Podcasts about Relevant Radio

Patrick takes listener questions on everything from cremation and relics to the practicalities of annulments and maintaining gratitude within parish life, all while weaving in scriptural roots and clear, approachable Catholic teaching. He answers with straightforward advice for handling marriage complexities, faith discussions with non-Catholic family, and screening media for kids, offering his own reflections as a practicing Catholic. Plentiful encouragement and real-life examples flow throughout, with the conversation shifting swiftly from doctrine to day-to-day encouragement and resources. William (email) - Would the Church have a mass for the deceased if they knew the ashes we not going to be interned but spread out somewhere? (00:59) Jim (email) - As a resident of Massachusetts and a member of Massachusetts Citizens for Life I want to thank you for standing up for the unborn, especially in light of the recent legislation passed in the Commonwealth. Thank you for speaking so clearly and directly about the barbaric and unthinkable act of ending the life of a fully developed unborn baby. You courageously shed light on the gravity and magnitude these actions have on those perpetrating them including Governor Healey. I pray she listens to your show, but wouldn't count on it. Maybe one day! (02:30) Angela (email) - Listener responses unfairly implied the woman wanted recognition for her generous gift rather than a simple thank-you for an act of kindness, a courtesy priests should model and that I, too, have been denied. Miriam (email) - 1. I believe you've previously said that there will be food in heaven. But will we get hungry? I assume we won't, but if we don't, will the food taste as good to us as it would if we were ravenous? 2. Christ was a Jew. But at any point in time did He become a Christian? And if so, when? And if not, why not? Rodney - What Scripture supports spreading saints body parts around as relics? (11:46) Antoinette - They are building a Mormon Church adjacent to my backyard. Can I put a Relevant Radio banner on my fence. Would this be a good idea? (19:37) Margie - I was married in the Church, got divorced and did not get an annulment. My second husband passed. Priest said I didn't need annulment. Is this true? (23:50) Tom - My wife was married outside of the Church. Do we need an annulment? (26:52) Kevin (email) – What is a good resource for screening kids’ books through a Catholic lens? (38:23) Molly - Can we pray the Rosary and make our own mysteries up? Is that a sin? (41:46) Lucas - I went through the annulment process last year and wanted to encourage people that it is worth it. (43:41)

Patrick kicks off a pledge drive hour where faith, generosity, and humor mingle with listener stories about struggling with good intentions, unexpected turns, and practical Catholic living. He wrestles with issues of wealth, apologist pitfalls, road-trip mishaps, technology’s surprises, and why generosity matters for the mission—all while inviting his audience into the urgency and sincerity of keeping Relevant Radio alive. Sudden confessions, calls, and affirmations ripple through the hour, setting a tone equally grounded and unpredictable. Jim (email) – If I’m on the Road to Perdition, should I “keep going”? (01:32) Christian (email) - What are the blessings and challenges of a Catholic Apologist? Michael - Thoughts on the proper disposition of a Catholic towards money or wealth? Can't we do good by prudent financial planning and donating? (13:16) Anthony - My back surgery went great! I had no rods, pins, or hardware. New technology of back surgery is incredible. (18:02) Matt (email) - Why can validly ordained priests (such as those of the SSPX) validly celebrate most sacraments even when doing so illicitly, but cannot validly administer Confirmation or Confession—even when they use the correct form and matter? Jessica - Turns out that my daughter is not doing that great with her cellphone. Even if you think parental controls are working, they find their way around it. (46:59)

Patrick brings listeners into stories of kindness, community, and faith—an elderly caller’s struggle on a busy train, longing for compassion from strangers glued to their phones, and a conversation about longing for a path back to the Catholic Church. He urges acts of generosity, emphasizes listening before judging, and doesn’t shy away from wrestling with deep questions about suffering, tragedy, and trusting God’s mysterious will. Calls and emails reveal how even a moment of patience or an honest prayer can change lives, and Patrick keeps pressing forward with simple encouragement: keep going. Sandra - As 81-year-old, everyone is on their cellphones, and they won't help me or make room for me to sit down. I don’t know what to do. (00:59) Jonathan (email) - I have recently been hired as a head coach for a boys’ varsity soccer team. After praying this morning, I came to a conclusion that I would like to give the option to my players and have a moment where we would pray the Our father prayer before the game, my thought is this would be optional and everyone has the choice to join for that moment of prayer or they could choose not to. Question to you is, is this good way to proceed since I may get back lash from the school or parents or would there be another way of doing this that would not rock the boat as much. My feeling is it may not go over well, but I would be willing to defend my position on this. (15:17) Suzanne (email) - I understand that Relevant Radio offers gifts to donors because in so doing, donations go up. From a materialistic and business perspective, I guess that makes sense. But from a Christian perspective, it doesn't. Daniel (email) - I am so shaken by the news that a Northwest Airlines flight crashed in Detroit and the only survivor was a 4-year old little girl. Why, oh God, why would you let this happen? Joanne - AWARD for Sandra for speaking out as a Senior. Also, a young girl was evangelized in the laundry mat because of Relevant Radio (27:22) Kim - Deaf people need so much help for all things. Thank you for always helping this awareness. (40:09) Please don’t read my name (email) – Ushers should act as security (46:24)

Patrick takes listeners through questions of faith and daily choices while the Relevant Radio Summer Pledge Drive pulses in the background. Prayer surfaces as both a lifeline and a missed opportunity, shaping unseen consequences, while stories about confronting technology, the paths to conversion, and the ethics of medical crises add urgency and meaning. Pressing issues—from government transparency during the pandemic to how everyday believers quietly spread hope—collide, always circling back to gratitude and the mysterious way small acts ripple through countless lives. Lillia (email) - If someone feels ill but is too afraid to see a doctor and then dies suddenly, and we believe God decides the exact time of our death, would going to the doctor have changed anything? In other words, would that person still have died at the same moment, because not even a doctor could alter the time God had already set? (01:12) Joseph - Someone I worked with two years ago sent me a text yesterday to tell me thank you for turning her onto Relevant Radio. It was the greatest birthday present to me! (13:35) Marianne (email) - Sorry, but I think you are fooling yourself, Mr. Madrid, in regards to keeping cell phones away from kids Fauci Senior Advisor David Morens pleads guilty to "Conspiracy to Commit Offenses and to Defraud the United States" - https://x.com/fbidirectorkash/status/2089831522408821051 (27:21) Audio: Montage of Covid lies - https://x.com/adamcarolla/status/2087009099078901900/video/1?s=46 (29:53) Ben - In cases of ectopic pregnancy, is it morally right to abort the fertilized egg (the baby) — including right after fertilization — in order to protect the mother’s life and safety? (42:24) Email - Did you ever experience racism? (47:56)

Patrick explores emotional numbness and overstimulation, drawing a line from Archbishop Fulton Sheen’s warnings in the 1950s straight to today’s digital frenzy, where attention splinters and quiet moments get drowned out by endless screens and urgent voices. Short videos, distracted reading, the endless scroll—Patrick connects these threads while offering listeners solace in the steady presence of Relevant Radio, where faith punctuates the noise and daily stories bloom. Gratitude, practical advice, music, and real-life encounters intertwine as Patrick brings listeners to the core of spiritual resilience and the subtle challenge of tuning out what numbs the soul. Audio: Fulton Sheen diagnosed emotional numbness in 1956 – 1min -https://x.com/relevantradio/status/2089821360558080263/video/1?s=46 (27:01) Mike (email) - Bless you both for cueing & reading my email on air. It was inspired by the holy Spirit as usual of your labor of love! The illness has kept me in and resting for months. I can definitely see the benefit of keeping up social contact. I will take your suggestion and consult my doctor closely. You made my day. (16:59) Maryanne - I've been to the Episcopalian church, and their liturgy is exactly like ours. Are their bishops apart of our bishops who make the liturgy? (18:37) Cindy - I wanted to thank Patrick and Relevant Radio for such wonderful radio. It is an escape into holiness or refuge for me. (27:11) Steve (Substack comment) – I’m a devout atheist listener with Buddhist leanings (45:10)

Patrick brings faith and culture into focus, weighing Catholic responses to challenging topics like same-sex relationships, IVF, moral integrity, and gender confusion in sports and language. Catholic teaching, parish life, and the limits of welcoming all while protecting reverence at Mass pulse beneath each moment. Throughout, Patrick sustains a plea for support, rooting the conversation in Relevant Radio’s call to give hope. Debbie - A friend and her partner are doing IVF, and are very excited. What should my reaction be? Fred - What is your take on the Book of Enoch? Lisa - At mass, a churchgoer was blasting metal music through his headphones. Do you have suggestions for how to handle that or respond to this? Audio: CNN – WNBA- exbasketball players are just looking for attention – 2min - https://x.com/Highway_30/status/2087930885077119062/video/1?s=46 Audio: Biologist Dr. Heather Heying praises the recent actions of Royce White and Enes Kanter - WNBA - https://x.com/thedarkhorsepod/status/2088326430459621820/video/1?s=46 Audio: Royce White says CNN “not giving black women a voice” - https://x.com/BrickCenter_/status/2087304899327619108/video/1?s=46 Luke (email) - Historically gender and sex were never, or at least rarely, interchanged and gender was not used to describe a person’s biological sex.

Patrick welcomes listeners with raw accounts of faith found and sometimes lost, the sting of family tension over life choices, and the small yet powerful traditions that bind parents and children during rites of passage. He moves between heartfelt confessions and conversations with practical tips for speaking hard truths without letting go of love, even when differences seem insurmountable. Calls pour in, stories unfold, tears mix with laughter, and the spirit of generosity pulses as pledges come in for Relevant Radio’s mission. Audio: For incoming freshmen at Bishop Kelley High School in Tulsa - give their mothers a goodbye kiss - https://x.com/CBSSunday/status/2089002121408455075/video/1?s=46 Greg - Adult daughter is living with another woman. How can we approach and handle that when she complains that we don't respect her partner? Martin – We need to be shining lights for the kids Allen - You are indicating that there are only two genders but there are actually three Vivian (7-years-old) - Does your soul turn black if you commit sins? Greg - Tried to talk with gentlemen who had sign 'Pastors for Planned Parenthood'. What is the best way to approach these people?

Hour 3 for 8/12/26 Drew and Matt Buonocore, Chief Financial Officer at Relevant Radio cover personal finance 101 (3:55). Topics: making a plan and a budget (6:28), farming (11:25), our cashless society (17:31), teaching about credit in high school (19:36), and debt (23:23). Then, Charles Gardner Senior Research Fellow at the Mercatus Center covers housing affordability (28:33). Topics: growing up in smaller houses (33:21), start homes (42:39), high rises (44:03), and flood insurance (49:59). Link: https://www.mercatus.org/scholars/charles-gardner

In this episode of Connecting the Diocese, Father Sam Martin talks with newly ordained Deacon Patrick Conley about his June 6 ordination for the Diocese of La Crosse at the Cathedral of St. Joseph the Workman, what those first weeks of preaching, hospital visits, and assisting at Mass have been like, and how formation built […]

On this episode of Catholic Forum, the second of a two part episode featuring Dr. Tyler Kulp and Deacon Vince Pisano who join the show to discuss the impact of their mission trip to Southern Kenya with Water is Life Kenya and how they hope the Diocese of Wilmington can continue to support this life-giving work. Read the "Kulp in Kenya" blog for more insights at thedialog.org and find out more about Water is Life Kenya (WILK) at https://waterislifekenya.org/ The complete video interview featured in on today's episode can be found on the Diocese of Wilmington YouTube channel: youtube.com/dioceseofwilm. As always, listen to the complete audio version of Catholic Forum on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio or Amazon Music podcasts. If you're in Delmarva or South Jersey you can also listen on Saturdays at 1:30 PM on Relevant Radio 640. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.

On this week's Catholic Forum epsiode - another installment showcasing One Of Us from The Dialog to our radio lisenters on AM 640.  For this edition, Joe Owens interviews Porsha Harvey, Senior Manager of Basic Needs at Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Wilmington and Leslie Williams, who as this Summer, retired after many years serving as a coordinator for the Basic Needs Program. To learn more about Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Wilmington, visit ccwilm.org.   And if you have a suggestion for a One of Us feature - reach out to Joseph P. Owens, Editor and Manager of The Dialog at jowens@thedialog.org. As always, listen to the complete audio version of Catholic Forum on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio or Amazon Music podcasts. If you're in Delmarva or South Jersey you can also listen on Saturdays at 1:30 PM on Relevant Radio 640. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.

Patrick opens up the lines to COVID stories and raw memories, letting listeners share what the pandemic really cost or changed for them, with grief, disagreement, resilience, moments of unexpected grace, doubt, and faith all tangled together. This hour puts the spotlight on the struggles with mandates, medical ethics, and trust, touching on everything from family loss and confused protocols to the support of priests and the rediscovery of faith after years away. Tension fills the air alongside gratitude as Patrick keeps the conversation honest, moving from questions about authority to stories of surviving, searching, and starting again. James - I am a registered nurse from San Antonio, TX. I remember being called in for hospice service. A gentleman who was dying did test positive for COVID, died 4 days later, but he was already dying of kidney failure. I feel like this was a gray area. (01:07) Mary - I'm and ER nurse. I saw all the horror of COVID. (04:52) Nancy - A year ago, I discovered Relevant Radio. You helped me come home to the Catholic Church. (09:18) Liz - I was vaccinated and got COVID four times. The last time it affected my lungs. (17:24) Tim - I work from home exclusively. My job was threatened if I didn't take the COVID vaccine even though my job was remote. (21:10) Audio: Trust the science montage - https://x.com/adamcarolla/status/2082812509443240071/video/1 (25:37) Joanne - The corruption during covid was terrible. (30:37) Melissa – My husband was a government worker, and he was sent home for two months before quitting because he refused to get vaccinated (33:56) Patrick shares some of the many emails that have come in today in response to Fauci, COVID and the overwhelming bullying to push the vaccine (38:07) Elizabeth - I'm a Canadian citizen living in USA. Fauci had caused a lot of terrible things, affected my own family. Brother arrested because he was not vaccinated. (46:03)

On today's Inner Life, Deacon Patrick Conley has Fr. Elliot Zak on to give guidance on having a relationship with God through the lens of Saints Martha, Mary, And Lazarus. Theresa - I've been widowed 41 years. Confidence in God’s goodness is foundational Justin - AS in any relationship, we need to learn about Jesus and our faith. There are so many resources such as Relevant Radio. We need to take the initiative to learn more and that has increased my faith. Break 2 Jonathan - Eucharistic adoration and experiencing the Lord there. I struggle sometimes with it even though I believe He is present. I find that having a relationship with God is difficult. Email – Thomas: How will I know that I have quote on quote made it with my relationship with God?

On this episode of Catholic Forum, the first of a two part episode featuring Dr. Tyler Kulp and Deacon Vince Pisano who join the show to discuss the impact of their mission trip to Southern Kenya with Water is Life Kenya and how they hope the Diocese of Wilmington can continue to support this life-giving work. Read the "Kulp in Kenya" blog for more insights at thedialog.org and find out more about Water is Life Kenya at https://waterislifekenya.org/ As always, listen to the complete audio version of Catholic Forum on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio or Amazon Music podcasts. If you're in Delmarva or South Jersey you can also listen on Saturdays at 1:30 PM on Relevant Radio 640. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.

On this episode of Catholic Forum, after a News update from Joseph P. Owens, we're staying in the wayback machine to continue our commemoration of Bishop Koenig's 5th anniversary of episcopal ordination. Portions of this episode originally aired on July 17, 2021 and you'll hear portions of the ordination and installation mass that officially began Bishop Koenig's time as shepherd of the Diocese of Wilmington.  As mentioned in the episode, you can watch the complete livestream recording of Bishop Koenig's installation and ordination on our youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0l8ZXxYLmI. Please join us in prayerful thanksgiving for the example of discipleship and servant leadership of Bishop Koenig these last five years! Ad Multos Annos!  As always, listen to the complete audio version of Catholic Forum on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio or Amazon Music podcasts. If you're in Delmarva or South Jersey you can also listen on Saturdays at 1:30 PM on Relevant Radio 640. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.    

In this special episode of The Catholic Money Show, Jonathan and Amanda Teixeira join Timmerie on Relevant Radio to talk about two money conversations affecting Catholics in very different seasons of life: student loans and dating.First, they discuss how student loans are following many people into retirement, especially those who borrowed for college, graduate school, or Parent PLUS loans for their children. Jonathan and Amanda explain why minimum payments can keep people stuck for decades, how student loans can affect retirement plans, and why it is important to make a real payoff strategy before fixed income becomes a reality.Then, the conversation shifts to Catholic dating and money. Should income, career plans, debt, or future family life be deal breakers before someone even gets a first date? Jonathan and Amanda talk about the difference between wise discernment and harsh evaluation, why financial conversations should unfold gradually, and how character, growth, prayer, and openness to God's call matter more than having every detail figured out from the beginning.In this episode:Why student loans are delaying retirement for many familiesHow minimum payments can keep debt around for decadesWhy Parent PLUS loans can create pressure later in lifeWhat to consider before relying on reverse mortgages or retirement debt strategiesWhy saving for the future should not become an idolHow Catholic families can balance prudence with living fruitfully todayWhy dating should be more about encounter than evaluationWhen to start talking about money in a dating relationshipHow financial intimacy grows over timeWhy character matters more than a perfect financial profileThis episode is a helpful conversation for anyone carrying student loans, preparing for retirement, dating with marriage in mind, or trying to bring Catholic wisdom into real financial decisions.Resources mentioned: WalletWin Catholic Money Academyhttps://walletwin.com/academyStop living Paycheck to paycheck. https://relevantradio.com/2024/01/money-as-a-catholic-feast-of-the-holy-spouses/ How to adopt a baby on a budgethttps://relevantradio.com/2024/04/parents-on-a-budget/ 

Patrick fields listener questions that range from Mass intentions and Catholic marriage validity to grief after a loved one’s suicide, offering practical guidance and personal reflections, sometimes quoting Scripture directly. Humor threads through his advice to parents struggling with rebellious teens and smartphone battles, even as serious topics around Church teaching and mercy surface alongside day-to-day struggles. Tony - When/why did the custom of saying Mass intentions out loud begin, and can it cause unintended consequences when the Priest does not announce them? (00:45) Heidi - Can we assume that the list of churches on the Relevant Radio app are not SSPX? (07:32) Joe - A Catholic Church I have been going to has been doing 'everything right' but they swear badly in Spanish. What should I do? (09:53) Jeff – How do I overcome sin towards the sacrament of marriage in general after being a terrible person in my younger days? (23:28) Lauren - A family member recently committed suicide. What is the church teaching on what happens to their soul? (31:24) Marcin - How to heal my relationship with my son, who is no longer listening to my advice to help him get back into the faith. (43:05)

On this episode of Catholic Forum we're jumping in the wayback machine to commemorate the fifth anniversary of Most Rev. William E. Koenig's episcopal ordination and installation as the 10th Bishop of Wilmington.  This week's interview features the first interview between former Catholic Forum host and Diocesan Communications Director, Bob Krebs and then Bishop-elect William Koenig a few days before his episcopal ordination on July 13, 2021.  Please join us in prayerful thanksgiving for the example of discipleship and servant leadership of Bishop Koenig these last five years! Ad Multos Annos!  As always, listen to the complete audio version of Catholic Forum on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio or Amazon Music podcasts. If you're in Delmarva or South Jersey you can also listen on Saturdays at 1:30 PM on Relevant Radio 640. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.    

Most fundraising galas leave money on the table for reasons the people running them never see.Chris Hensley and Brett Higgins, two of the most in-demand fundraising auctioneers in the country, join Trevor to work through five of the sharpest questions raised at the recent Chicago Gala Playbook event. What separates the organizations that consistently overperform from the ones that stay stuck at last year's number? Where does the fundraising actually break down in a program? And what does it look like to create inspiration to give without slipping into pressure?In this episode: the six-month mistake most nonprofits make (spoiler, it involves ignoring the data from last year's event), why "we don't want to ask for too much money" is almost always a symptom of a past bad experience, the difference between pressure and inspiration and when each has a place, the concept of "unspoken peer pressure" and how leaders in the room quietly move giving upward, why the witching hour at 9:15pm is real and what to do about your program timing, and the one thing organizations overestimate every year (the room, the dinner, the linens) versus the one thing that actually moves revenue.Plus: why Chris raised $1.2M against a $400K goal at a Relevant Radio event, and what "taking the lid off" the top ask can look like when the room is emotionally ready.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:41 Gala Playbook in Chicago09:25 Data-Driven Fundraising18:25 The Art of Asking23:00 Creating Inspiration to Give Instead of Pressure32:09 Creating a Unique Experience for Fundraising Events38:09 The Right Places to Focus43:32 One Piece of Advice You Would Give to a Nonprofit45:54 Bonus

Personal stories ripple through the hour, from listeners wrestling with infertility options to those struggling with marriage outside the Church, each seeking clarity and reassurance within the Church’s teachings. Nancy (email) – Why do some parishes offer confession after mass but not before? Rhonda – With the shortage of priests today, why shouldn't we allow priests to be married? Why can’t we have women priests? Terry - I learned that God put a beautiful barrier up with infertility if there is an infection. When we jump that barrier with IVF, you will lose the baby. Joshua - You said that the devil is not totally evil and that we aren't supposed to hate things. Should we love the devil? Penny (email) - I was told about a nearby SSPX mission church that holds the Traditional Latin Mass Marcela - I was away from the church for 50 years and I’ve been brought back by Patrick Madrid and Relevant Radio! Mary - If someone married outside of Church but Catholic themselves and did not marry a Catholic, are they in state of grace? What do they do? Jeanette - What happens to aborted babies' souls? Where do they go? Email - goes into more detail from yesterday concerning John 6:25-70 (Originally Aired on 06/09/2026)

On this episode of Catholic Forum in commemoration of the Semiquincentennial of our country, after a news update from The Dialog, we'll take a listen back to Bishop Koenig's two homilies from the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage masses at St. Christopher's in Kent Island and at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Wilmington.  The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage concludes this weekend in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and as we look back on the previous 250 years of American history and what may be possible in the next 250, there is no better time to remember that our faith in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist can sustain us and give us hope each day.    As always, listen to the complete audio version of Catholic Forum on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio or Amazon Music podcasts. If you're in Delmarva or South Jersey you can also listen on Saturdays at 1:30 PM on Relevant Radio 640. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.

In this special episode of The Catholic Money Show, Jonathan Teixeira joins Mark Swartzberg on Relevant Radio to talk about adoption, fatherhood, and what it means to be open to life.Jonathan shares part of his family's story, including how infertility shaped their path to parenthood, and how each of their five children came into their family through infant adoption.The conversation touches on the beauty of adoptive fatherhood, the real unity of family, and why adoption is not a lesser form of parenthood. Jonathan also reflects on the language of adoption in the Catholic faith and how being adopted into the family of God can help us understand the dignity and permanence of adoptive family life.For couples who are discerning adoption, Jonathan offers practical encouragement: pray, talk honestly with your spouse, speak with adoptive families, and do not be afraid to ask questions.

On this edition of Catholic Forum, Tyler Kulp, Associate Superintendent of Schools for the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington joins the show to discuss his upcoming mission trip to a remote region of Africa with with Water is Life Kenya. Water is Life Kenya was founded by in 2007 by Joyce Tannian, a native Delawarean and graduate of CDOW Catholic Schools. WILK is a nonprofit organization that brings clean water, sanitation, hygiene, income generation and hope to the Massai communities in Southern Kenya. To find out more about the work and mission of Water is Life Kenya visit their website: https://waterislifekenya.org/ To support Tyler's GoFundMe campaign to bring school supplies to the early intervention program he mentions in this episode click here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-dr-kulps-mission-to-help-orarait-school-in-kenya And to read more about Tyler's upcoming mission trip head over to The Dialog website: https://thedialog.org/featured/associate-superintendent-of-schools-tyler-kulp-to-lead-mission-trip-to-kenya-and-hes-seeking-your-support/  And, you can find out more about the Catholic Media Association Awards The Dialog staff received at this year's Catholic Media Conference on The Dialog website here: https://thedialog.org/our-diocese/the-dialog-earns-four-national-awards-at-2026-catholic-media-conference-in-atlantic-city-n-j/  As always, listen to the complete audio version of Catholic Forum on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio or Amazon Music podcasts. If you're in Delmarva or South Jersey you can also listen on Saturdays at 1:30 PM on Relevant Radio 640. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.

On this episode of Catholic Forum, Raymond Martinez II joins the show to discuss his role as a Perpetual Pilgrim on the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage "One Nation Under God" route that is bringing the Blessed Sacrament to many east coast dioceses this Summer, including the Diocese of Wilmington on June 11th and 12th. To learn more about Raymond and his fellow perpetual pilgrims visit eucharisticpilgrimage.org. To learn more about the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage events in the Diocese of Wilmington visit cdow.org/cabriniroute or thedialog.org! We hope you'll join us on the route to glorify our Eucharistic Lord, the Source and Summit of our faith! Each week you can listen to The Catholic Forum podcast on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music podcasts and youtube.com/dioceseofwilm every Wednesday; and on Relevant Radio 640 every Saturday afternoon at 1:30 for those in the Delmarva/South Jersey region. More information is available at cdow.org/CatholicForum and Facebook.com/CatholicForum. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.

Personal stories ripple through the hour, from listeners wrestling with infertility options to those struggling with marriage outside the Church, each seeking clarity and reassurance within the Church’s teachings. Nancy (email) – Why do some parishes offer confession after mass but no before? (00:30) Rhonda – With the shortage of priests today, why shouldn't we allow priests to be married? Why can’t we have women priests? (03:16) Terry - I learned that God put a beautiful barrier up with infertility if there is an infection. When we jump that barrier with IVF, you will lose the baby. (12:30) Joshua - You said that the devil is not totally evil and that we aren't supposed to hate things. Should we love the devil? (16:37) Penny (email) - I was told about a nearby SSPX mission church that holds the Traditional Latin Mass (24:56) Marcela - I was away from the church for 50 years and I’ve been brought back by Patrick Madrid and Relevant Radio! (31:16) Mary - If someone married outside of Church but Catholic themselves and did not marry a Catholic, are they in state of grace? What do they do? (37:11) Jeanette - What happens to aborted babies' souls? Where do they go? (43:28) Email - goes into more detail from yesterday concerning John 6:25-70

Hour 3 for 6/8/26 Drew and James Hirsen discuss 60 Minutes firing of Scott Pelly, the decline of trust in news, and California elections (5:44). Topics/callers: the decline of trust in news (17:01), Trump criticism (20:39), Nick Bilton (28:36), I love Relevant Radio (31:36), Hirsen as a breath of fresh air (35:09), California elections (39:34), where I get my news (44:59), resolving media bias (46:21), and the problem is journalism (49:07). Links: x.com/thejimjams jameshirsen.com

Hour 2 for 6/5/26 Drew and Brooke pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy (1:00). Then, Drew welcomes new Relevant Radio host Mark Swartzberg to discuss his conversion (28:03), evangelization (38:25), Mark's life on Wall Street (41:22), and The Mark Swartzberg Show (46:22).

On this edition of Catholic Forum, Joanne Varnes, Program Manager at Catholic Charities joins the show to discuss the Food Assistance Program she manages with Catholic Charities and the ongoing need for donations to the food pantries around the diocese. Joanne discusses how grateful she is to be involved in the work of Catholic Charities and what it means to be able to serve her neighbors in need. To find out more about the work of Catholic Charities and the Food Assistance or Diaper Bank Programs, you can visit ccwilm.org and get in touch with Joanne. And we're back with a video interview this week so head over to youtube.com/dioceseofwilm to watch the interview with Joanne!  Each week you can listen to The Catholic Forum podcast on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music podcasts and youtube.com/dioceseofwilm every Wednesday; and on Relevant Radio 640 every Saturday afternoon at 1:30 for those in the Delmarva/South Jersey region. More information is available at cdow.org/CatholicForum and Facebook.com/CatholicForum. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”A single question can dismantle years of certainty: who decides what counts as Scripture in the first place? That's where Cooper White's journey gets gripping, because it wasn't powered by rebellion or a bad church experience. He and his wife were raised in loving evangelical families, deeply involved in ministry, and genuinely devoted to Jesus. But while serving in youth ministry and later studying theology at Wheaton, Cooper kept running into a problem that would not go away: authority. If Christians disagree on core doctrines, if interpretations multiply endlessly, and if even the biblical canon requires a decision, what holds the Church together in Truth?Suffering brought the questions down to the heart. When Cooper's wife faced Lyme disease, Catholic teaching on redemptive suffering, alongside voices like Relevant Radio and real Catholic families living the faith, made the Church feel not like a system of restrictions but a home with sacraments, confession, and a liturgical rhythm strong enough to carry a family when life breaks. If you're wrestling with unity, truth, the Eucharist, or the fear that one hard question could unravel everything, this conversation gives you a clearer path forward. Subscribe, share this with a friend who's searching, and leave a review with the question you're still trying to answer.Join us! ClaymoremilitesChristi.comEmail us at info@jp2renew.orgSupport the show

Father Matthew Widder joins Patrick to discuss Holiness in the Ordinary (3:15) Is ordinary mundane? What is holiness? How do you resist the temptation to see the daily life as boring? (11:54) Jesus’ hidden life explained (15:31) Jeff - Listening to Relevant Radio is what I do. Nancy - St Therese of the Little Flower. Try to be holy that way. Listening to Christian music. Not listening to inappropriate music. (20:09) Break 1 (21:54) Eli - My artwork and how it has transformed in a way. God's calling me to create works for him. Email from Jenna – Sign of the cross whenever you hear a siren. Email from Lori – Morning Coffee and morning offering are great! (29:55) How do small things help us grow in what we are suppose to do in life? How do you get in touch with God’s love for you? Offering up EVERYTHING for the glory of God. (36:59) Break 2 How does community help with us growing in holiness? (41:29) Adrian - My Catholic faith. Convert of 12 years. I take part in Bible studies, Sunday Mass. I'm the only Catholic in my family. I don't push it. Give sound advice in helping raise my daughter with my ex. (45:46) Lynn - As a homeschooling family and the way we try to live out our vocations and vacations. With children, we go places including daily Mass and put it as a priority even on vacation.

Patrick welcomes listeners into conversations where Catholic belief collides with ordinary life, fielding questions from parents wrestling with pride shirts at work, addressing how the saints and Mary hear prayers, and challenging the idea that radio should limit itself to purely spiritual talk. He weaves in analogies, real examples, and fresh responses to illustrate what Catholic witness looks like amid social pressures and family debates, moving fluidly from spiritual works to contemporary news without losing sight of faith’s everyday impact. Humor, encouragement, and engaging calls keep the energy unpredictable and the insights grounded. Ted - How can I use a better analogy to talk to my daughter about wearing a Pride T-shirt? I did try the analogy of wearing a swastika t-shirt, but that didn't work. (00:57) Marcus - We can't neglect our bodies by putting spiritual life ahead of our body’s health. (16:54) George - How can the Saints and Mary hear us when they aren't omnipresent? (29:12) Any Friend of God’s Is a Friend of Mine: The Biblical Case for the Intercessory Role of Mary and the Saints - https://patrickmadrid.substack.com/p/any-friend-of-gods-is-a-friend-of Cyrus and Patrick share some emails that have come in responding to calls from today’s show (37:39) Sherry - Praise report: Don't change anything Relevant Radio is doing! All topics lead us to spiritual topics. (41:51) Jim – I agree with Patrick concerning the wide range of topics on Relevant Radio. Jesus said, “Man does not live by bread alone.” (45:01) Jenny - About the young lady wearing Pride shirt: To me it's everyone's business what happens in private regarding LGBTIQ. (49:29)

On this edition of Catholic Forum after the usual news update from Joe Owens, we'll hear from the winners of this year's Delaware Knights of Columbus Jerry Dawson Memorial Vocations Essay Contest.  This year's winners - Nila Gopez, Carlos Kook, Greyson Pryslak, Lindsay Ewasko, and Ben Oliver, each receive a cash award in addition to presenting their essays on the Catholic Forum podcast.   Each year students in grades 5-8 in Catholic schools and parish religious education programs are invited to submit their essays on the importance or impact of vocations.   Following the essays you'll hear a special invitation from Bishop Koenig to attend the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage events taking place across the Diocese of Wilmington on June 11th and 12th -- additional information is available at cdow.org/cabriniroute.  We hope to see you there!  Each week you can listen to The Catholic Forum podcast on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Amazon Music podcasts every Wednesday; and video interviews featured in the broadcast are available at youtube.com/dioceseofwilm.  You can also listen  on Relevant Radio 640 every Saturday afternoon at 1:30 for those in the Delmarva/South Jersey region. More information is available at cdow.org/CatholicForum and Facebook.com/CatholicForum. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.

In this special episode, Jonathan Teixeira joins John Morales on Relevant Radio's Morning Air to discuss how Catholic families can prepare for college costs without going broke.Jonathan breaks down the real cost of college beyond tuition, including room and board, books, travel, and hidden expenses. He also shares practical ways families can lower costs, including community college, in-state schools, trade programs, FAFSA, scholarships, and honest conversations about what parents can truly afford.Jonathan reminds parents that supporting their children does not always mean paying for everything. Sometimes the greatest help parents can offer is wisdom, guidance, and prudent decision-making rooted in faith. For more help bringing peace and clarity to your family's finances, check out The Catholic Money Academy at walletwin.com/academy.

Hour 1 for 5/26/26 Drew, Fr. Rocky, and Preston Allex discuss AI and the Holy Father's new encyclical. Topics AI hallucination (15:58), manipulation (19:49), and water shortage (27:50). Then, Ambassador Joseph Cella covers the latest in Iran (38:22). Link: Pope's New Encyclical Overview of Encyclical on Relevant Radio

Hour 3 for 5/26/26 Drew and Dr. Fernanda Psihas discuss the ethical concerns of AI and the Pope's new encyclical (4:26). Topics: dignity of the human person (10:12), the Church's teaching (11:53), consciousness (16:17), what's the biggest risk (22:55), disruptions (24:36), training in the faith (28:37), manipulation (29:52), AI and education (32:54), importance of the soul (36:54), discernment (42:26), data centers (44:53), being human (48:08), and fertility (49:35). Links: https://snas.franciscan.edu/faculty/psihas-fernanda/ Pope's New Encyclical Overview of Encyclical on Relevant Radio

Hour 2 for 5/26/26 Drew and Brooke pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy (1:00). Then, Loyola University's Dr. Joseph Vukov joins Drew to discuss Pope Leo's new encyclical (25:47). Topics: what we build (28:49), corruption (35:50), AI and arrogance (44:29), and governance and transparency (48:46). Link: https://www.luc.edu/catholicstudies/affiliatefaculty/profiles/joevukov.shtml Pope's New Encyclical Overview of Encyclical on Relevant Radio

Hour 3 for 5/21/26 Drew and Dr. Gabriel X. Martinez discuss a new free course from Ave Maria University on Catholic Social Teaching and Economics (1:29). Then, Relevant Radio's General Counsel, Rick Gordon, joins Drew to discuss his recent meeting with Pope Leo (29:21), and his work with the Vatican Observatory (45:24). Links: https://www.thepursuitofwisdom.org/ https://www.vaticanobservatory.org/ https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/speeches/2026/may/documents/20260511-vof.html

Are you treating your tax refund like “free money,” or like the hard-earned money God has entrusted to your family?In this special episode, Amanda and Jonathan Teixeira of WalletWin join Timmerie on Relevant Radio to discuss how Catholic families can navigate tax refunds, rising costs, supply chain concerns, and everyday money decisions with prudence instead of panic.Together, they unpack why a tax refund is not a bonus from the government, but money you already earned, and how to use it wisely through budgeting, debt payoff, emergency savings, generosity, and family priorities. They also discuss how Catholics can think about stocking up, preparing for uncertain financial times, and caring for their families without falling into fear or hoarding.Amanda and Jonathan also answer listener questions about buying a car while living paycheck to paycheck, whether young couples need a financial planner, how much rent is too much, budgeting as a married couple, and starting a Roth IRA. The episode also includes a personal update from the Teixeiras on welcoming their fifth child through adoption and the role of faith, openness to life, and St. Joseph's example in their family story.

Patrick launches Relevant Radio’s Spring Pledge Drive in a swirl of prayer, gratitude, and urgent appeals, all while weaving listener calls into conversations about confession, authentic Church teaching, and the wild claims that pop up online. Questions about the Book of Enoch, responsible approaches to family planning, and choosing saints’ names for children come alive—so do quick guides to trustworthy Bible translations and free Catholic study resources. Kathy - Is it true we are not required to go Confession once a year anymore? (01:44) Mary - I heard the Pope made a special room for the Mormons at the Vatican. (06:40) Steven - Why is the book of Enoch not canonical? (13:50) Mike - As a married man is it ok to use contraception because my wife is older? (22:03) Marlene - What can I recommend to my husband for him to study Catholicism and understand the Bible from a Catholic point of view? (31:30) Geraldine (email) – Please pray for someone who is considering assisted suicide (33:21) Most Popular Baby Names: abcnews.visitlink.me/DxTgk4 (40:31) Judy (email) - Do you think that the change in confession requirements could be due to the shortage of priests? (47:25)

Candid questions about defending faith, the balance of Scripture and Tradition, and the pursuit of a personal connection with God spark sharp exchanges and practical advice. Lisa - What would you say if a nonbeliever asked for a defense of your faith? (01:34) James - Is it true that Tradition has equal footing as Scripture? (13:58) Michael - Is it possible for God to have a personal relationship with you and ask for anything that you would like? (30:40) Lisa - Is it my job to defend my Catholic faith? (38:01) Joanne - I have Relevant Radio on all the time. I talk to God all the time and He answers me (not audibly) and the more that you do it the easier it gets. (44:05)

On this edition of Catholic Forum, Justin McLellan joins the show for the third in a miniseries looking back at the legacy of Pope Francis and the first year of Pope Leo's papacy. Justin is a native of Wilmington and attended the Sanford School before Notre Dame University and has spent the last several years as a journalist at the Vatican. Justin is currently the Vatican Correspondent for the National Catholic Reporter (ncronline.org). In this episode Justin shares his experience traveling to Peru soon after Pope Leo's election to meet with the people who knew "Father Prevost" and what the differences in Jesuit and Augustinian spirituality can tell us about how Pope Francis and Pope Leo both approached their role as Pope. Each week you can listen to The Catholic Forum podcast on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music podcasts and    / dioceseofwilm   every Wednesday; and on Relevant Radio 640 every Saturday afternoon at 1:30 for those in the Delmarva/South Jersey region. More information is available at cdow.org/CatholicForum and Facebook.com/CatholicForum. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share.

Patrick opens with Taco Tuesday energy and playful lyrics from listeners, rolling straight into questions about animals in heaven, the beauty of music after death, and Catholic liturgical practices. He fields heartfelt concerns about family, responds to tough topics like suicide with sensitivity, and unpacks a wild story of a game show mastermind while sprinkling humor between advice and encouragement. Faith, food, music, and human struggle collide as Patrick threads Catholic insight through it all. Patrick and Cyrus celebrate Taco Tuesday on Cinco de Mayo! (00:46) Pete (email) – On animals going to heaven: Wouldn't it be better if "all frogs go to heaven" as well - warts and all? (05:01) Tom – I love Legos. We won't be playing with Legos we will be playing with Logos. (13:21) Caoimhe – What’s Relevant Radio’s mailing address? Abby Lee (email) - Don't change a thing! (16:20) Terry (email) - I have a niece who has been avoiding family events for a long time because she is gay and assume is afraid of reaction from family (18:06) Robert - What kind of music will there be in heaven? (22:54) Sehee (email) – Is it permitted, under Catholic liturgical norms, for non-Catholic or non-Christian students to serve as readers during Mass? (27:16) Keaton (email) - Yoga, Reiki, and stretching (31:35) Angie (email) – Is suicide a sin? (33:51) An unemployed ice cream truck driver memorized a game show’s secret pattern and won $110,000 in one day (39:46) Mark (email) – I hope we dance (44:46) Andrew (email) – I’m a registered sex offender but I’m a different person since being released from jail (48:55)

Patrick begins with the unexpected: the King of England appearing in rural Virginia and mingling with folks from Christendom College, sparking musings about encounters with royalty and humor about what anyone would say. He moves between stories of dramatic conversion—like Michael Knowles fielding classic Protestant questions with clarity—and calls from listeners reporting everything from guardian-angel warnings about brain tumors to vivid moments of spiritual nudging. Conversations tumble from the value of early sacraments to practical struggles with faith and teaching, all filtered through Patrick’s characteristic warmth and curiosity. King Charles visits Christendom College (00:50) Audio: Michael Knowles explaining salvation when asked if he knows where he will go when he dies - https://x.com/CforCatholics/status/2050019839293706545?s=20 (06:32) A woman heard voices telling her she had a brain tumor ‪— and scans confirmed she did - https://www.livescience.com/health/diagnostic-dilemma-a-woman-heard-voices-telling-her-she-had-a-brain-tumor-and-scans-confirmed-she-did (11:04) Aaron - I am seeing the fruit of young people receiving all the sacraments. (19:24) Clay – Thank you for being a big help to me (29:43) Sue - I didn't hear voices, but something was nagging me to get an endoscopy. They found something. I think it was the Holy Spirit giving me a nudge. (36:52) Valerie - Thank you for all that Relevant Radio does. I just converted to Catholicism and love what Relevant Radio has going on. (41:06) Elly - My niece is not Catholic and used to drink a lot and ended up in the hospital. She went into a coma. When she recovered, she called me and said that she saw a hand. She believes that it was God. She stopped drinking because of this. (42:47) Mary - I am new to the Catholic Church after 7 years. What is the history of the type of bread that we use for the Eucharist? (45:35)

On this edition of Catholic Forum, Junno Arocho Esteves, International Correspondent for OSV News joins the show to discuss the first year of Pope Leo's pontificate and how his first words from the balcony on May 8, 2025: "peace be with you" - have become a roadmap for his papacy and taking the Gospel message where hope is needed. You can find Junno's writing on https://www.osvnews.com or on substack at https://arochoju.substack.com Each week you can listen to The Catholic Forum podcast on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music podcasts and youtube.com/dioceseofwilm   every Wednesday; and on Relevant Radio 640 every Saturday afternoon at 1:30 for those in the Delmarva/South Jersey region. More information is available at cdow.org/CatholicForum and Facebook.com/CatholicForum. Catholic Forum is a production of the Office of Communication of the Diocese of Wilmington (supported by the Faith and Charity Appeal!) Please like, subscribe and share. Stay up to date on Catholic Diocese of Wilmington events and annoucements by visiting cdow.org and thedialog.org.

Patrick guides listeners who are going through spiritual struggles, addiction, and grief, and answers questions about faith, trauma, and the mysterious troubles people face. Stories emerge, some raw with pain, others filled with gratitude for healing found in prayer or moments spent before the Blessed Sacrament, all while Patrick offers counsel on everything from finding the right kind of spiritual help to the value of the rosary in daily life. He responds to each heart’s cry with practical advice and steady encouragement, holding hope and truth steady even when the road is rough. Paige - What is the ability of the devil to use people unwittingly to attack you? (00:39) Shelly - One of your callers wanted the Church to pay for abuse scandal, and the Churches in California to close. I disagree with this. People need the Church. (19:12) Claire - I am so grateful to Shelly. I have been a therapist for 30 years and have seen so many abuse cases. No amount of money will heal this. Forgiveness is necessary here. (30:30) Hazel - My nephew passed away and wasn't Catholic. Can I put a Rosary in his casket? (36:35) Christina - I find it helpful every morning to listen to Father Rocky recite the rosary with Maggie on the Relevant Radio app. (42:37) Ron - I am divorced and am paying alimony. I am ready to retire and the chances are she won't get alimony when I retire. Is it morally irresponsible for me to stop working? (46:44)

Patrick opens the hour by honoring Cyrus’s two decades at Relevant Radio with laughter, playful banter, and listener tributes, then tackles everyday questions on moral choices when no one is watching, the meanings behind biblical love terms, and how conversions fit into the bigger Christian story. Listeners challenge him on Catholic traditions like indulgences and the legacy of troubled popes, prompting thoughtful exchanges. Updates on Church stances regarding blessings for same-sex and irregular couples’ surface alongside notes about family strife over wills, all delivered with Patrick’s blend of wit, candor, and real-world Catholic perspective. Happy 20th Anniversary to Cyrus – Patrick shares his favorite Cyrus story (00:29) Dan - What is our obligation to follow traffic laws? Do I have to come to a full stop when no one else is around? (05:49) Pat - Please comment on 1 Corinthians. Are there four types of love? (10:36) Patrick shares and email and speaks on what it means to follow Jesus (17:17) Janet (email) - Nothing divides a family quicker than when assets are not equally distributed among family members, especially one's children. Pope Leo: The Holy See has made it clear that we do not agree with the formal blessing of couples—in this case, same-sex couples (36:33) Michael - I am a former Catholic. The history of the Catholic Church is bad and doesn’t reflect Jesus Christ. (44:29)

Patrick opens this hour by marveling at how screens have transformed everyday life, from music to family dynamics, and he reflects on the near disappearance of kids outdoors. He fields calls on everything from the Knights of Columbus’ benefits and Catholic financial planning to the nuances of interfaith participation and school policies for children with same-sex parents, pausing to break down the Catholic response with candor and personal stories. Questions about doctrine, terminology, and the unique journey of exploring faith pepper the conversation, as Patrick balances humor with practical advice and an unflinching look at faith in today’s rapidly shifting culture. Audio: Back in the 90s (So you’re telling me in the future….) https://x.com/Zigmanfreud/status/2032233272668012593?s=20 (00:36) Joe - Knights of Columbus is great for offering financial services and insurance. (05:01) Jim - As Catholics, can we attend a Lutheran service? (10:38) Gayle - Can a non-Catholic carry up the gifts for Catholic mass? (15:07) Lou – What is the specific name that you use to refer to Protestants who analyze God? (18:29) Monica - My neighbor is a Jehovah's witness, and he was upset when I said Jehovah’s Witnesses were not in the Bible. How can I explain this better? (28:07) Joanna - Is it ok to admit a child of a same-sex couple to a Catholic School? (34:50) Jimmy - I attend an Anglican Church and have been listening to Relevant Radio for 11 months now. Where should an Anglican start exploring the Catholic faith? (45:55)

Patrick answers questions about faith, family, and Catholic life, how to understand the Mass, modesty expectations on vacation, and praying the rosary with teenagers who push back. He addresses Catholic teaching on fertility testing and hormone support, considers why certain music fades from church use, and shares candid moments, from parenting frustration to movie trivia. Unexpected stories and personal experiences color the episode, making faith practical, sometimes messy, and always sincere. George - Patrick in my opinion the biggest thing for new Catholics is understanding the Mass. I wish we could put other things aside for a while. (00:35) Rita - Why can't we have the music from the St. Louis Jesuits in Church anymore? (06:23) Annie - My adult daughter wears immodest bathing suits. How can I handle this? (12:19) Lourdes - I think that other children will be harmed by allowing a child of a gay couple to be enrolled in their school. (19:28) James - I just found out that R2D2 crawled into the Jesus of Nazareth set. (22:01) Marie - I pray the Rosary with my teenager. Occasionally, she will be rude during prayers. Am I taking it too seriously? (27:22) Richard - I want to thank everyone at Relevant Radio because you guys have changed my life. (37:31) Andrew - Can a devout Catholic receive the bread and wine at a Baptist church? (39:39) Angela - I am trying to support my fertility and am looking at different options including surgery. What is morally right in this situation? (43:22)

SummaryIn this conversation, Shannon Valenzuela and Jason Baxter explore the profound relationship between literature, beauty, and the human experience. Jason Baxter shares insights on how immersion in literary worlds fosters depth, prudence, and a sense of the divine, emphasizing the importance of literature and the arts in cultivating the soul and a deep sense of inwardness.Topics Covered:Art and literature and the communication of experienceThe importance of immersion and analysis for understanding literary textsThe relationship between experiencing landscapes and experiencing literary textsThe power of art and literature to close the gap between self and beautyWhy literature matters, especially in our world todayToday's Guest:Dr. Jason Baxter is the Director of the Center for Beauty and Culture at Benedictine College. He holds a Doctorate in Literature from the University of Notre Dame. Prior to joining Benedictine, he spent time as a visiting associate professor at Notre Dame preceded by twelve years at Wyoming Catholic College. His written works include The Medieval Mind of C.S. Lewis and A Beginner's Guide to Dante's Divine Comedy, among others, and he is currently working on an original translation of Dante's Divine Comedy. Baxter has written many academic and popular articles, and he frequently makes media appearances ranging from podcasts to EWTN.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:54 Why Literature Still Matters14:15 Inhabiting Worlds23:39 Experiencing Beauty Through Literature27:28 Finding Beauty in Sardinia30:51 The Communion of Beauty and Art40:28 Experiencing Dante's World47:15 The Pilgrim WayEpisode Links:More from Jason Baxter: https://www.jasonmbaxter.com/University of Dallas Links:The Donald and Louise Cowan Center: https://udallas.edu/faith-service/centers-institutes/cowan/index.phpClassical Education Master's Program at the University of Dallas: udallas.edu/classical-edSt. Ambrose Center Professional Development for Teachers and Administrators: https://k12classical.udallas.edu/The Quest: Seasons 1 and 2 now streaming on Relevant Radio+ and EWTN+ and at quest.udallas.edu.Support the showIf you enjoyed the show, please leave a rating and review — it helps others find us!

Patrick takes listeners through questions of tradition and scriptural authority, responding directly to callers wrestling with Calvinist perspectives, confession in Orthodox churches, and the moral limits of self-sacrifice and war. He pulls in personal stories, sharp debate memories, and practical advice about the Eucharist and confession, threading clarity through every response. Patrick continues his conversation with Granger, from the end of the last hour, talking about where tradition gets its authority (00:21) John - Can my Catholic son go to an Orthodox Church for a Confession? (16:11) Anne - I wondered where I could look in the Catechism or somewhere else about ending my life by donating vital organs? (21:46) Sandra - A consecrated host fell on the floor. The communicant picked it up, but the spot on the floor was not covered. (34:52) Steven - Can you compare Matthew 5:28 and supporting a war that is unjust as defined by the Catholic Church? For example, is it a sin to support a war in my thoughts? (38:00) Reuben - I love Relevant Radio and I listen every day! (47:04)