paul II — “Do not be afraid to be saints”Prayer to your Guardian Angel to attend Mass on your behalf (Link in show notes)Archbishop Athanasius Schneider's prayer for the conclaveMention of Cardinal Robert Sarah as a personal papal hopefulCALL TO ACTION: If this message hits home, don't keep it to yourself. Share it with a brother who needs structure, purpose, and fire in his mornings. Subscribe, leave a review, and join The Manly Catholic movement.Send us a text Support the showPlease prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support. Be sure to follow us on X for more great content. As always, please pray for us! We are men who strive daily to be holy, to become saints and we cannot do that without the help of the Holy Ghost! Subscribe to our YouTube page to see our manly and holy faces Check out our website Contact us at themanlycatholic@gmail.com

AI shownotes again. I'm sure they are totally accurate. Recorded: ANZAC Day (Australian Public Holiday)Hosts: Jack the Insider & Hong Kong JackIntroduction & ANZAC Day Reflections (00:00:01 - 00:01:17)Jack the Insider welcomes listeners to Episode 111, recorded on ANZAC Day.Mention of an interruption at the Melbourne Dawn Service involving neo-Nazi Jacob Hersant.Introduction of Hong Kong Jack.Hong Kong Update & Australian Politics (00:01:17 - 00:10:05)Hong Kong Exodus: Hong Kong Jack notes 2.2 million people left Hong Kong over Easter.Jacob Hersant Incident: Further discussion on the neo-Nazi escorted from the Shrine of Remembrance.Rise of Neo-Nazism & Fringe Candidates: Jack the Insider discusses the history (Jim Sallium) and current state of far-right politics, including candidates with criminal convictions (Rod Culleton, Dixon candidate) potentially running despite Section 44 eligibility issues.Section 44 Cases: Mention of Phil Cleary and a Greens candidate ("secret New Zealander").YouGov Poll Analysis:Labor: 33.5%LNP: 31%Greens: 14%One Nation: 10.5% (up significantly from ~5% in 2022)TPP: 53.5% (Labor) / 46.5% (LNP)Preference Flows: Discussion on One Nation's decision to preference LNP and historical preference flows to Labor. Challenges for minor parties getting How-To-Vote cards distributed (comparison to Democrats).Election Analysis & Predictions (00:10:05 - 00:20:42)Declining Two-Party System: Combined Labor/LNP primary vote down from the last election.LNP Strategy Critiqued: Jack the Insider criticizes the LNP for not adapting post-2022 election, particularly regarding teal seats and climate change.Campaign Trail: Albanese campaigning in Liberal marginals; Dutton's comments on Melbourne safety.Election Outcome Predictions:Jack the Insider: Labor majority (around 76-80 seats).Hong Kong Jack: Labor minority.Liberal Campaign Issues: Comparison to Latham's 2004 campaign, social media mishaps ("muppet heads"), vehicle emissions policy backflip.Betting Odds: Discussion on the shift in betting markets, favoring Labor.Early Voting: Debate on the merits and drawbacks of pre-polling, referencing Darren Hinch and Imre Selizynski's comments, and accessibility issues.Politics, Religion & Geopolitics (00:20:42 - 00:41:55)Preference Deals & Jewish Community: Discussion on Labor's preference deals with the Greens in McNamara (open ticket for Josh Burns) vs. Isaacs (Mark Dreyfus), causing concern in the Jewish community. Mention of the Adas Israel synagogue firebombing and surrounding uncertainties/rumours.Pope Francis's Passing: Reflections on his papacy. Hong Kong Jack prefers John Paul II; Jack the Insider defends Francis and criticizes JP II over handling scandals. Discussion on potential successors and the slow pace of change in the Catholic Church.Easter & Religion: Easter memes, the role of the Catholic Church (charity vs. criticism), changes in Ireland, Catholics selectively following doctrine (e.g., contraception).India-Pakistan Tensions: Escalation following a militant attack in Kashmir. India threatens to cut off water supplies to Pakistan. Historical context, nuclear capabilities, and the danger of water rights disputes. Brief mentions of Pakistan's internal issues and conditions in Bangladesh.US Politics & Global Affairs (00:41:55 - 00:55:28)Trump & Trade: Trump walks back China tariff threats after meeting retail executives concerned about Christmas stock. Discussion on Trump's understanding of trade.US Courts & Executive Orders: Judge Kollar-Kotelly's ruling striking down parts of Trump's order requiring citizenship proof for voter registration, while upholding other sections. Discussion on the proper role of courts, checks and balances, and Congress's inaction leading to increased reliance on executive orders.Russia-Ukraine Peace Proposal: Details of a proposed deal involving US recognition of Russian control over Crimea/Eastern regions, no NATO for Ukraine, lifting sanctions vs. European security guarantees for Ukraine, return of some territory, etc. Criticism from Boris Johnson; seen as unfavourable to Ukraine. Trump's tweet urging Putin to stop strikes on Kyiv.Anniversaries & Culture (00:55:28 - 00:58:31)Saigon Evacuation: 50th anniversary of the Australian Embassy evacuation, noting local staff left behind.Crocodile Dundee: 39th anniversary. Paul Hogan's comments, investment success stories (Dennis Lillee).Yahoo Serious: Mention of a current court case.Sports: Cricket, AFL & More (00:58:31 - 01:29:28)Keith Stackpole (RIP): Tribute to the former Australian cricketer. Discussion of his career as a player (opener, aggressive batsman) and commentator. Anecdotes involving Bill Lawry, Kerry O'Keeffe, Harsha Bhogle.AFL Send-Off Rule Debate: Sparked by the Nash/Miers incident. Arguments for/against a red card, implementation challenges (timing, concussion protocols), historical examples, Lee Matthews' view.MCG Security & SCG Fan Ban: Increased security for ANZAC Day game. Discussion on the SCG Trust's two-year ban on a 16-year-old fan for throwing/dropping a record near Aliir Aliir – deemed excessive by the hosts.Noah Balta Controversy: Richmond player playing before being sentenced for assault. Criticism of Richmond's handling, the AFL's stance, player's curfew impacting availability, and political commentary surrounding the issue.Tom De Koning Contract: Rumoured huge offer from St Kilda. Discussion on his value, the Gawn/Grundy comparison, implications for both clubs, and the changing role/importance of elite ruckmen.NRL: Broncos defeat Bulldogs; several Bulldogs players facing bans. Roosters vs Dragons ANZAC match preview.Rugby & Cricket Updates: James O'Connor's late-game heroics; Cameron Green's century on County debut for Gloucestershire; IPL viewing challenges.Final Thoughts (01:29:28 - End)Meat Consumption Trends: Rebound in meat buying over plant-based alternatives.Unnecessary Technology: Comparison of plant-based foods and internet-connected fridges.ANZAC Day AFL Game: 30th anniversary of the Essendon vs Collingwood match, origins involving Kevin Sheedy and Gabby Allen.Wrap-up & Sign-off.

John from Illinois called in with a big question: Because Pope Francis has passed away, who’s running things at the Vatican in the meantime? Who's in Charge When There's No Pope? When a pope dies, things don’t go totally dark... but they do hit the brakes, hard. -The machinery of the Apostolic See basically grinds to a halt.(Think of it like putting the Vatican on “pause mode.”) -Enter the Camerlengo (Italian for Chamberlain), currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell, appointed by Pope Francis (RIP). His job is to oversee essential matters, like the transfer of the Pope’s body. What Keeps Going vs. What Freezes? Still running: -Basic operations in Vatican City (lights on, plumbing working, etc...) -Routine roles that don’t require papal authority. Frozen solid: -Naming new bishops or cardinals -Lifting papal-reserved excommunications -Big decisions like future World Youth Day locations -Canonizations -Anything else that needs a pope’s personal say-so. Basically, if it involves a signature that only the Holy Father can scribble, it’s not happening right now. So, How Does the Next Pope Get Picked? Patrick reminds us that no pope can hand-pick his successor (even if he whispers it to someone behind closed doors). The next Holy Father is chosen by the College of Cardinals, who gather in a conclave and pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Patrick took us on a nostalgic trip through the papal timeline: -Most younger folks only really know Pope Francis. -A bit older? You remember Pope Benedict. -Older still? Pope St. John Paul II, elected in '78. -Some even remember the super-short 33-day reign of Pope John Paul I. As Patrick put it: memory fades, but the Church marches on. It’s been 2000 years, 266 popes, and counting... each one a successor of St. Peter. What Happens Next? We wait. The cardinals will convene, the white smoke will rise, and we’ll get a new Holy Father. Until then, the Church is calm, reverent, and steady. May we all trust in the Holy Spirit's guidance and maybe brush up on our pope trivia while we’re at it.

In today's show we are starting a series on the mysteries of resurrection through the lens of St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body. During the series we plan on using some previously recorded material to focus on the ancient event of Jesus' resurrection as well as it's transformative power. In this multi-part series, we hope to give you a look into how Christ's victory over death redefines our understanding of our own bodies, our destinies, and even eternity itself. Is Resurrection a common experience for all of us? Are you ready to uncover the profound connection between earthly life and the eternal glory we are all called to? Here's Resurrection part 1!

Questions answered this episode:I work for a small Christian university... how can I prepare to teach Theology of the Body to a Protestant audience when JP2's writings feel dense and I'm limited in time and resources?After discovering my husband's hidden struggles with pornography and masturbation, how can I walk with him toward a true relationship with Christ while dealing with my own feelings of betrayal?I'm about to get married and just found out I'll have my period on my honeymoon. Is it OK for Catholic couples to have sex during menstruation?ResourcesCOURSE SCHEDULEOur Bodies Tells God's Story BookJohn Paul II's Letter to ArtistsGod Is Beauty Book---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.---

0:00 - Bondi on Judge Dugan in WI 11:00 - Pritzker in NH calls for mass protests 29:33 - Trump 47 54:37 - George Weigel, author of Witness to Hope: The Biography of John Paul II and a distinguished senior fellow of the Ethics and Public Policy Center, shares what he saw at Pope Francis' funeral and breaks down The High Stakes in Choosing the Next Pope 01:07:49 - Steven Bucci, visiting fellow in The Heritage Foundation’s Allison Center for Foreign Policy Studies: If Zelinsky accepts the proposed cease fire, the Russians will violate it 01:28:09 - Why Dan Proft is Single 01:44:38 - President of the Crime Prevention Research Center & former senior advisor for research and statistics at the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Policy, John Lott, points to what the media has completely ignored regarding a recently declassified document. John is also the author of Gun Control Myths and More Guns, Less Crime 02:03:27 - Sports & PoliticsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new pope is chosen by cardinals in a secret election held in the Sistine Chapel. The Holy See organizes the process to make sure it follows Church rules. Here is a slow English lesson about it.

The Catholic cardinal Jorge Mario Bergolio ascended to the papacy in 2013. In honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, he chose as his papal name Francis. For a dozen years he was the head of the Catholic Church and a major figure in the moral and cultural life of the West. After a prolonged illness, Pope Francis died on April 21 of this year. There are over 1.4 billion Catholics in the world, and they play a significant role in the production of Western culture and Western opinion. The foundational structures of Europe are derivative of, or inseparably woven into, the history of the Catholic Church. And whether the pope strengthens or undermines the moral confidence of Western nations matters: it mattered during the papacy of John Paul II during the cold war; it mattered in the confrontation with jihadist terror during the papacy of Benedict XVI; and it cannot but be a factor in the horizons of Western civilization. This podcast focuses on a particular dimension of the late Pope Francis's legacy, namely, how he engaged the Jewish people, Israel, and the Middle East. To discuss the legacy of Pope Francis, the Church's engagement in the Middle East, and who might be the next Catholic pope, Mosaic's editor Jonathan Silver sat down with Father Benedict Kiely. Kiely was born in London, ordained a Catholic priest in Canterbury, and has spent most of his ministry in the United States. In 2014, he founded Nasarean.org, a charity that supports persecuted Christians around the world, and especially in Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon. One of his aims is to see the church grow closer to its Middle Eastern roots, and that means, in some grand spiritual way, closer too to its Jewish roots. For Catholics, the question of the Church's attitude toward Zionism and Israel is not perhaps among the most pressing of ecclesiastical priorities. One would not expect it to weigh heavily on the Vatican's conclave in the election of the next pope. This conversation thus takes the perspective of an outsider. Moreover, there are very deep theological matters that will always divide the Catholic Church from the Jewish people. And some of those very deep theological matters also shape the way that Catholics tend to think about Zionism and the modern state of Israel. The Jewish people are animated by a belief in covenantal chosenness, and a sense of sacred obligation to uphold God's ways in their actions, in their families, and in their nation. That obligation is structured by tradition and law, and it is expressed nationally in the people of Israel, which, after a long hiatus in exile, again has a sovereign state in the land of its fathers. For Catholics, of course, the Church is the new Israel, and despite very welcome and laudable developments since the promulgation of Nostra Aetate in 1965, that is an unbridgeable theological chasm. Nonetheless, friendship between Christians and Jews is essential to revitalizing our shared civilization and passing it on to future generations. Musical selections in this podcast are drawn from the Quintet for Clarinet and Strings, op. 31a, composed by Paul Ben-Haim and performed by the ARC Ensemble.

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!What happens when three distinct papal visions collide with the legacy of Vatican II? This riveting conversation explores how John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis each navigated the complex aftermath of the Council while shaped by their unique historical contexts.Most Catholics don't realize that both John Paul II and Benedict XVI were formed during the chaos of World War II and Soviet occupation—a trauma that influenced their cautious approach to implementing Vatican II. When John Paul II needed Communist permission just to attend the Council as a young bishop, it revealed the high stakes of Church politics in that era. These experiences created leaders who operated very differently than Francis, who represents a post-conciliar generation with its own vision.The discussion delves into sensitive territory that mainstream Catholic media often avoids: how personnel choices determined policy outcomes, how the sexual abuse crisis undermined trust in Church leadership, and why social media has transformed Catholic discourse. We explore why traditional liturgy appeals to younger Catholics despite restrictions, and how the upcoming conclave might determine whether the Church continues Francis's trajectory or returns to earlier interpretations.Most powerfully, the conversation acknowledges the painful reality that many faithful Catholics experienced crises of faith during Francis's papacy due to perceived doctrinal ambiguity—a perspective rarely voiced in polite Catholic circles. By understanding these complex dynamics, we gain insight into the divided state of contemporary Catholicism and what might lie ahead after Francis.Whether you're a traditional Catholic, a Vatican II enthusiast, or simply curious about Church politics, this conversation offers perspectives you won't hear in typical Catholic media. Join us for an honest, thoughtful exploration of how the past shapes our present and future Church.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Three Catholic commentators gather to examine what's at stake as the Church anticipates a new pontificate. Rather than simply handicapping papal candidates, they dive deeper - asking what Catholics can expect regardless of who steps onto the loggia.Looking back at the papacies of John Paul II and Benedict XVI, they challenge nostalgic simplifications by acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses in these pontificates. Michael offers a counterbalance to popular narratives, noting problematic moments like Assisi interfaith gatherings alongside the doctrinal clarity these popes provided on moral issues. Mark reflects on how Benedict's theological precision offered stability during a formative period in his faith journey.The conversation pivots to a crucial insight that frames everything: "The faith isn't about the Pope. Faith is about your relationship with Christ and the sacraments." This perspective grounds their analysis of two potential post-conclave scenarios - either a return to doctrinal orthodoxy that triggers external persecution, or continued progressive momentum that maintains internal tensions. Either way, faithful Catholics must prepare for challenges.They explore whether a formal schism looms on the horizon, with Michael distinguishing between true schism and the theological divisions already evident. Mark notes how God continues working through seemingly desperate situations, pointing to unexpected growth in vocations and renewed interest in tradition among younger Catholics.As they consider whether current trials represent apocalyptic moments or simply another chapter in the Church's long history, the discussants agree on one certainty - personal holiness and penance remain essential regardless of ecclesiastical politics. The Church has died and risen repeatedly throughout history, and will continue to do so through divine providence and faithful witnesses who keep their lamps trimmed and burning through the darkness.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

The Rich Dickman Show Episode 297 - Tornado Drill Position with hosts Rem, Cody, Ray, and Randy Opening Banter Recap: The episode begins with the hosts returning, with Rem noting that they are "back at it". Rem explains that he finally figured out a camera or account issue from a couple of years ago, realizing his wife had created a new account that bypassed security, making the old one look like a fresh reinstall. He wiped the new account, reverted to the old one, and his stuff, including old backgrounds from about two years ago, reappeared. This brought back some "blast from the past" backgrounds. They confirm the episode number is 297, correcting Randy who thought it was 296. Randy is asked to create a Brady Bunch screen using illustrations or real photos, including one of Ray. Ray mentions he can text a picture he took in front of a gas pump where the average price was $5.90 a gallon, which prompts comments on high gas prices (Rem filled up for $2.79 and was annoyed, Ray was around $2.93) and the general expense of things where Ray is located. Ray then mentions his recent weight loss. Randy asks what Ray's weight was last week, and Ray gives a number (396.8). Cody and Ray guess Ray's current weight before Ray reveals it is 393.4. Cody wins the guess. Ray clarifies he started at 436 pounds, tracking it in the show notes, indicating a loss of 21.8 pounds just on the show. This prompts praise from the others, calling it "good" and "a month's worth of work". Ray mentions building a fence so his dogs can go out without needing to be walked. They briefly discuss protecting wells from zombies like in The Walking Dead. Ohio is described as "weird" and Ray's backyard video is mentioned as everything imagined for Ohio – flat, surprisingly lacking trees initially, although Ray clarifies he has trees, and his side yard is 65 feet long by 25 feet wide with a zipline. Cody mentions his acre is half dead grass, ants, and dirt. Ray notes that living on a hill sucks. Rem talks about growing up on three acres and how fun it was as a kid, not needing to be manicured. Rem mentions dealing with his "little one" digging holes and making mud for monster trucks in his yard and getting annoyed by ants. Cody mentions chilling post-Easter with leftovers and discount candy, referring to the period as the "holy refraction". There's discussion about the Pope dying, mentioning it happened on 4/20 or 4/21, his age (88), and nationality (Argentina). They list the last four Popes they've lived through: John Paul I, John Paul II, Benedict, and Pope Francis. Ray questions why anyone not Catholic would care who the Pope is. Rem argues everyone should care who the "Holy Father" is. They discuss Catholic practices like infallibility, celibacy, and the public recognition of the Pope compared to leaders of other religions. Cody recounts being asked to be godparents for his brother-in-law's child and being told they had to be married in a Catholic church, highlighting what he sees as Catholicism focusing on the "wrong things" and being too "ceremonial" rather than practical. Rem agrees it's all ceremony. Despite critiques of the ceremony, they acknowledge that if Catholics believe Christ died and was resurrected, they can still get to heaven, and that religion in general, like the Ten Commandments, provides a good way of living. The "best atheist on the show" (Rem) states that the lack of religion in society is a big problem because people need it. They critique the commandment "Shall not take the Lord's name in vain," arguing the Constitution supersedes the Ten Commandments. They discuss Cody's religious background in Alabama, describing it as "white people Baptist type stuff". Cody mentions being baptized "like 30 times" by different denominations. He ranks his top three baptism experiences: Nazarene (clinical) is number three, Episcopalian (female officiant) is number two, and Baptist (party, dunked in a creek, held under) is number one. They discuss sourdough starter and Ray's wife's breast milk used for practical purposes like treating pink eye. Ray describes his first experience with a bidet in a fancy restaurant restroom, being scared by the air dry function. They argue about the necessity of bidets vs. manual cleaning in the shower. Rem's Steve's Lava Chicken t-shirt design being rejected by Amazon merch is mentioned. They mention starting a band called Bubblegut and the Poops. The podcast is noted for surpassing the episode count of wrestling shows Dynamite and Nitro. We did the following segments: Thinking with your Dickman This segment features the hosts answering listener questions. Question 1 (from Joanna, treated as John/Joe): "Do I poop too much? I use the restroom an average of three times a day. My boyfriend says a woman shall need to poop once per day, but I'm not convinced. Is there any science to back up this claim? Are there any methods or devices you would recommend to measure my poop volume?". Cody, who has IBS and is a "two time a day type of pooper," validates that pooping multiple times a day is possible. Ray notes his toilet time is typically at least 30 minutes. They recommend getting a bidet for cleanliness, especially with frequent use, but caution against high water pressure to avoid hemorrhoids. They also recommend a seat cushion (like a donut) for long drives. Question 2 (from James, a recently retired actor): "I am a recently retired actor looking for things to do. I am famously starred in a long time running television show... I would like to find some activities that would allow some privacy... suggest some in Denvers.". Cody suggests mini golf and bumper boats as fun activities that might be less conducive to mobs. Rem suggests creating a profile on Fet Life and attending meetups, arguing that people in that lifestyle community are likely to keep secrets to protect themselves. Ray jokingly suggests starting an island. Question 3 (anonymous): "I hate chunky spaghetti sauce. Can you please tell me the best red sauce for pasta that isn't lumpy? Preferably, this advice would come from a true Italian.". Ray, claiming to be the most Italian, suggests Tutori tomato sauce, particularly the canned version, describing it as just sauce, not lumpy. He notes that while it's good as is for the "American people," you can spice it up with garlic, onions, and oregano. Rem talks about making sauce from scratch but acknowledges it's hard to beat store-bought like Prego or Ragu. Cody shares a story of making meatballs and sauce for multiple families using Target brand sauce and pasta, adding baked Italian spicy sausage and basil, and being asked for his "recipe" later. They joke that Americans are easy to please with Italian food. Question 4 (from John): "I want to play hookie from school for a day and need a legitimate excuse. Do you have any ways of getting out of school, but in a way that I can't get caught?". Suggestions include hacking the school's mainframe and changing attendance, getting a contagious illness like mono or pink eye (noting pink eye isn't that bad and a remote doctor's note is easy to get now). An interesting suggestion from Cody is to use microwave beeps to fake an EKG sound during a call. Another suggestion is to get surgery, like for a lazy eye, which could provide extended time off. Cody Reads Copy about Verilife Dispensary in Hillsboro, OH: Cody reads a descriptive piece about a dispensary called Verilife in Hillsboro, Ohio, located between cornfields and Dairy Queens. The copy highlights the "chill energy" and "tactical command" of an employee named Emily, who handles a chaos-inducing attempted robbery ("Tiger King's backup dancer" trying to "jack the stash") by leading the staff in a defensive maneuver before calmly ringing up the customer. The copy concludes that at Verilife, you get "weed," a "story," a "community," and "Emily," and encourages listeners to visit and mention Randy. Dick of the Week: Four nominees are presented for the "Dick of the Week" title. Nominee 1: A 31-year-old woman arrested in Floren Park, New Jersey on April 6, 2025, for DUI and refusing a breath test after driving the wrong way on a turnpike and other roads during a rainstorm. Dash cam footage showed erratic driving, running safety zones and a red light. She showed signs of intoxication, failed field sobriety tests, and had a concealed alcoholic beverage. She faces multiple charges including DUI refusal, reckless driving, careless driving, and lane violations. Nominee 2: A 47-year-old former Hillsboro County, Florida Sheriff's Office deputy and current county schools employee, Brandon Scott Parker, charged after a road rage incident on April 6, 2025, where he allegedly threw a bottle at a driver who honked at him, causing injury (contusion and abrasion). He was charged with the felony of throwing a deadly missile into an occupied conveyance. Nominee 3: A motorcyclist with a passenger involved in a road rage incident in El Cajon, California on April 7, 2025, who fired a gun at a truck. The truck driver was unharmed but found a bullet hole. The suspects fled on the motorcycle, which was found to be stolen, and were later found hiding in a drainage tunnel. Nominee 4: A 24-year-old man from Wisconsin who stole a bag of food from the kitchen of a McDonald's in Elmhurst, Illinois on April 7, 2025, and resisted arrest. Voting results in a tie between the Wrongway DUI driver (Nominee 1), supported by Randy and Rem for violating fundamental societal rules, and the Road rage bottle thrower (Nominee 2), with Cody voting against it specifically because the person was a former cop. Given the tie and the mention of Hillsboro in two different stories (Ohio and Florida), they declare the "Dick of the Week" is the "simulation". Dickman Dilemma: Three hypothetical dilemmas are discussed. Dilemma 1 (from Senson): Choose between having sex with a woman you find ugly once a week for $5,000 a week, or having the hottest woman you can think of peg you for $6,000 a week. Cody chooses the $5,000 option, reasoning he can turn the lights off and find enjoyment. Ray and Rem both choose the $6,000 option, seemingly unbothered by the act of pegging and appreciating the extra money. Dilemma 2: Hire a zombie chef who cooks Michelin star meals, but there's a 0.5% chance he eats your brains for each dish. Do you hire him?. Cody and Rem immediately decline, citing the disgusting nature of zombies and the unacceptable risk of death for a meal, regardless of quality. Ray compares the odds to other risky activities, noting he wouldn't risk his life for a meal but might for a large sum of money, and discusses the illusion of control people feel in everyday risks like driving. Dilemma 3: You get 2 million for a tattoo that forces you to blurt out the truth 10 minutes daily. Do you ink it?. The discussion centers on whether the 10 minutes are predictable and if the person can control what truths are revealed. Rem and Cody both agree they would take the tattoo for $2 million, particularly if the truth-telling was controllable or if it was like the movie Liar Liar, or simply because they believe in honesty and feel they don't have secrets bad enough to lose $2 million over. They consider doing it after retiring or getting divorced to minimize potential negative consequences. What Would Jesus Draw - Jesus at Wrestlemania 41 - Winner Ray: The hosts generate AI images based on the theme "Jesus Christ at Wrestlemania 41 in Las Vegas". Randy's prompt: Jesus Christ of Nazareth fighting the old Undertaker in a Hell in a Cell match on top of the cage. Cody's prompt: Jesus Christ of Nazareth powerbomb Mussolini through the Spanish broadcast desk. Rem's prompt: Jesus Christ of Nazareth hosting Wrestlemania 41 in Las Vegas, yelling at a hostile crowd of internet nerds telling them they're ruining the show with a dialogue bubble saying "You're ruining wrestling for everybody". Ray's prompt: Jesus Christ of Nazareth at Wrestlemania being submitted by Bret Hart's sharpshooter. Ray clarifies the spelling of Hart and that sharpshooter is a submission hold. During judging, Ray's prompt generated an image of Jesus Christ versus Bret Hart (spelled correctly by the AI), showing Jesus in agony, in robes, with the crown of thorns, being put into a submission hold (though not an exact sharpshooter). This image was seen as capturing the spirit and specific details of the prompt very well. Cody's image showed Jesus powerbombing someone who looked like "young Mussolini". Randy's image showed Jesus fighting someone resembling the Undertaker but missing key prompt elements like being on top of the cage. Rem's image showed Jesus yelling at nerds with bad hands and text issues. Ray's image of Jesus vs. Bret Hart was chosen as the winner, with Ray crediting the use of ChatGPT. The episode concludes with hosts mentioning making the Jesus art available on their website, whatwouldjesusdraw.com, plugging their social media and projects, and thanking their listeners.

Questions answered this episode:At a recent funeral, people spoke about God's perfect timing in death, but I wondered, isn't death, the separation of body and soul, a result of the fall? Doesn't God's will have both a perfect and permissive side, given our fallen world and freedom to choose? Wouldn't God prefer us to live forever, body and soul, rather than just our souls going to heaven? Can you help me understand all of this in the context of Theology of the Body?I was discussing sexuality with my atheist friend when she asked why the Church says masturbation is wrong. She then compared her body to a Ferrari, claiming she worked hard to take care of it and should be able to enjoy it alone. I was left speechless. What does the Church and Theology of the Body say about this?I've been practicing NFP with my husband since our marriage, but I'm struggling with my conscience. He wants to wait a year before trying to conceive, while I feel ready to start our family. I worry that NFP is being treated like contraception. I'm also feeling lonely and disconnected, especially since it's easy to abstain for weeks. How do I talk to my husband about this, and am I wrong to think NFP isn't right for us right now?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.---

How and Why to Pray the Rosary | The Catholic Couple Podcast

What happens when AI starts to feel like a friend - but isn't one? In this final installment of our AI series, Dr. Greg explores the growing ability of artificial intelligence to mirror human behavior - and why, no matter how convincing it gets, it can never truly love or choose. Drawing from the Catholic tradition and John Paul II's personalism, we unpack the deep spiritual and psychological truths of freedom and love - and why real relationship can only happen between persons. If you've ever felt both amazed and uneasy about the rise of AI, this conversation will challenge and ground you in what it really means to be human.   Key Topics: Why AI may soon be indistinguishable from a real person - and why that matters The core differences between mimicking humanity and being human How real love requires real freedom—and why AI can't offer either How tools like AI can support human flourishing—but not replace human relationship The danger of substituting digital connection for true communion Learn More: CatholicPsych Mentorship Program – Explore professional accompaniment grounded in Catholic anthropology and designed to foster real human growth and healing. CatholicPsych Podcast Archive – Search past episodes by topic and dive deeper into conversations on AI, psychology, faith, and the human person. 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

Questions answered this episode:How can I affirm the single life as a valid and holy vocation, especially for those who feel overlooked in typical vocation stories?As a wife with low sexual desire due to hormones (e.g., postpartum), is it okay to engage in intimacy for my husband's sake even if it's uncomfortable—and is it wrong to show enthusiasm I don't truly feel?When teaching my kids about sexuality, should I share my own past sexual sins—or could that send the wrong message, even though I've been forgiven?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.---

In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Greg explores the rising influence of artificial intelligence in therapy and why no machine, no matter how advanced, can truly replicate what it means to be human. Drawing from Pope St. John Paul II's theology of the person, he explains the irreplaceable dignity of real human connection - and why healing, growth, and love can only happen in relationship with another person. Whether you're fascinated by tech, worried about where it's all headed, or just craving a deeper understanding of what makes us human, this conversation offers a powerful reminder of our unique identity and mission.   Key Topics: The fundamental difference between knowing about a person and truly knowing them The irreplaceable role of human relationship in healing and growth Why Catholic psychology insists on the sacredness of the human person How technology often reflects our cultural misunderstanding of what it means to be human How AI lacks the one thing essential for real therapy: love   Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 4:55 - The Church's View on Technology 9:30 - AI in Mental Health & Therapy 11:30 - Introducing 4 Human-Only Traits (Overview) 12:47 - Horizontal Transcendence (Relationality) 15:16 - False Relationships with AI 21:05 - Part 1 Conclusion 21:49 - Recap of Part 1 (Horizontal Transcendence) 24:45 - Vertical Transcendence Learn More: CatholicPsych Podcast Page – Browse past episodes and search transcripts by topic, including previous discussions on AI and spirituality. CatholicPsych Mentorship – Learn more about accompaniment services rooted in Catholic anthropology. 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  

Questions answered this episode:1. My husband and I are newly married and both committed to our faith. I came into marriage with a deep understanding of the sacredness of the marital embrace through TOB, but we quickly discovered I have a much higher sex drive, and he struggles with erectile dysfunction. It's left me feeling rejected, unattractive, and alone—especially since women rarely talk about having stronger desire. I'm trying to love him through this, but I'm grieving how hard this is compared to what I imagined.2. I've been on and off with a woman I feel deeply connected to—like home. That connection has led us into sexual sin many times, though we often go to confession. I truly love her, but I'm afraid our past intimacy might have harmed our chances of a holy marriage and family. If God is calling us to be together, have we already ruined something good?3. My husband has struggled with porn since he was young, even though he always sensed it was wrong. He worked hard to stop, especially during our engagement, but relapsed a few times in marriage—mainly around postpartum seasons. He's been free for over two years, but I've just had our third baby and feel anxious it could return. He's otherwise loving and tender, and our sex life is beautiful. But I worry this may be a cross we carry forever. Is real healing possible?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. ---