Podcasts about ocia

OCIA Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

OCIA Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity.

In this episode of Catholic Answers Live,  Jimmy Akin and Cy discuss what someone in the annulment process must do before entering the Church through OCIA, and examine how Sola Scriptura and a priori syllogisms relate to Anglican apologetics. They explore how to discern messages from angels, and whether Spock's sacrifice in Star Trek reflects John 15:13. Other questions include whether Martin Luther sought self-justification, and how to respond to criticisms of Catholic parish events like gambling nights. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:15 – What must someone do regarding their current marriage if they are in the annulment process, remarried, and preparing to enter the Church through OCIA? 15:25 – How does Sola Scriptura relate to a priori syllogisms in the context of Anglican apologetics? 23:07 – What is the proper way to discern signs and messages from angels according to Catholic teaching? 35:10 – In Star Trek, Spock sacrifices his life for Captain Pike. Is this an example of John 15:13 in action? 40:38 – Was Martin Luther ultimately motivated by a desire for self-justification? 47:49 – How should Catholics respond to criticism about past parish events like gambling or casino nights being seen as hypocritical?

In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Tim Staples answers questions about Catholic teaching and practice. Topics include the Church's position on dividing ashes, relics, and organ donation, and the meaning of a line from the “Golden Arrow” prayer. A caller asks why some OCIA participants still struggle with Marian dogmas. We also explore whether Jesus had a middle or last name, what to do during Eucharistic adoration if the fire alarm goes off, and whether downloading copyrighted material is morally acceptable. Finally, he explains the Church's view of The Mystical City of God by Mary of Ágreda. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 3:29 – What is the Church's teaching on the dividing up and spreading of ashes as to the distribution of relics or organ donation? 19:44 – The “Golden Arrow” prayer has a line spoken from the Lord, which states, “Be careful to utilize this grace because I demand an account of it from you.” What is meant by this? 29:40 – My friend completed OCIA and still will not accept Marian dogmas. 40:35 – Did Jesus have a middle and last name? 43:44 – What to do during adoration if the fire alarm sounds? 45:29 – Is copyright morally binding. If I find a pdf / video / music online but cannot find it anywhere else, can I download it? 51:20 – Is the book Mystical City of God by Mary Jesus of Agreda Catholic?

In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Adrian Lawson from the YouTube channel Sips with Serra, joins CY to discuss the growing appeal of the Catholic Church among young people—has the Church changed, or has the culture shifted? A caller enrolled in OCIA asks why we receive the Eucharist by eating it, and how that connects us to Christ's sacrifice. They also address the Eucharistic Congress and recent protests surrounding it, offering a Catholic perspective on public witness and reverence for the Blessed Sacrament. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 30:19 – What has changed to make the Catholic Church more appealing to young people? Has the church changed or American culture? 34:23 – I'm signed up for OCIA, and I am curious to why we eat the Eucharist as the mode of receiving and participating in Christ's sacrifice? 47:10 – What are your thoughts on the Eucharistic congress and the disruptive protesters following it?

Ever wondered what it's like to sponsor a stranger in the OCIA program? Join us to hear the conversion story of Connie Bitner and how her sponsor, Ruth Bordewyk, walked with her as she made her way into the Church. From strangers to close friends, these two women opened their hearts to God and to each other to grow in their Catholic faith.

In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Karlo Broussard tackles tough questions from converts and curious Protestants. Can Protestants receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit if they haven't received the sacrament of Confirmation? What does the Church teach about Mary as Queen of Heaven—and is it essential to salvation? Karlo also responds to the common claim that the intercession of saints was borrowed from Greco-Roman paganism. Finally, are indulgences still a part of Catholic practice today, or are they just a relic of the past? Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 15:40 – In my OCIA class they told me that the gifts of the Holy Spirit are received at Confirmation. If that is true, then it would follow that no Protestants receive gifts of the Holy Spirit. But that doesn't seem right. 34:00 – I'm a recent convert and I struggle with Mary being queen of heaven. It just doesn't seem relevant to my salvation. 37:12 – My Protestant friend says the idea of intercession of saints was influenced by Greco-roman pagan ideas. How can I answer him? 45:48 – Are indulgences still a Catholic practice?

Audio Download Questions Covered: 15:40 – In my OCIA class they told me that the gifts of the Holy Spirit are received at Confirmation. If that is true, then it would follow that no Protestants receive gifts of the Holy Spirit. But that doesn't seem right. 34:00 – I'm a recent convert and I struggle […]

OCIA Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Solemnity of Pentecost.

JSerra Catholic High School has had nearly tripled its average number of student converts to the Catholic faith in the past five years, with 130 baptisms since 2016 and almost 100 of those since 2021. In this insightful podcast, JSerra's OCIA leader, Sr. Miriam, shares her five essential ingredients to building a culture of discipleship in a Catholic school that teens find attractive and that maximize their determination to give their lives to Christ.

OCIA Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord.

OCIA Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Sixth Sunday of Easter.

Liturgeeks, unite! Eric and Emily are joined by Nick Wagner and Diana Macalintal, new friends from the November 2024 Symposium at University of Dayton, to geek out about good liturgy. The heart of the conversation dwells on Rivers' concept of effective worship and how liturgists in various cultural contexts can—and must—encourage communities to achieve worship that is both beautiful and that forms disciples bent on justice. Lots of smart talk in this episode about liturgy, liturgical anthropology, inculturation, liturgical flow, the rites of the OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults)... and of course Father Rivers. For Episode 40 Show Notes, click here.

OCIA Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Fifth Sunday of Easter.

Patrick talks about prayer and about God answering prayer and his Providence. He also shares the wonderful miracles associated with Lourdes. Patrick counsels a caller who wants to be more comfortable with the Novus Ordo mass. Patrick explains the Jewish faith, how they have different beliefs regarding the Messiah within the faith itself. Kathy-Why do we pray if God already knows everything and has it planned? (0:57) Patrick talks about the numerous miracles at Lourdes (7:26) Jonathan-How can I be more comfortable with the Novus Ordo mass? (15:05) Jonathan-What’s the difference between falling asleep in hopes of resurrection, purgatory and going to heaven? (22:19) Brian-Why are Jewish still waiting and how will they know if he comes? (27:21) Mary Ann (email): Why didn’t the ones who were in paradise go to purgatory (32:09) A.J.-(email) How do you know if you’re detached from sin in regards to plenary indulgence? (34:00) Mark-Where does our faith come from (42:30) Jessica (email)-Question about getting marriage convalidated as I enter OCIA? (46:58) Agnes-Is it okay to cut or break a rosary held by a deceased person before burial? (48:09) Angelica - How can I help people understand that there is life after death? (44:02)

If someone wants to become Catholic, why not just let them in? We explain the purpose of OCIA, its roots in Church tradition, and how it helps prepare hearts and minds for full communion with the Catholic Church. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions covered: 04:54 – Why do non-Catholics who want to join the Church need to go through OCIA instead of just joining immediately?  14:33 – How is the Catholic Church's apostolic succession compare to what other churches believe?  21:43 – How does the intercession of the saints work when the Bible says that men are appointed to die once, and then face judgement?  28:53 – I go to church every once in a while with my family and I take communion, but I heard that I'm not supposed to do that. What are the rules?  40:30 – Is Jesus' renaming of Simon the reason why the pope takes a different name?  44:09 – I have a hard time accepting the perpetual virginity of Mary. I don't think she'd want to refuse giving Joseph as many sons as possible, and John's Gospel clearly mentions brothers of Jesus. 

Patrick highlights the essentials of faith in daily life, the importance of generosity, and standing firm in personal convictions. He encourages critical thinking when facing media messages and discusses the value of family as well as healthy boundaries. Patrick reminds listeners that a meaningful life comes from authentic connections, caring for others, and holding true to principles even when it’s tough. He inspires everyone to live with integrity and to let faith guide both decisions and relationships. Patrick reads and responds to emails about communion and asking God for the things you need Alex (email) – How can I help my dad stand up to my brothers who are making his life miserable? (05:45) Audio: Hearing the actual Pope Leo XIV say "Why didn't you answer your phone" in the most annoyed brother tone ever really humanized that position and makes me feel closer to the church (13:30) Audio: 2012 interview with @CatholicNewsSvc, Pope Leo XIV (then Robert Cardinal Prevost) addresses how some in the media manipulate narratives (16:23) Margaret - I receive communion twice a day. Am I not supposed to be doing this? (20:27) Terry – My daughter-in-law is involved with LGBTQ and accepts it. All of the songs directed and composed by this organization. Should I keep going to these concerts. (21:14) Ann (email) - Should I continue to talk with Jehovah Witnesses in the spirit of evangelism with the hope that I can convert them, or do I run in the opposite direction in fear that they are instruments of Satan? (27:27) Anna - I am in OCIA. My 14-year-old son goes to a Baptist Church and wants to be baptized in that Church. Should I let him do that? (32:33) Kathy - When does Transubstantiation take place? (44:05) Rob (email) - Could you recommend any books or media to share with my wife to help strengthen her faith? (45:55)

Audio Download Questions covered: 04:54 – Why do non-Catholics who want to join the Church need to go through OCIA instead of just joining immediately?  14:33 – How is the Catholic Church's apostolic succession compare to what other churches believe?  21:43 – How does the intercession of the saints work when the Bible says that […]

OCIA Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Fourth Sunday of Easter.

The Joy of Conversion and Teaching OCIA by Divine Mercy Radio

A new law in Washington state requires priests to report abuse heard in confession—can civil law override the sacred seal? We explore Church teaching, legal precedent, and why this issue matters for Catholics everywhere, along with insights on forgiveness, tradition, and spiritual healing. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 13:16 – If God said all creation is good, were there predators and prey from the beginning? 16:44 – How do I get over being hurt from my local Catholic Church? Sorry i put up the wrong fader at first. 20:54 – How do I better explain why can't women be priests? 28:49 – I've been forgiven in confession for hurting others. My heart still yearns to be forgiven from them. Some are living and some are deceased. Is it ok to feel this way? 33:27 – I'm a new Catholic. What do you recommend I read more about traditions of the Church that I didn’t cover in OCIA? 43:44 – On Friday the governor of Washington signed a law that priests will be required to report child abuse revealed during confession. Isn't this already settled law? 51:34 – What is your best argument against the essence/energies distinction as proposed by Gregory Palamas?

OCIA Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Third Sunday of Easter.

Encore from 4/16/25 Hour 3 Patrick captivates listeners with profound stories and heartfelt reflections on the Patrick Madrid Show. Each call becomes an opportunity for transformation, whether it's navigating relationship dilemmas or embracing faith amid life's challenges. Patrick highlights emotional journeys, from inspiring entries into the Catholic Church to moving struggles with forgiveness after personal tragedies. Throughout the hour, he shares valuable insights on faith and peace, reminding everyone of the enduring strength found in community and the transformative power of prayer. Melba (email) – My friend is about to be engaged to a man she fights a lot with. Should I express my concerns? (00:36) Bruce - I was in prison for 90 days 7 years ago. I was taking OCIA class which they said was a fast track. I missed a lot of classes because of work. I didn't feel I was ready to come into the Church because I missed classes. Why do I feel like I am not worthy still to receive the Eucharist after 7 years? (03:49) Nancy - Did Judas leave before or after Christ consecrated the bread. Also, I have two pyx that don't clasp properly. What should I do with them? (13:18) Mary - Can I spend time in purgatory for another person? (17:54) Clay - My first confession was due to Patrick Madrid (21:17) Rosa – Patrick said our secular world is going in the wrong direction. Someone asked me if I ever saw Handmaid's Tale. Were they mocking me? (26:32) Lydia - My daughter was killed 5 years ago. I found out that the husband was the one who killed her. How do I forgive him for killing her? (31:42) Fernando - Our priest hits gong at the back of the Church. (41:22)

OCIA   Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Second Sunday of Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday.

Patrick captivates listeners with profound stories and heartfelt reflections on the Patrick Madrid Show. Each call becomes an opportunity for transformation, whether it's navigating relationship dilemmas or embracing faith amid life's challenges. Patrick highlights emotional journeys, from inspiring entries into the Catholic Church to moving struggles with forgiveness after personal tragedies. Throughout the hour, he shares valuable insights on faith and peace, reminding everyone of the enduring strength found in community and the transformative power of prayer. Melba (email) – My friend is about to be engaged to a man she fights a lot with. Should I express my concerns? (00:36) Bruce - I was in prison for 90 days 7 years ago. I was taking OCIA class which they said was a fast track. I missed a lot of classes because of work. I didn't feel I was ready to come into the Church because I missed classes. Why do I feel like I am not worthy still to receive the Eucharist after 7 years? (03:49) Nancy - Did Judas leave before or after Christ consecrated the bread. Also, I have two pyx that don't clasp properly. What should I do with them? (13:18) Mary - Can I spend time in purgatory for another person? (17:54) Clay - My first confession was due to Patrick Madrid (21:17) Rosa – Patrick said our secular world is going in the wrong direction. Someone asked me if I ever saw Handmaid's Tale. Were they mocking me? (26:32) Lydia - My daughter was killed 5 years ago. I found out that the husband was the one who killed her. How do I forgive him for killing her? (31:42) Fernando - Our priest hits gong at the back of the Church. (41:22)

Audio Download Questions Covered: 11:11 – My protestant friend is going through OCIA and has been struggling with the concept of praying to the dead. How can I help? 17:44 – Where in the bible does it say that Jesus descended into hell? 22:25 – I have an issue with Marian dogmas and the idea […]

The Apostles' Creed says Jesus “descended into hell,” but where is that in Scripture? We explore the biblical foundation for this teaching and also cover Marian dogmas, priestly celibacy, and how to explain Catholic beliefs to Protestant friends. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Questions Covered: 11:11 – My protestant friend is going through OCIA and has been struggling with the concept of praying to the dead. How can I help? 17:44 – Where in the bible does it say that Jesus descended into hell? 22:25 – I have an issue with Marian dogmas and the idea of her co-redemptrix. 29:21 – I would like to get a better understanding of Mary's place. Perpetual virginity and the assumption. 40:36 – Why did Jesus say that nothing can be revealed to Peter in Matthew 16 but Nathaniel does know who Jesus is Jn 1:49? 46:10 – What’s the teaching on priestly celibacy? 51:37 – Can you clarify Vatican 2's statement that the Old Testament is not defunct. What does that mean?

OCIA  Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for Palm Sunday of The Passion of the Lord

Patrick has a heartfelt chat on how to lovingly support LGBTQ family members while staying true to your beliefs—it's all about that balance of love and truth. He also clears up some myths around the Latin Mass and give some tips for preparing kids for their First Holy Communion. It's a jam-packed episode with loads of insights and encouragement for living your faith every day. Marka (email) - How can we know if the small voice we hear is coming from God, our guardian angel, our own conscience, or some other source? (00:42) Linda – Is there a book or resource that I can share with OCIA candidates? (06:57) Yolie – My friend's wife is cremated, and he has her ashes in an urn on his dresser. Is that appropriate? (13:37) Larry (email) - Just listened to your response about an LGBTQ friend and possibly moving on. It’s amazing to think that if I followed this advice I would be leaving a relationship with not only my own precious 31-year-old daughter (just recently found out about her) but other family members and friends. (17:11) Maureen - How can I help my friend understand that the normal Mass is just as valid as Latin Mass? (27:12) Tito - Why aren’t the Coptic Orthodox and Catholic Church united? We seem to have a lot in common (36:06) Paul – I’m preparing middle schoolers and high schoolers for Receiving Communion. How do I present this to a group in a Parish where it’s normal to receive 'in the hand'? (43:23)

Many Protestants see relics as idolatrous—but are they? We explore the biblical and historical support for relics in Catholicism, and also answer questions on praying to saints, Marian apparitions, and what makes Good Friday “good.” Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Questions Covered: 04:54 – How do we support the use of relics when Protestants see it as idolatry?  14:01 – I'm in OCIA. How are Catholics different from Gnostics and Protestants?  21:29 – The bible tells us not to seek mediums or speak to the deceased. How is it then you can speak to the saints?  34:53 – My protestant sister asked me, why do they call it Good Friday if that was the day Jesus suffered and died? Who gave it that name?  42:03 – Why do Catholics take John 6 literally but John 6:58 sounds more metaphorical?  48:39 – How do we know that Marian apparitions are not taking away attention from Jesus? How do we get the title of Queen of Heaven for her? 

LOS “YO SOY”Jesús hoy lucha con aquellos judíos que no querían condenar y matar…cosa que lograron en la Semana Santa que pronto celebraremos de nuevo. Hoy Jesús dice unas palabras que sacan sus enemigos de quicio. Dice esto: “Cuando hayan levantado al Hijo del hombre, entonces conocerán que Yo Soy” Debemos recordar aquel momento cuando Moisés habló con Dios en la zarza ardiente. En aquel encuentro con Dios Moisés le pidió a que Dios le dijera su nombre. Y lo que Dios le dijo sencillamente fue..YO SOY..Así que lo que Jesús está diciéndole aquí a esa gente que no quería saber de él. Fue que El era el Hijo Verdadero, no de José sino de DIOS MISMO.  La semana pasada mi compañera Sylvia en el programa de OCIA…el programa que prepara adultos que van a ser bautizados en la próxima Vigilia Pascual y ser Confirmados en el Espíritu Santo. Ella nos dio sobre las varios otras veces cuando Jesús se identificó diciendo: dijo YO SOY…YO SOY..LA LUZ, LA VIÑA, LA PUERTA, EL PAN DE VIDA, EL BUEN PASTOR, EL CAMINO, LA VERDAD Y LA VIDA.  Y por fin Jesús dijo el YO SOY más abrumador. Dijo. YO SOY LA RESSURRECCIÒN….Esa hermosa realidad vamos a vivir de nuevo dentro de la Semana Santa. Dicho sea de paso cuando alguien nos pregunta: “Qué es tu nombre siempre le respondemos: OH! ..YO SOY JOSÉ O MARÍA. Sin Darnos cuenta le decimos el mismo nombre de DIOS de JESÚS y entoncesNuestro nombre de pila.Si me quieren comentar:tdeely7352@hotmail.com

Audio Download Questions Covered: 04:54 – How do we support the use of relics when Protestants see it as idolatry?  14:01 – I'm in OCIA. How are Catholics different from Gnostics and Protestants?  21:29 – The bible tells us not to seek mediums or speak to the deceased. How is it then you can speak […]

Where do we go when we die?  

OCIA Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Fifth Sunday of Lent.

A common misconception is that Mary's perpetual virginity is optional to believe. We clarify Church teaching and how to explain it respectfully, along with insights on binding and loosing, the birth control pill, and how to talk about pornography and marriage. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Questions Covered: 06:30 – Does binding and loosing represent the Sensus Fidelium? 13:35 – Why is the pill considered abortifacient? 19:22 – Does God operate based on condition? I can't wrap my head around the principle of double effect. 30:46 – How do I explain to my daughter in law who's going to OCIA the perpetual virginity? She learned in class that the Church has never clarified and that her perpetual virginity is optional to believe? 42:54 – We tend to hear in TOB circles that men who are addicted to pornography should be avoided when considering marriage? Would you say the same start can be used for women? 51:27 – How do you avoid making circular arguments for the papacy and magisterium?

A listener named Jim asks Father Dave about Sunday Mass readings during Lent. Jim says, “At Mass [on the Third Sunday of Lent], I was expecting the Gospel to be from Luke about the fig tree, but the actual Gospel that was read was from John about [the woman at the well.] Why would that change?”  

OCIA:   Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Fourth Sunday of Lent.

We are called to take the living waters, take the bread of life that we receive from here, and to share it with those who so desperately need that fresh living water. You and I might be the only person this week who offers it to them. If you get an inkling to be kind and gentle and not judgmental to someone in any of those categories, then this is your moment.  (Read more…)Here is my homily for the third Sunday of Lent. This homily was given at the First Scrutiny for our OCIA candidates for this year. Please feel free to share this with others.

OCIA:  Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Third Sunday of Lent.

Fr. Paul Born currently serves as the Parochial Vicar at Mary, Queen of Martyrs Parish in Plymouth, Massachusetts.   In Today's Show: How should we read about the resurrection of the body? As an OCIA student how do I confront my parish priest if he wrong about baptism? Since doing drugs is a mortal sin, does that mean that addicts are damned? If you could only listen to three songs for the rest of your life, what would they be? Are you familiar with the Legion of Mary? What is the Church's opinion about the bones of James (the supposed brother of Jesus) Mary's role as Ark of the Covenant. Would it be permissible to stop in at an Orthodox Church to visit the Blessed Sacrament? What is the purpose of the Lazarus parable? Have you heard of the Neocatechumenal Way? What is an exorcism? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Some claim Catholic practices resemble idol worship—but is that true? Joe Heschmeyer explores the distinction, along with the role of Marian dogmas, the qualifications to be an altar server, and advice for those returning to the Catholic faith. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Questions Covered: 04:51 – I'm in OCIA. What are the qualifications to be a server at the altar?  13:28 – I'm returning to the Catholic Faith. Do I still proceed to return or wait until I clear up my lack of understanding?  24:09 – I'm a convert. How is what we do, not considered idol worship?  37:14 – What is the relevance of Marian dogmas for Christians? 

Struggling with scrupulosity and unsure how it fits within the Catholic faith? Joe Heschmeyer explores how to navigate this challenge, along with preparing for OCIA, understanding the Eucharist in John 6, and the biblical basis for praying to saints. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Questions Covered: 10:51 – I'm looking into Catholicism. What should I be doing in preparation for starting OCIA classes? 29:33 – I've been told that I have really bad scrupulosity, and I don’t see how that is compatible with Catholicism. 38:30 – Are Catholics wrong about the Eucharist because of John 6:60-63? 41:51 – I'm in OCIA. What do candidates do if they sin since they can't go to confession? 46:35 – Why do Catholics pray to the saints? Is there a scriptural basis for it?

What does it take to build a thriving, faith-filled parish? In this episode, I sit down with Father Jamie Zarse, pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee, Kansas, to unpack his vision for renewing his parish—starting with a team of prayer warriors and leaders—and the spiritual habits that are transforming his community. From deeper devotion to the Eucharist and the Rosary to more frequent confession and scripture-based prayer, these simple yet powerful practices are sparking real change. Mass attendance is up by 18%, generosity is growing with an additional $408,000 in tithing, and parishioners are coming alive in their faith. Father Jamie also reveals why measuring spiritual progress and forming strong leadership teams are key to sustaining this momentum. He shares how his leadership team, a mix of staff and dedicated volunteers, meets weekly to ensure they are always working on the most important things. They even use innovative tools like QR code surveys during Mass to track engagement in key spiritual habits. Whether you're a parish leader or just passionate about seeing your faith community flourish, this episode is packed with wisdom you won't want to miss. Discover how Father Jamie's approach has led to a significant increase in OCIA participants and the success of marriage enrichment programs that have saved marriages and strengthened families. Give it a listen and let us know—what's one habit or leadership insight that stood out to you? [05:12] Building a Team of Prayer Warriors [10:14] Leadership and Vision Development [18:37] Measuring Parish Engagement [23:30] Accountability and Evangelization [28:42] Building a Healthy Leadership Team [37:32] Leveraging Business Practices in Parish Management [44:20] Personal and Professional Rule of Life Check out Fr. Jamie's parish, Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church (https://www.shoj.org/). For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

OCIA: Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the Second Sunday of Lent.

Audio Download Questions Covered:  06:31 – I find more people coming to OCIA with no knowledge of Jesus Christ? How would you approach this? 22:08 – How do I explain to others the temporal punishment for sin? My example was drinking and the effects on your liver. 31:02 – Can you tell me about early […]

OCIA: Director Matt Gray, reflects on the readings for the First Sunday of Lent.

Patrick shares the heartfelt journeys and challenges faced by callers who are seeking guidance and wisdom from the Catholic faith. Listen as Patrick addresses Hannah's family's decision to join a more traditional parish and their quest to find a godparent for their son. Meanwhile, David explores the responsibilities that come with being a godfather to a catechumen in a challenging situation. This episode also covers various inquiries about spiritual struggles, vocations, and the impact of curses. Hanna - Should we continue with OCIA where we are at? We don't want our child to be assigned a godparent from that Church. (00:35) David - Can I be the godfather for a Catechumen who is living with his girlfriend? (08:57) Michelle - My daughter can't eat meat so what should she give up on Fridays in Lent? She has depression and gets depressed during lent. How can she look at it with more joy than sorrow? (17:40) Kip - I think that the person who is inviting people to Mass to take communion should tell them what will happen and why it will happen. (27:24) Mary (email) - I am a widow and am dating a widower. He has invited me to travel with him. All accommodations would be separate. Would we be committing a sin of scandal to travel together? (32:22) John - I was recently asked to be a lector for Mass in the morning. If I am not in the state of Grace, can I still be a lector? (38:27)

Questions Covered: 04:57 – How do I get my OCIA students more interested in the topics we discuss? 13:55 – What do we make of Jesus, Mary and Joseph getting expensive gifts from the magi but still only making the poor persons' offering at the temple? Wouldn't they have been rich? 22:16 – How do Catholics respond to people who are interested in Wesley Huff and what he teaches about the canon of scripture? 36:33 – What does the Catechism mean when it says that together with us Muslims adore the one true God? 45:05 – What's our response to a non-Catholic who asks us about the ordo amoris? 51:00 – How can I practice humility? …

Laura calls in from Indianapolis with a heartfelt inquiry about the nuances of convalidation in the Catholic Church. As she approaches the final stages with her husband, Patrick explores the role of the Old Catholic Church and its distinction from the Roman Catholic Church. Patrick discusses the importance of thorough processes in Catholic sacramental life and celebrates her husband's participation in OCIA. Quantum mechanics breakthrough: light in 37 dimensions (2:22) Laura – What is the Old Catholic Church? (15:03) Michael (email) - How should Catholics view violent sports or dangerous activities for the sake of entertainment? (27:39) Patrick reads and responds to an email from Heather (38:48) Chrystal (email) – I know someone who doesn’t follow Christ that has a tough life. How can I help him? (44:07)