American author and radio host
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Patrick answers questions that range from the morality of working for an alcohol distributor to what happens to the souls of unborn babies, and whether people can become angels after death. Listeners open up about addiction, struggles with faith, and complicated religious topics like Christ’s knowledge as both human and divine; Patrick responds with a balance of candid stories and theological clarity. He moves between practical dilemmas, heartfelt stories, and doctrinal mysteries with a pace that’s anything but predictable. Patrick continues his conversation with Mark from the end of the last hour as they talk about cursing in movies (00:33) Mike - What did Jesus know in His human nature vs what He knew in His divine nature? (05:51) Troy - I am a Christian and started working for a nationally known distribution company that ships pallets of alcohol. Is this sinful for me to engage in this? (21:02) Mary - Where do the souls of unborn babies go to? (28:47) Joe - I think, when you hit rock bottom, that is when you come to the cross. (39:34)
Patrick wrestles with the rise of foul language in daily life, pulling in emails and thoughtful calls to weigh how movies and workplaces normalize swearing. Practical ideas like media filtering services and scriptural reflections tumble in, stirring lively back-and-forth about raising children and fostering respect. A sudden shift brings up deep questions about biblical history and the nature of God beyond time, all woven together in Patrick’s signature blend of candor and humor. Karen (email) - Is St John Henry Newman the same person as St John Newman? (00:28) Jane (email) - Do people swear more at work nowadays than they did decades ago? (01:37) James (email) - I sometimes hear other Catholics say that swearing is ok. I refer them to Col 3:8. I also tell my children that he who curses lives a cursed life. (11:23) Nicki - On the topic of movies and language, we have a special program that allows us to take out bad language. (13:26) Todd - As a Catholic man, I ignore it when people take God's name in vain. During Lent, I gave up profanity and I had a great change in my life. (22:11) Gale - There is an app called VidAngel that removes cuss words and avoids sex scenes and nudity. (26:39) Nancy - How do we know that the Jews are the Chosen people? Also how do we know that God is out of time and space in relation to Purgatory? (29:11) Patrick shares more bible versus in response to God being outside of time (39:23) Mark - I agree and have trouble with bad language. Can it be good in story telling for adults? Mark Twain used the N word sometimes. (47:45)
Patrick kicks off the show with news of Pope Leo's surprise appearance at the Jubilee of Youth and his heartfelt words to young people gathering in Rome. Shifting tone, Patrick unpacks the life of St. John Henry Newman, tracing his unexpected journey from Anglican critic to Catholic convert and soon-to-be Doctor of the Church, while listener calls spark practical wisdom about conscience, daily Catholic living, and the turmoil of scrupulosity. Pastoral advice meets snippets of history and lively conversation, leaving listeners with both fresh perspective and food for thought. Pope Leo XIV made a surprise appearance in St. Peter’s Square on Tuesday evening to greet the thousands of participants at the welcoming Mass for the Jubilee of Youth. (00:51) St John Henry Newman set to become newest Doctor of the Church (03:51) Elizabeth - I am paying someone out of pocket for childcare. I realize this is wrong. How can I make this better? (21:22) Sean – “Lead Kindly Light” is a famous hymn that was written by Cardinal Newman (34:06) John - My son is getting married civilly but I want him to get married in the Church. You said you can do civil wedding after, but the priest is telling me we have to do civil wedding first. (39:02) Morgan (email) – Does God change his mind? (46:33)
Patrick fields honest questions from callers about sin, suffering, and spiritual growth, and responds with scripture, stories of saints, and practical encouragement for families struggling to keep faith alive amid work and changing traditions. He slips in candid thoughts on the Traditional Latin Mass, suggests resources for Protestants considering Catholicism, and offers simple acts of charity for those encountering homelessness, letting each topic flow from personal experience and caller connection. Marion - Does God really punish sin in our personal lives, and as a nation, like in the Old Testament? (01:39) Dennis - The Latin Mass is very holy. I want the Relevant Radio audience to know how holy it is. (12:16) Marie - How do you keep adult children Catholic when you feel them drifting away? How do you not feel resentment to your spouse? (13:16) Robert - A lot of destitute people are in my town. I am retired now and feel bad that I can't do more for these people. I always think of Lazarus and the rich man. I feel terrible. Do you have any advice? (30:30) Andrew (email) – The Walton’s was the first show I can recall on TV that brought up anti-Catholic views on TV (34:30) Steve - Does a person who knows what the Church teaches, but does not convert, be saved? (41:03) Melanie - Confession and Penance: I know a teenager forgot his penance and I also was not given a penance. What do you do when this happens? (48:28)
Patrick brings listeners through fresh archaeological findings—could a 3,800-year-old inscription mention Moses, and what do modern discoveries say about Pontius Pilate? He tackles the perils of early smartphone access for kids, shares raw stories of faith and community resilience from callers, and offers thoughtful guidance on real-life ethical puzzles, all while weaving in personal memories, playful banter, and on-the-spot reactions. Mysterious message 'from Moses' found in ancient Egyptian mine could prove the Bible true (00:36) Kids Who Get Smartphones Before 13 Face Skyrocketing Suicide Risk, Study Warns (09:34) Patrick finishes the “cliff hanger” from the end of the 2nd hour where he’s talking about the thorn in St. Paul’s flesh (21:59) Sean - I love your voice and mustache. I have been in the hospital for 21 days because of an automobile accident. Thank you, Patrick! (25:44) Mary Ann - What should a good Catholic do when there is an ethical mistake made on a rental/lease? (36:01) Michael - For the first Friday devotion and the First Saturday Devotion, could I go to Confession one time to serve both requirements? (45:48)
Patrick welcomes listeners to a hour packed with unexpected turns, heartfelt advice, and real human challenges as he answers questions about faith, the struggle of unanswered prayers, and the pain of homelessness voiced by callers like Rose. Compassion comes through as he connects people with tangible support, tackles fears of returning to confession, and genuinely wrestles with what trust in God looks like in the everyday mess. Florence (email) - How do we know, when we don’t receive, it’s because of a lack of faith or it’s not God’s will? (01:07) Rose - There are many homeless people who are decent people who are on the streets in NJ because of tenant/landlord problems in certain areas. (07:41) Melody - My best friend didn't want to go to Communion because she was afraid as she has just returned to the faith. Should I encourage her to go? (14:31) Annabelle - We pray the Memorare to end abortion. Why don't we pray for adoption and foster care more? Is it right to pray for this person who died? (21:45) Theresa (email) - Doesn't the person who is handling the host and the monstrance have to have consecrated hands and to be a man? Can you clarify for me how and if this is acceptable to the Church's teaching, doctrine or tradition? (34:44) Ozzie - We have a mutual friend who is Pentecostal and said she would go to our service if we went to hers. Is this ok? (40:30) Jim – Confession: Those of us who go regularly, know who the good confessors are. They can make an appointment with the right priest for someone who needs it. (44:25)
Patrick fields heartfelt questions from callers wrestling with faith and real-life dilemmas, offering practical Catholic wisdom for tangled family issues, temptations, and honest living. Unfiltered stories pour in—uncertainty about sending a child to Catholic school, the weight of confessing real sins, confusion about purgatory in scripture—sparking advice that’s candid and immediate. Every answer, shaped by deep faith and a dash of humor, brings both clarity and encouragement to listeners craving guidance. Ruby - How do I handle when my husband wants me to sign something that would be dishonest (00:51) Clifton - Why did Jesus only spend 2 nights in the tomb instead of 3 nights? (07:38) Lorraina - I have a 6-year-old daughter, and my sister is willing to pay for the first year of Catholic school. I am still not sure if I should send her to Catholic or a public school. (12:19) Peter (14-years-old) - How has God been in existence forever? (21:15) Danny - 7th Day Adventist and Calvary Chapel denominations: What are their objections to Catholicism and how do we overcome them? (37:18) Luisa - How can we avoid falling into sin? (45:11)
Patrick opens the hour turning his attention to a recent Stanford study suggesting COVID-19 vaccine benefits might have been overstated, sparking a raw and honest exchange about public trust, mandates, and the fallout on those who refused the shot. As calls come in, Patrick listens to a moving story from a lifelong Mormon feeling pulled towards Catholicism, then offers heartfelt, practical direction to Jenny, a convert wrestling with obstacles on her path to the Church. Conversations zigzag between faith and personal struggle with a sincerity that refuses to gloss over the hard parts. Stanford-led study finds COVID vaccines saved far fewer lives than previously reported (00:36) Todd - The Holy Spirit is alive and well in Relevant Radio. (12:26) Email - I've been listening to you and Relevant Radio daily for about 3 months and have been feeling a swelling desire to become part of the great Catholic family but have no idea how to start. (18:13) Jenny - I am not Catholic and have been seeking the faith since 2022. I have an annulment, but I am told that my Catholic husband must come back to the faith. Is this true? (32:45)
Patrick reads a heartbreaking email from Aaron, a Catholic school teacher shattered by loss, and shares how to talk honestly with children about death, original sin, and God's love without shrinking from their pain. He encourages Vivian as she wrestles with unending prayers for her son, blending stories of faith, persistence, and humility in the face of unanswered questions. When young Guadalupe calls in, Patrick breaks down the substance and words behind each sacrament, meeting curiosity with clarity and warmth, giving listeners both comfort and challenge as the morning unfolds. Aaron (email) – A young boy was just tragically killed. Why does God allow this? (00:52) Jocelyn - How long should I pray for any prayer intention? (17:44) Aaron – Thank you for responding to my email. I appreciate your comments. (30:56) Amanda (email) – There was a wandering dog at Mass (38:14) Guadalupe (11-years-old) - What are the sacraments made out of? (42:21)
It All Started at a Tea Party... Rosalie from Chula Vista calls in after attending a “Deanery Tea Party” (which, btw, sounds like something Jane Austen would've loved) where a little girl asked a whopper of a question: “Is everyone going to die?” Rosalie’s friend was troubled that the adult nearby didn’t offer any spiritual explanation... just the cold, hard facts. So, Rosalie did what any good Catholic would do: she called Patrick Madrid. How Do You Tell a Child About Death Without Freaking Them Out? Patrick, being the dad of 11 kids and a wise Catholic thinker, totally gets it. We live in a culture that avoids death like kale at a kid’s birthday party. We want youth, health, and Instagram filters, not funeral talk. But here’s the truth from Patrick:
Patrick fields heartfelt and challenging questions from listeners, offering practical insight on topics like guardian angels, Catholic parish life, and faith-filled responses to healing ministries outside the Church. He shares personal anecdotes, guides listeners through nuanced teachings on prayer, Mass intentions, and the ethics of birth control, all while weaving in stories of hidden holiness and real-world struggles. Allison (email) - I just got off the phone with you about the healing ministry school at the parish. My main concern was because the ministry is not specifically Catholic, is it ok to do? (00:32) Zachary - Do guardian angels hear our prayers to them if we mumble? Are we supposed to meditate on what is in the mystery of the Rosary? (06:04) Laurie - You praise the Walton's a lot, but they don't go to Catholic Church. Is it still ok to watch them? (12:16) Pat - A woman my son knows wants to become a Bride of Christ. What does this mean? (19:40) Tom – I am physically disabled and people ask to pray with me, but I find it annoying that they can’t accept the fact that I’m in a wheelchair. Do you have any advice? (24:40) Charlotte (email) – I am considering changing parishes from the Military Diocese (I am retired military) to a parish in my community and I have a child that is 12 and will need to receive Confirmation (28:45) James (email) - I was reflecting on Sunday’s first reading, Genesis 18:20–32, where Abraham pleads with God to spare Sodom and Gomorrah if even ten righteous people can be found. It made me wonder—could it be that in our own time, it’s just a small number of truly holy people who are holding back God’s justice? (31:13) Jackie - Can evil control or hear our thoughts? (35:53)
Patrick opens the phones to callers wrestling with Catholic parenting, tech boundaries, and choosing family-friendly shows like “The Waltons,” reflecting on the hard lessons and simple wisdom he’s gained. Listeners press him on tough issues such as guiding resistant teens in matters of faith, shifting family dynamics after conversion, and responding to Church disputes over controversial topics, especially where tradition and current culture conflict. With each exchange, Patrick moves between encouragement, practical advice, and sharp caution—challenging both assumptions and methods, whether it’s dealing with fee-charging healing ministries or understanding biblical language about the heavens. Jenny - Have you ever considered writing a parenting book? (00:36) Susanne - Can I attend a Protestant Church as a Catholic? My husband and I are converts to Catholicism, but our children did not convert, and they are still minors. (10:27) Michael - How do we reconcile Pride Masses with our Catholic beliefs? (19:53) Allison - My parish is having healing ministry classes, and I am not sure if they are Catholic. (27:07) Kevin - What is the history of the Tabernacle? How did we end up with it in Christianity? (33:54) Dana - You just mentioned Dr. Peter Kreeft. I feel like his arguments are not convincing in making the case for Catholicism. (36:23) Heather - What is the best way to read the Catechism? (49:19)
Patrick opens the hour reflecting on late-night television’s shift from the genial wit of Johnny Carson to what he sees as the harsh, politicized comedy behind Stephen Colbert’s cancellation. He shares how digital life devours nearly half the waking day for most Americans and shares research revealing one-third of teens now turn to AI chatbots for emotional support rather than real people. A call from physicist Tom throws open the gates on AI’s privacy pitfalls and ethical quicksand, urging parents to recognize just how quickly children can slip away into digital intimacy with machines. ‘We’re With Colbert’ rally draws just 20 protesters. (00:58) Audio: Johnny Carson on why he doesn’t get into “serious” issues on The Tonight Show (05:45) Americans spend nearly half their day online — whether it’s work or play — ‘eye-opening’ poll shows (12:49) A 3rd of U.S. teens now say they prefer talking to AI companions over real friends (24:23) Tom - I am a physicist and AI pioneer. What you are discussing is super important. It promotes your confirmation bias just like humans do. Everything modern or recent takes precedence. I am dedicated to developing ethical AI. (39:21)
Patrick discusses why the Catholic Church doesn't do altar calls, can people that have near death experiences become like a healer, and I go to a doctor that practices traditional Chinese medicine. She is the only one that could help me when I was sick. She does have a gift, but in her consolatory she has Buddha and other images. Should I continue going to her? Theresa - When a young couple is expecting a child there is an assumption that they would be good for each other, but I don't think that is necessarily true. Doreen - Why when you go to the Catholic Church, don't they do altar calls? Why don't they get people filled with the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues? (She is non-denominational) Email – Lana: I had no mother when I was 13 and had no Catholic friends to guide me and am so grateful for what you do on your show. Claudia - Can people that have near death experiences become like a healer...Is this true? Would it be okay as a Catholic to see this healer? Judy - Litany of Loreto, any book or source to identify what all of those titles mean? Luisa - I go to a doctor that practices traditional Chinese medicine. She is the only one that could help me when I was sick. She does have a gift, but in her consolatory she has Buddha and other images. Should I continue going to her?
Patrick answers a question from Ann: Why do some people write the word God without the "O" and they replace the "O" with a hyphen? and how can we guide our children to choose Catholic partners for marriage instead of partners from other faiths? Email – Abby – I am around Cyrus’s age and was taught that the Israelites and the Jewish people have continued to be persecuted. Is God still angry with the Israelites? Anna - Why do some people write the word God without the "O" and they replace the "O" with a hyphen? Ann - I got invited to a baby shower for my nephew's Girlfriend who is pregnant. Can I go? Julia - How do you keep your kids Catholic in this woke world we live in? Also how can we guide our children to choose Catholic partners for marriage instead of partners from other faiths?
Patrick discusses how Christians should approach the trans issue, a non-Catholic being a principal at a Catholic school and did God destroy Sodom and Gomora because of a lack of hospitality or was it something else? Email – How is a Christian to approach the trans issue? Maria - What do you think about non-Catholics being principal at Catholic schools? Peter - Did God destroy Sodom and Gomora because of in hospitality or homosexuality? Jay - What is the Pope's authority in regards to non-religious issues like Politics? Juan - If I previously confessed my sin to a priest do I have to present them again at the last rites?
Patrick starts the hour off reading an email from Richard responding to yesterday's caller Michael about praying to Mary, Michael wants to now he can pray the Rosary while running or walking on the treadmill at his gym, and is it ever ok to lie? Plus, make sure to catch when Patrick and his wife shared about having their 11th child. Richard – In response to yesterday’s caller who was asking about the Memorare and praying to Mary. I have told people it is like asking someone to help you lift a couch. Michael – Can I pray the Rosary while on the treadmill? James – Is it ever ok to lie? Jillian - When is it necessary to advocate for our faith and when do we let it go? Patrick shares about the time he and his wife went to a restaurant where they shared with the waitresses they had an 11th child. Mary - What does "give us this day our daily bread" mean? It seems redundant to say day twice. Ron - Would you be able to lie if your life was in danger? It seems like you could.
Patrick shares a story about a time he went to Mass and had to leave during the homily, plus Joseph asks about public parish meals on Sunday, Sherry shares about her experience of God after cancer, Tracy has a question Jesus coming to judge the living and the dead and more. Ron - I wonder if there is a connection between mother and child is that allows the mom to hear her children in a crowded area? Joseph - is it wrong to have a public parish meal on Sunday? Sherry - I am 10 year cancer free. I used to curse God but my suffering brought me closer to Mary and God. Tracy - Why does Jesus have to come again to judge the living and the dead? Paul – Are the sins that you confessed brought up in the last judgement?
Patrick answers questions from Paul and Alex who emailed in. Paul wants to know if it is ok to lie about the ice cream truck music and Alex is wondering if lay people are held to the seal of Confession? Patrick answers these questions and tells about a time when he encountered a Jehovah's Witness at a donut shop. Email – Paula asks if it is ok to lie about the ice cream truck music. Email – Alex asks: Are we as lay people held to the seal of confession if we hear someone’s sins? Patty - How is it that when women are pregnant the child can heal them? What are the implications for women who had an abortion or miscarriage? Carol - Give us this day our daily bread: I think that it is more like asking God to give us what we need. Patrick shares about his experience talking to a Jehovah’s Witness when Patrick and his wife were at a donut store. Larry - I am an Ex Jehovah's Witness. Now that I am Catholic I want to fight against it. Suzie - My daughter is considering becoming a nun. How do we address this?
Patrick discusses a question from Nicole about whether growing a specific culture at Mass divides the parish, is the Bible ok with getting your ears pierced?, Alfredo wants to learn more about studying the Catechism plus other interesting and engaging topics. Email – Do you think we can make inroads to mass attendance if we continue to press the Eucharist and the Real Presence? Cindy – On serving the needs of both the Spanish speaking and English speaking communities at Mass. Kathleen – What are Patrick’s thoughts on how the Blessed Sacrament is to be reserved in the Tabernacle? Nicole - What if the pastor is being told to grow specific cultures in their parish? I think it is dividing the parish. I think we should go back to the Latin Mass to unify people. Mary Grace - Is there anything against getting your ears pierced in the bible? Alfredo - 1849 CCC: Do I need other books that Saint Augustine wrote in order to study the CCC?
Patrick reflects on his 1993 debate on Sola Scriptura that he had with Protestant apologist James White and also takes calls from listeners discussing getting their children baptized in the Byzantine Rite, rapture and revelation, and more. Patrick talks about a previous debate of his with James White that Christian Wagner reviewed on his X channel Andrea - I saw a Youtube video about 14 changes which Pope Leo is doing in the Church. Is that True? Justin - Rapture and revelation: People left here on earth, do they have a second chance to repent? Omar - I am thinking about getting my child baptized in the Byzantine rite since she would get all of her sacraments right away. Nick - You really spoke to me with this topic. It brought up great memories of me calling Carl Keating when I was a kid.
Patrick talks to Nathan concerning selling religious artwork to feed the homeless and the classic question, where is praying to Mary in the Bible. Patrick makes it clear that Catholics do not replace God with Mary, but that Our Lady intercedes to God on our behalf. Nathan - why doesn't the church sell priceless works of art to feed the homeless? Wayne - we have a parish near me with multiple languages and dialects. It’s beautiful to see how God reaches to everyone. Michael - Why do Catholics pray to Mary in prayers such as the Memorare?
Patrick shares a moving story about the Amish lending hands in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, expands on their traditions and roots, and invites listeners into a swirl of candid faith questions. He fields calls ranging from the hurdles foreign priests face to the trickiness of family support at interfaith weddings, circling around to a child’s simple but profound wonderings about God’s presence everywhere and the mystery of the Trinity. Inside every exchange and reflection, Patrick draws out what it means to live Catholic faith in the mess and beauty of ordinary days. Good News Story to start your day: Amish community becomes part of Chimney Rock's comeback story (01:17) Patrick gives a quick overview of Amish history (08:08) Joan - What do you think about the status of foreign priests having to leave the country? What can we do to help with this? (15:07) David - My wife worked with the Amish, and they can't have power lines but can have generators and solar cells. It is up to their bishop how much they can have. Most of them keep the cell phone in an outhouse. (23:08) Mary - If a couple got married in a Catholic Church where one is Catholic, but the other is not. Was the mother right in not attending the reception? (27:39) Gordon (6-years-old) - How is it that God can be everywhere at one time and how is it that God is three persons? (33:55) Sean - That Western Music you just played was from the movie Big Country (41:06) Joe - Can you receive grace from the Eucharist even if you are not a good Catholic? (42:06) Michelle - How is someone who doesn't go to Church still capable of doing good works? (45:41)
Patrick answers heartfelt questions from callers wrestling with faith, loss, and daily morality, shifting from clever family stories to deep, practical Church teachings on marriage, organ donation, and the importance of Sunday Mass. Conversations are honest and gritty, everything from childhood memories of ice cream trucks to the raw reality of homelessness, and through it all, Patrick’s guidance flows directly from the Catechism, personal experience, and genuine care. Listeners hear moments of laughter, regret, confusion, and hard-won clarity all in one episode. Yvonne - Billboards popping up that say Jesus is not God. What do you think of this? Also, an organization has contacted us to see if they can come in and take tissue from loved ones. (02:10) Joan - An elderly couple is in their late 70s and wants to get married. He is Jewish and she is Catholic. They have looked into getting permission from the bishop. Is this ok? (07:40) Marisela - I have been on both ends of the spectrum where I didn't care. Now I wouldn't miss Mass for anything. (11:19) James - When Patrick Madrid talks about what the Church teaches, what reference should I go to show people what he is saying is true? Is Romans 9:22 referring to predestination? (20:24) Michael - I appreciate all that you do and love you and Relevant Radio very much (27:01) Shirley - My husband was in mortal sin before getting married. Do we need an annulment? Do we both need to go to Confession? (32:52) Jackie - I am almost 75 and had it not been for Relevant Radio, I would not have appreciated my Catholic faith. There was so much I did not know. (39:46) Anna - I think we are forgetting that the first commandment is to love God. Going to Church, we receive Christ and this is connected to honoring God above all things. (49:07)
Patrick wrestles with the tough question of why intentionally skipping Sunday Mass lands with the same seriousness as much graver sins, drawing thoughtful exchanges from listeners like Kate in Milwaukee, who struggles to see the fairness, and Maria Christina, who sees the Church’s call as a reminder to put God first. He pulls from lived experience, Scripture, and honest caller questions, building a conversation that challenges, unsettles, and reassures all at once. The hour brims with debate, vulnerability, and moments that unsettle certainty, never shying away from discomfort or hope. Patrick continues his answer to Michelle’s question from the end of the last hour: How is someone who doesn't go to Church still capable of doing good works? (01:27) Kate - A lot of people have a problem of making a moral equivalent of missing Mass with murder or fornication. (09:40) Alicia - I am so thankful for your gift of patience. (22:53) David - I want to thank Patrick for having Kate speak. I think she was right. (32:16) Maria Christina - There is no comparison with what Jesus is asking us to do. (38:31) Bernadette - It is a sin against the 1st and 3rd Commandment (41:24)
Patrick answers practical questions about Catholic marriage, restitution for old wrongs, and the real meaning of faith in tough times. He listens to callers voicing struggles with family choices and personal guilt, then offers down-to-earth Catholic wisdom. Moments of warmth surface when young Josie wonders if she should pray for her brother after a mishap, alongside heavier questions about supporting a spouse with ALS and grappling with faith under pressure. Jay (email) - In the traditional Catholic prayer before meals, why, do you suppose, is there no "thank you"? (00:31) Maureen - What happens when a Catholic marries a Jewish person? What kind of marriage is this considered? (01:25) Josh - What does the Church teach on restitution? (17:23) Juan - My wife is terminally ill with ALS. What do I say to her, when she says it is hard to believe and trust in God when she is in such a poor condition? Does doubt keep us from salvation? (27:50) Jose (7-years-old) - I hit my brother, what should I do? Should I forgive him and say sorry? Or should I pray for him? (38:11) Jean - I thought your response was perfect. I had MS diagnosed 20 years ago and didn’t have Catholic Radio. (42:13) Teresa (email) - My husband of 43 years, who is in his mid-60's, is having trouble with the very personal issue of ED. We are past child bearing years. Is it immoral for him to use ED medication? (48:10)
Patrick opens with heartfelt listener emails, sharing stories about visits to St. Michael’s Abbey and the Mission Hotel, weaving in his own childhood memories. Throughout the episode he fields questions on topics from holy water and pro-life engagement to cremation, offering answers both practical and compassionate while responding to callers exploring faith, grappling with funeral wishes, and seeking a way back to the Catholic Church. Justin - I am not Catholic. Is it ok for me to use Holy Water? (05:23) Email - My Catholic father wrote in his will that he wants his ashes scattered in the ocean (14:18) E-Frank - Should ministries in the Church support the prolife movement? (20:06) Bruce - My wife and I are both blind and want to come back to the Catholic Church. How can we be useful? (25:06) Dominic - What is the status of Fulton Sheen canonization? (34:05) Court upholds male-only draft registration, dealing a major blow to feminist movement (44:57)
Patrick fields listener questions ranging from whether a child conceived through IVF can be baptized to when righteous anger is justified, drawing deeply on Catholic teaching and scripture. He unpacks the nuances of salvation, clarifies misunderstandings about purgatory, and listens to callers wrestling with heavy choices, including grave illness and faith’s demands. Moments of empathy, debate, and practical advice land side by side, as Patrick guides callers through the messiness of real Catholic life. Priest told my friend that because her daughter was conceived through IVF that she can't be baptized. Is this true? (00:38) Robert - Women are not permitted in combat and so a new draft would face new legal issues because the rule has changed. (04:21) Art - Bishop Fulton Sheen: When I was a young boy, my mother used to watch his show. I think that was the Holy Spirit. I think the devil tries to smear holy men and women. (07:26) April - How is it that Jesus lost His temper? (09:09) Enrique - In order to be off birth control, the doctor advised my sister to get her tubes tied. She doesn’t know what to do and any advice you can give will be much appreciated. (18:29) Salvador - Is it ok for a sick person to say no to a treatment if he wants to die? (22:21) Henry - I need the quintessential Patrick answer. If God is all- forgiving, does that mean everyone is going to heaven? (34:48) Judy - The listener who is sick should go to palliative care first and they will guide him to the next step. There is hope for him. (48:30)
Patrick opens with stories from listeners in the trades, questioning if hands-on jobs like garbage collection and machining could outlast the AI boom, all while sprinkling in sharp humor about robot insurance and future-proof careers. He tackles Catholic faith topics head-on, from unpacking the nature of God’s love, to candidly weighing the pros and cons of attending Society of St. Pius X Masses, laying out the deep tensions between tradition and Church unity. In a personal turn, Patrick reflects on raising eleven children, offering raw, practical encouragement about family life and sacrifice, before fielding questions both philosophical and delightfully mundane. Jorge – A.I. will not be taking the garbage jobs (00:41) Rosie - What do you think about the Neo Catechumenal Way? (02:30) Email – Are there any good Star Trek series anymore? (04:05) Brother John - I don't think God loves us unconditionally, I think there are conditions for God's love. (06:00) Stuart - I teach Tai Chi and there is nothing wrong with it. There is no spiritual aspect to it. There are branches that are more spiritual but don't have to be. (10:39) Ken - I am a machinist and wanted to talk about working in a trade. The threat in my field is 3D printing. (17:39) Theresa - Are we allowed to go to the SSPX mass? (23:28) Richard - You still need human beings to fix AI. (35:08) Thomas - How did you and Nancy parent so many children? (39:29) Matt - Does God love everyone equally or does he love some more than others? (48:32)
Patrick takes listeners through the meaning and history of Catholic devotions like the brown scapular and the miraculous medal while addressing common myths with clear, practical explanations. Calls spark discussions about the canon of Scripture, the early Church, apocryphal texts, and living authentic faith without superstition. Expect honest answers, a touch of humor, and insights for Protestants curious about Catholicism as well as lifelong Catholics. Sal - Can you explain the Brown Scapular? (00:45) Lynn - Why is the book of Judas not in the Catholic Bible? (08:31) Roxanna (email) - A few weeks ago, you made a comment that Catholicism is not a denomination. Can you expand/clarify what you mean by that? (17:27) James - Where does the promise of the Brown Scapular come from? (21:13) Tessa - What about metal scapulars or medals that have scapular built in? Is there a difference between these and other scapulars? (27:46) Gabriel - I am a Protestant wanting to enter the Church. Can you explain what the miraculous medal is? My wife and I are confused about this and other devotions. (36:19) Ezra (10-years-old) - Did Jesus have a last name? (43:03) Mark - I affirm what you are saying about the trades. I am a semi-retired drywall contractor. This has been a good life for myself. I want to encourage others to consider it. (44:32) Kate - Where was it understood that after Peter the other Popes would have the same power? (46:56)
Patrick threads through cultural questions about Disney fatigue, the surprising streaming stats of Gunsmoke, and the endurance of classic TV, weaving in Mike Rowe on the urgency for trades as tech transforms jobs. The episode weaves callers’ real-life faith, parenting, and ethical dilemmas, while Patrick fields everything from baptism validity to feng shui for nurseries and warnings about dubious online miracle prayers, keeping the conversation unpredictable and lively throughout. Audio: Jerry Seinfeld on Marcus Aurelius (02:12) Steve Miller Band cancels all tour dates due to bad weather (04:59) 50-year-old ‘Gunsmoke’ Reruns More Popular than Disney’s Star Wars/Marvel Trash (08:40) Mike Rowe: We need 500,000 welders, plumbers, and electricians (18:01) Christine - How can I avoid liberal Catholic schools? (28:19) Todd - Gun smoke did have an 'A' list Star. Kurt Russell was on when he was a kid. (35:34) Linda - My Grandchildren are getting baptized in a non-Catholic Church. Is that a valid baptism? (37:27) Billy (email) - A priest told me the other day that God loves us unconditionally, but he damns us to hell if we don’t love him back. How is that unconditional? (40:11) Shannon - Is feng shui compatible with Catholics? (43:41) Bob - Can I do tai chi for health purposes and to lose weight? (46:37) Rosalie - During the Carter administration I was an apprentice for the federal Government. We were trained how to be mechanics. They canceled the program though but now we are needing these jobs. (49:09)
Patrick opens the conversation by examining Catholic and Protestant interpretations of sinlessness in Adam and Eve, Mary, and the saints, responding directly to Charlie Kirk’s recent take on Catholic dogma. Throughout the episode, he answers callers, addressing everything from Mary’s role as mother to the Biblical timeline, salvation outside the Church, and the foundations of faith, bringing Scripture, personal insight, and Church teaching together in surprising ways. Expect moments of challenge, warmth, and clarity as Patrick moves from theological explanation to heartfelt listener engagement. Robert (email) - Of course Adam and Eve were sinless before the fall. That does not contradict what Charlie Kirk said Paul wrote about nobody being sinless. (00:40) Robert - I am not impressed with what Charlie Kirk is saying. As Catholics, we have to have faith and Protestants don't have faith. He has no faith. (07:46) Ann - The Blessed Mother: She was not chosen by God. She was created for the position. (11:42) Emily - I am a convert. The humanization of Mary changed my mind about her. We should remember that the hidden years of God were a real thing, and Mary had a real role in raising Jesus. (17:16) Jim - Would Charlie Kirk go to heaven? (23:26) Richard - What time were Adam and Eve at in history? How does this square with prehistoric humanity? (32:13) Chris - Protestants seem to fail at looking at the entire landscape of the Catholic Church (39:19) Ben - My uncle is married to a woman who hasn't received an annulment. How should I approach him to help him validate his marriage? (44:49) Nancy - Why was it essential that Jesus was conceived in a pure environment yet was born in a dirty filthy stable? (49:02)
Patrick explores Charlie Kirk’s surprising comments urging Protestants to embrace greater reverence for Mary while pushing back on Catholic teachings like the Immaculate Conception and Assumption; audio clips and sharp reactions from both Protestant and Catholic perspectives tumble out as Patrick brings biblical and historical insight, citing even reformers like Luther, in thoughtful response. Vivid stories from callers swirl in, including modern accounts of extraordinary events and personal encounters with Marian devotion. The conversation turns candid and sometimes challenging as Patrick questions assumptions and connects these issues straight to faith’s daily impact. Robert - In 2007, something happened to image of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. Did you hear about this? (02:24) Patrick shares and comments on Charlie Kirk’s talk about our Blessed Mother (21:20) Audio: reaction to Charlie Kirk (38:41)
Patrick moves straight into a discussion about unconventional practices at Eucharistic adoration, insisting on reverence and tradition. He fields heartfelt listener questions about mystical dreams, the relationship between God’s providence and free will, the role of prayer when God already knows everything, and how to respond to troubling news like the church strike in Gaza, while mixing in advice about personal boundaries, parish relationships, and the current state of the Jesuits. Trish (email) - Our pastor hosts Praise and Worship services which have praise and worship music. He then has Eucharistic Adoration during this service. Music is being played and he allows the people to touch the monstrance and sit or lay in front of it which has been brought down off the altar to a small table. Is he wrong to do this? (01:51) Emily (email) - I had a dream/vision where I saw Jesus. Was this actually Jesus or not? (05:33) John - Is there such a thing as predestination or can prayer change the outcome of the path that the world is on? (10:18) Gaza's Catholic Church has been hit by Israel missiles (20:45) Peggy - How is it that God has a plan and that I have free will? These seem to contradict each other. (23:40) Delores - How can I go about being respectful to someone after having a bad interaction with them at Church? (38:05) Chris - How do you feel about the Jesuits and their teachings? (46:11)
Patrick fields pressing questions about Catholic teaching on mortal sin, moral relativism, and what truly counts as grave matter. A caller describes a broken family tie, seeking insight into relational pain, while another wrestles with the moral weight of honesty during life-or-death situations. He shares practical resources and scriptural foundations, responding to heartfelt struggles with faith, obligation, and complex family burdens. Patrick continues his conversation with Kurt from the end of the last hour asking about the conditions of mortal sin and the “grey line” of relativism. (01:03) Enrique - Is there moral grounds for my brother to abandon our family and not have any conversations with them? (17:55) Angel - My family member declined to go to Mass with us this Sunday. Is there anything I can do to talk to her? (26:02) Vance casts tie-breaking votes to move forward $9.4B rescissions package — which would defund PBS, NPR and Planned Parenthood (36:41) America's dairy farmers and ice cream producers agree to quit using artificial colors Patrick in Monterey - I was not aware that the Blessed Mother had a sister. How is this possible? (39:41) Maureen - My daughter is having a difficult time with a recent divorce. Does her ex-husband need to agree to get an annulment? (41:32) Jared - I want to work in health insurance. The government mandates that insurance covers abortion. Some even cover gender therapy. Is it wrong to be an insurance salesman and sell these things? (47:20)
Patrick explores the odd world of online witchcraft trends on Etsy, then moves thoughtfully through listener questions about sacramentals like the brown scapular, fertility awareness methods, and even the acceptability of acupuncture for Catholics. He addresses the Church’s preference for burial over cremation with a personal perspective and takes time to comfort a grieving mother returning to faith. Etsy Witches Charge for Curses (00:55) Andrew - I can't remember if I was enrolled in the brown scapular or not. Can I be re-enrolled? (10:09) Kayla - Is acupuncture an okay medical practice? Is this occult? (18:19) Cindy - Thank you Patrick! I am in the Lutheran Church and have learned so much about the Lord and the Bible because of you! Should I be buried or cremated? (24:26) Annie - My daughter passed away and they cremated her. Will a person who is cremated not go to heaven? I never baptized my daughter. My mother said she baptized her. (37:29 Kurt - How do we juggle what the Church teaches about committing a sin and meeting the conditions of mortal sin? Is this a relativist way of thinking? (49:37)
Patrick answers heartfelt calls about the consequences of receiving sacraments outside a state of grace, wrestles with the pain families feel when a loved one chooses a same-sex relationship, and gives honest, practical counsel rooted in Catholic faith. He fields questions on validity, fruitfulness, prayer, and offers resources for thorny issues like annulments, all while addressing the unexpected—national identity, shifting language, and the ache of parental guilt. The conversations shift quickly: comfort for a mother in turmoil, a puzzled listener’s questions on sacramental grace, a candid discussion about maintaining conviction in a culture where words keep changing. Bree (email) - Yesterday’s show you mentioned it’s a mortal sin to receive the sacrament of marriage in the state of mortal sin. Is my marriage valid? (00:40) Mary - Our 30-year-old daughter just announced she is gay and in a relationship. She doesn't want any comments from us. What can we do? (04:00) Diane - What is the difference between surrendering your problems vs offering them up? Also, I want to know more about the treasury of grace. (11:55) Mike - Should I seek annulment for my ex-wife? My ex-wife married and maybe if I got an annulment it would help her. (19:54) Miles - Can we come up with a new name for the United States? United States of Mexico is South of us. Also we have the nation of Columbia, which is another problem. (26:26) Fred - I requested Intinction of the Eucharist at my parish but the Bishop does not allow it. Do I have any other options? (34:33) Tom – Thinking the name of our country being offensive is a very spoiled position to take. (39:41) Mary - My daughter was in a gay relationship. What changed everything was when I started fasting along with prayers. (47:13)
Patrick answers a caller’s anxious question about the validity of a Catholic wedding when a bride voices doubts about having children—offering frank, pastoral advice rooted in Church teaching. He turns to practical matters, discussing fasting before Communion, the line between venial and mortal sins, and recommending ways to engage the Bible more deeply with Catholic study tools. Lighter moments surface too, as Patrick weighs in on movie suggestions, responds warmly to handwritten letters, and addresses the challenges of faith in mixed marriages, all while weaving genuine encouragement and wit throughout. Lisa – I know someone who told me they did not want to have children and then told the priest during the wedding that she is open to having children. (00:47) Christopher (email) - I have recently purchased the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible, but I’m overwhelmed as to where I should start. (11:53) Judy – Can Patrick recommend some good movies? (17:59) David – What does fasting for Holy Communion include? How do you determine if a sin is mortal or venial? (24:41) Email – Is it possible to lust after your wife? (40:01) Joseph - How do marriage dispensations work for someone who is not Catholic? (42:59) Rita (letter) – Is it bad that I yawn when I pray the Rosary? (48:18)
Patrick tackles honest questions from listeners, one moment offering a gentle approach for keeping Sundays sacred, the next delivering direct counsel to couples about marriage and faith, with stories of moral challenges like IVF and cohabitation woven in. He shares encouragement with aspiring apologists, breaks down tough Protestant questions about Catholic teaching, and draws from decades of wisdom, stringing together lively moments, deep insights, and authentic connection. With warmth, occasional humor, and frankness, Patrick keeps each moment real. Jean - What would you advise a couple to do who are living together but want to marry in the Church? (03:24) Peter (9-years-old) - If there is no evil in heaven, how did Satan turn away? (12:16) Lydia - My family friend did IVF and had 6 eggs fertilized. She has 5 left. What should she do with these eggs? (14:48) Mario - I want to be a Catholic Apologist. What is the best way to do this? (22:43) *Connie - Why do we Catholics pray to Mary and the Saints? They are dead already. (28:37) Jake – The word “Pope” isn’t in the bible. (37:40) Tom (email) - Why do we not refer to Moses and Elijah as Saints? (27:12)
Patrick takes listeners’ questions head on, offering practical guidance through everything from spiritual crises and Catholic teaching to thorny family disputes. He peppers in book suggestions, advice on prayer, and clarity about sacramental life, constantly weaving lived experience with Church wisdom. Calls about strained relationships, conversion, and faith struggles spark honest, sometimes deeply moving conversation. Gwen (email) – When our son died, it devastated our lives, and my husband stopped going to church. My husband now has bone cancer and I need help getting him back to confession. (1:08) Lisa - My daughter is going out with illegal immigrant and not talking with me. The boy's dad died and she believes it is ICE's fault. What should I do? (07:19) St. Augustine and St. Mary of The Desert struggled with lust. Why didn't they get married? (12:56) Dylan (email) - I am wondering that if we live our faith on our own power and our own will strength, how we can get out of that and live the faith with God and rest in Him? (22:31) Maryanne - Can you recommend a book for my granddaughter who is going to a Christian teen group? (26:30) Chandler (email) - Does the church teach that the Eucharist is absolutely necessary for salvation? Gabe (email) - I have heard that wearing a metal scapular doesn't carry the same promises (specifically that someone who wears it devoutly won't go to hell). Can you explain the specifics? (36:39) Pat - What do you think about the SSPX and are they in union with the Catholic Church? (39:32) Jessica - Is it my responsibility for me to facilitate a relationship between my kids and their grandparents? (44:53)
Patrick fields concerns about affording Catholic school, whether papal visits carry hidden costs, even the morality of war—never shying away from callers wrestling with their family’s reactions to Catholic teaching. In the mix: humor, candid advice, and a refusal to gloss over the tough stuff. Simone (email) - I saw a timely meme yesterday......it shows Jesus saying, "Love your neighbor as yourself," and somebody saying to Jesus, "But, who is my neighbor?" And Jesus responds with "Whoever you were hoping I wouldn't say." (03:41) Mary (email) – Can a priest add a Hail Mary after the Mass is over? (07:30) Vinny - I was the last person in the Communion line. I tried to receive on my tongue. The Eucharistic minister said, 'Can I please put this in your hand?' (13:00) John – There are 4 Eucharistic prayers available at Mass. (22:38) Victoria (email) - My husband refuses to send kids to catholic school due to cost. I’m desperate and don’t want my kids to continue in public school. Any recommendations if home schooling is an option. (25:09) Maura (email) - Does the Pope usually only visit countries that pay millions for his visit? How does the Pope decide which countries to visit? (28:17) Lucia (email) - I know that killing people is a sin. But, how about when you are in the military fighting in war, would that be a sin? (36:25) Jan - Receiving Communion on the tongue: shouldn't Eucharistic Ministers have a program to show them how to administer the Eucharist? (43:59) Preston - I am a Protestant looking into Catholicism. Catholics on the Walk to Mary told me that I have to be clean before I go to Mass. Is that correct? Are Catholics elitist? (47:50)
Patrick tackles the thorny divide between Catholics and Protestants on faith and works, pulling from Scripture while fielding heartfelt listener questions—everything from tricky family dynamics and workplace dilemmas to discerning adoption and skepticism about viral miracle stories. This episode weaves honest confrontation of doubts with direct, faith-driven answers on real-life moral scenarios. Patrick continues to answer Preston’s question from the end of the last hour. Preston had asked, “Are Catholic’s elitists?” (01:05) Marie - There is a lesbian couple with a baby that is going to be in my inner-circle for a year. As Catholics, we don't celebrate those things, but how can I be professional about this? (21:30) Email – Is God telling us to adopt? (32:53) Adam - Would you classify as good works things like attending Mass every Sunday, frequenting confession, and receiving the Eucharist? Would those moments in which we choose not to sin be considered good works? (38:34) Kat (email) - Viral Video of Boy Seeing Father and Jesus (44:56) Gloria (email) – I didn’t marry in the Church. Can I still take Holy Communion? (49:13)
Patrick has a heated discussion about giving wealth to the Church and family fallout, honest confusion over DNR orders, and the raw tension stirred when priests wade into politics from the pulpit. Advice ricochets from inheritance disputes to hospice ethics and right back into the storm of faith meeting messy, everyday life. Domingo - Would donating lands or vineyard give you credit to enter heaven? If you give more money can you get out of Purgatory? (01:22) Patricia - Do Not Resuscitate orders. Should we approve DNR for a family member? (17:51) Tim - My neighbor wanted to give me a Book of Mormon, and I told him that I am a practicing Catholic. Is 'practicing Catholic' and appropriate term? (29:13) Nina - Domingo was saying the people were blaming the Church and wanted to know why this happened. (35:43) Mary - Priest at Church was very political and lectured the people about the President's policies. How do I handle this? (39:15)
Patrick explores listener questions prompted by an email on liturgical shifts—why some find deeper connection in traditional Catholic practices, and what’s really at stake when Mass customs change. He fields honest concerns about the experience of Eucharist, gives straight answers on receiving communion, challenges listeners with the "cannibalism" objection, and throws in practical advice for those struggling to defend their faith with confidence. Dave (email) – Can you tell me why there are liturgical changes happening in my diocese? (02:05) Kristy - Can you go to two Masses and receive communion twice in one day? (24:06) Paola – How can I adequately defend my faith? (25:40) Chris - How can I explain the Eucharist to a buddy of mine? He thinks it is cannibalism. (30:11) Angie – Question about the Bread of Life Discourse. (48:15)
Patrick pulls listeners into a spirited hour, fielding tough questions on the Bread of Life discourse and the Eucharist’s real presence while addressing everything from early Church tradition and the logic of St. Ignatius to the thorniest objections from evangelical friends. In fast-paced exchanges with callers, he moves from scriptural argument to real-life dilemmas—like whether to confront family about uncomfortable truths or respond to bishops’ dispensations on Mass—never shying away from controversy or complexity. Recommendations, personal anecdotes, and sharp-witted rebuttals pour out, making the faith both challenging and deeply immediate. Patrick continues his conversation with Angie about the Bread of Life Discourse (01:53) Barbara - When Jesus says this is my body and blood in the synoptic Gospels, it is connected with John 6. (11:13) Lisa - Bread of Life discourse: Was it not possible that the people who did not believe did not believe because Jesus was alive in front of them? Charles - Bishops in CA have told their parishioners not to come to Mass because of the ICE raids. What do you think of that? (18:18) Tim – Transubstantiation: Jesus showed us in His miracles that He was capable of anything. (24:18) Max - My wife's uncle is into trans ideology and has been posting inappropriate messages. Should my mom talk to her uncle? (27:21) What about the Bread of Life Discourse in regard to John 6:66? (36:56) Trevor - In the Bread of Life Discourse, what does it mean that the flesh is of no avail? (39:25) Andy - Is the Episcopal Church Eucharist the same as Catholic Eucharist? (46:41)
Maria’s marriage is teetering under the weight of her husband’s drug use, secrecy, and abuse, and she’s torn about whether to alert authorities or the church. Listeners weigh in, sharing wisdom about shame, forgiveness, and hope, while Patrick threads hard questions—parental fear, legal complications, marital fidelity—into a conversation that refuses to flinch. Maria - My husband is using drugs and stealing. Do I need to do something legally? (00:54) Susan - My daughter is expecting a baby and about to be engaged. How do we deal with this? (18:38) Sandra - This really touches me because I was in a similar situation. I hope she will focus on the sacrament of Confession and believe and live it. Let it go, and celebrate the new life. (30:02) Chris - It is reprehensible that ICE is going on Church property. If they do that they need a warrant. Otherwise, this is a 4th Amendment violation. (38:19) Sarah - How long should someone hold onto shame after confession? (42:18) David - I think we need to stop interchangeably using the words 'sin' and 'mistake'. (46:10)
Patrick fields heartfelt listener calls with questions about praying the Rosary, Mass tradition, and whether to reconcile after betrayal while offering sharply practical pastoral advice. One moment he’s sharing encouragement for public acts of faith at restaurants; the next, he’s talking through the details of canonical separation and the real cost of letting hurting people back into your life. Ruby - My husband is now out of prison and doing well. He wants to reconcile. What should I do? (06:49) Vince - I try to pray the Rosary every day, and I don't understand why we mediate on the mysteries while praying? How do you multitask? (15:54) Bea - We pray when we go out to dinner. Should we ask permission to pray when going over to someone else’s house? (22:30) Mark - Trump assassination: We were watching it live. I was also watching Reagan live. I noticed the drastic difference between what happened with Reagan and what happened with Trump. (28:51) T-Mobile kills DEI (35:25) Jeanie - Dating this man but his adult daughter calls the shots. What should I do? (38:45) Patrick shares the tragic story of his friend, Manuel, who just suffered a devastating stroke, and he asks for prayers for his family. (45:23) Barbara - Saying the Rosary with a picture book helps me not be distracted (47:27) Jackie - How did the Holy Spirit come to the Apostles after the Resurrection? Can you explain this? (49:01)
Patrick welcomes listeners into conversations that cut straight to the heart of Catholic living: real confessions, confusion about receiving the Holy Spirit, the tension of relationships outside of marriage, and the struggle for hope while wrestling with sin. His advice never pulls punches, he speaks plainly about Church teaching yet manages warmth, compassion, and challenge, sparking moments of both humor and deep reflection. Each call brings out raw honesty about faith, forgiveness, and the daily choices that either carry us closer to grace or pull us further away. Patrick continues his conversation with Jackie from the end of the last hour. She asks, how did the Holy Spirit come to the Apostles after the Resurrection? (00:55) Kathy - How I do I respond to someone who wants you to go to a gay marriage? (05:36) Michael - Church teaches that even one unconfessed mortal sin will cause you to go to hell. What if I don't remember everything? (08:22) Cynthia (email) - My husband, Tom, suffered a stroke in Nov 2019. He is paralyzed on his left side. (13:17) Robert (email) - When penitents enter the Reconciliation Room, are they supposed to have the option of (1) kneeling behind a screen to confess anonymously or (2) sitting in a chair across from the priest to confess face to face? (15:20) Joseph - I Christ died and is full atonement for our sins, then why do Catholics teach we can lose salvation and that we have to confess sins? (20:05) Delia - I have been living with my boyfriend for over 10 years. Should I go to Confession knowing that I will be still living with my boyfriend? (27:38) Linda - A person at my parish is habitually late for mass. I don't know why others are judging her. What should I say to them? (39:23) Yolanda - Dalia is being a bad witness to children by living with a man. I will be praying for her. (46:24) Jalen - I think Delia is underestimating the power of God and what He can do for her. I think she needs to have faith and trust in God. (48:01) Dominic - How did population increase from Adam and Eve? (49:52)
Patrick opens with a timely update on the IRS shifting its stance toward churches and political endorsements and brings listeners the bishops’ decision to maintain neutrality, regardless of the new government position. Calls from listeners spark heartfelt discussion: Patrick consoles a struggling convert torn between his faith and his family, suggests practical resources for pro-life conversations, and offers comforting scripture for those on lonely roads. A burst of everyday reflections, personal stories, and unexpected commentary on everything from local Catholic life to pop culture threads through it all. Catholic Church will NOT promote political candidates, despite possible IRS change (01:08) Josh - I was talking to my younger daughter about abortion. How can I handle these conversations? (03:46) Robert - Reading from Galatians: did Paul have the first stigmata? (19:10) Ellen - How do I raise a Catholic daughter and teach her about the Sign of the Cross? My parents are Protestant, and I feel like we can't make the Sign of the Cross at their house. (22:43) Angie - For Joshua: Actress I know was a product or rape and wouldn’t it be a shame if she was aborted. (31:35) Laurie - I love your super nice station. What is the best prayer or scripture to say if you are being targeted by satanic groups? (35:31) 6 Secret Service Agents Suspended After Trump Assassination Attempt (43:09)
Patrick Madrid opens up after the heart-shattering Texas floods that took the lives of many: including two young Catholic girls found holding their Rosaries. This isn’t a tidy theology talk; it’s a gut-wrenching, faith-clinging, grief-soaked conversation about why God allows suffering, and how we hold on when life falls apart. The Caller: Cecile from Bryan, Texas Cecile calls in, her heart cracked wide open. Her nephew just lost his best friend, his wife, and their two children. His question is one we all ask eventually: “How could God let this happen?” Patrick doesn’t pretend to have the magic answer. In fact, his first move is humility: “There is no answer that will make this okay. Not now.” But what he does offer is one of the most compassionate and theological walk-throughs of the “Problem of Evil” you’ll ever hear in Catholic media. Key Takeaways: God Is Not the Author of Evil Evil, whether moral (caused by free will choices) or natural (like floods, cancer, etc.), was never part of God’s original design. These came through the Fall: a ripple effect from the sin of Adam and Eve that distorted creation itself. Natural Disasters Are Part of a Broken World Nature itself is “off” because of sin. But this isn’t a cosmic punishment; it's a sign that we’re living in a world still groaning for redemption (Romans 8:22). God Doesn’t Just “Allow” Suffering... He Entered Into It The ultimate answer to suffering isn’t a what, it’s a who: Jesus on the Cross. God didn’t stay distant. He became a man and suffered with us, for us. A Father’s Heart Patrick shares a personal story about his toddler son, Tim, who was bleeding from a head wound. At the ER, his son cried out: “Daddy, help me!” Patrick could’ve stopped it... but didn’t, because letting the doctor stitch the wound was what would ultimately heal him. The parallel: God the Father sees us screaming in pain... and He still lets it happen; it's not because He’s indifferent, but it's because He knows the healing that’s coming later. Cecile’s Beautiful Insight: She echoes it all with such tender faith: “God is there. Just like you were with your son, Patrick. God is there, with us in it... holding us.” Yes. Amen. The Final Word: Maybe, just maybe... we’ll be like little Tim someday, looking back and finally understanding. Until then, we weep, we pray, and we cling to this promise: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” -Matthew 5:4 Take time today to pray for those affected in Texas. And if you’re struggling with your own grief, go ahead and be honest with God. Cry out. Ask why. He can take it, and He is with you. Jesus, man of sorrows, be near to those who mourn. Hold them. Heal them. And help us all to trust You, even in the dark.