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Pope Benedict XVI stepped down in 2013. But did he actually resign? The question has haunted the Church for over a decade—and John-Henry Westen argues it is time to ask it again.The key lies in the language Benedict used. He renounced the ministerium—the active exercise of governance. But he retained references to the munus—the papal office itself. Canon lawyers have long pointed out that this distinction could render the resignation invalid under canon law. Benedict, a world-renowned Latin scholar and theologian, knew exactly what he was writing. A linguistic mistake is virtually impossible.Archbishop Gänswein and Benedict himself later made statements suggesting Benedict understood his role as continuing in a contemplative, prayerful capacity—even after relinquishing active governance. This implies a new understanding of the papacy, one that Catholic tradition has never recognized as possible.Westen puts the argument to AI models—ChatGPT and Grok—feeding them the premises of the case. Both concluded that if those premises are accepted, Benedict's resignation would be invalid, and subsequent papal claimants would lack juridical basis. The analysis depends on accepting the premises, but the conclusion is stark.This is not speculation. It is a canonical argument that has not been answered. And it has implications that cannot be ignored.HELP SUPPORT WORK LIKE THIS: https://give.lifesitenews.com/?utm_source=SOCIAL U.S. residents! Create a will with LifeSiteNews: https://www.mylegacywill.com/lifesitenews ****PROTECT Your Wealth with gold, silver, and precious metals: https://sjp.stjosephpartners.com/lifesitenews +++SHOP ALL YOUR FUN AND FAVORITE LIFESITE MERCH! https://shop.lifesitenews.com/ +++Connect with John-Henry Westen and all of LifeSiteNews on social media:LifeSite: https://linktr.ee/lifesitenewsJohn-Henry Westen: https://linktr.ee/jhwesten Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pope Leo celebrates 100 years since the founding of the Vatican Publishing House. Meanwhile, 4 years later, pro-life leader Kristan Hawkins reflects on the overturning of Roe v. Wade. And, a series of unpublished homilies by Pope Benedict XVI is now available in English.
Our headmaster often uses this paradigm for the ideal Heights graduate: he's the kind of young man you'd want your daughter to marry. In a recent article for the Forum, Dr. Joseph Lanzilotti asked: in our current culture, how does a boy grow up to be the kind of man who desires that life? Delving into Church sources, both scriptural and magisterial, he has assembled the outline of a theology of masculinity. Responding to Pope St. John Paul II's description of the "feminine genius," Dr. Lanzilotti considers the prospect of a complementary "masculine genius," and what it means for our boys. Chapters: 3:09 A man you'd want your daughter to marry 4:18 A man who wants to marry 7:40 Naturally ordered toward fatherhood 8:58 Building a culture of marriage 16:21 Stories about vocation, fidelity 18:22 Teaching vocation, fidelity 23:00 Theology and human sexuality 26:06 The human heart responds to goodness 31:01 The masculine genius 35:34 Scriptural, papal guidance on human love 37:51 Witnessing to the goodness of life Links: The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky Kristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid Undset Love and Responsibility by John Paul II Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body by John Paul II "The Jeweler's Shop" by John Paul II Redemptor Hominis, encyclical by Pope St. John Paul II, 1979 Familiaris Consortio, apostolic exhortation by Pope St. John Paul II, 1981 Deus Caritas Est, encyclical by Pope Benedict XVI, 2005 "Is There a Catholic Theology of Masculinity?" dissertation by Peter Holmes Also on the Forum: Made in the Image and Likeness: On Man and Masculinity featuring Bishop Erik Varden Worthy and Willing: Forming Boys Who Will Want to Marry by Dr. Joseph Lanzilotti Educating Boys: Nature, Risk, and the Making of Men by Dr. Joseph Lanzilotti The Magisterial Case for Single-Sex Education by Dr. Joseph Lanzilotti The Forum Faculty Podcast hosted by Tom Cox Featured Opportunities: Convivium Conference for Teaching Men at The Heights School (November 11-13, 2026)
Friends of the Rosary,Today, June 12, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, a feast designated the Friday after the Second Sunday of Pentecost.In the late 17th century, St. Marguerite Marie Alacoque, a cloistered nun of the Visitation Order, received several private revelations of the Sacred Heart.The devotion to the Sacred Heart calls for an “attitude of conversion and reparation, of love and gratitude, apostolic commitment, and dedication to Christ and his saving work,” as the Directory on Popular Piety and the Liturgy denotes.The Catechism of the Catholic Church states,"Jesus knew and loved us each and all during his life, his agony and his Passion, and gave himself up for each one of us: "The Son of God. . . loved me and gave himself for me" (Gal 2:20). He has loved us all with a human heart. For this reason, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, pierced by our sins and for our salvation (Cf. Jn 19:34), "is quite rightly considered the chief sign and symbol of that. . . love with which the divine Redeemer continually loves the eternal Father and all human beings" without exception (Pius XII, Enc. Haurietis aquas (1956): DS 3924; cf. DS 3812).Pope Benedict XVI wrote, “The essential nucleus of Christianity is expressed in the Heart of Jesus; in Christ the whole of the revolutionary newness of the Gospel was revealed and given to us: the Love that saves us and already makes us live in God's eternity. Even our shortcomings, our limitations, and our weaknesses must lead us back to the Heart of Jesus. His divine Heart calls to our hearts, inviting us to come out of ourselves, to abandon our human certainties to trust in him and, following his example, to make of ourselves a gift of love without reserve.”Today is also the World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests. The World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests takes place every year on the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• June 12, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
National Indigenous Peoples Month in Canada pays tribute to Kateri Tekakwitha (1656-80). At age 19, after converting to Catholicism and taking a vow of perpetual virginity, Kateri left her Mohawk village of Ossernenon in present-day New York State and moved to the Jesuit mission village of Kahnawake, just south of Montreal, Canada. There she died five years later, respected for her piety and good works. She was beatified in 1980 by Pope John Paul II, and canonized as a Saint by Pope Benedict XVI at St. Peter's Basilica in 2012. Enjoy the concluding third part of The Life and Legacy of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha. Part 3 of 3. Check out the YouTube version of this episode at https://youtu.be/HJYJmJZisys which has accompanying visuals including maps, charts, timelines, photos, illustrations, and diagrams. Super Saints podcast available at https://amzn.to/46spnjl Bob & Penny Lord's book: Visionaries, Mystics & Stigmatists at https://amzn.to/41z4aUS Bob & Penny Lord books available at https://amzn.to/4epZEiT Books about Kateri Tekakwitha at https://amzn.to/3QJSJqY ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's HISTORICAL JESUS podcast: https://parthenonpodcast.com/historical-jesus Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 X (twitter): https://twitter.com/MarkVinet_HNA & https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Super Saints podcast with Bob and Penny Lord, Life of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, 12july2021. All audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
National Indigenous Peoples Month in Canada honours Kateri Tekakwitha (1656-80) was born in the Mohawk village of Ossernenon, in present-day New York State. Influenced by French Jesuit missionaries and converted to Catholicism at age 19, and after taking a vow of perpetual virginity, she left her village, and moved to the Jesuit mission village of Kahnawake, just south of Montreal, Canada. There she died five years later, respected for her piety and good works. She was beatified in 1980 by Pope John Paul II, and canonized as a Saint by Pope Benedict XVI at St. Peter's Basilica in 2012. Part 2 of 3. Check out the YouTube version of this episode at https://youtu.be/S2CnwMlrFf0 which has accompanying visuals including maps, charts, timelines, photos, illustrations, and diagrams. Super Saints podcast available at https://amzn.to/46spnjl Bob & Penny Lord's book: Visionaries, Mystics & Stigmatists at https://amzn.to/41z4aUS Bob & Penny Lord books available at https://amzn.to/4epZEiT Books about Kateri Tekakwitha at https://amzn.to/3QJSJqY ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's HISTORICAL JESUS podcast: https://parthenonpodcast.com/historical-jesus Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 X (twitter): https://twitter.com/MarkVinet_HNA & https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Super Saints podcast with Bob and Penny Lord, Life of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, 12july2021. All audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
National Indigenous Peoples Month in Canada celebrates an Iroquois maiden born in the Mohawk village of Ossernenon, in present-day New York State, Saint Kateri Tekakwitha (1656-80) and her family contracted smallpox in an epidemic; she was the only one of the family to survive, but had scarring on her face. She was influenced by French Jesuit missionaries and converted to Catholicism at age 19. After taking a vow of perpetual virginity, she left her village, and moved to the Jesuit mission village of Kahnawake, just south of Montreal, Canada. There she died five years later, respected for her piety and good works. She was beatified in 1980 by Pope John Paul II, and canonized by Pope Benedict XVI at Saint Peter's Basilica on 21 October 2012. Enjoy this first part of three of The Life and Legacy of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha. Part 1 of 3. Check out the YouTube version of this episode at https://youtu.be/nZKWCKMoRWo which has accompanying visuals including maps, charts, timelines, photos, illustrations, and diagrams. Super Saints podcast available at https://amzn.to/46spnjl Bob & Penny Lord's book: Visionaries, Mystics & Stigmatists at https://amzn.to/41z4aUS Bob & Penny Lord books available at https://amzn.to/4epZEiT Books about Kateri Tekakwitha at https://amzn.to/3QJSJqY ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's HISTORICAL JESUS podcast: https://parthenonpodcast.com/historical-jesus Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 X (twitter): https://twitter.com/MarkVinet_HNA & https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Super Saints podcast with Bob and Penny Lord, Life of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, 12july2021. All audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why do so many Catholic young people walk away from the Faith—even after years of religious education? In this episode, Steve Wood uncovers the root cause of faith failure from Matthew 7:21–23: “I never knew you.” Jesus' warning isn't aimed at obvious sinners, but at professing Christians who knew about God yet never truly knew Him. Drawing from Scripture, the Catechism, and insights echoed by Pope Benedict XVI, this episode explains why knowing God is not a notional belief—but a living, transforming relationship. Essential listening for parents, pastors, and anyone concerned about Catholic faith formation, youth apostasy, and passing on a faith that lasts. To obtain your free copy of Steve's new book - visit us at www.rescuingyoungcatholics.com.
Father Anthony with Cristina and Tony regroup today after the weekend. Father Anthony offers daily prayer with the Litany to the Sacred Heart. Father refers to the period of the Era of Martyrs more specifically to the end of the period of martyrdom which failed to end Christianity. He refers to and reads from writings of Pope Damasus I on the martyrdom of Saint Peter. He talks about references Pope Benedict XVI made to the Great Apostasy and talks about how we are continuing the writing of the story of our church today; the story staying the same but the times change. He reminds us the need to recognize the need to stay true to the church and focus on serving God in humility calling for metanoia. Father discusses how the moving away from God to focus on the SELF has caused this disorientation both from outside and inside of the church. They discuss the need to remain true to Catholicism despite all the challenges faced with today and keep the Church as a reverent and holy place. St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish
Enjoy this episode? Please share it with at least ONE friend who you think needs to hear it!This episode of Far Out With Faust features a riveting, deep-dive conversation into the global cover-up of non-human intelligence, ancient mistranslations, and paleo-contact with incredible author and researcher Paul Anthony Wallis. Broadcasting from opposite ends of the planet, Faust and Paul dissect what is officially known as the "Legacy Program"—covert units operating within aerospace corporations to reverse-engineer craft and materials retrieved from UAP crashes.Paul sheds light on the internal push-and-pull within the 18 separate agencies of the military-intelligence community. He provides a compelling, nuanced take on why the true policy of non-disclosure isn't actually being dictated by the shadow government, but by our cosmic visitors themselves until humanity can fully master the physics of space-time manipulation.Leaving no stone unturned, they travel from modern geopolitical secrecy back through deep ancestral history. Paul shares his groundbreaking work decoding the Hebrew Scriptures, revealing how the insertion of the word "God" into the Greek translation between 280 and 100 BCE systematically erased historic accounts of plural, powerful, non-human beings governing early human colonies. From the real political coup hidden in the book of Samuel to a 4,000-year-old body uncovered beneath an Irish pub, this conversation connects the deep past directly to the modern 21st-century disclosure movement.In this episode:* The Legacy Program Exposed: How military intelligence subcontracts UAP reverse-engineering to specific private aerospace giants. * The Role of the Microbiologist: Why mainstream scientists like Dr. Garry Nolan are brought in to analyze the line where technology meets biology. * The Space-Time Bubble: Why anti-gravity success isn't enough, and what it will take for humanity to create a stable, interstellar wormhole. * The Haim Eshed Testimony: What the 28-year chief of Israel's space security confirmed about ongoing human and non-human collaborations. * The Petrochemical Cover-Up: Why zero-point and free energy disclosure threatens corporate fortunes and the global financial hierarchy more than it threatens religion. * The Vatican and ET Life: The official, surprisingly progressive statements issued under Pope Benedict XVI regarding our brother and sister aliens. * The Mistranslation of Yahweh: How ancient social wisdom and geopolitics were entirely buried the moment historical texts were turned into theological "God stories". * The Queen Elizabeth II Exemptions: A shocking look at real constitutional power and how the late monarch blocked dozens of laws to protect her personal properties. * Ancient WMDs in Iraq: The hidden, archeological motivations behind the 2003 invasion and the mysterious disappearance of the Gilgamesh tomb discovery. * Trans-Medium Anomalies: Connecting ancient Babylonian texts describing underwater visitor bases with the modern tracker data of US Naval pilots. This isn't just a discussion about speculative conspiracy. It is a historical and semantic roadmap showing that our ancestors were openly negotiating a populated cosmos—and it's high time we remember how to do the same.Connect with Paul Anthony Wallis* Website: https://paulanthonywallis.com * Tours: https://ancientknowledgetours.com * Academy: https://ancientknowledgeacademy.com * YouTube: The Paul Wallis Channel & The Fifth Kind * Books: Escaping from Eden, The Scars of Eden, Echoes of Eden, The Eden Conspiracy, The Invasion of Eden, The Eden Enigma, and The Dragons of Eden (Coming July 2026!) Join Us On PatreonFor uncensored episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive community access:https://patreon.com/FarOutWithFaustListen on Spotify + Apple Podcasts* Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6StPwgq2di3f8uxnc6SmIf* Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/far-out-with-faust-fowf/id1533017218FOWF & Faust Checho on SOCIAL* https://www.instagram.com/faroutwithfaust/* https://www.instagram.com/theonefaustchecho/* https://www.facebook.com/Faroutwithfaust* https://www.facebook.com/faustchecho/* https://x.com/faustchechoQUESTION THE ANSWERS™#Extraterrestrials #AncientHistory #Disclosurewe'd love to hear from you
The year is 2008! We're looking back at some of the most memorable Kelly Clarkson moments of 2008 including the 2 Worlds 2 Voices tour with Reba McEntire, her performance for Pope Benedict XVI, and more.Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/MissIndepodcastBuy merch from our new merch storeFollow us!Facebook | Twitter/X | InstagramFind more at missindepodcast.com
Pope Leo is set to visit the “Land of Fires” in the first papal visit to a toxic waste-hit city in Italy. Meanwhile, we learn what to expect from Pope Leo XIV's first encyclical on AI. And, a new AI project is bringing Pope Benedict XVI's teachings to life.
People go "parish hopping" for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes it's because of simple things like wanting more convenient mass times, or a shorter drive. Or it might be because they're looking for a community with more people in their age group, or more options for activities or outreach. Sometimes, people leave their parish because of reasons pertaining to doctrine or liturgy. A new pastor might preach homilies that run counter to people's understanding of the faith, or initiate liturgical changes that leave them feeling spiritually desolate. For instance, following Pope Benedict XVI' 2007 motu proprio relaxing restrictions on the old Latin Mass, some parishes shifted to a more traditional liturgical form that sent some parishioners on a quest for the inclusive, Vatican II type Mass they preferred. Then in 2021, Pope Francis' instruction limiting the traditional rite sent other parishioners scrambling in other directions. And sometimes, people leave their churches for more serious reasons relating to financial scandals, or spiritual or sexual abuse. Does the church have an official stance on parish-hopping? If your parish is inconvenient, or you don't like the liturgies, or don't get along with your pastor, should you leave, or are there other options for dealing with issues in your parish? On this episode of Glad You Asked, the hosts talk to Paul Jarzembowski about what a Catholic should do if they have issues with their parish or don't like their pastor. Jarzembowski is associate director for the Secretariat of Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, and the United States' national coordinator for World Youth Day. He serves as an advisor to the Vatican on ministries with young people. You can learn more about this topic in these links. "Would you leave your parish because of the priest?" by Rosy McCarty "After a bad homily, this is what I told my kids," by Shannon Wimp Schmidt "Two very different parishes point to divisions in the church," by Peter Feuerherd "Is there a bright side to parish mergers?" by Nathaniel Hunter "Should you stop donating to your parish?" by Abby Rampone "It's time to make parishes accessible to people of all abilities," by Karen Jackson "Can my parish celebrate the Latin Mass?" by John Kyler "For heaven's sake, say hi to new parishioners," by Angela Howard-McParland
Steve Wood continues the study of the Little Season in Revelation 20 (vv. 1–3, 7–10), connecting key Scriptures that describe Satan's binding, his release from the abyss, and the worldwide deception that leads to the final battle. This episode also connects Revelation's warnings to the Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel, showing how it mirrors the structure of Revelation 20, and reflects on sobering insights from Church leaders including Pope St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. Are we living in the time of the Little Season? Steve urges caution, discernment, and prayer in an age of growing spiritual darkness. For in-depth study guides and downloadable handouts for this episode,, visit us at www.BibleForCatholics.com.
May 19th, 2026 - We welcome Steven O'Reilly to discuss Pope Benedict XVI's resignation and the mystery of the frozen ATMs. Links, Show Notes & More - https://thestationofthecross.com/act Email Us! ACT@TheStationOfTheCross.com
John-Henry Westen and Patrick Coffin discuss a petition accepted by the Vatican Criminal Court challenging the validity of Pope Benedict XVI's 2013 resignation. The debate centers on whether Benedict renounced only the ministerium (active ministry) rather than the munus (papal office) required under canon law. Questions are also raised about the 2013 conclave and allegations involving the so-called “Saint Gallen group” and improper electioneering. If Benedict's resignation or the conclave were invalid, the implications for the pontificate of Pope Francis and subsequent Vatican appointments could be enormous. The discussion explores the theological and canonical consequences of one of the most controversial claims in modern Church history.HELP SUPPORT WORK LIKE THIS: https://give.lifesitenews.com/?utm_source=SOCIAL U.S. residents! Create a will with LifeSiteNews: https://www.mylegacywill.com/lifesitenews ****PROTECT Your Wealth with gold, silver, and precious metals: https://sjp.stjosephpartners.com/lifesitenews +++SHOP ALL YOUR FUN AND FAVORITE LIFESITE MERCH! https://shop.lifesitenews.com/ +++Connect with John-Henry Westen and all of LifeSiteNews on social media:LifeSite: https://linktr.ee/lifesitenewsJohn-Henry Westen: https://linktr.ee/jhwesten Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For 45 years, George Palmer harboured a secret. He spent every spare moment composing classical music, and then shoving his scores in his bottom drawer. Until one day, almost by pure chance, that music saw the light of day.As a young man, George had dreams of becoming a renowned classical music composer, but when he walked into university, he didn't feel like he belonged in the music department.George left after his first week, and followed a school friend into the law department.At first, George was not inspired by the law, but he ended up falling in love with the human side of the justice system.For the next 45 years, he climbed the ranks from barrister, to Queen's Counsel, and finally to judge in the NSW Supreme Court, where he had ultimate responsibility for all adoptions in the state.But through all those years in public life, George had a secret "vice".Every spare moment he had was spent at his piano, scribbling down choral works and orchestral scores that he never intended anyone to see or hear.He never spoke about composing with his colleagues, friends or family, until one day George's talents were uncovered through chance and tragedy.George's latest work The Drover's Wife - The Opera is playing at Brisbane's QPAC until 22 May, and then will be staged at Sydney's Opera House in August, 2026.This episode of Conversations was produced by Meggie Morris. Executive Producer is Eliza Kirsch.It explores World War Two, family origin stories, spies, British intelligence, hearing loss, late in life career changes, second career, protective list, adoption, foster care, Supreme Court, legal system, justice system, judicial system, commercial law, Beethoven, Bach, Wagner, opera, contemporary classical music, contemporary Australian composers, Indigenous stories, Leah Purcell, stage adaptations, books, writing.
Full Text of Readings Sixth Sunday of Easter Lectionary: 55 The Saint of the day is Saint Damien de Veuster of Moloka'i Saint Damien de Veuster of Moloka'i's Story When Joseph de Veuster was born in Tremelo, Belgium, in 1840, few people in Europe had any firsthand knowledge of leprosy, Hansen's disease. By the time he died at the age of 49, people all over the world knew about this disease because of him. They knew that human compassion could soften the ravages of this disease. Forced to quit school at age 13 to work on the family farm, Joseph entered the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary six years later, taking the name of a fourth-century physician and martyr. When his brother Pamphile, a priest in the same congregation, fell ill and was unable to go to the Hawaiian Islands as assigned, Damien quickly volunteered in his place. In May 1864, two months after arriving in his new mission, Damien was ordained a priest in Honolulu and assigned to the island of Hawaii. In 1873, he went to the Hawaiian government's leper colony on the island of Moloka'i, set up seven years earlier. Part of a team of four chaplains taking that assignment for three months each year, Damien soon volunteered to remain permanently, caring for the people's physical, medical, and spiritual needs. In time, he became their most effective advocate to obtain promised government support. Soon the settlement had new houses and a new church, school and orphanage. Morale improved considerably. A few years later, he succeeded in getting the Franciscan Sisters of Syracuse, led by Mother Marianne Cope, to help staff this colony in Kalaupapa. Saint Damien contracted Hansen's disease and died of its complications. As requested, he was buried in Kalaupapa, but in 1936 the Belgian government succeeded in having his body moved to Belgium. Part of Damien's body was returned to his beloved Hawaiian brothers and sisters after his beatification in 1995. When Hawaii became a state in 1959, it selected Damien of Moloka'i as one of its two representatives in the Statuary Hall at the US Capitol. Damien was canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on October 11, 2009. Reflection Some people thought Saint Damien was a hero for going to Moloka'i and others thought he was crazy. When a Protestant clergyman wrote that Damien was guilty of immoral behavior, Robert Louis Stevenson vigorously defended him in an “Open Letter to Dr. Hyde.”Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
This week we discuss Deacon Brian Wehrle's journey from Anglicanism, to crossing the tiber through the Ordinariate, which Pope Benedict XVI established in 2011. He discusses the importance of the Ordinariate, its structure, Liturgy and identity as a bridge between everyone within the Latin Rite and the English speaking world and more interesting discussions. – The Show is Live on the following Platforms Television TV Maria: tvmaria.ph Radio Platforms: Voice of Charity Australia (1701AM): www.voc.org.au Radio Maria Australia: https://www.radiomaria.org.au/ Cradio: www.cradio.org.au Social Media: @thecatholictoolboxshow Facebook & Instagram - Partners: Parousia Media: www.parousiamedia.com EWTN Asia Pacific www.ewtnasiapacific.com - SUBSCRIBE to our weekly Alert and Newsletter: www.thecatholictoolboxshow.com Get your copy of "The Art of Practical Catholicism" by George Manassa: Get your copy of "The Art of Practical Catholicism Series" by George Manassa: store.parousiamedia.com/the-art-of-practical-catholicism-your-faith-guide-george-manassa-paperback/ https://store.parousiamedia.com/the-art-of-practical-catholicism-2-your-faith-guide-george-manassa-paperback/ Book George Manassa to speak at your parish or event now: www.parousiamedia.com/george-manassa/ DISCLAIMER This Episode does not count as Medical, Psychological or professional advice. All the contents within the parameters of this episode are simply the personal views of the host and guest(s) and any personal advice reflected should always be verified by your relevant professional. In no way is this a substitute for seeking any professional advice and we urge that you seek relevant professional attention at any stage. Please seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health or other professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional, or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this episode or read on any online media. If you are experiencing any emergencies please call 000 OR if you need assistance call 13 11 14 within Australia Or your national emergency service
Kateri Tekakwitha (1656-80) was born in the Mohawk village of Ossernenon, in present-day New York State. Influenced by French Jesuit missionaries and converted to Catholicism at age 19, and after taking a vow of perpetual virginity, she left her village, and moved to the Jesuit mission village of Kahnawake, just south of Montreal, Canada. There she died five years later, respected for her piety and good works. She was beatified in 1980 by Pope John Paul II, and canonized as a Saint by Pope Benedict XVI at St. Peter's Basilica in 2012. Enjoy the second part of three of The Life and Legacy of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha. Part 3 of 3. Super Saints podcast available at https://amzn.to/46spnjl Bob & Penny Lord's book: Visionaries, Mystics & Stigmatists at https://amzn.to/41z4aUS Bob & Penny Lord books available at https://amzn.to/4epZEiT Books about Kateri Tekakwitha at https://amzn.to/3QJSJqY ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's HISTORICAL JESUS podcast: https://parthenonpodcast.com/historical-jesus Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarkVinet_HNA & https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Super Saints podcast with Bob and Penny Lord, Life of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, 12july2021. All audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John-Henry Westen speaks with Paul Kramer about the controversy surrounding the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and whether it met the requirements of canon law. The discussion centers on the distinction between munus (office) and ministerium (ministry), and how that difference could affect the legitimacy of later papal claims. The conversation explores broader theological questions about papal authority, heresy, and continuity in Church leadership. Implications for the pontificates of Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIV are also examined, underscoring ongoing debates within Catholic circles over authority, clarity, and fidelity to tradition.HELP SUPPORT WORK LIKE THIS: https://give.lifesitenews.com/?utm_source=SOCIAL U.S. residents! Create a will with LifeSiteNews: https://www.mylegacywill.com/lifesitenews ****PROTECT Your Wealth with gold, silver, and precious metals: https://sjp.stjosephpartners.com/lifesitenews +++SHOP ALL YOUR FUN AND FAVORITE LIFESITE MERCH! https://shop.lifesitenews.com/ +++Connect with John-Henry Westen and all of LifeSiteNews on social media:LifeSite: https://linktr.ee/lifesitenewsJohn-Henry Westen: https://linktr.ee/jhwesten Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The mystery of iniquity is no longer hidden — it's operating in broad daylight. In this full episode, we take the long view on what Scripture, the Church Fathers, and Pope Benedict XVI all warned was coming: the unraveling of the Restrainer, the rise of lawlessness, and the unmasking of evil in our own time.This isn't a book review. This is a discussion about what 2 Thessalonians 2 actually means for us right now — politically, spiritually, ecclesially. Why does evil seem to operate without resistance? What was Benedict XVI pointing to in his final years? And what is being asked of faithful Catholics who can see what's happening but feel powerless to stop it?We get into:• The "mystery of iniquity" — what St. Paul actually meant, and why it matters in 2026• The Katechon (the Restrainer) — the doctrine almost no one in the modern Church talks about anymore• Benedict XVI's quiet warnings about the end of days and the apostasy from within• Why the Secular Forces feel emboldened — and what that tells us about the spiritual battlefield• What faithful Catholics are called to do when the restraint is liftedSupport the showGet 10% off an amazing Black Monk Rosary by going to https://www.blackmonkrosaries.com/?ref=AVOIDINGBABYLON and using code AVOIDINGBABYLON at checkout!Check out our sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss
After his resignation in 2013, Pope Benedict led a largely private life, but today many of private homilies from this time have been made public in “The Lord Leads Us by the Hand.” Get your copy here: https://ignatius.com/the-lord-holds-us-by-the-hand-lhuh/?searchid=4751194&search_query=the+lord+leads+us In today's episode, Fr. Fessio recalls the wisdom of Pope Benedict XVI. He remembers going to his classes and listening to his homilies, and he realizes that the same quality of insights is present in these newly released homilies. Fr. Fessio also responds to many of the criticisms of Pope Benedict including his resignation, Summorum Pontificum, and Vatican II. This enlightening discussion reveals much about Pope Benedict XVI from someone who knew him closely and personally. SUBSCRIBE to our channel and never miss an episode of the Ignatius Press Podcast. You can also listen to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Follow us on social media: Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/IgnatiusPress Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignatiuspress Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignatius_press/ Music from Pexels, Gregor Quendel. https://www.classicals.de/legal
In 2009 Pope Benedict XVI upset liberals by creating the Ordinariates, new self-governing structures for ex-Anglicans who wanted to preserve their ‘patrimony' in their worship and evangelisation. Until now, many bishops in the English-speaking world have done their best to marginalise the Ordinariates, despite – or perhaps because of – the dynamism of their clergy. But Pope Leo has now affirmed the Ordinariates as a permanent feature of the church. Could Pope Benedict's bold initiative soon be working as he intended? In this episode of Holy Smoke, Damian Thompson talks to two leading Ordinariate priests, Fathers Ed Tomlinson and Benedict Kiely. Don't miss this unusually frank discussion.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts. Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In 2009 Pope Benedict XVI upset liberals by creating the Ordinariates, new self-governing structures for ex-Anglicans who wanted to preserve their ‘patrimony' in their worship and evangelisation. Until now, many bishops in the English-speaking world have done their best to marginalise the Ordinariates, despite – or perhaps because of – the dynamism of their clergy. But Pope Leo has now affirmed the Ordinariates as a permanent feature of the church. Could Pope Benedict's bold initiative soon be working as he intended? In this episode of Holy Smoke, Damian Thompson talks to two leading Ordinariate priests, Fathers Ed Tomlinson and Benedict Kiely. Don't miss this unusually frank discussion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What are the Beatitudes, and why do they seem so paradoxical and counter-cultural? In this episode, we explore Jesus' opening words of the Sermon on the Mount and how they reveal what a renewed world truly looks like. Drawing from Matthew 5 and the teaching of Pope Benedict XVI, this study explains the Beatitudes as the Kingdom of Heaven breaking into the present—end-time realities already at work in daily Christian life. Learn how Jesus speaks to both the crowds and committed disciples, calling believers into a new relationship with God shaped by the values of the coming Kingdom. For more resources, visit us online at www.BibleforCatholics.com.
Many people today are celebrating Earth Day which highlights the importance of caring for the environment. Sometimes people think that the Church is anti-environment but that is not true because God wants us to care for the earth. On today's reflection, Fr. Kubicki shares how Pope Benedict XVI was struck by the beauty of the earth in a trip he made in 2008 to Australia
Kateri Tekakwitha (1656-80) was born in the Mohawk village of Ossernenon, in present-day New York State. Influenced by French Jesuit missionaries and converted to Catholicism at age 19, and after taking a vow of perpetual virginity, she left her village, and moved to the Jesuit mission village of Kahnawake, just south of Montreal, Canada. There she died five years later, respected for her piety and good works. She was beatified in 1980 by Pope John Paul II, and canonized as a Saint by Pope Benedict XVI at St. Peter's Basilica in 2012. Enjoy the second part of three of The Life and Legacy of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha. Super Saints podcast available at https://amzn.to/46spnjl Bob & Penny Lord's book: Visionaries, Mystics & Stigmatists at https://amzn.to/41z4aUS Bob & Penny Lord books available at https://amzn.to/4epZEiT Books about Kateri Tekakwitha at https://amzn.to/3QJSJqY ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's HISTORICAL JESUS podcast: https://parthenonpodcast.com/historical-jesus Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarkVinet_HNA & https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Super Saints podcast with Bob and Penny Lord, Life of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, 12july2021. All audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Respect Life Radio, we welcome theologian and author Matthew J. Ramage, a professor at Benedictine College and co-director of the Center for Integral Ecology. Known for his work bridging faith, science and the theology of Pope Benedict XVI, Dr. Ramage brings thoughtful insight into what it means to be human in a rapidly changing world. In his recent Incarnate Transcendence in an Age of Transhumanist Counterfeits published by Catholic World Report, Ramage explores the growing influence of transhumanism and the temptation to replace our embodied humanity with technological “counterfeits.” He challenges listeners to rediscover the beauty of being fully human—rooted in creation, relationship and ultimately in Christ—rather than seeking false transcendence through technology. Tune in for a compelling conversation on reclaiming authentic human dignity in a digital age, and how the Christian vision of the human person offers a hopeful path forward. To learn more about Matthew visit: https://matthewramage.com/
Friends of the Rosary,Today, Third Sunday of Easter, we read again the passage of the two disciples walking to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-15) with Our Lord opening the Scriptures to them — and to us — making our hearts burn while He speaks to us.They heard the Scriptures interpreted in a way that had never occurred to them before. It is what they have been waiting to hear all their lives. It moves them to beg Jesus, “Stay with us.”The words that speak of Christ's Resurrection — “You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence”— are the same that revivified Peter himself.How is it so? In their road to Emmaus, the disciples' perception was clouded by grief and shock — while Christ showed his patience. In their confusion, they saw the necessity of Christ for true understanding.Emmaus represents every Christian's journey. Pope Benedict XVI explained how the narrative reflects modern faith crises, and how the story perfectly structures the Mass (Word + Eucharist), transforming deserters into witnesses.Alleluia! Christ is Risen!Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• April 19, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
Pope Benedict XVI did not simply resign. He was removed by a coordinated globalist operation involving US intelligence, financial pressure through the SWIFT system, and a "Catholic Spring" designed to reshape the Church from within.Liz Yore joins John-Henry Westen to lay out the evidence. WikiLeaks cables reveal US State Department interest in undermining Benedict's leadership. NSA surveillance targeted Vatican communications. Financial institutions were weaponized to pressure a pope who stood in the way of mass migration, normalized China relations, and the secularizing agenda sweeping Western institutions.HELP SUPPORT WORK LIKE THIS: https://give.lifesitenews.com/?utm_source=SOCIAL U.S. residents! Create a will with LifeSiteNews: https://www.mylegacywill.com/lifesitenews ****PROTECT Your Wealth with gold, silver, and precious metals: https://sjp.stjosephpartners.com/lifesitenews +++SHOP ALL YOUR FUN AND FAVORITE LIFESITE MERCH! https://shop.lifesitenews.com/ +++Connect with John-Henry Westen and all of LifeSiteNews on social media:LifeSite: https://linktr.ee/lifesitenewsJohn-Henry Westen: https://linktr.ee/jhwesten Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Born in the Mohawk village of Ossernenon, in present-day New York State, Saint Kateri Tekakwitha (1656-80) and her family contracted smallpox in an epidemic; she was the only one of the family to survive, but had scarring on her face. She was influenced by French Jesuit missionaries and converted to Catholicism at age 19. After taking a vow of perpetual virginity, she left her village, and moved to the Jesuit mission village of Kahnawake, just south of Montreal, Canada. There she died five years later on April 17th, respected for her piety and good works. She was beatified in 1980 by Pope John Paul II, and canonized by Pope Benedict XVI at Saint Peter's Basilica on 21 October 2012. Enjoy the first part of three of The Life and Legacy of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha. Super Saints podcast available at https://amzn.to/46spnjl Bob & Penny Lord's book: Visionaries, Mystics & Stigmatists at https://amzn.to/41z4aUS Bob & Penny Lord books available at https://amzn.to/4epZEiT Books about Kateri Tekakwitha at https://amzn.to/3QJSJqY ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's HISTORICAL JESUS podcast: https://parthenonpodcast.com/historical-jesus Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarkVinet_HNA & https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Super Saints podcast with Bob and Penny Lord, Life of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, 12july2021. All audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Good morning. They say that religion and politics don't mix, but it's impossible to separate the two when the Pope and the American President have gone head-to-head over the war in Iran. In a social media post, President Trump accused Pope Leo of being weak and advised that he should “focus on being a Great Pope, not a Politician”. Pope Leo responded by insisting that he's not a politician, but that the message of the Gospel, “‘Blessed are the peacemakers', is a message that the world needs to hear today”. This confrontation has catapulted the Pope onto the front pages of the world's media, but he's not the first modern pope to speak out against war. In 2003, when then Cardinal Ratzinger, later Pope Benedict XVI, was asked to comment on the Iraq war, he said that “There were not sufficient reasons to unleash a war against Iraq.” He went on to ask “if it is still licit to admit the very existence of a ‘just war'.” St Augustine gave a Christian interpretation to the idea of the just war in the early 5th century. He argued that, terrible though war always is, it is sometimes necessary to defend the innocent and preserve peace. However, it must seek the future well-being of the enemy, and be free from the lust for power or desire to dominate. These ideas were developed by St Thomas Aquinas in the 13th century, and they continued to shape western politics and international law long after Christianity ceased to be a major political influence. However ineffectual it might sometimes have become in the heat of battle, just war theory provided a restraining influence on the waging of war, especially with regard to the need to avoid the intentional targeting of non-combatants. Today, the nature of modern weapons and the bombing of densely populated areas means that civilian casualties, including children, usually far outnumber military deaths. This is the context in which the Catholic Church's opposition to war must be interpreted. Pope Leo is continuing a tradition set by all modern popes since the 1960s. In his Palm Sunday address, he quoted the prophet Isaiah when he said that Jesus “does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them, saying: ‘Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood'.” This is religious language, but it holds politicians accountable for shedding innocent blood. How could it do otherwise, when Christians worship a crucified God?
After Easter, it's easy to forget what the Passion felt like from the inside. In this episode, Joe Rockey and Father Boniface Hicks step back into the apostles' experience: men from wildly different backgrounds who watched miracles, trusted the mission, and still scattered in fear when Jesus was arrested. Joe names the real-life parallel: we can believe in something—and still not react the way an outside observer thinks we “should,” then carry guilt, confusion, and self-questioning afterward. Father frames it with a practical lens: we all have “parts,” and courage can collapse fast when a stronger force shows up—especially when the Roman Empire's violence becomes real and immediate. The apostles didn't yet have the lived proof we do that surrender can lead to resurrection. And Jesus' response becomes the center of hope: He knew Peter would deny Him, knew they would flee, and still gave Himself completely—Body, Blood, foot-washing love—without confusion or withdrawal. Joe also raises a pointed Holy Week question: if Jesus called out the betrayer at the Last Supper, why didn't the others stop Judas? Father offers a plausible explanation (drawing on Pope Benedict XVI's Holy Week treatment): Jesus may have spoken quietly enough that only John fully heard—while the others interpreted Judas leaving as normal Passover charity. The episode closes by tying it together with human realism: after a week of shock, danger, grief, and emotional overload, “not processing it well” might have been the most human outcome possible—exactly the kind of weakness Jesus came to redeem. Key IdeasThe apostles' fear wasn't random: real power and credible violence can collapse confidence instantly. They hadn't seen “crucifixion → resurrection” play out even once; we have 2,000 years of witnesses—and still struggle. Jesus loved them with full knowledge of their weakness: Peter's denial was foretold inside the context of Eucharistic gift. Judas' exposure may not have been public to all; John's proximity to Jesus at table could explain how details were known later. Thomas “the twin” becomes a mirror: wanting “just a little more proof” is deeply human—and Jesus meets it. Scripture Mentioned (no links)Last Supper accounts (betrayer revealed; Judas leaving)Peter's denial prediction and denialThomas Didymus (“the twin”) and the need for proofPassion themes: arrest, scattering, fear, surrender, resurrectionLinks & References (official/source only)Pope Benedict XVI (official Vatican profile):https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en.htmlCTA: If this helped, please leave a review or share this episode with a friend.Questions or thoughts? Email FatherAndJoe@gmail.com .Tags (comma-separated)Father and Joe, Joe Rockey, Father Boniface Hicks, Easter, Holy Week, Passion, apostles, disciples, fear, scattering, Peter, denial, Judas, betrayal, Last Supper, Eucharist, Body and Blood, foot washing, Roman Empire, persecution, courage, trauma, overwhelm, human weakness, grace, redemption, mercy, resurrection, love victorious, love never dies, Thomas, Didymus, doubt, proof, faith and reason, spiritual consolation, parts work, subpersonalities, Pope Benedict XVI, Jesus of Nazareth, Scripture reflection, YouTube podcast, Father and Joe on YouTube
Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived… for the mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.”[1] — Henry David ThoreauDilecti Amici. Dear friends and brothers in Christ.Let's speak plainly.You are living in a world that is loud, chaotic, and confusing. Social media, influencers, advertisers, schools, and even government all compete for your attention. Each tells you what to think, what to buy, what to fear, and who you are supposed to be. The noise is constant, and it leaves many young men disoriented and exhausted.Pope Benedict XVI described our age as a “dictatorship of moral relativism,” a culture in which truth is reduced to preference and feelings replace reality. It should come as no surprise that so many are struggling. The statistics do not lie. Fifty-seven percent of teen girls report feeling persistently sad or hopeless. Forty percent of teens struggle to function normally because of depression. Thirty percent of teen girls have seriously considered suicide, a figure that has increased by sixty percent in just the past decade. Among LGBTQIA+ teens, fifty-two percent report ongoing mental health struggles, and twenty-two percent have attempted to take their own lives.[2] And let us be honest. Almost every young man today has been exposed to hardcore pornography, often at a young age, robbing innocence and distorting the moral compass. Suicide and overdoses continue to claim far too many lives. As Henry David Thoreau observed long ago, “The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.”Yet this is not the whole story.You are not alone, and you are not doomed. I have seen young men begin to wake up, sensing that something is deeply wrong and refusing to accept shallow answers. You are hungry for meaning, for truth, and for a life that matters. Too often, what you are offered instead are empty slogans or expert opinions detached from the reality of good and evil.That is why I picked up a pen.Do you need another book? Perhaps not. But you do need guidance. You need a battle plan that helps you confront the questions burning in your heart: Who am I? Why am I here? What is my purpose? Why were we created male and female? What does authentic love look like? Where can lasting happiness be found?This is where Claymore Milites Christi enters the story. Visit the Website! [1] Henry David Thoreau, Civil Disobedience and Other Essays.[2] Centers for Disease Control, Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2021. Support the show
Check out Messiah: Old Testament Prophecies Fulfilled in Christ written by Gary Michutahttp://stpaulcenter.com/messiah-logosFr.Max reads a reflection by Pope Benedict the XVI on the Mystery of the Easter Vigil. Pope Benedict explores three themes of the Easter Vigil– light, water, and the Great Alleluia. Connect with us here:Website: http://www.logos-podcast.com/Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/3PCPWBvNcAbptX17PzlC2x?si=BkEHS4vGSf-xmMlDFcpZ2QApple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/logos-podcast/id1560191231YouTube: https://youtube.com/@logospodxast?si=RaYkZAfLKea2kBtZInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/logospodxastPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/logospodcastSupport the show
Friends of the Rosary,Today's Gospel (John 13:21-33, 36-38) presents the sad scene of betrayal at the Last Supper. The troubled Lord announces that one of the Twelve will betray Him.The Lord, in sovereign command of the situation, knew that Satan had tempted this disciple.We see how "after Judas took the morsel, Satan entered him."When the betrayer had left, Jesus said,"Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him.""My children, I will be with you only a little while longer.""Where I am going, you cannot follow me now, though you will follow later."Jesus said to Peter,"Will you lay down your life for me?Amen, amen, I say to you, the cock will not crowbefore you deny me three times."The passage contrasts Judas's betrayal with Peter's three denials during the interrogation.Although Peter denies knowing the Master, his tears of remorse and repentance bring him forgiveness. As with the prodigal son, his filial dignity is restored, and the continued outpouring of the Divine Mercy turns him into the rock, the foundation, on which the Church is built.Brought by grace to the light of repentance, Peter lives, eventually giving his life out of love for the Lord.Judas, as it will read on Good Friday, compounds his sin of betrayal by committing the sin of despair. Unable to imagine forgiveness for such a sin, he falls into what Pope Benedict XVI once described as his "second tragedy," killing himself.Rejecting the Light of the world, Judas enters the darkness of those who hate the divine master plan.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• March 31, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
Bishop Joseph Strickland on Israel closing the holiest church in Christendom and the “holocaust of our time” in Gaza. (00:00) Israel's Forced Closure of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher (15:25) What Is a Justified War (41:49) Why Bishop Strickland Defended Carrie Prejean Boller (50:28) The Response to Bishop Strickland's Statement Most Reverend Joseph E. Strickland is a Catholic bishop known for his unwavering fidelity to Jesus Christ, his defense of the Deposit of Faith, and his courageous witness to the truth in an age of confusion. Ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Dallas in 1985, he was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012 as the fourth Bishop of the Diocese of Tyler, Texas, a role he served until 2023. A lifelong shepherd devoted to the Holy Eucharist and the Blessed Virgin Mary, Bishop Strickland has consistently proclaimed the Church's teachings on the sanctity of life, moral truth, and Eucharistic reverence. In 2025, he founded Pillars of Faith, an apostolate dedicated to strengthening Catholics in fidelity to Christ and His Church. Today, Bishop Strickland continues his apostolic mission nationally and internationally through preaching, teaching, writing, and media outreach. Paid partnerships with: Hallow prayer app: Get 3 months free at https://Hallow.com/Tucker Dose: Daily supplements for the systems that support you. Use code TUCKER for 35% at https://dosedaily.co/tucker Brooklyn Bedding: Get 30% off sitewide with promo code TUCKER at https://brooklynbedding.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jon Voight joins the Ignatius Press podcast to discuss what it was like to portray arguably the most influential man of the 20th century—Pope St. John Paul II. RENT Movie Here: https://ignatius.com/pope-john-paul-ii-pjpiir/ STREAM Movie Here: https://ignatius.com/pope-john-paul-ii-digital-pjpiis/ Purchase DVD Here: https://ignatius.com/pope-john-paul-ii-pjpiim/?searchid=4550843&search_query=john+paul+II Jon Voight is a renowned actor, having won an Academy Award and multiple Golden Globe Awards. But what many don't know is that Pope St. John Paul II handpicked Jon to portray him in an earlier film project. While this original project never panned out, Jon Voight later accepted this role in a different film titled “Pope John Paul II” recounting the life of this great saint. We are honored to talk to Jon about his portrayal of John Paul II in this film and how this role brought him great peace and joy. Jon beautifully highlights the immense holiness of the pontiff and shares personal stories of meeting Pope Benedict XVI and Cardinal Dziwisz (JPII's right hand man). Finally, Jon Voight promotes Pope St. John Paul II as a model particularly for young people as we face Communism and other great evils in our own time. This movie is truly masterfully acted and filmed, and it is one of the best ways to remember Pope St. John Paul II and be inspired by his life in Christ. SUBSCRIBE to our channel and never miss an episode of the Ignatius Press Podcast. You can also listen to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Follow us on social media: Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/IgnatiusPress Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignatiuspress Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignatius_press/
Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation at Kintore College, Toronto, on March 25, 2026.There is something there that we must learn about this gift of hearing in the annunciation. Paintings of the scene often show words that come forth from the angel's mouth, floating through the air to Mary, while she is in a receptive position, the contrapposto, this bending of her body, as though the very words touched her. But paintings are silent. We don' t actually hear the words of the angel. What was Mary's disposition to these sounds?Pope Benedict said: To see this active hearing, a hearing which attracts the Word in such a way that it enters in me and becomes Word in me, reflecting on it and accepting to the depths of the heart. Thus, the Word becomes incarnation. (Pope Benedict XVI, Q&A With Priests of Rome, 26 Feb 2009).There is something for us here to learn about the art of listening.Music: Vienna Philharmonic OrchestraThumbnail: Columba altarpiece of the Annunciation by Roger Van der Weyden, 1455, Alte Pinakothek, Munich.
How can a society move from celebrating Jesus as Messiah to accepting (or even demanding) His crucifixion—within days? Joe Rockey and Father Boniface Hicks pick up the thread from the previous episode and go deeper into the forces that make moral collapse feel “normal”: self-interest, fear, groupthink, and the quiet pressure of power structures.Father frames a key clarification: it's not certain the Palm Sunday crowd and the “crucify him” crowd were the exact same people—Jerusalem was flooded with pilgrims for Passover. But even those who loved Jesus still faced a terrifying reality: Rome's violence was real, and even the apostles fled when things became dangerous. The conversation turns practical: if corruption can become invisible from the inside, how do we train ourselves to resist the crowd, keep Scripture speaking clearly, and stay close to people with integrity—so we don't breathe “putrid air” so long we stop noticing it?Key IdeasPalm Sunday's contrast (Hosanna → Passion) is real, even if the crowds weren't identical.Fear is a powerful silencer: when violence is credible, even loyal followers often retreat.Jesus didn't present as a worldly power figure (no army, no weapons), so the “little ones” recognized Him—but lacked power to defend Him.Groupthink pulls people downstream; self-interest (status, honor, money, security) keeps them there.Resistance becomes possible when we: (1) honor courageous witnesses, (2) let the Gospel keep challenging our rationalizations, and (3) surround ourselves with high-integrity people who keep the air “fresh.”Scripture Mentioned (no links)Palm Sunday readings (Triumphal Entry + Passion narrative)Matthew 7:3–5 (beam/splinter)References to the apostles fleeing during the Passion narrativeLinks & References (official/source only)Dr. Jordan B. Peterson (official site):https://www.jordanbpeterson.com/Pope Benedict XVI (official Vatican profile):https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en.htmlCTA: If this helped, please leave a review or share this episode with a friend.Questions or thoughts? Email FatherAndJoe@gmail.com .Tags (comma-separated)Father and Joe, Joe Rockey, Father Boniface Hicks, Palm Sunday, Passion narrative, Holy Week, Hosanna, crucify him, crowds, groupthink, fear, courage, self interest, power structures, corruption, public opinion, moral courage, integrity, apostles, discipleship, Rome, persecution, Pharisees, scribes, humility, resistance, conscience, truth, Gospel, Pope Benedict XVI, Jesus of Nazareth, Jordan Peterson, beam in your eye, Matthew 7:3-5, virtue, repentance, conversion, community, faithful witness
A call Anglicans to come home to the Catholic Faith. We are delighted to welcome Very Rev. Stephen Hill VG, a former Anglican, now a Catholic priest for the Ordinariate, for a fascinating discussion on the Anglican Ordinariate Liturgy. In this episode, Fr Stephen explores how the Ordinariate's liturgical tradition—established by Pope Benedict XVI—preserves the rich spiritual and liturgical heritage of Anglicanism while fully expressing the Roman Rite within the Catholic Church. He reflects on the beauty, reverence, and theological depth of this form of worship and its role in the life of the Ordinariate today. For all those who love the English Patrimony, this episode is not to be missed! Come and visit the Ordinariate Liturgy: Australia & Oceana- https://www.ordinariate.org.au/ Uk- https://www.ordinariate.org.uk/ North America- https://ordinariate.net/ – The Show is Live on the following Platforms Television TV Maria: tvmaria.ph Radio Platforms: Voice of Charity Australia (1701AM): www.voc.org.au Radio Maria Australia: https://www.radiomaria.org.au/ Cradio: www.cradio.org.au Social Media: @thecatholictoolboxshow Facebook & Instagram - Partners: Parousia Media: www.parousiamedia.com EWTN Asia Pacific www.ewtnasiapacific.com - SUBSCRIBE to our weekly Alert and Newsletter: www.thecatholictoolboxshow.com Get your copy of "The Art of Practical Catholicism" by George Manassa: Get your copy of "The Art of Practical Catholicism Series" by George Manassa: store.parousiamedia.com/the-art-of-practical-catholicism-your-faith-guide-george-manassa-paperback/ https://store.parousiamedia.com/the-art-of-practical-catholicism-2-your-faith-guide-george-manassa-paperback/ Book George Manassa to speak at your parish or event now: www.parousiamedia.com/george-manassa/ DISCLAIMER This Episode does not count as Medical, Psychological or professional advice. All the contents within the parameters of this episode are simply the personal views of the host and guest(s) and any personal advice reflected should always be verified by your relevant professional. In no way is this a substitute for seeking any professional advice and we urge that you seek relevant professional attention at any stage. Please seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health or other professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional, or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this episode or read on any online media. If you are experiencing any emergencies please call 000 OR if you need assistance call 13 11 14 within Australia Or your national emergency service
Friends of the Rosary,Today's Today, the Third Sunday, the Catholic Church begins the second phase of Lent with the Gospel of “living water” (Jn 4:13-14): the intense dialogue of Jesus and the Samaritan woman, a foreigner from whom He asks a drink of water.Christ the Lord said to her, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again; but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”Pope Benedict XVI, recalling the great teaching of Saint Augustine, explained: “God thirsts for our faith and our love. As a good and merciful father, he wants our total, possible good, and this good is he himself.”“The Samaritan woman, on the other hand, represents the existential dissatisfaction of one who does not find what he seeks. She had “five husbands,” and now she lives with another man; her going to and from the well to draw water expresses a repetitive and resigned life. However, everything changes for her that day, thanks to the conversation with the Lord Jesus……” (Benedict XVI, Angelus 24 February 2008).Today'sAve Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• March 8, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
Every year on the 2nd Sunday of Lent we have the Gospel account of the Transfiguration of Jesus. What does the Transfiguration inspire in us? Fr. Kubicki speaks to this question using Pope Benedict XVI's words on today's reflection.
Friends of the Rosary,Today, January 28, the Catholic Church celebrates the Memorial of St. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274), a genius thinker, philosopher, and theologian, who earned the title of the Angelic Doctor, a designation that, as Pope Benedict XVI said, expresses “the sublimity of his thought and the purity of his life.”Considered the Dominican Order's greatest glory, his Summa Theologiae is a masterly synthesis of faith and reason and the classic text for a comprehensive theological formation.Born in Aquino, Italy, he led a remarkable life of prayer and remained modest, a perfect model of childlike simplicity and goodness.He cherished a tender devotion to St. Agnes, constantly carrying relics of this virgin martyr on his person. He died in 1274, at the age of fifty, in the abbey of Fossa Nuova. He is the patron saint of schools and of sacred theology.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• January 28, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
Messy Family Podcast : Catholic conversations on marriage and family
"Love of neighbor is a path that leads to the encounter with God… closing our eyes to our neighbour also blinds us to God." - Pope Benedict XVI, God is Love Summary We begin with Love because marriage flows from our deepest identity and relationships, not just spousal dynamics. Created in the image of a loving, Triune God, we must first ask who God is and who we are in His eyes. Our relationship with God and with ourselves forms the foundation for loving others. Pope Benedict XVI's God Is Love reveals that eros and agape are inseparable dimensions of love: we are made to give and receive love. God's passionate, faithful love for His people—fulfilled fully in Jesus—becomes the model for marriage. In Christ, love of God and love of neighbor are one reality. Our first neighbor is our spouse, and loving them faithfully is the primary path to holiness and authentic love. Key Takeaways Love begins with God, not marriage Before focusing on spousal relationships, we must understand who God is and who we are in His eyes. Our identity as loved by God is the foundation for all love. You cannot love others without loving God and yourself rightly Knowing and receiving God's love allows us to love ourselves truthfully, which is necessary to love anyone else authentically. Eros and agape belong together Human desire (eros) is not bad; it is purified and fulfilled by God's unconditional love (agape). Love requires both giving and receiving. God's passionate love is revealed fully in Jesus Christ embodies God's self-giving love and draws us into communion—with God and with others—especially through the Eucharist. Marriage is the primary place love is lived Spouses are each other's first neighbors. Loving one's spouse faithfully is the clearest expression of love of God and the path to holiness. Resources: Pdf of encyclical: https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_ben-xvi_enc_20051225_deus-caritas-est.html Join the Cana90 Fellowship: https://messyfamilyproject.org/programs/cana90/fellowship-form/
Personnel is policy. Sadly, Pope Leo XIV has promoted Archbishop Carlo Roberto Maria Redaelli as the new Secretary for the Dicastery for Clergy—a bishop known for refusing to condemn an SSA “marriage” involving a Catholic scout leader and for praising restrictions on the Traditional Latin Mass, saying that Pope Benedict XVI's liberalization of the Latin Mass was a “wrong decision.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Friends of the Rosary,Today, January 22, in all the dioceses of the U.S., the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children is celebrated.We pray for the complete legal restoration of the right to life. Abortion is a sinful violation of the dignity of the human person.During the liturgical celebration of Mass, we give thanks to God for the gift of human life.Through the mystery of the incarnation, Christ Jesus confirmed the dignity of the body and the soul which constitute the human being, wrote Pope Benedict XVI.“It is only in the mystery of the incarnate Word that the mystery of man truly becomes clear.” (Gaudium et Spes).God created man in his image and likeness, and by becoming one of us, made it possible for us to become “sons of the Father,” and “sharers in the divine nature.”The dignity of each creature is elevated into a broader horizon of life.It's the boundless and incomprehensible love of God for the human being.“Human life is a manifestation of God in the world, a sign of his presence, a trace of his glory,” writes Benedict XVI.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• January 22, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
In his final days, Pope Benedict XVI tried to stop the German Synodal Way, warning that it would destroy the Church.Sponsored by Charity Mobilehttps://www.charitymobile.com/rtt.phpSources:https://www.returntotradition.orgorhttps://substack.com/@returntotradition1Contact Me:Email: return2catholictradition@gmail.comSupport My Work:Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/AnthonyStineSubscribeStarhttps://www.subscribestar.net/return-to-traditionBuy Me A Coffeehttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/AnthonyStinePhysical Mail:Anthony StinePO Box 3048Shawnee, OK74802Follow me on the following social media:https://www.facebook.com/ReturnToCatholicTradition/https://twitter.com/pontificatormax+JMJ+#popeleoXIV #catholicism #catholicchurch #catholicprophecy#infiltration
Full Text of Readings The Saint of the day is Saint André Bessette Saint André Bessette's Story Saint André Bessette expressed a saint's faith by a lifelong devotion to Saint Joseph. Sickness and weakness dogged André from birth. He was the eighth of 12 children born to a French Canadian couple near Montreal. Adopted at 12, when both parents had died, he became a farmhand. Various trades followed: shoemaker, baker, blacksmith—all failures. He was a factory worker in the United States during the boom times of the Civil War. At 25, Saint André Bessette applied for entrance into the Congregation of Holy Cross. After a year's novitiate, he was not admitted because of his weak health. But with an extension and the urging of Bishop Bourget, he was finally received. He was given the humble job of doorkeeper at Notre Dame College in Montreal, with additional duties as sacristan, laundry worker and messenger. “When I joined this community, the superiors showed me the door, and I remained 40 years,” he said. In his little room near the door, he spent much of the night on his knees. On his windowsill, facing Mount Royal, was a small statue of Saint Joseph, to whom he had been devoted since childhood. When asked about it he said, “Some day, Saint Joseph is going to be honored in a very special way on Mount Royal!” When he heard someone was ill, he visited to bring cheer and to pray with the sick person. He would rub the sick person lightly with oil taken from a lamp burning in the college chapel. Word of healing powers began to spread. When an epidemic broke out at a nearby college, André volunteered to nurse. Not one person died. The trickle of sick people to his door became a flood. His superiors were uneasy; diocesan authorities were suspicious; doctors called him a quack. “I do not cure,” he said again and again. “Saint Joseph cures.” In the end he needed four secretaries to handle the 80,000 letters he received each year. For many years the Holy Cross authorities had tried to buy land on Mount Royal. Brother André and others climbed the steep hill and planted medals of Saint Joseph. Suddenly, the owners yielded. Saint André Bessette collected $200 to build a small chapel and began receiving visitors there—smiling through long hours of listening, applying Saint Joseph's oil. Some were cured, some not. The pile of crutches, canes and braces grew. The chapel also grew. By 1931, there were gleaming walls, but money ran out. “Put a statue of Saint Joseph in the middle. If he wants a roof over his head, he'll get it.” The magnificent Oratory on Mount Royal took 50 years to build. The sickly boy who could not hold a job died at 92. Saint André Bessette is buried at the Oratory. He was beatified in 1982 and canonized in 2010. At his canonization in October 2010, Pope Benedict XVI said that Saint Andre “lived the beatitude of the pure of heart.” Reflection Rubbing ailing limbs with oil or a medal? Planting a medal to buy land? Isn't this superstition? Aren't we long past that superstitious people rely only on the “magic” of a word or action. Brother André's oil and medals were authentic sacramentals of a simple, total faith in the Father who lets his saints help him bless his children.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media