Podcasts about ordained

Fred and Jason talk about their experiences as ordained ministers! And do you know what NHL players do to The Stanley Cup after winning the Final? Fred tells us! Plus you won't want to miss Kaelin's Ozzy Osbourne impression, listen now!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, discusses the history and origins of Father's Day. He points out the irony of a country that is celebrating Father's Day when national leaders cannot even define the definition of a woman, when there is debate over transgender athletes competing with females in sports arenas, and others asserting that it is possible for men to have babies and that there are multiple genders. Furthermore, in America more than 40% of all births occur to unmarried women and more than 50% of all marriages in the US end in divorce. All this results in the US having the highest rate of children living in single parent households in the entire world. After describing characteristics of families in the US, Dr. Hall goes on to outline what the Scripture has to say about the responsibilities of fathers in Christian homes, focusing on Psalm 78. It is emphatically pointed out that God is going to hold fathers responsible for the spiritual condition of their families. The role of God as our father in heaven especially in families where a biological father is not present is discussed. Can be heard on all podcast search engines and heard on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/hcXWPDH4VxM.

A - About: This devotional introduces the prophetic call of Jeremiah, emphasizing that God knew and ordained Jeremiah before birth. It explores God's assurance, authority, and presence amid adversity. B - Best Verse: Jeremiah 1:8 – "Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you," says the Lord. C - Call to Action: Trust in God's calling over your life, even when facing fear or opposition. Speak truth with grace and boldness, assured that God is with you and equips those He calls.

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, discusses some of the biblical miracles that are so extraordinary that even the most devoted Christian may find them hard to grasp, miracles that break the rules of science and leave us amazed, confused and sometimes even puzzled. What is behind Christians' belief in these miracles is explained in this discussion. Dr. Hall points out that the virgin birth and the resurrection of Jesus are two of the most celebrated miracles in Christian churches and although less celebrated the ascension of Jesus Christ is just as miraculous. The biblical account of the ascension is reviewed, and Dr. Hall identifies what the miracle of the ascension means to Christians. Can be heard on all podcast search engines and viewed on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/qbFMxEuNCnY

6/4/25 - We'll be recounting the inspiring life of Venerable Father Nelson Baker (1842–1936), a former businessman-turned-priest who became known as the “Padre of the Poor” in Buffalo, New York. Ordained in 1876, Father Baker transformed the struggling parish of St. Joseph's into a thriving “City of Charity” that included an orphanage, a home for unwed mothers, a hospital, a school for boys, and eventually the magnificent Our Lady of Victory National Shrine and Basilica, completed in 1925. A pioneer in Catholic charity and devotion to Our Lady of Victory, Father Baker served thousands in need during his lifetime, relying entirely on donations through what he called “The Association of Our Lady of Victory.” His legacy lives on today, and his cause for sainthood continues, with Pope Benedict XVI declaring him Venerable in 2011. To learn more about Father Baker, please consider visiting the stunning Our Lady of Victory National Shrine and Basilica in Lackawanna, New York. More information at https://www.olvbasilica.org/

Jeremy Stein was born in Dansville, New York, in 1991 and raised on Long Island, New York. In 2013, he completed his BA in Biblical Theology as well as in Pastoral Ministries at Northpoint Bible College (formerly known as Zion Bible College). In 2016, Jeremy married his wife, Miriam. In 2019 he earned an MA in Ancient Judaism and the Origins of Christianity from Nyack College in New York, NY. Jeremy is the former Associate Pastor of Neighborhood Assembly of God in Bellmore, New York. He is an Ordained minister with the Assemblies of God and has been actively traveling to, and teaching in the Holy Lands for the past 10 years. Jeremy and his wife, Miriam, currently live in Springfield, MO.

InLuke 20:20-26 the Jewish priests, elders, scribes, and the Herodians continueto confront Jesus seeking to find a reason to have Him killed (v.19). On thisparticular occasion, Jesus knew that the men who questioned Him were spies sentby the Pharisees and the Herodians according to Mark 12:13, but He patientlylistened and replied.  Thesetwo groups were usually fighting each other, but now they had a common enemy,and this brought them together. They wanted to discuss taxes and Romanauthority, hoping to provoke Jesus into offending either the Jews or the Romans.If Jesus said, “pay the Roman tax,” they knew that He would offend and angerthe Jews who hated the Romans ruling over them. If Jesus said, “don't pay the Romantax,” He would be considered an insurrectionist by the Roman rulers and couldbe put to death. But Jesus lifted the discussion to a much higher level andforced the spies to think about the relationship between the kingdom of God andthe kingdoms of men. TheBible teaches that governmental authority is instituted by God and must berespected (Prov. 8:15; Dan. 2:21, 37-38; Rom. 13; 1 Peter 2:11-17). Yes, ourcitizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20), and we are strangers and pilgrims onearth, but that does not mean we should ignore our earthly responsibilities.Human government is essential to a safe and orderly society, for man is asinner and must be kept under control.  Whenyou read the book of Judges you find what it is like when there is no authorityover the people. Because there was no king in Israel, “every man did what wasright in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25). The land was filled with anarchy,violence, murder, stealing, confusion, and chaos! God knows we need human governmentfor peace and order. Inverses 20-26, Jesus was not suggesting that we divide our loyalties between Godand government. Since "the powers that be are ordained of God" (Rom.13:1), we live as good citizens when we obey the authorities for the Lord'ssake. When obedience to God conflicts with obedience to man, then we must putGod first (Acts 4:19-20; 5:29), but we must do it in a manner that is honorableand loving. Even if we cannot respect the people in office, we must respect theoffice.  Thecounsel that Jeremiah gave to the Jewish exiles in Babylon is a good one forGod's "strangers and pilgrims" to follow today. “And seek thepeace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and prayto the LORD for it; for in its peace you will have peace.” (Jeremiah 29:7) Todaywe are instructed in 1 Timothy 2:1-4, “Therefore I exhort first of all thatsupplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for allmen, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet andpeaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptablein the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come tothe knowledge of the truth.” Caesar'simage and name were on the coins, so it was basically his currency. To pay thepoll tax meant simply to give Caesar back that which belonged to him. God'simage is stamped on us; therefore, He has the right to command our lives ascitizens in His kingdom. We should seek to be such good citizens that God willbe glorified and the unsaved will be attracted to the Gospel and want to becomeChristians (1 Peter 2:9-12; 3:8-17).  Itis unfortunate that some Christians have the mistaken idea that the moreobnoxious they are as citizens, the more they please God and witness forChrist. We must never violate our conscience, but we should seek to bepeacemakers and not troublemakers. Daniel is an example to follow (Dan. 1). God bless!

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, comments on contemporary commencement addresses given to the graduates of high schools, colleges and universities. He points out that even Kermit the Frog has given a couple of commencement addresses. Dr. Hall quickly points out that the greatest commencement address of all time is found in the New Testament, John 13-17, the longest single recorded speech of Jesus. Psalm one is used to tell listeners about the consequences of walking with the wicked, standing with sinners and mockers. Dr. Hall reflects on how Jesus would address the graduates in a commencement address in today's world. He points out that Jesus made promises that go beyond just wishing his followers success. As the podcast ends listeners are reminded that human understanding is limited but God's wisdom is infinite. Can be heard on all podcast search engines. Can be heard on all podcast search engines and viewed on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/jRCnBKpngOQ

Ordained in 1996, the Rev. Jerome “Jay” Cayangyang is a Navy Reserve chaplain with almost 35 years of service and currently also serves as rector and dean of Bishop Seabury Anglican Church, Pro-Cathedral of the Anglican Diocese of the Living Word. He has served numerous active duty and reserve assignments including two combat deployments to Iraq.  In addition to his parish duties, he currently serves as the Deputy Chaplain of the Marine Corps for Reserve Matters. Cayangyang and his wife, Linda, live in Connecticut and have five adult children. “I'm deeply humbled by this opportunity,” Cayangyang said. “I am truly grateful for all of my ministry to this point: the Jurisdiction of the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy, Anglican Diocese of the Living Word, and Bishop Seabury Church.  I am grateful for their love and friendship. The Lord used my time in those ministries to prepare me for this new role as a bishop. And finally, I am so thankful for my family and their partnership in the ministry.”

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, reviews the history of Memorial Day and explains the importance of honoring those that have been willing to die for our freedom. He points out that only two defining forces have offered to die for us, Jesus Christ and the men and women in uniform. One died for our souls and the other for our freedom. Dr. Hall points out that believers and followers of Jesus Christ are combatants in another war – spiritual warfare. He points out how Christians are being attacked and persecuted around the world and then discusses the nature of Christian persecution in America. Dr. Hall emphatically points out that Christians in America who feel that they have never been attacked or persecuted for their faith are not pressing into the darkness of the world for Christ as far as they should. The podcast ends with the listeners being challenged to stand up for biblical principles and values and be willing to accept persecution. Can be heard on all podcast search engines and viewed on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/OEi-H6fZwns. 

To Set The Captives Free. It's Going to Happen!

Of all the false beliefs held by the Shakers, there is one that might be the most under attack by the world because it is central to God's plan for the happiness of his children.If you'd like to view the video that goes with podcast, click here

Tweetable quote from Fr. Seán“Life is a dream that the ego is having, the ego is a dream that the soul is having, and the soul is a dream that spirit is having.”SummaryJoin us for a profound conversation as we explore the depths of spirituality, faith, and the teachings of Christ with Fr. Seán ÓLaoire. He introduces the concept of Christ consciousness as a recognition of the inner divinity present in all beings. The dialogue explores the importance of small, supportive communities in spiritual growth, the significance of understanding sacred texts through a mystical lens, and the transformative power of personal experiences in healing and self-discovery.About our guest:Fr. Seán ÓLaoire, PhD, born in Cork, Ireland, holds a BSc in Mathematics and a PhD in Transpersonal Psychology. Ordained as a Catholic priest in 1972, he spent 14 years serving in East Africa and is fluent in six languages. He is a licensed Clinical Psychologist, author, and researcher focused on the effects of prayer. Fr. Seán is Co-Founder and Spiritual Director of Companions on the Journey, a non-hierarchical spiritual community that honors personal experience, interfaith wisdom, and the divine in all.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria EckersleyA Creative Study of Come, Follow MeD&C [D&C 49-50]““That Which Is of God Is Light”May 19 – May 25, 2025WEEK 21 SUMMARY=================Doctrine and Covenants sections 49 and 50 provide guidance and counsel to Church members regarding some specific challenges of the early church. In Section 49, the Lord addresses misconceptions and false teachings propagated by the Shakers, clarifying doctrines about marriage, meat consumption, and the Second Coming of Christ. Section 50 deals with false spirits and deception within the church, teaching that manifestations and spiritual gifts must edify and be consistent with the truth. These sections emphasize staying true to the established doctrines and being discerning about spiritual experiences.SPARK 1: WILT THOU BE MADE WHOLE================OBJECT LESSON: “Marriage is Ordained of God”: Paper Clip TrickSPARK 2: THE EVIDENCE OF JOY===================================OBJECT LESSON: “Both Are Edified and Rejoice Together”: Water Color TestSPARK 3: A MORE PERFECT UNDERSTANDING=============================OBJECT LESSON: “That Light Groweth Brighter and Brighter”: Solar Panel AnalogyCHAPTERS=========00:00:14 INTRO00:04:07 QUICK GLANCE00:08:14 SPARK 1 INSIGHTS00:17:34 SPARK 1 OBJECT LESSON00:21:38 SPARK 1 QUESTIONS00:23:39 SPARK 2 INSIGHTS00:31:37 SPARK 2 OBJECT LESSON00:34:10 SPARK 2 QUESTIONS00:36:11 SPARK 3 INSIGHTS00:46:13 SPARK 3 OBJECT LESSON00:50:04 SPARK 3 QUESTIONS00:51:29 WRAP UPLINKS=====WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.comETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmomINSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlifePODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER=================================This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, addresses the storming of an ICE detention center that housed dangerous criminals. He explains how patterns of religious faith play a role in this kind of lawlessness. He uses two recent blockbuster reports by Pew Research and the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University to describe the role of religious faith in the US and how it is influencing the behavior of political leaders. These reports reflect how society has divorced the God of the Bible. Dr. Hall says this research tells us that nothing short of a sweeping national repentance and spiritual renewal can save America from itself. The good news is there seems to be positive changes in  commitment to Christian faith among Generation Z. Dr. all states that something is happening among young people of faith who are desperate to know their purpose in life. Can be heard on all podcast search engines and viewed on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/HFwZyxapWhM.

Conversations among Catholics about trans people and the church often center on questions of inclusion and belonging in relation to church life and teachings. Can trans people be baptized into the church or partake in other sacraments? Should trans Catholics be allowed to join religious orders? The conversations often proceed as though trans Catholics are fundamentally a problem to be solved.  Even when the intention is to be welcoming, making this the primary discussion among Catholics fails to recognize that trans Catholics are already part of our families, communities, workplaces, and parishes. Trans Catholics are already a part of the church.  Some theologians and pastoral leaders suggest that shifting the focus of these discussions could lead to a broader understanding of church life. As well as considering what we owe to trans people, we should also consider how trans people enrich the church—how their active participation in church communities might help us deepen our theology and pastoral witness.  On this episode of Glad You Asked, the hosts talk to guest Kori Pacyniak about what the church can learn from trans Catholics. Pacyniak is a queer, nonbinary, and trans Catholic who is a doctoral candidate at the University of California Riverside. They studied religion and Portuguese at Smith College and have a master of divinity from Harvard and a master's degree in theology and trauma from Boston University. Ordained as a priest through Roman Catholic Womenpriests, Pacyniak focuses on creating sacred space and liturgy by and for queer and trans Catholics. Learn more about this topic and read some of Pacyniak's writing in these links. “Gender diversity has always been part of the church,” by Emma Cieslik Gender diversity has always been part of the church - U.S. Catholic “As a transgender Catholic, I don't see gender diversity as a threat to our faith,” by Maxwell Kuzma As a transgender Catholic, I don't see gender diversity as a threat to our faith - Outreach “Trans and Catholic: A parent's perspective,” by Deacon Ray Dever Trans and Catholic: A parent's perspective - U.S. Catholic “We cannot abandon trans Catholics,” by Father Bryan Massingale We cannot abandon trans Catholics - U.S. Catholic “Pope Francis Calls for the Inclusion of Trans People in Catholic Church Practices,” by Dallas Knox Pope Francis Calls for the Inclusion of Trans People in Catholic Church Practices | GLAAD “God Doesn't Want You to Be Miserable,” by Kori Pacyniak "God Doesn't Want You to Be Miserable.” - New Ways Ministry “The Women Who Want to Be Priests,” by Margaret Talbot The Women Who Want to Be Priests | The New Yorker Glad You Asked is sponsored by the Claretian Missionaries.

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, who grew up in Kentucky, explains why the singing of the song “My Old Kentucky Home” at the Kentucky Derby caused him to have a teary-eyed moment of nostalgia. All the characteristics of nostalgia are explained and the role it plays in homesickness. It is pointed out that homesickness can lead to feelings of anxiety, isolation, and depression. Dr. Hall points out that there is a homesickness that is particularly Christian. He emphatically states that if you don't have an inward feeling that because you are following Jesus that this earth is not your home, perhaps you are conforming to the mold of the world. Dr. Hall explains that professed Christians should be homesick for a place called heaven. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/kAd1D_DrEII.

Unity with Christ has two directions.Identification - of Jesus with us, of ourselves with Him - is the key that unlocks all He obtained for us by His death and resurrection.Support the show

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Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, and his special guest, accomplished Bible teacher, Dorothy Little discuss the biblical view of “End Times.” It is pointed out that there has been a proliferation of books and videos for the last several decades with many of the books ending up on the bestseller list. These two Bible scholars offer their opinions on why there is so much interest in the subject of “End Times.” The future found in Revelation 21:1-5 that promises God will wipe away every tear and death shall be no more creates a view that God will create a new earth and a new home and society. These promises are why the study of “End Times” creates a nearness to Jesus. When we realize that Jesus promises that he is coming soon it redirects our focus on our relationship with Jesus and away from speculation about the coming of an antichrist and the tribulation. This podcast ends with a prayer for the Lord to give us strength or encourage in our anticipation of the return of Jesus Christ. Can also be viewed on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/y1YpwOB5eQc.

DescriptionIn the wake of the news this week of Pope Francis' death, I immediately wondered what we could do here at Better Preach to honor his legacy, teaching and example - particularly around Preaching. For a while I wanted to do a dive into his first major letter to the Church, the Joy of the Gospel, from 2013, and look closely at his lengthy section in that document on homiletics. And thanks to Fr. Craig Vasek, who joined me way back in the beginning on episode 2 of Better Preach, he agreed to join me again at the last minute here to look back at Pope Francis' longest magisterial teaching on Preaching. Father Craig Vasek currently serves as pastor of St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. Ordained in 2010 as a priest of the Diocese of Crookston, Minnesota, Fr. Vasek is a graduate of the Pontifical North American College in Vatican City, having obtained a Licentiate of Sacred Theology in 2011. Father Vasek has worked extensively with the Missionaries of Charity of Saint Teresa of Calcutta in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. He has produced works on the topics of Scripture and the Spiritual Life, and served as Specialist for the National Eucharist Revival with the US Conference of Catholic Bishops.Check out Fr. Vasek's homilies here on: Podbean: https://stbernards.podbean.comSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6mwAvHPBm7c0pjGYUZxWEdLinksFor more information about the Better Preach Podcast visit: www.ryanohara.org/betterpreachBetter Preach Podcast is now on YouTube. Here's a link to the channel.Check out Ryan's FREE course on “sharing your faith as a Catholic.”Follow Ryan on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, or FacebookJoin the Better Preach email list.

                     Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, uses professional basketball as a platform to describe the complex and ingenious creation of the human body. He focuses on human legs and how God created the knee joint to have an incredible capacity for movement and strength. He points out the special role that the meniscus cartilage in the knee joint plays as the shock absorber for the human body. Dr. Hall discusses how a torn and fractured meniscus cartilage requires surgical intervention just as a torn and fractured Christian faith requires intervention. The evil of unbelief is discussed along with the intervention required to overcome a torn and fractured faith. Dr. Hall points out the things that break apart our relationship with God. He then lists some of the necessary interventions to heal fractured faith. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/Liw69-7p7l0.

In a world where division and uncertainty are prevalent, the need for genuine connection has never been more critical. But how can we remain connected when opinions diverge and times are unpredictable? The answer lies in cultivating curiosity by “Living in the question,” according to TJ Woodward. TJ is a bestselling author, inspirational speaker, and revolutionary recovery expert who has helped countless people through his simple yet powerful teachings. He's a featured thought leader on WholeHearted.org along with Brené Brown, Marianne Williamson, Dr. Gabor Maté, and Mark Lundholm, as well as a featured thought leader in the docuseries, “Addiction Revealed.” Ordained by Michael himself, TJ is also the founder of Agape Bay Area in Oakland, the first satellite community of The Agape International Spiritual Center.  During Michael's and TJ's conversation, they cover:  -TJ's childhood joy, then early trauma, followed by substance use, and his first steps toward sobriety and spiritual awakening -How recovery and New Thought teachings helped TJ shed false beliefs and return to his essence -What ‘Living in the Question' means, and how curiosity expands awareness while judgment restricts it -The importance of open-ended questions as tools for spiritual growth and social harmony -How over-identifying with diagnoses or labels reinforces dis-ease vs. focusing on what's working and feeling the energy shift -Creating space for healers to experience healing themselves, avoiding burnout, and the “fixer” mentality -Why true compassion emerges from insight, not from reactive behavior -How neuroplasticity and epigenetics confirm what mystics have always known: consciousness shifts physiology and thought patterns reshape the brain and gene expression, and more! Next, Michael leads a meditation with the intention of waking up to our Real nature.  Get TJ's latest book, “Conscious Creation,” and connect with him at https://www.tjwoodward.com/ and across social media. Learn more about his work with Wholehearted here: https://wholehearted.org/. Remember to Subscribe or Follow and set an alert to receive notifications each Wednesday when new episodes are available! Connect with Michael at his website – https://michaelbeckwith.com/ – and receive his guided meditation, “Raise Your Vibration and Be Untouchable” when you sign up to receive occasional updates from Michael! You can also connect with him at https://agapelive.com/. Facebook: @Michael.B.Beckwith https://www.facebook.com/Michael.B.Beckwith  IG: @michaelbbeckwith https://www.instagram.com/michaelbbeckwith/  TikTok: @officialmichaelbeckwith   https://www.tiktok.com/@officialmichaelbeckwith  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqMWuqEKXLY4m60gNDsw61w  And as always, deep gratitude to the sponsors of the Take Back Your Mind with Michael B. Beckwith podcast: -Agape International Spiritual Center: https://agapelive.com/  and -NutriRise, the makers of Michael's AdaptoZen product line, a few of which include: -Superfood Greens: https://nutririse.com/products/greens-superfood  -Superfood Reds: https://nutririse.com/products/adaptozen-superfood-reds   -ELEVATE+: Organic Fermented Mushrooms: https://nutririse.com/products/elevate-fermented-mushrooms-powder

This could only happen because god wanted it to happen. Get out while you can.

pWotD Episode 2911: Pope Benedict XVI 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 624,120 views on Monday, 21 April 2025 our article of the day is Pope Benedict XVI.Pope Benedict XVI (Latin: Benedictus XVI; Italian: Benedetto XVI; German: Benedikt XVI.; born Joseph Alois Ratzinger, German: [ˈjoːzɛf ˈʔaːlɔɪ̯s ˈʁat͡sɪŋɐ]; (16 April 1927 – 31 December 2022) was head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State from 19 April 2005 until his resignation on 28 February 2013. Benedict's election as pope occurred in the 2005 papal conclave that followed the death of Pope John Paul II. Upon his resignation, Benedict chose to be known as "Pope emeritus", and he retained this title until his death in 2022.Ordained as a priest in 1951 in his native Bavaria, Ratzinger embarked on an academic career and established himself as a highly regarded theologian by the late 1950s. He was appointed a full professor in 1958 when aged 31. After a long career as a professor of theology at several German universities, he was appointed Archbishop of Munich and Freising and created a cardinal by Pope Paul VI in 1977, an unusual promotion for someone with little pastoral experience. In 1981, he was appointed Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, one of the most important dicasteries of the Roman Curia. From 2002 until he was elected pope, he was also Dean of the College of Cardinals. Before becoming pope, he had been "a major figure on the Vatican stage for a quarter of a century"; he had had an influence "second to none when it came to setting church priorities and directions" as one of John Paul II's closest confidants.Benedict's writings were prolific and generally defended traditional Catholic doctrine, values, and liturgy. He was originally a liberal theologian but adopted conservative views after 1968. During his papacy, Benedict advocated a return to fundamental Christian values to counter the increased secularisation of many Western countries. He viewed relativism's denial of objective truth, and the denial of moral truths in particular, as the central problem of the 21st century. Benedict also revived several traditions and permitted greater use of the Tridentine Mass. He strengthened the relationship between the Catholic Church and art, promoted the use of Latin, and reintroduced traditional papal vestments, for which reason he was called "the pope of aesthetics". He also established personal ordinariates for former Anglicans and Methodists joining the Catholic Church. Benedict's handling of sexual abuse cases within the Catholic Church and opposition to usage of condoms in areas of high HIV transmission was substantially criticised by public health officials, anti-AIDS activists, and victim's rights organizations.On 11 February 2013, Benedict announced his (effective 28 February 2013) resignation, citing a "lack of strength of mind and body" due to his advanced age. His resignation was the first by a pope since Gregory XII in 1415, and the first without external pressure since Celestine V in 1294. He was succeeded by Francis on 13 March 2013 and moved into the newly renovated Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in Vatican City for his retirement. In addition to his native German language, Benedict had some level of proficiency in French, Italian, English, and Spanish. He also knew Portuguese, Latin, Biblical Hebrew, and Biblical Greek. He was a member of several social science academies, such as the French Académie des Sciences Morales et Politiques.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 03:27 UTC on Tuesday, 22 April 2025.For the full current version of the article, see Pope Benedict XVI 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 Niamh.

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, uses the famous painting known as “Checkmate” to demonstrate how life is like a game of chess with Satan as our opponent. He points out how Jesus the King always has one more move to defeat Satan. When it comes to the crucifixion of Jesus, His resurrection was a move unanticipated by his enemies and skeptics. Dr. Hall reviews many of the theories to explain the empty tomb. A discussion of why Pilate, a Roman provincial official had Jesus executed is undertaken. Dr. Hall points out that the ascension of Jesus Christ is another unexpected move that affirmed his divinity. The podcast concludes as Dr. Hall points out that even in the deepest darkest and most depressing times Jesus the King always has one more move. Can also be viewed on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/ZFHgAbKKf9M

What was Jesus doing on Holy Saturday? While the world lay silent, Christ was at work- accomplishing in His Spirit what He had completed in the flesh. In this episode, the hosts of the FAD & Dad podcast, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Joshua Burks, join Jessica to explore the hidden glory of Christ's descent into the realm of the dead and what it means for us today.Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess discuss:What the Church means when it says Jesus "descended into Hell"The famous Holy Saturday reading from the Office of Readings- and what it reveals about Christ's mission to the deadHow to pray and live the missionary spirit of Holy Saturday, even in silenceThis episode also includes practical advice for entering into prayer on Holy Saturday, a day that invites us to trust that God is working- even when all seems still.Father Andrew Dickinson is a priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Ordained in 2006 he has served in the diocese in various capacities, including 11 years as the director of the Pius XII Newman Center serving the campus of South Dakota State University where he had the privilege of working with FOCUS missionaries those 11 years. Father Andrew currently serves as the pastor of 4 parishes in the diocese aided by 2 priests and one deacon. He also serves his Bishop as a Vicar General. If he has a FOCUS claim to fame it is through his brother, who was in the original bible study led by Dr. Sri in the 1990s. Joshua Burks is an Associate Teacher at The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies in Lincoln, NE. He teaches primarily on New Testament texts and themes, but enjoys any opportunity to bring clarity and conviction to engaging with Christ in the Scriptures. Previous to his time teaching, Joshua spent four years as a missionary and Team Director with FOCUS at South Dakota State University. Next to love of God is his love for his wife, Elizabeth, and their four rambunctious boys. 

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, tells the story of Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. He paints the picture of this parade into Jerusalem with Jesus mounted on a donkey followed by crowds of people shouting, waving palm branches and throwing their cloaks on the ground for this caravan to pass over. He compares it to a parade welcoming home a sports champion. It is pointed out that the Jews expected him to be a warrior king to overthrow the Roman oppressor. The message that Jesus was sending by arriving on donkey is discussed. Dr. Hall also analyzes the symbolism of of the palm branches and the robes and cloaks tossed on the ground at the feet of Jesus' donkey. Jesus came as a servant king, not a warrior king. The podcast ends with the reason that Jesus cried when He saw Jerusalem. Can be heard on all podcast search engines and viewed on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/Vn1w4ywfF2U.

 Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, uses the recent violence aimed at Tesla dealerships and Tesla vehicles along with the 2020 Black Lives Matter and ANTIFA ransacking of over 200 American cities to demonstrate how violent and destructive protests have become commonplace. He points out the correlation between the acceptance of these attacks on our citizens and decline in church attendance. He uses recent surveys that shockingly reveal that more than half of US adults believe Jesus is not God. Furthermore, the surveys demonstrate that only 51% of Americans consider God to be “all powerful, all-knowing, perfect and just creator of the universe who still rules the world today” Dr. Hall uses this backdrop to talk about who Jesus is. Although Jesus never said, “I am God” his words and miraculous feats were things that only God could do. Dr. Hall addresses accusations made about Jesus that come from doubters. The podcast ends with an explanation about why Jesus came. Can be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/kk80deeedR8.

Today on Sense of Soul we have Rabbi Matthew Ponak, he is a teacher of Jewish mysticism, a spiritual counselor, and the author of Embodied Kabbalah: Jewish Mysticism for All People. Ordained with honors at the neo-Hasidic Rabbinical School of Hebrew College, he also holds a Master's degree in Contemplative Religions from the Buddhist-inspired Naropa University. Rabbi Matthew lives in Victoria, British Columbia and is certified as a Focusing Professional to guide others to deeper self-knowledge and healing through their bodies. Rabbi Matthew Ponak's new book, The Path of the Sephirot, comes out in April 2025. It is an experiential guide to counting the 49 days of the Omer, the period of time between the springtime holidays of Passover and Shavuot. In his latest offering, Rabbi Matthew combines traditional Kabbalah with practical everyday wisdom to help seekers of any background access the spiritual potential of this expansive time of year. https://a.co/d/3hqdNR5 To learn more about him, his offerings and speaking engagements, visit https://matthewponak.com Join the journey of The Path of the Sephiroth  https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/kabbalah-and-the-49-gates-counting-the-omer-for-spiritual-growth-tickets-1242543253319

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ TELL SOMEONE ABOUT THE MORNING MINDSET - Your personal recommendation can make an eternal difference in the lives of the people you know! STEP ONE: Go to http://YourMorningMindset.com STEP TWO: Share that page with someone you know! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Romans 16:25–27 - [25] Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages [26] but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith—[27] to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen. (ESV) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION podcast: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION podcast: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: Subscribe to the SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish Subscribe to the HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, and his special guest Geoff Hall explore impatience. A malady described as the inability or unwillingness to wait or tolerate a delay of any kind. They describe some of the ways that the modern malady of inpatience shows up. Some of the things that trigger impatience are outlined. An attempt is made to compare patience with procrastination. The impact of impatience on our lives, relationships and even our health are described. Some things that can be done to overcome impatience are viewed since all of us will experience times when we are impatience. It's pointed out that for Christians patience is fundamental to their journey. When challenges arise, it is an invitation from God to endure, reminding us that every great thing takes time. Several Scripture verses are used to point out how patience is essential to the Christian faith. Patience is not just about waiting, is about trust. Trials, both large and small, shape us and draws us closer to Jesus. Can be heard on all podcast search engines and viewed on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/paHsPI3k5Jk.

The next Say Yes Summit is April 15th & 16th! Join us for just $47.The Say YES Sisterhood is here! Join a vibrant community of women who are embracing their dreams, reclaiming their joy, and living life with intention. Join Say YES Sisterhood today.In this soulful and thought-provoking episode, Wendy sits down with Rabbi and Cantor Judy Greenfeld for a heartfelt conversation on embracing life's transitions with courage and faith. They explore the power of reframing challenges—whether it's facing divorce, navigating physical limitations, or stepping into the unknown—and creating certainty in uncertain times. Together, they discuss the beauty of softening into resistance, trusting life's timing, and anchoring into what truly nourishes the soul. This conversation is a reminder that surrender isn't weakness—it's a doorway to transformation.About Judy:Judy Greenfeld is a Rabbi/Cantor, lifelong entrepreneur, and published author dedicated to empowering forward-thinkers to evolve through ancient wisdom and modern wellness. At 16, Judy tragically lost her father to gun violence, a profound experience that ignited her lifelong journey of healing and spiritual exploration. Through years of study and practice in somatic dance, dream work, meditation, sound healing, and Kabbalah, she developed a unique approach to personal and communal transformation. Ordained as a Rabbi/Cantor, she founded Nachshon Minyan, a welcoming community for unaffiliated Jews seeking to rewrite their negative stories about religion, and now serves as Senior Rabbi/Cantor at Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas. Beyond her Rabbinical duties, Judy's mission is to cultivate inclusive spaces where people of all backgrounds can come together, find support, and explore a path of self-discovery and shared purpose.Connect with Judy:RabbiCantorJudy.orgOn Instagram @rabbicantorjudygBook Your Free 30-Minute Discovery Call________________________________________________________________________________________ Say YES to joining Wendy for her: Say YES Sisterhood PWH Farm StaysPWH Curated France TripsInstagram: @phineaswrighthouseFacebook: Phineas Wright HouseWebsite: Phineas Wright HousePodcast Production By Resonant Collective Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!Thank you for listening to the Say YES to yourself! podcast. It would mean the world if you would take one minute to follow, leave a 5-star review, and share with a friend.

Daily Study: When you work, you rightfully earn the paycheck that comes with it. Similarly, when you operate in the calling God has given you, you should experience prosperity through that calling.  Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com                  

Full Text of ReadingsFriday of the Second Week of Lent Lectionary: 234The Saint of the day is Blessed John of ParmaBlessed John of Parma's Story The seventh general minister of the Franciscan Order, John was known for his attempts to bring back the earlier spirit of the Order after the death of Saint Francis of Assisi. He was born in Parma, Italy, in 1209. It was when he was a young philosophy professor known for his piety and learning that God called him to bid good-bye to the world he was used to and enter the new world of the Franciscan Order. After his profession, John was sent to Paris to complete his theological studies. Ordained to the priesthood, he was appointed to teach theology at Bologna, then Naples, and finally Rome. In 1245, Pope Innocent IV called a general council in the city of Lyons, France. Crescentius, the Franciscan minister general at the time, was ailing and unable to attend. In his place he sent Friar John, who made a deep impression on the Church leaders gathered there. Two years later, when the same pope presided at the election of a minister general of the Franciscans, he remembered Friar John well and held him up as the man best qualified for the office. And so in 1247, John of Parma was elected to be minister general. The surviving disciples of St. Francis rejoiced in his election, expecting a return to the spirit of poverty and humility of the early days of the Order. And they were not disappointed. As general of the Order, John traveled on foot, accompanied by one or two companions, to practically all of the Franciscan convents in existence. Sometimes he would arrive and not be recognized, remaining there for a number of days to test the true spirit of the brothers. The pope called on John to serve as legate to Constantinople, where he was most successful in winning back the schismatic Greeks. Upon his return, he asked that someone else take his place to govern the Order. At John's urging, Saint Bonaventure was chosen to succeed him. John took up a life of prayer in the hermitage at Greccio. Many years later, John learned that the Greeks who had been reconciled with the Church for a time, had relapsed into schism. Though 80 years old by then, John received permission from Pope Nicholas IV to return to the East in an effort to restore unity once again. On his way, John fell sick and died. He was beatified in 1781. The liturgical feast of Blessed John of Parma is celebrated on March 20. Reflection In the 13th century, people in their 30s were middle-aged; hardly anyone lived to the ripe old age of 80. John did, but he didn't ease into retirement. Instead he was on his way to try to heal a schism in the Church when he died. Our society today boasts a lot of folks in their later decades. Like John, many of them lead active lives. But some aren't so fortunate. Weakness or ill health keeps them confined and lonely—waiting to hear from us. Saints Francis and Clare: Something Old, Something New Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

What if the key to deepening our faith isn't just surrender, but wrestling with God?In this episode, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Josh Burks return to talk about Jesus' Agony in the Garden. Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess discuss:Parallels between Jesus' Agony in the Garden and the patriarch Jacob wrestling with God through the nightHow Jesus' prayer in the Agony in the Garden can inform our own prayer when we are sufferingSpiritual advice for those who find themselves wrestling with GodFather Andrew Dickinson is a priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Ordained in 2006 he has served in the diocese in various capacities, including 11 years as the director of the Pius XII Newman Center serving the campus of South Dakota State University where he had the privilege of working with FOCUS missionaries those 11 years. Father Andrew currently serves as the pastor of 4 parishes in the diocese aided by 2 priests and one deacon. He also serves his Bishop as a Vicar General. If he has a FOCUS claim to fame it is through his brother, who was in the original bible study led by Dr. Sri in the 1990s. Joshua Burks is an Associate Teacher at The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies in Lincoln, NE. He teaches primarily on New Testament texts and themes, but enjoys any opportunity to bring clarity and conviction to engaging with Christ in the Scriptures. Previous to his time teaching, Joshua spent four years as a missionary and Team Director with FOCUS at South Dakota State University. Next to love of God is his love for his wife, Elizabeth, and their four rambunctious boys. 

In this episode, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Josh Burks, the hosts of the FAD and Dad podcast, return to unveil theological elements in the Biblical accounts of the Last Supper.Jess, Fr. Andrew, and Josh discuss:The 4 cups of a Passover meal and how we see them in the Last SupperJesus washing the disciples feet and the tradition of the washing of the feet in the Holy Thursday MassJesus' deep desire for unity in His Church and His High Priestly PrayerFather Andrew Dickinson is a priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Ordained in 2006 he has served in the diocese in various capacities, including 11 years as the director of the Pius XII Newman Center serving the campus of South Dakota State University where he had the privilege of working with FOCUS missionaries those 11 years. Father Andrew currently serves as the pastor of 4 parishes in the diocese aided by 2 priests and one deacon. He also serves his Bishop as a Vicar General. If he has a FOCUS claim to fame it is through his brother, who was in the original bible study led by Dr. Sri in the 1990s. Joshua Burks is an Associate Teacher at The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies in Lincoln, NE. He teaches primarily on New Testament texts and themes, but enjoys any opportunity to bring clarity and conviction to engaging with Christ in the Scriptures. Previous to his time teaching, Joshua spent four years as a missionary and Team Director with FOCUS at South Dakota State University. Next to love of God is his love for his wife, Elizabeth, and their four rambunctious boys. 

This Devotional address with Elder David A. and Sister Susan K. Bednar was delivered on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 5:00 PM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. David A. Bednar was ordained and set apart as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on October 7, 2004. Prior to his call, Elder Bednar served as an Area Authority Seventy, as an Area Authority, as a Regional Representative, twice as a stake president, and as a bishop. Elder Bednar was born on June 15, 1952, in Oakland, California. He served as a full-time missionary in Southern Germany and then attended Brigham Young University, where he received his bachelor's and master's degrees. He also received a doctoral degree in organizational behavior from Purdue University. After completing his education, Elder Bednar was a professor of business management at Texas Tech University and at the University of Arkansas. He then served as the president of BYU-Idaho from 1997-2004. Elder and Sister Bednar were married in the Salt Lake Temple on March 20, 1975, and they are the parents of three sons. Susan Kae Robinson Bednar was born and reared in Afton, Wyoming. She is the daughter of Kay and Nyla Clement Robinson. Sister Bednar graduated from BYU with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. She taught first grade for two years and was involved with institutions of higher education with her husband at Texas Tech University, the University of Arkansas, and BYU-Idaho. In the Church Sister Bednar has served as Primary president, Primary chorister, Young Women president, Gospel Doctrine teacher, and ward organist.

We're continuing our conversation with Rev. Dr. David Rice about confronting Christian nationalism—a topic we're diving into because of the ways that it can deeply affect our faith, our communities, and how we engage with one another in this shifting cultural and political landscape. In our last episode, David shared his personal story—how his upbringing, ministry experiences, and cultural shifts shaped his understanding of faith and politics. We explored the unique challenges pastors face in addressing these issues from the pulpit and the tension of being accused of getting "too political" when speaking out about national concerns. If you haven't had a chance to listen yet, we encourage you to go back and catch up on that conversation first. In this episode, we'll dig deeper into: What Christian nationalism is and why it's a critical issue for people of faith, Our collective longing for control—something humanity has wrestled with since the very beginning—and how this longing fuels Christian nationalism, And how we can thoughtfully engage with our friends, neighbors, and fellow believers in conversations about these challenging issues. We hope our conversation with David sparks some new thoughts or insights into how power is being used, where our faith fits into these conversations, and how we can move forward in meaningful, compassionate ways. About Our Guest: Rev. Dr. David Rice is BJC's digital strategist, leading online engagement for the organization and its Christians Against Christian Nationalism campaign. BJC is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that brings people together to tackle today's serious threats to religious liberty, including the targeting of religious minorities, the rise of Christian nationalism, and the politicization of houses of worship. Ordained in the American Baptist Churches USA, Rice joined BJC's staff in 2024 after previously serving in rural parish ministry and starting his own communications consulting firm. Rice earned a Doctor of Ministry degree in missiology and organizational leadership from Western Theological Seminary and a Master of Divinity degree from the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology. His undergraduate degree is from Huntington University, where he studied youth ministry and Bible. Rice, who has lived on the West Coast and in the UK, now lives in Michigan with his family. He enjoys cycling, gardening, cross-country skiing, sourdough bread baking, traveling, and Arsenal football.  

Rabbi Lauren Tuchman is a sought after speaker, spiritual leader, and educator who was ordained by The Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) in 2018.She teaches, consults with, and provides workshops and trainings to individuals and organizations within and outside of the Jewish community on a variety of matters pertinent to disability access and inclusion. She was named to the Jewish Week's 36 under 36 for her innovative leadership concerning inclusion of Jews with disabilities in all aspects of Jewish life. In 2017, she delivered an ELI Talk entitled We All Were At Sinai: The Transformative Power of Inclusive Torah. She is the world's first ordained blind woman Rabbi .Rabbi Lauren and I met in a two-year Jewish Meditation Teacher's Training program.She is a bright light in the Jewish world.find her herehttps://rabbituchman.com/enjoyto help support the Holy Sparks Podcastplease make a tax deductible donation hereHoly Sparks DONATIONShttp://igfn.us/form/haHSSQ

Episode Summary:John Dominic Crossan is the world's most prominent Jesus scholar. He joins me today on Holy Heretics to discuss what we can, and what we cannot, know about the life of this first century Jewish peasant. Unlike traditional theological portrayals of Jesus, which center primarily on his death and resurrection, Crossan's scholarship focuses on the historicity of Jesus. Who was he? What evidence do we have to support his existence? Instead of asking why Jesus died, Crossan has spent decades unearthing the reasons Jesus lived.For Crossan, Jesus was a radical social revolutionary who confronted Roman oppression and attempted to live into an alternative version of reality. His portrayal challenges conventional Christian perspectives that see Jesus primarily as a divine figure who came to die for our sins.In books like The Historical Jesus: The Life of a Mediterranean Jewish Peasant (1991), Crossan presents Jesus as a figure who opposed both Roman imperial rule and the hierarchical structures of Jewish society. He describes Jesus' movement as one of radical inclusivity and nonviolent resistance. Crossan's work has been controversial, particularly among conservative Christians, because he downplays the supernatural aspects of Jesus' life, including the literal resurrection. Instead, he sees the resurrection as a symbolic event representing the triumph of Jesus' teachings.I'm delighted to share our conversation with you! If you are interested in learning more about the historical Jesus, this episode is a fantastic introduction. By challenging conventional wisdom and introducing his rigorous historical methods, Dom Crossan invites listeners to meet Jesus again for the first time.BIO:John Dominic Crossan is an Irish-born American theologian and former Roman Catholic priest best known for his association with the Jesus Seminar. Upon graduating from high school in Letterkenny, Ireland, in 1950, Crossan moved to Chicago, where he joined the Servites, a Roman Catholic monastic order. Ordained a priest in 1957, he returned to Ireland to study at St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, and received a doctorate in theology in 1959. He then studied at the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome for two years before returning to his Servite community to teach.In 1965 he began study at the École Biblique et Archaéologie Française de Jérusalem (French Institute of Bible and Archaeology, Jerusalem). Two years later he returned to Chicago to join the faculty of the Chicago Catholic Theological Union. In 1969 he resigned from the Servite priesthood, citing a longing for academic freedom and his intention to marry. He soon joined the faculty of religious studies at Chicago's DePaul University, where he taught until his retirement in 1995.Crossan continues to write and lecture today. His most insightful books include The Last Week: What the Gospels Really Teach About Jesus' Final Days in Jerusalem, The First Paul, God and Empire, andJesus: A Revolutionary Biography.Please follow us on social media (use the buttons below) and help us get the word out! (Also, please don't hesitate to use any of these channels or email to contact us with any questions, concerns, or feedback.)If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review, or share on your socials

In this episode of Discover Lafayette, we are honored to welcome Father Howard Blessing, a retired Catholic priest in the Diocese of Lafayette. Ordained in 1976 at the age of 25, Father Blessing has dedicated his life to serving others through his pastoral work at various parishes, including Saint Patrick Catholic Church, Holy Cross, Fatima, Sacred Heart of Ville Platte, and as chaplain at Our Lady of Lourdes. Today, he continues his ministry with Kent Zerangue through Food for Love, a mission providing meals to hospice patients and their families. Beyond his priestly duties, Father Blessing has a fascinating backstory—including winning a Dancing with the Stars competition at the Academy of the Sacred Heart with his friend Angi Davis! However, what truly defines him is his unwavering compassion and deep spiritual wisdom, which he shares in this moving conversation. Key Topics Discussed: The Calling to Priesthood: Growing up as one of seven children, Father Blessing did not consider becoming a priest until college. His journey has been one of continuous learning, as he believes that every person he encounters teaches him something valuable about life and faith.  The Power of Listening: Through his work with parishioners and those in recovery, Father Blessing has learned that true ministry is about being present, listening without judgment, and validating people's experiences rather than dictating solutions. The Journey from Woundedness to Wholeness: As a recovering alcoholic, Father Blessing speaks candidly about self-worth, healing, and forgiveness. He emphasizes that behavior does not define a person—everyone is inherently valuable and worthy of love. Forgiveness as a Spiritual Practice: Father Blessing shares how forgiveness is central to his faith and personal journey. He explains that it is an act of will that unblocks the spiritual path, allowing grace and love to flow freely.  Recognizing Our Own Worth: Inspired by Gandhi's wisdom, he discusses the importance of self-love and acceptance. The greatest invention, he believes, is the mirror—because the person looking back simply wants to be loved. Marriage and Relationships: Having counseled many couples, Father Blessing offers insights into the challenges of marriage. He stresses that true partnership is about growth, patience, and understanding, rather than relying on another person for happiness.  The Art of Silence and Reflection: In a fast-paced, noisy world, Father Blessing advocates for stillness and deep introspection. He believes that in silence, we hear God's voice and discover our true selves. Wisdom from Hospice Patients: Through his work with Food for Love, he has encountered individuals at the end of life who have found peace, letting go of fear and embracing the journey ahead. Their reflections have profoundly impacted his understanding of life and death. Living with Purpose: Father Blessing humorously notes that when he retired, he told people, “If my garage door is open, I'm open.” He continues to be available to those in need, emphasizing that life's journey is about embracing transformation and being open to growth. Faith, Identity, and Love: He reminds us that we are not defined by our careers or achievements but by who we are as children of God. True fulfillment comes from embracing our divine essence and loving others unconditionally. Memorable Quotes: “The greatest invention in the world is the mirror, because the person looking back at you just wants to be loved.” “Forgiveness unclogs the arteries of our spiritual lives and allows grace to flow through us.” “We are called to listen and walk with people, not to tell them what to do.” “God is the potter, we are the clay. Life is about allowing ourselves to be shaped and molded.” “Love is the remedy. And sometimes, with gritted teeth, you just do.” This conversation with Father Howard Blessing is an inspiring reminder of...