Podcast appearances and mentions of saint francis

  G.K. Chesterton wrote that there are two ways of getting home—stay there, or walk around the entire world until you arrive from the other direction. For graphic novelist Ben Hatke, that line from The Everlasting Man wasn't simply a meditation on returning with fresh eyes: it became a commission. In this episode, Joe Grabowski sits down with Hatke—author of the forthcoming graphic memoir Home/World—to trace how one Chestertonian passage sent him east for 55 days across twelve countries, and how Chesterton's deepest convictions about man, story, and homecoming turned out to be more true the farther from home he traveled. In This Episode: How a single passage from G.K. Chesterton's The Everlasting Man—the two ways of getting home—became the animating vision behind a 55-day circumnavigation of the globe What Chesterton understood about encountering the world with fresh eyes: the generosity of strangers, the power of a story to cross any language barrier, and the world that waits beyond the screen How Ben Hatke wove historical figures—Ibn Battuta, Nellie Bly, Saint Francis—into the narrative as "ghosts," and why the Chestertonian idea of the communion of saints gives this technique its deepest meaning G.K. Chesterton's imagery of the circle and the line—from The Everlasting Man to Orthodoxy to The Man Who Was Thursday—and what it reveals about why a first encounter with any place is irrepeatable Why creating the book proved as life-changing as the journey itself and what Ben discovered about story, memory, and the difference between what is factual and what is true Chapters: 00:00: Welcome and Introduction 02:25: The Everlasting Man Quote Behind the Journey 06:01: Memory, Story, and How a Journey Becomes True 08:05: The Generosity of Strangers 13:37: Turkey and the Moment It Became an Adventure 22:33: Circumnavigating Post-COVID: The When and Why 31:02: "I Admire Your Life—It Looks Like Freedom" 35:03: Making the Book: Falling in Love with Storytelling Again 39:09: Historical Ghosts: Inviting the Past into the Journey 44:58: Circles and Lines: Chesterton's Vision of Coming Home Resources Mentioned: Home/World: A Circumnavigation of Our Shared Earth — Ben Hatke (forthcoming) Ben Hatke's website Ben Hatke on Patreon Ben Hatke on Instagram The Everlasting Man — G.K. Chesterton "Drawing Inspiration from Chesterton, with Ben Hatke" — previous Uncommon Sense appearance 2026 Chesterton Conference FOLLOW US: Instagram Facebook X SUPPORT: Donate Shop Produced by Saint Kolbe Studios

For more than five decades, Trent Angers has dedicated his life to journalism, publishing, and preserving the stories that define Louisiana and its people. As founder, editor, and publisher of Acadian House Publishing, Trent has edited and published 126 books over a 45-year career while also authoring six books of his own. His work has ranged from Cajun history and Louisiana political figures to military ethics, faith, and inspirational storytelling. A graduate of LSU’s School of Journalism, where he was named Outstanding Graduating Senior and received the Hodding Carter Award for Responsible Journalism, Trent followed in the footsteps of his father, Bob Angers, founder of Acadiana Profile magazine. Trent would eventually spend 36 years as editor and publisher of Acadiana Profile, helping build it into one of the longest-running regional magazines in America before selling the publication in 2010 to focus full-time on book publishing with Acadian House Publishing. During our conversation, Trent reflects on a life immersed in words, ideas, and the people behind them. “Born with printer’s ink in my blood” Trent jokes that journalism was his destiny. “You could say I was born with printer’s ink in the blood.” His father purchased the Franklin Banner-Tribune in 1953, and Trent grew up watching the realities of community journalism firsthand. When Bob Angers launched Acadiana Profile in 1968, regional magazines were virtually unheard of. “I thought he had lost his mind because there was almost no such thing as a city or regional magazine in this country at the time.” Instead, Bob Angers proved to be a visionary. More than fifty years later, the publication remains an important voice for South Louisiana. Acadian House Publishing: More Than Books Today, Acadian House Publishing is one of Louisiana’s most respected independent publishers. Its catalog includes biographies, history, cookbooks, inspirational works, faith-based books, and regional classics. Trent describes publishing as far more than simply printing books. “Publishing involves careful acquisition of titles, careful editing, fact-checking, correcting, perfecting, marketing, warehousing, accounting, and distribution.” Acadian House receives approximately 150 manuscript proposals each year but publishes only three or four books annually. “No is the most powerful word in the English language.” With limited capacity, Trent looks for books that move people, educate readers, and inspire meaningful reflection. Dispelling Myths About Cajun Culture At age 40, Trent wrote his first book, The Truth About the Cajuns, a work designed to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about Acadian people. “The first book I actually wrote is when I turned 40. The book was titled The Truth About the Cajuns. The book was designed to dispel the myths and stereotypes about the Acadian people. We’re very proud of our Acadian heritage. We’re not simple minded people who aren’t so bright. We don’t all dwell in the swamp. Our lives do not revolve around eating, drinking and dancing Trent wanted readers to understand that Cajun identity extends far beyond the caricatures often portrayed in popular culture. The book remains one of the most thoughtful examinations of Cajun identity and heritage. Dudley LeBlanc: The Original Champion of Cajun Pride Another of Trent’s works is Dudley LeBlanc: A Biography, which chronicles the life of the legendary founder of Hadacol and one of Louisiana’s most colorful political figures. “Dudley LeBlanc, who founded Hadacol, was also known as the political and almost spiritual leader of the Acadian people. He had a French language radio show emanating from from Abbeville. The truth is, Dudley started the French Renaissance movement before Jimmy Domengeaux formalized it through CODIFIL. Dudley LeBlanc would bring it up and say, ‘Let’s stand up for our Acadian heritage and be proud and not ashamed of who we are, not ashamed of our heritage and culture.” While many remember LeBlanc for his wildly successful patent medicine business, Trent argues that his greatest contribution was cultural. Long before organizations formalized the movement to preserve Cajun culture, LeBlanc encouraged Acadians to embrace their language, traditions, and identity. According to Trent, both Dudley LeBlanc and James Domengeaux deserve tremendous credit for preserving and advancing Acadian culture in Louisiana. The Forgotten Hero of the My Lai Massacre Perhaps no project has shaped Trent’s career more than The Forgotten Hero of My Lai: The Hugh Thompson Story. The book tells the story of Hugh Thompson Jr., the American helicopter pilot credited with stopping the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War. “I became Thompson’s biographer and spent lots and lots of time with him in Vietnam, in Norway, and throughout the United States, in Washington, D.C., etc. I wrote his speech when he received the soldier’s medal in Washington at the Vietnam Wall, which is the highest award a soldier can earn for anything other than direct combat with the enemy,” Trent said. Trent devoted more than 3,000 hours of research across three continents to tell Thompson’s story. “That book was my opus.” The defining moment came when Thompson landed his helicopter between fleeing Vietnamese civilians and advancing American soldiers. “Not on my watch,” he said. Thompson ordered his gunner to protect the civilians, even if it meant turning their weapons on fellow Americans. His actions saved lives and ultimately helped bring the massacre to an end. Trent explains why Thompson’s story continues to resonate: “They were willing to give up their lives just because it was the right thing to do.” The book has since been placed on the reading list of the Joint Chiefs of Staff because of its lessons on leadership, battlefield ethics, and moral courage. Publishing Louisiana’s Most Influential Voices Over the years, Acadian House has published works by an extraordinary range of Louisiana authors and leaders. Among them are books by: Dale Brown Lt. General Russel L. Honoré Marcelle Bienvenu Camille Pavy Claiborne Brian Sibley Chad Judice Trent speaks admiringly of each, emphasizing not only their accomplishments but also their character, intellect, and ability to inspire others. Dale Brown and Human Dignity One of Trent’s most meaningful publishing relationships has been with legendary LSU basketball coach Dale Brown. Acadian House published Brown’s Getting Over the Four Hurdles of Life, and Trent later authored Dale Brown: Caught in the Battle for Human Dignity. He also played a significant role, along with Lafayette attorney Glenn Armentor, in the effort to have LSU’s basketball court named in Brown’s honor. “Every generation needs role models.” For Trent, Brown represents integrity, courage, compassion, and leadership. “Dale Brown is a role model of integrity, courage, bravery, intelligence.” Those qualities made him not only a successful coach but also one of America’s most sought-after motivational speakers. The Secret Life of an Editor One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation centered on the editor-author relationship. After working closely with writers for months or years, Trent says editors often develop a deep understanding of how authors think. “We call that mind meld.” His philosophy is simple: “The job of an editor is to make the writer look like a genius.” That requires more than correcting grammar. It involves improving structure, strengthening logic, checking facts, and helping authors communicate their ideas as clearly as possible. Cookbooks Outsell Almost Everything Despite publishing biographies, history, and inspirational works, Trent admits one category consistently surprises him: Cookbooks. Acadian House’s most successful title is Marcelle Bienvenu’s iconic cookbook Who’s Your Mama, Are You Catholic, and Can You Make a Roux? The book has sold approximately 200,000 copies. “That book is in the top one percentile of books ever published in America.” For Trent, the success is both gratifying and humbling. “You do a cookbook and you sell the heck out of it.” The enduring popularity of Louisiana food culture continues to introduce readers around the world to Acadiana traditions. Freedom of the Press As a lifelong journalist, Trent remains deeply passionate about the First Amendment. “Freedom of the press is the hill I would die on. This country is free, in part because of the free press. Because of the free flow of information. It’s the press’s job to educate, to inform, to entertain. We serve the public, not the government. The press exists to serve the public.” He argues that a free society depends upon the free flow of information and a press willing to challenge power when necessary. “The press exists to serve the public, not the government.” Regardless of political affiliation, Trent believes journalism’s highest calling remains informing citizens and protecting democratic accountability. What’s Next: Orphan Train to Louisiana Among Acadian House’s upcoming projects is Orphan Train to Louisiana, a book examining the little-known story of thousands of orphaned children transported from New York City to families across America. The project was inspired by a staggering historical reality. “At one point in New York City there were 30,000 babies and children on the street, homeless.” The book explores the efforts of religious organizations and charitable groups that worked to place children with loving families, including many in Louisiana. For Trent, it is exactly the kind of story Acadian House loves to tell: forgotten history that reveals the best of humanity. Faith, Service, and Gratitude Outside of publishing, Trent is active in the Secular Franciscan Order, whose members seek to live according to the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi through service, humility, and care for others. Reflecting on his blessings, he says: “We’re among the luckiest people in the world, in the history of civilization.” That perspective of gratitude, combined with a lifelong commitment to storytelling, continues to shape his work today. Whether preserving Cajun history, documenting battlefield courage, promoting faith-filled voices, or introducing readers to remarkable Louisianans, Trent Angers remains one of Acadiana’s most important cultural storytellers. To learn more about Trent Angers and Acadian House Publishing, visit their website and explore a catalog that reflects the rich history, culture, faith, and character of Louisiana.

This year commemorates 800 years since the death of Saint Francis of Assisi, and Father Dave welcomes Jon Sweeney to discuss this saint's lessons for the modern world. Jon is Religion Editor and Associate Publisher at Monkfish Publishing, as well as the author of many books on Franciscan spirituality including his latest, "Experiencing God: 36 Ways According to Saint Francis of Assisi."  

Discover the comforting presence of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Join Mary Jane Fox and Angela Sealana as they reflect on her role as our spiritual mother and how she guides us through life's challenges. In this episode, you will learn: Where does the Blessed Virgin Mary's title "Our Lady of Perpetual Help" come from? How can Mary help us if she is not God? Discover hope and encouragement for your loved ones, especially in the challenges of daily life Continue Your Journey with Mary: Visit the official episode page. Jewel for the Journey: "Let us run to Mary, and, as her little children, cast ourselves into her arms with a perfect confidence." - Saint Francis de Sales Do you like what you hear? Become a Missionary of Hope by sponsoring a week of Journeys of Hope. Click here to get started. Learn more at https://pilgrimcenterofhope.org/media-and-resources/all-media-series/journeys-of-hope.html Help us spread hope! https://pilgrimcenterofhope.org/support

Today’s Topics: 1, 2, 3, 4) William discusses apparitions of the Holy Apostles, including the apparitions of Saint Peter to Roman Emperor Constantine, to Saint Francis of Assisi, and to Saint John Nolasco; Saints Peter and Paul to Saint Sylvester; Saint John to Saint Prochorus, then later at Knock, Ireland; Saint Andrew to the Monk Epiphanius and to Bishops; Saint Bartholomew to certain Armenian Faithful; and Saint Paul to Saint Anthony the Great

Full Text of Readings Wednesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 367 The Saint of the day is Saint Joseph Cafasso Saint Joseph Cafasso's story Even as a young man, Joseph Cafasso loved to attend Mass and was known for his humility and fervor in prayer. After his ordination, he was assigned to a seminary in Turin. There he worked especially against the spirit of Jansenism—an excessive preoccupation with sin and damnation. He used the works of Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Alphonsus Liguori to moderate the rigorism popular at the seminary. Joseph Cafasso recommended membership in the Secular Franciscan Order to priests. He urged devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and encouraged daily Communion. In addition to his teaching duties, Joseph was an excellent preacher, confessor, and retreat master. Noted for his work with condemned prisoners, he helped many of them die at peace with God. Joseph Cafasso urged one of his former pupils—Saint John Bosco—to establish the Salesians congregation to work with the youth of Turin. Joseph died in 1860, and was canonized in 1947. His liturgical feast is celebrated on June 23. Reflection Devotion to the Eucharist gave energy to all Joseph's other activities. Long prayer before the Blessed Sacrament has been characteristic of many Catholics who have lived out the gospel well: Saint Francis, Bishop Fulton Sheen, Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, and Saint Teresa of Calcutta among them.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of Readings Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 91 The Saint of the day is Saint Albert Chmielowski Saint Albert Chmielowski's Story Born in Igolomia near Kraków as the eldest of four children in a wealthy family, Albert Chmielowski was christened Adam. During the 1864 revolt against Czar Alexander III, Adam's wounds forced the amputation of his left leg. His great talent for painting led to studies in Warsaw, Munich, and Paris. Adam returned to Kraków and became a Secular Franciscan. In 1888, when he founded the Brothers of the Third Order of Saint Francis, Servants to the Poor, he took the name Albert. They worked primarily with the homeless, depending completely on alms while serving the needy regardless of age, religion, or politics. A community of Albertine sisters was established later. Pope John Paul II beatified Albert Chmielowski in 1983, and canonized him six years later. His liturgical feast is celebrated on June 17. Reflection Reflecting on his own priestly vocation, Pope John Paul II wrote in 1996 that Albert Chmielowski had played a role in its formation “because I found in him a real spiritual support and example in leaving behind the world of art, literature, and the theater, and in making the radical choice of a vocation to the priesthood” (Gift and Mystery: On the Fiftieth Anniversary of My Priestly Ordination). As a young priest, Karol Wojtyla repaid his debt of gratitude by writing The Brother of Our God, a play about Brother Albert's life.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

In this Thursday's programme, we first look at the legacy of Saint Francis of Assisi and the 800th anniversary of his passing, reflecting on the experiences of Slovak Franciscans during communist persecution and the continuing relevance of Franciscan values today. You will hear from Capuchin Brother Félix and Franciscan Brother Peter. In the second part, we turn to economics and examine how Slovaks perceive inflation. Why do rising food prices dominate public perceptions of the cost of living, and how does this shape economic expectations? These questions will be answered by Michal Marenčák, an expert in econometric modelling from the National Bank of Slovakia.

In this Thursday's programme, we first look at the legacy of Saint Francis of Assisi and the 800th anniversary of his passing, reflecting on the experiences of Slovak Franciscans during communist persecution and the continuing relevance of Franciscan values today. You will hear from Capuchin Brother Félix and Franciscan Brother Peter. In the second part, we turn to economics and examine how Slovaks perceive inflation. Why do rising food prices dominate public perceptions of the cost of living, and how does this shape economic expectations? These questions will be answered by Michal Marenčák, an expert in econometric modelling from the National Bank of Slovakia.

Defending the Faith Conference: https://cvent.me/gqgxwV?utm_source=affiliate&utm_campaign=dfc_influencers_2026&utm_medium=social&utm_term=keithnester_2026&RefId=KEITHNESTER26 Use Code:KEITH25 for a discount. In this episode of Catholic Feedback, Keith Nester sits down with Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR, President of Franciscan University of Steubenville, to discuss his journey to the priesthood, the spirituality of Saint Francis of Assisi, and what it means to live the Gospel with authenticity in today's world. Fr. Dave shares how God called him to the Franciscan way of life, the impact of St. Francis on his vocation, and the ministry philosophy that has shaped his leadership and service to the Church. Together, Keith and Fr. Dave explore evangelization, discipleship, Catholic education, and why a personal encounter with Jesus Christ remains at the heart of everything. Whether you're discerning your vocation, seeking to deepen your faith, or simply curious about Franciscan spirituality, this conversation offers wisdom, encouragement, and practical insights for living the Gospel. In this episode: Fr. Dave's journey to the priesthood The influence of St. Francis of Assisi Franciscan spirituality and the Gospel The mission of Franciscan University Evangelization and discipleship today Encountering Jesus Christ in everyday life Catholic Feedback is a production of Down to Earth Ministry, dedicated to helping people encounter Jesus Christ, understand the beauty of the Catholic faith, and live as faithful disciples. Fr. Dave's content can be found here: https://faithandreason.com/ Franciscan University: https://franciscan.edu/  

The monthly series called "What Are the Sisters Reading?" continues with Sister Catherine Lucia Phoebe, FSP, who shares about a book called "Francesco: A Story of St. Francis of Assisi," by Madeline Pecora Nugent, CFP. In it, the author masterfully weaves together years of research into a compelling biography that reads like a novel. She grounds her work in primary and modern sources, time spent in Assisi, and interviews with Franciscan experts to paint a vivid picture of the world of Saint Francis through the eyes of those who knew him best — and through the words of Francis himself. To check out more books on the Catholic faith and religious items of interest at the Pauline Books and Media Center at 1025 King Street in Alexandria, please click here.

A weekly program produced by the Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. SHOW TITLE: The Year of St. Francis: How This Saint Continues to Make an Impact 800 years later     SHOW DESCRIPTION:   We live in a time of constant noise. Constant consumption. Constant comparison. Most people are overwhelmed by information, pressured to perform, and stretched thin by busyness. Even spiritually, it can be easy to approach faith as just another thing to manage or optimize. And yet Saint Francis offers us something strikingly different. Today we're chatting with Father Michael Heine, the minister provincial of the Franciscan Friars Conventual of Our Lady of Angels in Maryland, to talk about how the spirit of St. Francis continues to shape the Church, challenge modern believers in deeply practical ways and why he continues to resonate with people who are searching for something deeper during this year of Saint Francis. SCRIPTURE: Luke 9:23 SAINT SPOTLIGHT: St. Clare of Assisi  

Our 6th Men of Mindset Event! Welcome to the return of a new Men of Mindset themed episode! This is our sixth event hosted live from Scott's Man-zone Barn aka FUEL HQ. This episode includes multiple new voices at this sixth gathering under Scott's theme of the Men of Mindset. As a general overview for this special episode, they continued emphasizing the importance of mindset and personal growth. They discuss the significance of spirituality, health, family, and business in personal success. Mike shares a heartwarming story about a former student who credited him with helping him graduate high school. The conversation highlights the need for human connection, the impact of technology on mindset, and the importance of continuous self-improvement and resilience. The discussion centered on the impact of leadership and service, emphasizing the importance of genuine care and positive pressure to perform. The conversation underscored the value of servant leadership, the ripple effect of goodwill, and the necessity of self-care before helping others. Key points included the significance of respect, the power of positive influence, and the need for mentorship across age groups. The session concluded with a call to action for continuous personal and professional growth.Quote: "Strength Does Not Come From Physical Capacity" ~ Inner Strength: Mahatma Gandhi, it comes from an indomitable will, highlighting that resilience is a mental and spiritual trait.Your Co-Hosts Today:Mike (Mak) Makhoul, Former Educator, now a Commercial & Residential Real Estate Professional,https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-makhoul-m-ed-bb995069/Chris Saraceno, Author of The Theory of 5,https://theoryof5.com/and Vice President of Kelly Automotive Group.Jesse Dugan, Founder and Chiropractor,https://www.pain2performancechiro.com/Ony Momah, Psychiatrist,https://onymomah.com/ Today's Top 3 Takeaways:ONY MOMAH:The significance of mindset, particularly for men, and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences.Discusses the concept of identity decompression, particularly for athletes and professionals transitioning to new roles.Audience advice to be cautious about the people they allow into their lives and to take care of their minds.CHRIS SARACENO: The Theory of 5, involving spirituality, marriage, children, business, and health, and the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people.The importance of leading by example and not needing a direct coaching role to positively influence others.Greater appreciation for the importance of continuous growth at any stage of life.JESSE DUGAN: Emphasizes the importance of in-person connections and the benefits of activities like powerlifting and outdoor activities.The importance of showing care and truly connecting while building trust with clients aka patients.The value and role of greater trust in the profession of chiropractic care practices.MIKE (MAK) MAKHOUL: The importance of strong faith and keeping a spiritual connection to maintain a positive mindset.The importance of setting standards and living by values, and the need for continuous self-improvement.Mak shares a quote attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi about teaching and preaching the word of God through actions.Mentioned Influencers:Honorable mentions of earlier visitors who had to depart before recording included:Justin Schenck, Founder of The Growth Now Movement and The Growth Now Summit LIVE,https://www.justintschenck.com/Rob Eschbach, Founder of F13 Performance,https://f13performance.com/and Resistance Strength,https://www.resistancestrength.fit/ Watch us on YouTube:https://youtu.be/rJsGRg-TYQ4 Scott's Final Words of the Show:I've been using those quote for years: "We are the product of the five people we spend most time with." This is a translation from the famous Jim Rohn quote: "You are teh average of the five people you spend the most time with." This is about that psychological shift, when you start changing the people that are around you. I've said this years ago, it doesn't mean you have to cut them out of your life. Some distance is necessary when you are looking for growth. If they don't respect that, if you respect them enough, and you want them to respect you in return, and you must let them know that. If you do not, they will still continue to not take that seriously, then you need to give them a break. This is important when you're trying to grow, so you can help them in the future, or those around you, and it's like, hey guys, I need to take a pause. There you go, ladies and gentlemen, great combo. I'm gonna sum this up. We're here to FUEL your health, business, a lifestyle. All the gentlemen did that tonight, so thank you for tuning in for a sixth Men Of Mindset. Positive Action Forward:Submit a 5-Star ReviewGet Scott's Charitable Book! - HotshotBook.comCheck out the Boots Refuel Fund - FuelFoundations.orgNeeds Strategy and Execution - FuelUpMarketing.com

Jim is joined by VP of Student Life and Athletics at The University of Saint Francis, Mike McCaffrey in his final weekly Cougars chat of the year to recap the year. Jim was also joined by Fort Wayne Tincaps team president Mike Nutter and Fort Wayne Komets radio voice Shane Albahrani for their weekly chats. Albahrani recaps Game 1 of the Conference Finals against the KC Mavericks. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Full Text of Readings Seventh Sunday of Easter - Ascension Lectionary: 58/59 The Saint of the day is Saint Paschal Baylon Saint Paschal Baylon's story In Paschal Baylon's lifetime the Spanish empire in the New World was at the height of its power, though France and England were soon to reduce its influence. The 16th century has been called the Golden Age of the Church in Spain, for it gave birth to Ignatius of Loyola, Francis Xavier, Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, Peter of Alcantara, Francis Solano, and Salvator of Horta. Paschal's Spanish parents were poor and pious. Between the ages of seven and 24 he worked as a shepherd and began a life of mortification. He was able to pray on the job and was especially attentive to the church bell, which rang at the Elevation during Mass. Paschal had a very honest streak in him. He once offered to pay owners of crops for any damage his animals caused! In 1564, Paschal joined the Friars Minor and gave himself wholeheartedly to a life of penance. Though he was urged to study for the priesthood, he chose to be a brother. At various times he served as porter, cook, gardener, and official beggar. Paschal Baylon was careful to observe the vow of poverty. He would never waste any food or anything given for the use of the friars. When he was porter and took care of the poor coming to the door, he developed a reputation for great generosity. The friars sometimes tried to moderate his liberality! Paschal Baylon spent his spare moments praying before the Blessed Sacrament. In time, many people sought his wise counsel. People flocked to his tomb immediately after his burial; miracles were reported promptly. Paschal was canonized in 1690 and was named patron of eucharistic congresses and societies in 1897. Reflection Prayer before the Blessed Sacrament occupied much of Saint Francis' energy. Most of his letters were to promote devotion to the Eucharist. Paschal shared that concern. An hour in prayer before our Lord in the Eucharist could teach all of us a great deal. Some holy and busy Catholics today find that their work is enriched by those minutes regularly spent in prayer and meditation.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Recorded 5/12/2026. On this episode we recap the final week of the 2026 Women's College Flag Football season. We talk about the first ever NAIA invitational as well as recap the NJCAA national tournament. Make sure to follow us on social media to see clips we were able to catch from the game. Intro 0:00- 2:56NJCAA Invitational Tournament Play 2:57- 12:59NJCAA National Championship 13:00- 21:54Round 1 Baker vs Hope 21:55- 33:53Round 1 Keiser vs Kansas Wesleyan 33:54- 45:23Quarterfinals Warner vs Baker 45:24- 50:37Quarterfinals Keiser vs Ottawa 50:38- 1:01:29Round 1 Loser's Bracket Summary 1:01:30- 1:04:03Day 2 Ottawa vs Saint Francis 1:04:04- 1:11:52Day 2 Kansas Wesleyan vs Baker 1:11:53- 1:22:15Day 2 Ottawa vs Kansas Wesleyan 1:22:16- 1:35:56Winner's Bracket Semifinal 1:35:57- 1:46:42Loser's Bracket Semifinal 1:46:43- 1:57:50NAIA National Championship 1:57:51- 2:38:09Outro 2:38:10- 2:38:45https://linktr.ee/PlaymakersCornerSocial Media:Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlaymakerCornerTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@playmakerscorner?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram: https:https://www.instagram.com/playmakerscorner/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PlaymakerCornerYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUEcv0BIfXT78kNEtk1pbxQ/featured Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/playmakerscorner Website: https://playmakerscorner.com/ Listen to us on:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4rkM8hKtf8eqDPy2xqOPqr Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cycle-365/id1484493484?uo=4 Breaker: https://www.breaker.audio/the-cycle-365Google Podcasts: https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mODg4MWYwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz

Full Text of Readings Monday of the Sixth Week of Easter Lectionary: 291 The Saint of the day is Saint Ignatius of Laconi Saint Ignatius of Laconi's Story Ignatius of Laconi is another sainted begging brother. He was the second of seven children of peasant parents in Sardinia. His path to the Franciscans was unusual. During a serious illness, Ignatius vowed to become a Capuchin if he recovered. He regained his health but ignored the promise. When he was 20, a riding accident prompted Ignatius to renew the pledge, which he acted on the second time. Ignatius's reputation for self-denial and charity led to his appointment as the official beggar for the friars in Cagliari. He fulfilled that task for 40 years, despite being blind for the last two years. While on his rounds, Ignatius of Laconi would instruct the children, visit the sick, and urge sinners to repent. The people of Cagliari were inspired by his kindness and his faithfulness to his work. Ignatius was canonized in 1951. Reflection Why did the people of Cagliari support the friars? These followers of Saint Francis worked hard but rarely at jobs that paid enough to live on. The life of Ignatius of Laconi reminds us that everything God considers worthwhile does not have a high-paying salary attached to it.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Jim Shovlin is back!! He is joined by Mike McCaffrey from the University of Saint Francis, Fort Wayne Tincaps Team President Mike Nutter, and Fort Wayne Komets radio voice Shane Albahrani for weekly chats, and much more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the first part of today´s show first part focuses on the 800th anniversary of Saint Francis of Assisi and how his legacy continues through Franciscan communities across the country. The programme highlights their history, activities, and the celebrations marking this special jubilee year. In the second part, we focus on the economic situation, specifically the impact of inflation on different groups in Slovak society. Together with Reiner Martin from the National Bank of Slovakia, the show examines how rising prices affect households and young people, and what this means for everyday life in Slovakia.

Full Text of Readings Fourth Sunday of Easter Lectionary: 49 The Saint of the day is Saint Pedro de San José Betancur Saint Pedro de San José Betancur's Story Central America claimed its first saint with the canonization of Pedro de San José Betancur. Known as the “Saint Francis of the Americas,” Pedro de Betancur is the first saint to have worked and died in Guatemala. Saint Pedro de San José Betancur very much wanted to become a priest, but God had other plans for the young man born into a poor family on Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Pedro was a shepherd until age 24, when he began to make his way to Guatemala, hoping to connect with a relative engaged in government service there. By the time he reached Thavana, he was out of money. After working there to earn more, he got to Guatemala City the following year. When he arrived, he was so destitute that he joined the breadline that the Franciscans had established. Soon, Saint Pedro de San José Betancur enrolled in the local Jesuit college in hopes of studying for the priesthood. No matter how hard he tried, however, he could not master the material; he withdrew from school. In 1655, he joined the Secular Franciscan Order. Three years later, he opened a hospital for the convalescent poor; a shelter for the homeless, and a school for the poor soon followed. Not wanting to neglect the rich of Guatemala City, Pedro began walking through their part of town ringing a bell and inviting them to repent. Other men came to share in Pedro's work. Out of this group came the Bethlehemite Congregation, which won papal approval after Pedro's death. A Bethlehemite sisters' community, similarly founded after Pedro's death, was inspired by his life of prayer and compassion. He is sometimes credited with originating the Christmas Eve posadas procession in which people representing Mary and Joseph seek a night's lodging from their neighbors. The custom soon spread to Mexico and other Central American countries. Saint Pedro de San José Betancur died in 1667, and was canonized by Pope John Paul II in Guatemala City on July 30, 2002. Calling the new saint an “outstanding example” of Christian mercy, the Holy Father noted that Saint Pedro practiced mercy “heroically with the lowliest and the most deprived.” Speaking to the estimated 500,000 Guatemalans in attendance, the Holy Father spoke of the social ills that plague the country today and of the need for change. “Let us think of the children and young people who are homeless or deprived of an education; of abandoned women with their many needs; of the hordes of social outcasts who live in the cities; of the victims of organized crime, of prostitution or of drugs; of the sick who are neglected and the elderly who live in loneliness,” he said in his homily during the three-hour liturgy. The liturgical feast of Saint Pedro de San José Betancur is celebrated on April 25. Reflection As humans, we often pride ourselves on our ability to reason. We believe we can always find an explanation for everything. But as Pedro's life shows, other skills may be an even more crucial element of our humanity than a clever mind: compassion, imagination, love. Unable to master studies for the priesthood despite his ardent efforts, Pedro responded to the needs of homeless and sick people; he provided education to the poor and salvation to the rich. He became holy—as fully human as any of us can ever be.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

In today's edition of Talkin' Sports, DC Hendrix and Adam Lundy get an update from Jim Shovlin himself on how he has been doing in recovery since having to undergo a major procedure! They also talk to TinCaps Team President Mike Nutter about the 'Caps and all the latest going on at Parkview Field. In addition, they spoke to Mike McCaffrey from Saint Francis, and Shane Albahrani of the Fort Wayne Komets about the start of the Komets playoffs run!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Full Text of Readings Friday of the Third Week of Easter Lectionary: 277 The Saint of the day is Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen's Story If a poor man needed some clothing, Fidelis would often give the man the clothes right off his back. Complete generosity to others characterized this saint's life. Born in 1577, Mark Rey became a lawyer who constantly upheld the causes of the poor and oppressed people. Nicknamed “the poor man's lawyer,” Rey soon grew disgusted with the corruption and injustice he saw among his colleagues. He left his law career to become a priest, joining his brother George as a member of the Capuchin Order. Fidelis was his religious name. His wealth was divided between needy seminarians and the poor. As a follower of Saint Francis of Assisi, Fidelis continued his devotion to the weak and needy. During a severe epidemic in a city where he was guardian of a friary, Fidelis cared for and cured many sick soldiers. Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen was appointed head of a group of Capuchins sent to preach against the Calvinists and Zwinglians in Switzerland. Almost certain violence threatened. Those who observed the mission felt that success was more attributable to the prayer of Fidelis during the night than to his sermons and instructions. He was accused of opposing the peasants' national aspirations for independence from Austria. While he was preaching at Seewis, to which he had gone against the advice of his friends, a gun was fired at him, but he escaped unharmed. A Protestant offered to shelter Fidelis, but he declined, saying his life was in God's hands. On the road back, he was set upon by a group of armed men and killed. Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen was canonized in 1746. Fifteen years later he was recognized as a martyr. Reflection Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen's constant prayer was that he be kept completely faithful to God and not give in to any lukewarmness or apathy. He was often heard to exclaim, “Woe to me if I should prove myself but a halfhearted soldier in the service of my thorn-crowned Captain.” His prayer against apathy, and his concern for the poor and weak make him a saint whose example is valuable today. The modern Church is calling us to follow the example of “the poor man's lawyer” by sharing ourselves and our talents with those less fortunate and by working for justice in the world.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of Readings Thursday of the Third Week of Easter Lectionary: 276 The Saint of the day is Saint George Saint George's Story Saint George is the object of a vast amount of imagination. There is every reason to believe that he was a real martyr who suffered at Lydda in Palestine, probably before the time of Constantine. The Church adheres to his memory, but not to the legends surrounding his life. That he was willing to pay the supreme price to follow Christ is what the Church believes. And it is enough. The story of Saint George's slaying the dragon, rescuing the king's daughter, and converting Libya is a 12th-century Italian fable. George was a favorite patron saint of crusaders, as well as of Eastern soldiers in earlier times. He is a patron saint of England, Portugal, Germany, Aragon, Catalonia, Genoa, Milan and Bologna. Reflection Human nature seems to crave more than cold historical data. Americans have Washington and Lincoln, but we somehow need Paul Bunyan, too. The life of Saint Francis of Assisi is inspiring enough, but for centuries the Italians have found his spirit in the legends of the Fioretti, too. Santa Claus is the popular extension of the spirit of Saint Nicholas. The legends about Saint George are part of this yearning. Both fact and legend are human ways of illumining the mysterious truth about the One who alone is holy.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

He's one of the most popular saints, especially for animal and bird lovers. Yet St. Francis of Assisi did not start out that way. He had an easy life, enjoyed the party scene, and even admitted, “I lived in great sin.” Father Chris Alar, MIC, reveals Francis' remarkable journey to sainthood.Become a Marian Helper!Discover more about the Catholic faith on Divine Mercy Plus! 

DC Hendrix and Adam Lundy fill in for Jim Shovlin this morning on Talkin' Sports! Today, the two talk to TinCaps Team President Mike Nutter about all the latest going on with the TinCaps. They also chat with Mike McCaffrey from the University of Saint Francis to talk Cougars athletics. DC and Adam also speak to the voice of the Fort Wayne Komets, Shane Albahrani as they approach their final regular season game and look ahead to the playoffs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Franciscan Friar Fr. Dan Pattee, T.O.R. shares Easter Joy as he reflects on the peace of Christ, the man of peace Saint Francis of Assisi and how we can experience peace and grow closer to Jesus and Mary following the footsteps of Saint Francis. More about Fr Dan's upcoming retreat in June at: https://olpretreat.org/retreat-scheduleSubscribe to the Morning Blend on your favorite podcast platform.Find this show on the free Hail Mary Media App, along with a radio live-stream, prayers, news, and more.Look through past episodes or support this podcast.The Morning Blend is a production of Mater Dei Radio in Portland, Oregon.

Text and Be HeardEaster isn't only a date on the calendar, it's a brutal and hopeful idea: something in you has to end before something better can begin. We take the Easter story of death and resurrection and translate it into real addiction recovery, where change isn't abstract. It's the moment you stop escaping and start living.We talk honestly about how alcoholism, gambling addiction, and drug addiction breed loneliness and shrink life into survival mode. When you're stuck chasing the next drink or the next bet, you lose the simple joys that make life feel worth it: showing up for family, being present at a game, handling small responsibilities, and feeling peace in ordinary moments. Recovery brings those moments back, but it also asks for emotional sobriety, because “you cannot outthink an emotional issue.” Healing means facing feelings, not arguing with them.I also share what rebirth has looked like in my own story: learning my gifts, building purpose through speaking, coaching, writing, and service, and a pivotal experience in Fatima, Portugal that helped me finally become done with gambling. We close with a recovery-centered take on forgiveness and the Saint Francis or 11th-step prayer, plus a reminder that every emotion still shows up and you can stay steady through all of them.If you want a more grounded, spiritual, practical path to sobriety and relapse prevention, listen through to the end. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs a fresh start, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Support the showRecovery is Beautiful.   Go Live Your Best Life!!Facebook Group - Recovery Freedom Circle | FacebookYour EQ is Your IQYouTube -    Life Is Wonderful   Hugo VRecovery Freedom CircleThe System That Understands Recovery, Builds Character  and Helps People Have Better Relationships.A Life Changing Solution, Saves You Time, 18 weekswww.lifeiswonderful.love  Instagram -  Lifeiswonderful.LoveTikTok -  Lifeiswonderful.LovePinterest -   Lifeiswonderful.LoveX -     LifeWonderLoveLinkedIn -   Hugo Vrsalovic    LinkedIn -   The 1% in Recovery

Full Text of Readings Monday in the Octave of Easter Lectionary: 261 The Saint of the day is Saint Crescentia Hoess Saint Crescentia Hoess' Story Saint Crescentia Hoess was born in 1682, the daughter of a poor weaver, in a little town near Augsburg. She spent play time praying in the parish church, assisted those even poorer than herself and had so mastered the truths of her religion that she was permitted to make her first Holy Communion at the then unusually early age of 7. In the town she was called “the little angel.” As she grew older, she desired to enter the convent of the Tertiaries of Saint Francis. But the convent was poor, and because Crescentia had no dowry, the superiors refused her admission. Her case was then pleaded by the Protestant mayor of the town to whom the convent owed a favor. The community felt it was forced into receiving her, and her new life was made miserable. She was considered a burden and assigned nothing other than menial tasks. Even her cheerful spirit was misinterpreted as flattery or hypocrisy. Conditions improved four years later when a new superior was elected who realized her virtue. Saint Crescentia Hoess herself was appointed mistress of novices. She so won the love and respect of the sisters that, upon the death of the superior, Crescentia was unanimously elected to that position. Under her, the financial state of the convent improved and her reputation in spiritual matters spread. She was soon being consulted by princes and princesses; bishops and cardinals too sought her advice. And yet, a true daughter of Francis, she remained ever humble. Bodily afflictions and pain were always with her. First it was headaches and toothaches. Then she lost the ability to walk, her hands and feet gradually becoming so crippled that her body curled up into a fetal position. In the spirit of Francis she cried out, “Oh, you bodily members, praise God that he has given you the capacity to suffer.” Despite her sufferings she was filled with peace and joy as she died on Easter Sunday in 1744. She was beatified in 1900 and canonized by Pope John Paul II in 2001. The liturgical feast of Saint Crescentia Hoess is celebrated on June 15. Reflection Although she grew up in poverty and willingly embraced it in her vocation, Crescentia had a good head for business. Under her able administration, her convent regained financial stability. Too often, we think of good money management as, at best, a less-than-holy gift. But Crescentia was wise enough to balance her worldly skills with such acumen in spiritual matters that heads of State and Church both sought her advice.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of Readings Good Friday of the Lord's Passion Lectionary: 40 The Saint of the day is Saint Benedict the African Saint Benedict the African's Story Benedict held important posts in the Franciscan Order and gracefully adjusted to other work when his terms of office were up. His parents were slaves brought from Africa to Messina, Sicily. Freed at 18, Benedict did farm work for a wage and soon saved enough to buy a pair of oxen. He was very proud of those animals. In time, he joined a group of hermits around Palermo and was eventually recognized as their leader. Because these hermits followed the Rule of Saint Francis, Pope Pius IV ordered them to join the First Order. Saint Benedict the African was eventually novice master and then guardian of the friars in Palermo—positions rarely held in those days by a brother. In fact, Benedict was forced to accept his election as guardian. And when his term ended, he happily returned to his work in the friary kitchen. Benedict corrected the friars with humility and charity. Once he corrected a novice and assigned him a penance only to learn that the novice was not the guilty party. Benedict immediately knelt down before the novice and asked his pardon. In later life, Benedict was not possessive of the few things he used. He never referred to them as “mine,” but always called them “ours.” His gifts for prayer and the guidance of souls earned him throughout Sicily a reputation for holiness. Following the example of Saint Francis, Benedict kept seven 40-day fasts throughout the year; he also slept only a few hours each night. After Saint Benedict the African's death, King Philip III of Spain paid for a special tomb for this holy friar. Canonized in 1807, he is honored as a patron saint by African Americans.  The liturgical feast of Saint Benedict the African is celebrated on April 4. Reflection Among Franciscans, a position of leadership is limited in time. When the time expires, former leaders sometimes have trouble adjusting to their new position. The Church needs men and women ready to put their best energies into leadership—but also men and women who are gracefully willing to go on to other work when their time of leadership is over.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Send us Fan MailWe share the life of Saint Francis of Paola, a humble hermit whose hidden prayer shaped a faith bold enough to face storms and soften hearts. His miracles point past wonder and toward conversion, mercy, and steady trust in God's providence through Jesus and Mary. • our mission at Journeys of Faith and why saints still guide us • Francis's humble beginnings in southern Italy • choosing solitude, fasting, and prayer as a teenager • the discipline of cave life and the power of holy silence • miracles that lead souls back to confession and trust • crossing the sea on his cloak as a sign of providence • moving from wilderness to royal courts as a counselor and peacemaker • practical encouragement to live courageous faith and deeper devotion Please download our Free Journeys of Faith app for iPhone or Android devices. Resources for Your Holy Week Journey:Explore Journeys of Faith online store with thousands of Catholic items at https://journeysoffaith.com/collectionsOur unique Mega Search Engine at https://journeysoffaith.com/search is linked to hundreds of Catholic shops and storesGet the Journeys of Faith NEW App for iPhone or Android. Search for Journeys of Faith or go to https://journeysoffaith.com/pages/download-our-appChat with us anytime at https://chatting.page/mjxs9aerrtgm3lmpndlcepmbyosntrjnWe need your help to reach more souls. Please make a donation at https://journeysoffaith.com/pages/donateOpen by Steve Bailey Support the showChat with US 24/7 Ask us anything https://chatting.page/mjxs9aerrtgm3lmpndlcepmbyosntrjnDownload Journeys of Faith App for Iphone or Android FREE https://journeysoffaith.com/pages/download-our-appJourneys of Faith brings your Super Saints PodcastsPlease consider subscribing to this podcast or making a donation to Journeys of Faith Help us Grow!Why you should shop here at Journeys of Faith official site!New Mega Search Engine!Lowest Prices and Higher discounts up to 50%Free Shipping starts at $18 - Express Safe Checkout Click HereCannot find it let us find or create it - - Click HereRewards Program is active - click Here

Homily by Fr. Francis Mary Roaldi, CFR.

Full Text of Readings Thursday of Holy Week Lectionary: 260, 39 The Saint of the day is Saint Francis of Paola Saint Francis of Paola's Story Saint Francis of Paola was a man who deeply loved contemplative solitude and wished only to be the “least in the household of God.” Yet, when the Church called him to active service in the world, he became a miracle-worker and influenced the course of nations. After accompanying his parents on a pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi, he began to live as a contemplative hermit in a remote cave near Paola, on Italy's southern seacoast. Before he was 20, he received the first followers who had come to imitate his way of life. Seventeen years later, when his disciples had grown in number, Francis established a Rule for his austere community and sought Church approval. This was the founding of the Hermits of St. Francis of Assisi, who were approved by the Holy See in 1474. In 1492, Saint Francis of Paola changed the name of his community to “Minims” because he wanted them to be known as the least (minimi) in the household of God. Humility was to be the hallmark of the brothers as it had been in Francis's personal life. Besides the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience, Francis enjoined upon his followers the fourth obligation of a perpetual Lenten fast. He felt that heroic mortification was necessary as a means for spiritual growth. It was Francis's desire to be a contemplative hermit, yet he believed that God was calling him to the apostolic life. He began to use the gifts he had received, such as the gifts of miracles and prophecy, to minister to the people of God. A defender of the poor and oppressed, Francis incurred the wrath of King Ferdinand of Naples for the admonitions he directed toward the king and his sons. Following the request of Pope Sixtus IV, Francis traveled to Paris to help Louis XI of France prepare for his death. While ministering to the king, Francis was able to influence the course of national politics. He helped to restore peace between France and Brittany by advising a marriage between the ruling families, and between France and Spain by persuading Louis XI to return some disputed land. Saint Francis of Paola died while at the French court. Reflection The life of Francis of Paola speaks plainly to an overactive world. He was a contemplative man called to active ministry and must have felt keenly the tension between prayer and service. Yet, in Francis's life it was a productive tension, for he clearly utilized the fruits of contemplation in his ministry, which came to involve the workings of nations. He responded so readily and so well to the call of the Church from a solid foundation in prayer and mortification. When he went out to the world, it was not he who worked but Christ working through him—“the least in the household of God.”Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

With Jim out for a little bit, today's Talkin' Sports is hosted by Blake Sebring, long time Fort Wayne journalist and author of many books that tell the stories of athletics in the 260. Today, Blake is joined by Brett Rump to talk IHSAA Boys' Semi-State action ahead of getting ready to call two games. He is also joined by Mike McCaffrey of Saint Francis to talk about all the latest in Cougars Athletics, and by Shane Albahrani to get the scoop on the Fort Wayne Komets! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode's mature themes may not be suitable for children. Catholic philosopher and epistemologist, Dr. Trent Dougherty, joins Pints to tackle the age-old question: what does it even mean to know something? The conversation weaves between rigorous philosophical debate - Descartes, Gettier, justified true belief and vulnerable personal territory where Dougherty shares his battles with the inner demons that plagued his pursuit of success.  Ep. 571 - - -

“We read so as not to feel alone.” — C.S. Lewis (possibly)Dan Turello is a cultural historian of medieval Italy, a much published photographer, and the author of the new Connection: How Technology Can Make Us Better Humans. I'm sceptical. Especially the promise (or illusion) of better humans. But Turello's definition of technology goes back further than most — all the way to the original fig leaf. When Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden, the first thing they did, he reminds us, was cover their bodies. Technology, then, in Turello's framing, is everything that extends beyond the human body. Clothing is technology. Double-entry bookkeeping is technology. The iPhone is just the latest chapter of our technology story that began at the beginning.His most surprising argument is that our current tech anxiety has medieval roots. St. Francis of Assisi was what he calls a trust-fund kid “avant la lettre” — his father being a wealthy 13th century silk merchant at a time when northern Italy was Silicon Valley. Francis sold some of his dad's silk, gave the money away, stripped naked before a bishop, and founded a counterculture movement. The first tech backlash, Turello suggests, wasn't against AI. It was against double-entry bookkeeping. Dante, writing a generation later, idealised an earlier, simpler Florence — what scholars call “paleolithic chic.” No makeup, no ornate clothing, no fleeing to immoral cities. Sound familiar?On AI, Turello goes a bit Saint Francis on us. Large language models, he fears, generate material without lineage — you can't trace where the ideas came from, can't triangulate the sources, can't validate against reality. Technology is about power, Turello argues — about who controls the storyline. Making us better humans, then, requires recovering a sense of agency. Thus he argues that we should stop outsourcing our thinking, our writing, our photography to machines. Dante wrote the entire Divine Comedy without Claude. These days, we can barely write an email without a little help from our friends at ChatGPT. Machiavelli donned the robes of the past to think and write. We might try putting ours on too. But then isn't that a tech solution too? Five Takeaways•       St. Francis Was a Trust-Fund Kid Who Invented Counterculture: His father was a wealthy silk merchant in 13th-century Italy, at the dawn of Europe's commercial revolution. Francis sold his father's silk, gave the money away, stripped naked before a bishop, and founded an order that rejected the mechanisms of early capitalism. The first tech backlash wasn't against AI. It was against double-entry bookkeeping.•       Technology Is Everything Beyond the Naked Human Body: Turello's definition goes back to Genesis. When Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden, the first thing they did was cover their bodies. Fig leaves are technology. Clothing is technology. The iPhone is just the latest iteration of a metaphysical problem that's been destabilising us since the Fall.•       Dante Wrote the Divine Comedy Without Being Able to Edit: He penned an entire macrocosm of the medieval world from memory, without the ability to rewrite in any meaningful way. Turello thinks Dante would be concerned that we're losing our memories, our ability to tell a coherent narrative for our lives, and that our existence has become too fragmented. We can barely write an email without ChatGPT.•       LLMs Generate Material Without Lineage: Technology is about power — about who controls the storyline. Large language models produce text without traceable sources, without verifiable origins, without lineage. You can't triangulate where the ideas came from. That's not intelligence. That's a crisis of provenance.•       Agency Still Matters: Turello's hope for humanity is that we recover a sense of agency — the belief that our choices, friendships, relationships, and communities are ours to shape. The alternative is technological determinism: the machine decides. Machiavelli donned the robes of the past to think and write. We might try putting ours on too. About the GuestDan Turello is a writer, cultural historian, and photographer. A Technology and Humanity Fellow at Florida Atlantic University's Center for Future of Mind, AI & Society, his work has appeared in the New Yorker, the Washington Post, and the Los Angeles Review of Books. Connection: How Technology Can Make Us Better Humans is published by Columbia University Press.References:•       Connection: How Technology Can Make Us Better Humans by Dan Turello (Columbia University Press, 2026) — the book under discussion.•       Episode 2840: What Came First: Stories or Language? — Kevin Ashton on storytelling preceding language, a natural companion.•       Episode 2839: Have Our iPhones Eaten Our Brains? — Nelson Dellis on memory, cognitive atrophy, and outsourcing our minds.•       Walter Benjamin, The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction — referenced in the conversation on technology and power.About Keen On AmericaNobody asks more awkward questions than the Anglo-American writer and filmmaker Andrew Keen. In Keen On America, Andrew brings his pointed Transatlantic wit to making sense of the United States — hosting daily interviews about the history and future of this now venerable Republic. With nearly 2,800 episodes since the show launched on TechCrunch in 2010, Keen On America is the most prolific intellectual interview show in the history of podcasting.WebsiteSubstackYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction: has technology made you a better human? (03:22) - The iPhone vs. the decisive moment: Bresson and photography (05:39) - The orange cushion: an ode to imperfection (06:27) - St. Francis of Assisi: the first tech critic (07:22) - 800 years of tech anxiety: from double-entry bookkeeping to AI (11:27) - Žižek, capitalism, and the love-hate relationship with technology (13:50) - Fig leaves to iPhones: technology as everything beyond the naked body (15:00) - Marinetti, Svevo, and the mammoth: technology as relationship (17:54) - Walter Benjamin, The Matrix, and who controls the storyline (20:51) - Bresson's decisive moment vs. Nietzsche's blow it up (22:25) - Agency under attack: reclaiming embodied experience (25:47) - Machiavelli donning the robes of the past (28:44) - Nost...

Full Text of Readings Saturday of the Fourth Week of Lent Lectionary: 249 The Saint of the day is Blessed John of Parma Blessed John of Parma's Story The seventh general minister of the Franciscan Order, Blessed John of Parma was known for his attempts to bring back the earlier spirit of the Order after the death of Saint Francis of Assisi. He was born in Parma, Italy, in 1209. It was when he was a young philosophy professor known for his piety and learning that God called him to bid good-bye to the world he was used to and enter the new world of the Franciscan Order. After his profession, John was sent to Paris to complete his theological studies. Ordained to the priesthood, he was appointed to teach theology at Bologna, then Naples, and finally Rome. In 1245, Pope Innocent IV called a general council in the city of Lyons, France. Crescentius, the Franciscan minister general at the time, was ailing and unable to attend. In his place he sent Friar John, who made a deep impression on the Church leaders gathered there. Two years later, when the same pope presided at the election of a minister general of the Franciscans, he remembered Friar John well and held him up as the man best qualified for the office. And so in 1247, Saint John of Parma was elected to be minister general. The surviving disciples of St. Francis rejoiced in his election, expecting a return to the spirit of poverty and humility of the early days of the Order. And they were not disappointed. As general of the Order, John traveled on foot, accompanied by one or two companions, to practically all of the Franciscan convents in existence. Sometimes he would arrive and not be recognized, remaining there for a number of days to test the true spirit of the brothers. The pope called on Blessed John of Parma to serve as legate to Constantinople, where he was most successful in winning back the schismatic Greeks. Upon his return, he asked that someone else take his place to govern the Order. At John's urging, Saint Bonaventure was chosen to succeed him. John took up a life of prayer in the hermitage at Greccio. Many years later, Blessed John of Parma learned that the Greeks who had been reconciled with the Church for a time, had relapsed into schism. Though 80 years old by then, John received permission from Pope Nicholas IV to return to the East in an effort to restore unity once again. On his way, John fell sick and died. He was beatified in 1781. The liturgical feast of Blessed John of Parma is celebrated on March 20. Reflection In the 13th century, people in their 30s were middle-aged; hardly anyone lived to the ripe old age of 80. Blessed John of Parma did, but he didn't ease into retirement. Instead he was on his way to try to heal a schism in the Church when he died. Our society today boasts a lot of folks in their later decades. Like John, many of them lead active lives. But some aren't so fortunate. Weakness or ill health keeps them confined and lonely—waiting to hear from us. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of Readings Thursday of the Third Week of Lent Lectionary: 240 The Saint of the day is Blessed Angela Salawa Blessed Angela Salawa's Story Angela served Christ and Christ's little ones with all her strength. Born in Siepraw, near Kraków, Poland, Blessed Angela Salawa was the 11th child of Bartlomiej and Ewa Salawa. In 1897, she moved to Kraków where her older sister Therese lived. Angela immediately began to gather together and instruct young women domestic workers. During World War I, she helped prisoners of war without regard for their nationality or religion. The writings of Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross were a great comfort to her. Angela gave great service in caring for soldiers wounded in World War I. After 1918, her health did not permit her to exercise her customary apostolate. Addressing herself to Christ, she wrote in her diary, “I want you to be adored as much as you were destroyed.” In another place, she wrote, “Lord, I live by your will. I shall die when you desire; save me because you can.” At her 1991 beatification in Kraków, Pope John Paul II said: “It is in this city that she worked, that she suffered and that her holiness came to maturity. While connected to the spirituality of Saint Francis, she showed an extraordinary responsiveness to the action of the Holy Spirit” (L'Osservatore Romano, volume 34, number 4, 1991). Reflection Humility should never be mistaken for lack of conviction, insight or energy. Angela brought the Good News and material assistance to some of Christ's “least ones.” Her self-sacrifice inspired others to do the same.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Join Franciscan Friar Father Dan Pattee, TOR as he speaks about Saint Francis during the Franciscan Jubilee Year. Learn how the Franciscan Order came to be and how Francis worked to awaken Christ in others. For more: https://olpretreat.org/jubilee-yearSubscribe to the Morning Blend on your favorite podcast platform.Find this show on the free Hail Mary Media App, along with a radio live-stream, prayers, news, and more.Look through past episodes or support this podcast.The Morning Blend is a production of Mater Dei Radio in Portland, Oregon.

In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. John Wigger joins me to explore the life and legacy of Francis Asbury—one of the most understudied yet profoundly influential figures in American religious history. Asbury may not have been a charismatic performer or a deep intellectual in the traditional sense, but he had an extraordinary grasp of Methodism's core calling: holiness, sanctification, relational connection, and cultural awareness.He organized and adapted Methodism to serve the needs of the emerging United States, helping it thrive in a new nation. This episode challenged and corrected several misconceptions I held about Asbury, highlighting his practical genius in making Methodism relevant and vibrant in early America.If you're interested in Wesleyan theology, Methodist history, or how faith adapts to cultural contexts, this is a must-listen!Key Topics Discussed:•  Asbury's non-traditional leadership style•  The heart of Methodism: holiness, sanctification, and relational discipleship•  Cultural adaptation and organizational strategy in the young United States•  Correcting common misconceptions about AsburyYoutube - https://youtu.be/2xzLVzyG70QAudio - https://andymilleriii.com/media/podcastApple -  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-to-the-story-with-dr-andy-miller/id1569988895?uo=4John Wigger's book: American Saint: Francis Asbury and the Methodists - https://a.co/d/058UdnmnIf you are interested in learning more about my two full-length video-accompanied courses, Contender: Going Deeper in the Book of Jude andHeaven and Other Destinations: A Biblical Journey Beyond this World , visit andymilleriii.com/coursesAnd don't forget about my most recent book, Contender, which is available on Amazon! Five Steps to Deeper Teaching and Preaching - Recently, I updated this PDF document and added a 45-minute teaching video with slides, explaining this tool. It's like a mini-course. If you sign up for my list, I will send this free resource to you. Sign up here - www.AndyMillerIII.com or Five Steps to Deeper Teaching and Preaching. Today's episode is brought to you by Wesley Biblical Seminary. Interested in going deeper in your faith? Check out our certificate programs, B.A., M.A.s, M.Div., and D.Min degrees. You will study with world-class faculty and the most racially diverse student body in the country. www.wbs.eduIf this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend and leave a review! For more from Andy Miller III, visit andymilleriii.com or follow @andymilleriii on X.Thanks too to Phil Laeger for my podcast music. You can find out about Phil's music at https://www.laeger.net

Full Text of Readings Thursday of the Second Week of Lent Lectionary: 233 The Saint of the day is Saint John Joseph of the Cross Saint John Joseph of the Cross' Story Self-denial is never an end in itself but is only a help toward greater charity—as the life of Saint John Joseph of the Cross shows. John Joseph was very ascetic even as a young man. At 16, he joined the Franciscans in Naples; he was the first Italian to follow the reform movement of Saint Peter Alcantara. John Joseph's reputation for holiness prompted his superiors to put him in charge of establishing a new friary even before he was ordained. Obedience moved John Joseph to accept appointments as novice master, guardian and, finally, provincial. His years of mortification enabled him to offer these services to the friars with great charity. As guardian he was not above working in the kitchen or carrying the wood and water needed by the friars. When his term as provincial expired, John Joseph dedicated himself to hearing confessions and practicing mortification, two concerns contrary to the spirit of the dawning Age of Enlightenment. Saint John Joseph of the Cross was canonized in 1839. Reflection John Joseph's mortification allowed him to be the kind of forgiving superior intended by Saint Francis. Self-denial should lead us to charity—not to bitterness; it should help us clarify our priorities and make us more loving. John Joseph is living proof of Chesterton's observation: “It is always easy to let the age have its head; the difficult thing is to keep one's own” (G. K. Chesterton, Orthodoxy, page 101).Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Wagner's Travis Gray joins the podcast this week! The graduate guard recaps the Seahawks' big PA sweep with wins over Mercyhurst and Saint Francis, his career-high 27 points against the Red Flash, and what brought him to Staten Island. The Syracuse, NY native also talks about how he has become a more well-rounded scorer with Wagner.Ron and Ryan recap last week's results, look at the NEC Tournament picture, and gives some key story lines to watch.

Full Text of Readings Wednesday of the First Week in Lent Lectionary: 226 The Saint of the day is Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio's Story Sebastian's roads and bridges connected many distant places. His final bridge-building was to help men and women recognize their God-given dignity and destiny. Sebastian's parents were Spanish peasants. At the age of 31, he sailed to Mexico, where he began working in the fields. Eventually he built roads to facilitate agricultural trading and other commerce. His 466-mile road from Mexico City to Zacatecas took 10 years to build and required careful negotiations with the indigenous peoples along the way. In time Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio was a wealthy farmer and rancher. At the age of 60, he entered a virginal marriage. His wife's motivation may have been a large inheritance; his was to provide a respectable life for a girl without even a modest marriage dowry. When his first wife died, he entered another virginal marriage for the same reason; his second wife also died young. At the age of 72, Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio distributed his goods among the poor and entered the Franciscans as a brother. Assigned to the large (100-member) friary at Puebla de los Angeles south of Mexico City, Sebastian went out collecting alms for the friars for the next 25 years. His charity to all earned him the nickname “Angel of Mexico.” Sebastian was beatified in 1787 and is known as a patron of travelers. Reflection According to the Rule of Saint Francis, the friars were to work for their daily bread. Sometimes, however, their work would not provide for their needs; for example, working with people suffering from leprosy brought little or no pay. In cases such as these, the friars were allowed to beg, always keeping in mind the admonition of Francis to let their good example commend them to the people. The life of the prayerful Sebastian drew many closer to God.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of Readings Tuesday of the First Week of Lent Lectionary: 225 The Saint of the day is Blessed Luke Belludi Blessed Luke Belludi's Story In 1220, Saint Anthony was preaching conversion to the inhabitants of Padua when a young nobleman, Blessed Luke Belludi, came up to him and humbly asked to receive the habit of the followers of Saint Francis. Anthony liked the talented, well-educated Luke and personally recommended him to Francis, who then received him into the Franciscan Order. Luke, then only 20, was to be Anthony's companion in his travels and in his preaching, tending to him in his last days and taking Anthony's place upon his death. He was appointed guardian of the Friars Minor in the city of Padua. In 1239, the city fell into the hands of its enemies. Nobles were put to death, the mayor and council were banished, the great university of Padua gradually closed and the church dedicated to Saint Anthony was left unfinished. Luke himself was expelled from the city but secretly returned. At night he and the new guardian would visit the tomb of Saint Anthony in the unfinished shrine to pray for his help. One night a voice came from the tomb assuring them that the city would soon be delivered from its evil tyrant. After the fulfillment of the prophetic message, Blessed Luke was elected provincial minister and furthered the completion of the great basilica in honor of Anthony, his teacher. He founded many convents of the order and had, as Anthony, the gift of miracles. Upon his death he was laid to rest in the basilica that he had helped finish and has had a continual veneration up to the present time. Reflection The epistles refer several times to a man named Luke as Paul's trusted companion on his missionary journeys. Perhaps every great preacher needs a Luke; Anthony surely did. Blessed Luke Belludi not only accompanied Anthony on his travels, he also cared for the great saint in his final illness and carried on Anthony's mission after the saint's death. Yes, every preacher needs a Luke, someone to offer support and reassurance—including those who minister to us. We don't even have to change our names!Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Sermon taught by Gini Downing Are you new? Let us know you were here: liminalventura.org/connectioncard

Father Casey Jones is a priest of the Diocese of Venice, Florida. He currently serves as the pastor of St. Elizabeth Seton Parish and school in Naples, Florida. In Today's Show: If a couple is not married in the Catholic church, can they have their baby baptized? What is the proper way to dispose of a garden statue of the Blessed Mother if it is broken? What is the Catholic teaching on past lives? Why do we have Laetare Sunday? What does it mean when we say "cast Satan to Hell" in the Saint Michael prayer? What is the Church's stance on Oplatki wafers? If you did not know a Mass was invalid, would it still fulfil your obligation? Why did past Saints inflict pain upon themselves and purposely induce sufferings of their bodies? Do those who receive the apostolic blessing automatically go to Heaven? What is the Jubilee Year of Saint Francis?  Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Robert McTeigue reflects on the challenges of melancholy and anxiety, contrasting them with the wisdom of Saint Francis de Sales and the guidance of Gandalf the White. Watch on YouTube: What I Learned from Gandalf

Full Text of Readings The Saint of the day is Servant of God Brother Juniper Servant of God Brother Juniper's Story “Would to God, my brothers, I had a whole forest of such Junipers,” said Saint Francis of this holy friar. We don't know much about Servant of God Brother Juniper before he joined the friars in 1210. Francis sent him to establish “places” for the friars in Gualdo Tadino and Viterbo. When Saint Clare was dying, Juniper consoled her. He was devoted to the passion of Jesus and was known for his simplicity. Several stories about Juniper in the Little Flowers of St. Francis illustrate his exasperating generosity. Once Juniper was taking care of a sick man who had a craving to eat pig's feet. This helpful friar went to a nearby field, captured a pig and cut off one foot, and then served this meal to the sick man. The owner of the pig was furious and immediately went to Juniper's superior. When Juniper saw his mistake, he apologized profusely. He also ended up talking this angry man into donating the rest of the pig to the friars! Another time Servant of God Brother Juniper had been commanded to quit giving part of his clothing to the half-naked people he met on the road. Desiring to obey his superior, Juniper once told a man in need that he couldn't give the man his tunic, but he wouldn't prevent the man from taking it either. In time, the friars learned not to leave anything lying around, for Juniper would probably give it away. Servant of God Brother Juniper died in 1258 and is buried at Ara Coeli Church in Rome. Reflection What can we make of Juniper? He certainly seems to be the first of many Franciscan “characters.” No doubt some of the stories about him have improved considerably in the retelling. Although the stories about Juniper may seem a little quaint, his virtues were not. He was humble because he knew the truth about God, himself, and others. He was patient because he was willing to suffer in his following of Jesus.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”The noise is relentless, the ground feels unstable, and desire gets treated like a problem to be numbed. We take a different route. Starting with a frank look at anxiety and public breakdown, we trace the deeper current beneath the headlines: a forgetting of God that leaves us building on sand. From there we make a bold, practical claim—desire is a compass pointing toward love—and show how to follow it without getting swallowed by the moment.Watch on YouTubeOn XIf this resonates, subscribe, share with a friend who needs steady ground, and leave a review to help others find the show. Then tell us: what daily practice keeps you rooted when the wind picks up?Contact us: info@jp2renew.orgSupport the show

Full Text of Readings The Saint of the day is Saint Francis de Sales Saint Francis de Sales' Story Saint Francis de Sales was destined by his father to be a lawyer so that the young man could eventually take his elder's place as a senator from the province of Savoy in France. For this reason Francis was sent to Padua to study law. After receiving his doctorate, he returned home and, in due time, told his parents he wished to enter the priesthood. His father strongly opposed Francis in this, and only after much patient persuasiveness on the part of the gentle Francis did his father finally consent. Francis was ordained and elected provost of the Diocese of Geneva, then a center for the Calvinists. Saint Francis de Sales set out to convert them, especially in the district of Chablais. By preaching and distributing the little pamphlets he wrote to explain true Catholic doctrine, he had remarkable success. At 35, he became bishop of Geneva. While administering his diocese he continued to preach, hear confessions, and catechize the children. His gentle character was a great asset in winning souls. He practiced his own axiom, “A spoonful of honey attracts more flies than a barrelful of vinegar.” Besides his two well-known books, the Introduction to the Devout Life and A Treatise on the Love of God, he wrote many pamphlets and carried on a vast correspondence. For his writings, he has been named patron of the Catholic Press. His writings, filled with his characteristic gentle spirit, are addressed to lay people. He wants to make them understand that they too are called to be saints. As he wrote in The Introduction to the Devout Life: “It is an error, or rather a heresy, to say devotion is incompatible with the life of a soldier, a tradesman, a prince, or a married woman…. It has happened that many have lost perfection in the desert who had preserved it in the world.” In spite of his busy and comparatively short life, he had time to collaborate with another saint, Jane Frances de Chantal, in the work of establishing the Sisters of the Visitation. These women were to practice the virtues exemplified in Mary's visit to Elizabeth: humility, piety, and mutual charity. They at first engaged to a limited degree in works of mercy for the poor and the sick. Today, while some communities conduct schools, others live a strictly contemplative life. Reflection Saint Francis de Sales took seriously the words of Christ, “Learn of me for I am meek and humble of heart.” As he said himself, it took him 20 years to conquer his quick temper, but no one ever suspected he had such a problem, so overflowing with good nature and kindness was his usual manner of acting. His perennial meekness and sunny disposition won for him the title of “Gentleman Saint.”Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

"Let us begin again, for until now we have done nothing," - Saint Francis of Assisi Summary As a new year begins, many of us focus on where we fell short instead of how we've grown. In this episode, Mike and Alicia invite parents and couples to reflect on the past year by celebrating the gains—not just the gaps—and to recognize the common traps that keep us stuck, like doing too much, being too busy, comparing ourselves to others, or letting our loves get out of order. From there, they share five foundational ways to begin again and make this year better—not perfect, but better: growing in your relationship with God, becoming more fully who God made you to be, investing intentionally in your marriage, being present and purposeful with your children, and choosing real community. You don't have to plan everything—just put the big rocks in place and start again together.    Key Takeaways Start Right Now: Commit to Growing in Your Relationship with God Commit to Becoming More Fully Yourself Invest in Your Marriage—Starting With Yourself Be Intentional With Your Children Choose Community   Couple Discussion Questions How can we "begin again" together Which of these take aways are most impactful for us?