Podcasts about special podcast

Matt speaks to Adam Blackmore of BBC Radio Solent to get the lowdown on Tyler Dibling. We look at his early years at Southampton, the failed move to Chelsea and his blistering form at the start of last season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this Special Podcast episode, I discuss what happened at Heatwave & Forbidden Door. Who were the winners, and what were some special moments/highlights from these events? Also, my thoughts on potential storylines that seem to be brewing/surfacing.  Twitter: @My2Podcast Instagram: my2centspodcastg2 Business email: my2centspod@yahoo.com

Patrick takes a call from John, a Protestant pastor in Texas, who asks whether the Mass is invalid if a Catholic priest celebrates it while in a state of mortal sin. Patrick explains that the Mass would still be valid, because validity depends on three essential elements: form (the words of consecration), matter (unleavened bread and wine), and intention (the priest’s intention to confect the Eucharist). Patrick clarifies that while the Mass would remain valid, it could be illicit (unlawful) if the priest knowingly skipped required elements or celebrated without first confessing grave sin. He brings up the history of the Church, citing St. Augustine’s defense against the Donatists, who wrongly claimed sacraments were invalid if the minister was unworthy. Augustine argued that if their logic were correct, no one could ever have confidence in any sacrament, since we can’t see into a minister’s soul. Patrick also notes St. Thomas Aquinas’ reassurance that the very act of a priest celebrating Mass provides moral certainty that his intention is valid. John connects this with 1 Corinthians 11, where St. Paul warns that those who receive the Eucharist unworthily bring judgment upon themselves, and he shares his growing appreciation for Catholic teaching through Relevant Radio.

Patrick Madrid takes a call from Matt in Huntington Beach, who asks a very relatable question: How do I keep prayer intentional when I have so many intentions that it feels like a checklist? Patrick admits right away that he’s not speaking as a prayer “expert,” but as a fellow traveler who wrestles with the same distractions. He encourages you to pray at times and in places where the noise of life is quieter -- whether that’s at home in the early morning or during a visit to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. But he also affirms that prayer doesn’t have to be limited to those moments; it can happen anywhere -- in the car, at the grocery store, or in the middle of a busy day. What matters most, Patrick says, is not the absence of distractions but what you do with them. He suggests offering those distractions to God directly: “Lord, I’m trying to pray, but my mind is scattered. I give you these distractions too.” That effort, he says, is pleasing to God because it shows love and persistence. Patrick also draws on Ignatian spirituality, recommending a prayer method that involves putting yourself into the scene of Scripture or the mysteries of the Rosary. For example, while praying the Sorrowful Mysteries, you can imagine yourself standing at the pillar as Jesus is scourged, which helps stir gratitude and deepen prayer. He goes on to outline the stages of prayer: -Discursive prayer -- the “shallow end,” made up of spontaneous prayers or rote prayers like the Our Father -Meditation -- a deeper form, where the mind and heart actively engage with the truths of the Faith -Contemplation -- the “deep end” of prayer, described by saints like Teresa of Avila as gazing on God with love, much like beholding a beautiful sunset in awe On the specific problem of prayer becoming a long “laundry list,” Patrick introduces the idea of virtual intentions. Instead of naming every single person or need individually each time, you can entrust categories of people or petitions to God: “Lord, I pray for all those I promised to pray for” or “I pray for all who have died.” This way, prayer remains heartfelt without being mechanical. Finally, Patrick recommends two spiritual classics to grow in prayer: Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis de Sales and The Interior Castle by St. Teresa of Avila. Both provide wisdom on moving from simple, everyday prayer to deeper intimacy with God. Patrick reminds you: the key is not perfection, but intention. As long as you’re sincerely engaging with God rather than just “clickety clacking” through words, your prayer life will bear fruit.

Matt, Dave and Les are pitch side at Hill Dickinson Stadium to take you inside our new home and preview this weekend's game with Brighton. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Image via Riccardo De Luca - Update / Shutterstock. Here’s a beautiful invitation from The Patrick Madrid Show that every Catholic should hear: Pope Leo XIV is asking us to fast and pray for peace this August 22nd, the Feast of the Queenship of Mary. At his general audience, the Holy Father turned his heart, and ours, toward the many conflict zones around the world... especially in Ukraine and the Holy Land. His message is clear: Mary, our Queen of Peace, is with us in the fight for true peace, and she’s inviting us to join her through prayer and fasting. So why August 22nd? Mary is honored as Queen of Heaven, and she’s reigning as our Mother; she's standing with us in every struggle. Patrick explains how this connects directly to Revelation 12, where the “woman clothed with the sun” is both Mary and a symbol of the Church. This woman gives birth to Christ and then becomes the target of the dragon, who wages war not just on her, but on the rest of her offspring. These are those who follow Jesus and keep His commandments. What the Pope is Asking: Pope Leo’s call isn’t generic. He says: “I ask you... to include in your intentions a supplication for the gift of peace, a peace that is disarmed and disarming, especially for Ukraine and the Middle East.” This is about real peace, the kind that starts in the heart and flows out to the world. What to Do on August 22nd: Here’s how you can respond: -Pray a Rosary (especially for peace) -Fast in whatever way you can: from food, social media, entertainment, etc... -Offer your day for all who are suffering because of war and violence -Invite others to join you: family, friends, your parish group, etc... August 22nd is your chance to join the Church worldwide in a spiritual mission for peace. Mary is Queen, and she’s leading the charge. Will you follow her lead?

A caller named Marianne asked Patrick Madrid how to explain to her evangelical son-in-law that Mary remained a virgin her whole life, especially since he believes the Bible says Jesus had brothers in the literal sense. The Teaching in a Nutshell Catholic dogma says Mary was a virgin before the conception of Jesus, during His birth, and after His birth for the rest of her life. Jesus was her only child. This belief isn’t just Catholic tradition; Patrick argues it’s what the Bible itself supports when understood correctly. The ‘Brothers of Jesus’ Problem Many Protestants point to verses like: Matthew 13:55 - “Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?” Mark 6:3 - Similar listing of “brothers” of the Lord. Patrick explains: In the Bible, “brother” (adelphos in Greek) has a wide range of meanings. It can mean biological brother, but also cousin, nephew, or even close family friend. Example: In Genesis 14:14, Lot is called Abraham’s “brother”, but we know from other passages that Lot was actually Abraham’s nephew. The Famous “Until” Verse Critics love to quote Matthew 1:25: “[Joseph] had no marital relations with her until she had given birth to a son.” -Some assume “until” means they started relations afterward. -But in biblical usage, “until” (heōs in Greek) does not mean a change afterward. -Patrick’s analogy: “Grandma didn’t take her medicine until she died.” That doesn’t mean she took it after! The ‘Firstborn’ Title Luke 2:7 calls Jesus Mary’s “firstborn.” Skeptics think that means there must have been a “second-born.” Not so! In Jewish law, firstborn is a legal term for the child who opens the womb, whether or not more children follow. Even an only child is still the “firstborn” in biblical and legal language. A Cross-Shaped Clue At the crucifixion (John 19:26-27), Jesus entrusted His mother to John, not to one of His “brothers.” If Mary had other biological sons, this would have been unthinkable in Jewish culture; her care would automatically go to them. The fact that Jesus chose John is silent but strong proof that Mary had no other children. The Early Church’s United Voice From the very beginning, Christians, including those who personally knew the Apostles, unanimously affirmed Mary’s perpetual virginity. No significant leader questioned it until the mid-4th century, when a man named Helvidius claimed otherwise. St. Jerome, a brilliant Scripture scholar and translator, wrote an entire work Against Helvidius, dismantling every argument point-by-point. Even Luther & Calvin Agreed Here’s a surprise for many Protestants: Martin Luther and John Calvin, the founders of the Reformation and fierce opponents of Catholicism, both affirmed Mary’s perpetual virginity. They didn’t accept it because the Catholic Church said so; they accepted it because the biblical and historical evidence for it was airtight. Why the Disagreement Today? Patrick brings up that many modern Christians reject this teaching for one simple reason: “If the Catholic Church teaches it, it must be wrong.”They then go hunting for Bible verses that seem to contradict it. But none of those verses, when understood in context, actually prove Mary had other children. Mary’s perpetual virginity isn’t an “extra Catholic add-on.” It’s rooted in Scripture, confirmed by history, defended by the early Church Fathers, and even upheld by the first Protestant Reformers. For anyone truly willing to look at the evidence, and not just react against Catholicism, the case is clear: Mary was, is, and always will be the Virgin Mother of Jesus.

Ellen emailed Patrick and asked: "Is it wrong to name my guardian angel?" The Short Answer:Patrick says, “No, don’t name your guardian angel,” because the Church actually says not to. Why not? Angels are right below God in the order of creation, way above us humans. They have authority over us, not the other way around. Your guardian angel is like your heavenly bodyguard, not your pet. Naming means authority. In the Bible, Adam named the animals to show his dominion over them. Since angels have dominion over us, naming them flips the order. God already named them. He’s the Creator, so naming rights are His, not ours. Patrick’s Analogy:It’d be like your dog deciding to name you. That'd be strange! Extra backup:Even Pope Benedict XVI said not to do it. Saints like Padre Pio, St. Teresa of Ávila, and St. John Bosco had close relationships with their guardian angels, but they never named them. What you can do: -Talk to your guardian angel every day. -Ask for guidance and protection. -Foster that friendship, but don't name them.

This episode of The Patrick Madrid Show is an exploration into one of those ouch topics: What happened to Judas? Is it possible he still went to heaven? Patrick walks us through Pope Leo’s recent catechesis, which centers on Jesus, our hope... and the betrayal at the Last Supper. Pope Leo reflects on that haunting line from Mark 14: “Surely it is not I?” He calls it one of the most sincere questions a disciple can ask, and it’s a moment of fragile, gut-check honesty. But then the Holy Father shares this heavy truth: “If by betraying, we become unfaithful to ourselves... we exclude ourselves from salvation.” In other words, Judas didn’t get dragged to hell against his will; he chose the path. He excluded himself. What the Church Has Actually Said: Patrick reminds us that this isn’t mere speculation: The Catechism of the Council of Trent flat-out says: “Judas has not profited from redemption and has lost his soul.” That’s the Church putting it plainly. But… What About God’s Mercy?! This is a totally fair question, but Patrick lays it out like this: -God won’t force you to love Him. -Patrick reminds us that Judas knew Jesus. He lived with Him, ate with Him, and he saw miracles.And still... he walked away. Don't forget that Jesus said: “None of them was lost except the son of destruction…” – John 17:12 That’s Jesus talking about Judas, not a random sinner. Jesus also said in scripture that it would have been better if Judas was never born; Patrick explains that this wouldn't make sense if Judas ended up in heaven. Patrick reminds you that even someone that close to Jesus can fall, so how much more do we need to cling to grace? We shouldn't fear, but we need to stay close to Jesus and always choose repentance (like Peter did). Let's never take our salvation for granted.

Topics: Brant talks with author and mom-of-ten, Abby Halberstadt, about the joys, struggles, and eternal significance of parenting. Her new book You Bet Your Stretch Marks releases in September.   Quotes: “We are forgetting machines. We need to hear the truth again and again." “Parenting is a long obedience in the same direction.” “Your identity isn't in motherhood, it's in serving Christ.” “True quiet time doesn't have to be Instagram-worthy to count.” “You are planting seeds that may grow into fruit you'll never see.”

Topics:  In this bonus episode, Brant talks about what he's learning from the book: "The Matter With Things" by Iain McGilchrist. Including: - Exploring the complexity and intelligence of living cells. - Challenging purely mechanical views of biology. - Why relationships and context are paramount.   And most importantly…   The many spiritual parallels that can be derived from the book and how who we are becoming matters way more than our past.     Quotes: “Life requires cognition at all levels. Our cells think!” “Genes do nothing on their own; life is far more than DNA.” “Flatworms can regrow their brains and still remember.” “Healing is God's work; medicine cooperates with it.” . . . Holy Ghost Mama Pre-Order! Want more of the Oddcast? Check out our website! Watch our YouTube videos here. Connect with us on Facebook! For Christian banking you can trust, click here!

This is another experimental episode, in which Haashirama Senju, Tobirama Senju, Kakashi Hatake and Kisame Hoshigake pretend to be hardcore thamizh desiya podcasters. This episode is a spin-off episode set in an alternate universe, where exists a dystopian Seeman aatchi. This is an improv show along with good ol parody and pure fiction. In this episode, the quartet talks about the ̶g̶r̶e̶a̶t̶ ̶n̶a̶l̶a̶i̶ ̶m̶a̶l̶a̶r̶u̶m̶ malarndha glorious Thamizh Desiya Aatchi! Podcast Director:- Gaara Editor:-Gaara & Space Monkey69 Quality Control Team:-SpaceMonkey 01 & Space Monkey 21 Sponsered by:-Illuminati & 13 Families. Schumy Vanna Kaviyangal is a company which consists of some hardcore Internet Artists, they are known for their memes, podcasts and their rationalist content, they are pro left and hanging out with them is a fun fest (we have no choice but to type this out for ourselves), let me add something else as well, we been Spotify podcast chart-toppers for many many weeks and we also have the longest podcast episode in Asia for 13 plus hours... So this is us.  PS- Some say we are funded by the Illuminati but we wouldn't be opening a Patreon page for us if they were funding us right?. kbyethanksSVK Brotherhood Form:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/9RxFJnT3KtS8C85fA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠UPI ID- ⁠schumyvannakaviyangal13@axlUPI ID- ⁠⁠schumyvannakaviyangal13@yblUPI ID -schumyvannakaviyangal13@iblFully Flimy X SVK Merchandise:-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://fullyfilmy.in/collections/svk-collection⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠---------------------------------Support Us----------------------------------------Support Schumy Vanna Kaviyangal if you feel like it

In this Special Podcast episode, I discuss what happened at SummerSlam. Who were the winners, and what were some special moments/highlights from the event? Also, both nights ended on high points with questions about where certain stories are headed.       Twitter: @My2Podcast Instagram: my2centspodcastg2 Business email: my2centspod@yahoo.com

Whew! This episode of The Patrick Madrid Show is thought-provoking, a little scary, and very relevant for every Catholic parent, teacher, and really anyone who knows a teenager. Patrick and Producer Cyrus tackle a recent report showing that a third (yes, 1 in 3!) of American teens aged 13–17 say they prefer chatting with AI bots over actual humans. “AI is just a tool” – Patrick’s Perspective Patrick makes it clear that he's not afraid of AI, just like he’s not afraid of a knife or the internet. Tools can be dangerous or useful; it depends on how you use them. While he’s not panicking, he is sounding a big ol’ warning bell for parents. He compares AI today to the early days of the internet in the ‘90s — when no one really understood what it was going to become. (Anyone else remember dial-up modems?) He believes AI may be even bigger in terms of its impact on society. The Report That Got Everyone Talking The big story they discussed came from a study called “Talk, Trust, and Trade-Offs”. It reveals that: -A full third of teens say they’d rather talk to AI than to friends or family -Many use AI for emotional support, friendship, and even immoral content -Teens are sharing personal details with these bots -Many of them think the bots are better listeners than their actual human companions Let that sink in: teens are calling these things “companions” — human-sounding language for a non-human tool. Parents, This Is Your Cue! Patrick and Cyrus both open up about their own experiences as dads. Cyrus mentioned how his 18-year-old son spent most of his social time during high school in the gaming world, chatting online with friends instead of hanging out in person. They reminisce about the days when “socializing” meant actually being in the same room. Remember those? Board games, backyard baseball, pizza parties. Good times. Patrick’s challenge to parents is to step up, be aware, and be involved. Parents, here’s what Patrick recommends you should do: -Start the conversation. Ask your kids if they’re using AI and how. -Teach them discernment. They need to know that not everything AI says is true or safe. -Remind them of real connection. Face-to-face friendship > artificial conversations -Watch the privacy risks. Nothing shared with AI is truly private. Those convos can be hacked, stored, and sold. The Bottom Line AI is becoming a counterfeit friend for kids who are struggling with loneliness, anxiety, and identity. But the Church — and real, healthy human relationships — are where true healing and connection happen.... not in a chatbot pretending to care. Question for YOU:Have you noticed teens in your life relying more on tech than actual friendships? What are you doing to keep real connection alive?

This episode of The Patrick Madrid Show is tender, raw, and packed with grace. It all starts with an email from Aaron, a Catholic school teacher who teaches grades 2–8. His school just suffered a devastating tragedy: a young boy — just about to enter sixth grade — was killed in an accident. Aaron, heartbroken, is reaching out for help. He's thinking ahead: how do I help my students process this? What do I say when they ask, “Why did God allow this?” What Patrick Said: “Words can only go so far.” He starts there — with brutal honesty. When your heart is shattered, “God is with you” can feel... empty, even if it’s true. Patrick encourages him to use the moment as a “Catechetical Popcorn Trail” Start small and lay the groundwork. Help kids understand why death even exists by going back to Adam and Eve, the Fall, and the entrance of sin into the world. This tragedy, as awful as it is, becomes a gateway into the bigger story of salvation. “Death is not natural. It’s not how we were meant to live.” God created us for life, forever, with Him. Death entered through sin. That helps kids understand their instincts are right — this feels wrong because it is wrong. But that’s not the end... Jesus didn’t just die — He conquered death. Kids can look at the crucifix with new eyes. He chose to suffer, chose to die, so that death wouldn’t be the final word for us. But Also... Teach Them This: Original Sin is not the same as personal sin. Patrick offers a great analogy: Imagine your billionaire parents lose all their wealth due to a crime. You didn't do anything, but you still lose the inheritance. That’s original sin. Through baptism, God gives it all back, and more. This boy might be in heaven. Patrick encourages Aaron to comfort the students with hope — if the boy was in 5th grade, it would make sense that he probably never committed a mortal sin. That’s theologically solid hope. Teach them how to pray for him, through offering Masses and praying the Chaplet. Let them participate in his journey to Heaven. The Most Beautiful Part At the end of the show, Aaron calls in; he just wants to say thank you. You can hear how much he loves his students and how much he’s leaning on the Holy Spirit. It’s one of those quiet holy moments that makes you realize the Church is so alive in people like him. If You’re a Teacher, Parent, or Just a Catholic Who Cares… This episode is worth your time. It reminds us that grief is the place faith speaks loudest. Our job isn’t to “fix” grief. It’s to walk through it with others, pointing to the Cross... and beyond it, to the Resurrection. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

It All Started at a Tea Party... Rosalie from Chula Vista calls in after attending a “Deanery Tea Party” (which, btw, sounds like something Jane Austen would've loved) where a little girl asked a whopper of a question: “Is everyone going to die?” Rosalie’s friend was troubled that the adult nearby didn’t offer any spiritual explanation... just the cold, hard facts. So, Rosalie did what any good Catholic would do: she called Patrick Madrid. How Do You Tell a Child About Death Without Freaking Them Out? Patrick, being the dad of 11 kids and a wise Catholic thinker, totally gets it. We live in a culture that avoids death like kale at a kid’s birthday party. We want youth, health, and Instagram filters, not funeral talk. But here’s the truth from Patrick:

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes' exciting local radio program, Heart of the Athlete, airs Saturdays at 9 am MST on KBXL 94.1 FM. The show is hosted by local FCA Director, Ken Lewis. This program is a great opportunity to listen to local athletes and coaches share their lives, combining sports with their faith in Jesus Christ each week!Our relationships will demonstrate steadfast commitment to Jesus Christ and His Word through Integrity, Serving, Teamwork and Excellence.NNU Box 3359 623 S University Blvd Nampa, ID 83686 United States (208) 697-1051 klewis@fca.orghttps://www.fcaidaho.org/Podcast Website: https://941thevoice.com/podcasts/heart-of-the-athlete/

On this episode, George and I pay tribute to the "Incredible Hulk" Hogan. Hulk was the most popular pro wrestler in history. Join the WFIA today! Go to www.thewfia.org for more informationYou can purchase the book I wrote on Verne Gagne titled: VERNE Inside & Outside the RopesAmazon: https://www.amazon.com/VERNE-Inside-Outside-Brian-Ferguson/dp/B0DL4NTR8F/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3R6YWCBP066K1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.o2cyL60dpg9SZyCAT4X_Ww.Dd9KPDnRPmTfkRxrPTRtfZahw-UnJJpaYA84vbBZqbg&dib_tag=se&keywords=verne+inside+%26+outside+the+ropes&qid=1734048574&sprefix=%2Caps%2C117&sr=8-1 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/verne-brian-ferguson/1146466907?ean=9798341805583Lulu: (Paperback) https://www.lulu.com/shop/brian-ferguson/verne-inside-outside-the-ropes/paperback/product-yvjq8ne.html?q=Verne+Gagne&page=1&pageSize=4 (Ebook) https://www.lulu.com/shop/brian-christopher-ferguson/verne-inside-outside-the-ropes/ebook/product-p6ym7dv.html?q=Verne+Gagne&page=1&pageSize=4 You can follow George Schire on the following social media platforms:Facebook:George Schire's WRESTLING TIME MACHINE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/304074923575221 AMERICAN WRESTLING ASSOCIATION:https://www.facebook.com/groups/352959044854870 You can purchase books written by George Schire at Amazon: Minnesota's Golden Age of Wrestling: From Verne Gagne to the Road Warriors: https://www.amazon.com/Minnesotas-Golden-Age-Wrestling-Warriors/dp/0873516206/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2E27089S7DKNO&keywords=George+Schire&qid=1668273607&sprefix=george+schire%2Caps%2C198&sr=8-2 A.W.A. Record Book: The 1960s: https://www.amazon.com/W-Record-Book-1960s/dp/1492225576/ref=sr_1_4?crid=2E27089S7DKNO&keywords=George+Schire&qid=1668273656&sprefix=george+schire%2Caps%2C198&sr=8-4 A.W.A. Record Book: The 1970s Part 1 1970-1974: https://www.amazon.com/W-Record-Book-1970s-1970-1974/dp/1492242292/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2E27089S7DKNO&keywords=George+Schire&qid=1668273656&sprefix=george+schire%2Caps%2C198&sr=8-5 A.W.A. Record Book: The 1970s Part 2 1975-79: https://www.amazon.com/W-Record-Book-1970s-1975-79/dp/150845857X/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2E27089S7DKNO&keywords=George+Schire&qid=1668273656&sprefix=george+schire%2Caps%2C198&sr=8-3 Help support the podcast! You can make contributions or purchase items at:Contribution: www.anchor.fm/brian-ferguson3 and click the support buttonTeespring Store: https://bumps-thumps-2.creator-spring.com/ PayPal: @bumpsnthumps You can follow Bumps & Thumps on the following social media platforms:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnQG8G8GE0eTHmzIzTBnZ8Q Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/BrianfergusonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BumpsThumps Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumps_n_thumps/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/bumps_thumpsIf you would like to purchase Joyce's book My Ringside Seat To The AWA, you can order the book by messaging on Facebook or by email. Payment method is through PayPal. The book is $20 plus $6 shipping in the United States. If you are ordering outside the United States, please contact Joyce for shipping questions. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joyce.paustian.9 Website: https://joycepaustian.com/ Email: joyce.paustian@gmail.com PayPal: joyce.paustian@gmail.com

If you've ever wondered why the Church requires a Sunday obligation to attend Mass—even when you're doing other good things like feeding the poor or being kind—this conversation is for you. On The Patrick Madrid Show, Michelle from Kentucky calls in with a question: “If someone skips Mass but still does works of mercy, are they still in mortal sin? That just seems... harsh.” Patrick responds with some Holy Spirit–fueled clarity and compassion. According to Church teaching (and backed up by Scripture), deliberately missing Sunday Mass without a serious reason (illness, caring for someone sick, dangerous travel, etc.) is a grave sin. Why? Because it’s saying "no" to a relationship. You're choosing to ignore Jesus' invitation to the most important family gathering of the week: the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. But What If You're a Really Nice Person? Michelle asks, “What about people who are super kind and charitable but don’t go to Mass?” Patrick said: Being nice is good—but it’s not salvific. If goodness alone could save us, Jesus wouldn’t have needed to die on the Cross. Works of mercy done in a state of grace (in union with Christ) are eternally meritorious. Apart from grace, they’re nice, not saving. Jesus Was Pretty Clear “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” (John 14:15)“He who hears you hears me; he who rejects you rejects me.” (Luke 10:16)“No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6) Jesus established His Church with real authority. When the Church says, “Go to Mass every Sunday,” you're being obedient to Christ’s own command. The Family Dinner Analogy (So Good) Patrick compares Sunday Mass to a family dinner: Imagine your parents say, “Everyone needs to be at the table at 6pm.” If one kid says, “Eh, I’ll just eat in my room,” they're disconnecting from the family. That’s what skipping Mass does. It breaks the spiritual family bond. God's Not Looking to Smite You Patrick explains that God isn’t standing there like, “Ha! Gotcha!” In fact, He’s constantly pouring out grace, constantly inviting us back—especially through Confession and the Eucharist. Patrick reminds you that Jesus said some hard truths, but He says them out of love. He wants you home for dinner, forever. Real Talk: If you’ve been skipping Mass... come home. Go to Confession.Get back in the pew.And the Father is always watching for the prodigal child to return.

Image via Joan Sutter / Shutterstock. Here’s the rundown from this great moment on The Patrick Madrid Show. So, a young caller named Ezra from Naperville, Illinois, jumps on the line and asks: “Um, hi, Mr. Madrid… Did Jesus ever have a last name?” Great question, Ezra! Patrick jumps in with his usual mix of smarts and warmth. Short answer: No, Jesus didn’t have a last name like we do today. Longer answer: Back in Jesus’ time, people were identified by who their dad was or where they were from. So instead of “Jesus Christ” like it’s a last name, He might’ve been called “Jesus bar Joseph” — which literally means “Jesus, son of Joseph.”(Bar means “son of” in Aramaic.)

The History of the Brown Scapular Way back in the 1200s, in Aylesford Priory, England... St. Simon Stock, a Carmelite monk, had this famous encounter: Our Lady of Mount Carmel appeared to him and showed him the Brown Scapular. For religious folks, the scapular is part of their habit. For laypeople, it’s the mini version: two little squares of cloth, connected by strings, worn under your clothes. Important to remember: Wearing it is not a magic ticket to heaven. Patrick really hammers this home. What’s the Point of Wearing It? Patrick explains it this way: It’s like a wedding ring.→ The ring doesn’t literally make you married, but it’s an outward sign of an inward reality. The scapular is an outward sign that you’re asking Our Lady to pray for you, to help you love Jesus more, and to remind yourself to live for God. The Big Misunderstanding There’s a lot of rumors floating around:“If you wear the Brown Scapular, you’re guaranteed heaven.”"You’ll skip purgatory and go straight up the Saturday after you die!” Patrick is super clear here: -The Church does not teach that. -There’s no record of Our Lady promising that to St. Simon Stock. - Patrick says that salvation depends on dying in a state of grace, loving God, repenting from sin, not on religious accessories. Why Still Wear It, Then? Because: -It’s a beautiful sign of devotion to Mary. -It reminds you daily to love God and neighbor. -Our Lady does intercede for those who ask. -It helps you stay close to Jesus, but it’s not a magic amulet. Bonus: Does Patrick Wear It 24/7? Yep... under his shirt, like most folks.He takes it off for showers or swimming (no, you’re not spiritually vulnerable if it’s not on — again, not magic!). Bottom Line (aka “What You Tell Your Friends”) The Brown Scapular is:-A beautiful, centuries-old Marian devotion.-A reminder to live for Jesus.-Not a spiritual hack or shortcut to bypass repentance and grace. Love Our Lady, trust in her prayers, and keep your eyes on Jesus.

On The Patrick Madrid Show, a caller named Connie asked Patrick how to explain to her uncle away from the Faith why Catholics pray to Mary and the saints—aren’t they passed away? Doesn’t the Bible say Jesus is the only mediator? Mary & the Saints Patrick pulls out Mark 12:27 where Jesus says: “He is not the God of the dead but of the living.” Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Mary—they’re alive in God. Mary isn’t just a memory or some dusty relic in a tomb. She was assumed body and soul into heaven and is gloriously alive in God’s presence. We’re asking living members of Christ’s body to pray for us. But Doesn’t the Bible Say Jesus Is the Only Mediator? Yes! 1 Timothy 2:5 says: “There is one mediator between God and man, the man Christ Jesus.” Right before that, Paul tells us to: -offer prayers -intercede for each other -give thanks for everyone, even kings In other words, Jesus is the bridge that makes it possible for us to pray for each other. When we ask Mary or the saints to pray for us, we’re not replacing Jesus. We’re joining the family prayer chain. Picture the Prayer Triangle Patrick gave this helpful visual:-You ask your friend to pray for you (left point)-Friend brings your prayer to God (top point)-God answers with blessings (back down to you) Same thing when we ask Mary or a saint:We’re just asking a friend of God—someone already perfected in love and close to His heart to join us in prayer. We’re not treating Mary or saints like gods. We’re asking them to pray with us and for us because we’re all part of the Body of Christ, across heaven and earth. It’s relational, not competitive. Want to go deeper? Patrick has a free article called Any Friend of God’s Is a Friend of Mine. It’s packed with biblical examples and clear explanations.

On this episode of Trending with Timmerie, guest host Brooke Taylor brings on Fr. Dave Heney to talk all about forgiveness. You can listen to the entire hour on this topic here. Fr. Dave jumps right in, saying that forgiveness isn’t just something “nice” we should do—it’s absolutely central to living a joyful life. We all get hurt, he says, and if we don’t learn how to handle that pain, it can end up running our lives. What most people want when they’re hurt is to “get even,” but as Fr. Dave explains, you can never actually even the score. That cycle of hurt just keeps spiraling until someone is crushed under it. It's not a good way to live! He then unpacks Jesus’ famous words: “turn the other cheek” and “love your enemies”—verses you might struggle to understand. Fr. Dave explains that it’s not about ignoring the pain or pretending it didn’t happen. It’s about knowing your dignity comes from God, not from the person who insulted or hurt you. And when we’re anchored in that, we can let go of revenge. What’s beautiful is how he separates forgiveness from reconciliation. Forgiveness is an instant decision — “I’m not going to hurt you back.” Reconciliation, though, is a process that takes time. It’s exactly what happens in confession: you stop the harm, admit what you did, promise to change, and try to make things right. A listener, Hannah, calls in asking what to say to friends who were abused as kids and are now struggling with that trauma. Fr. Dave answers with so much tenderness—he says one powerful path to healing is helping others. When someone who was hurt steps into helping or ministry, they reclaim strength and purpose that abuse tried to steal. And, of course, he affirms how important counseling can be when wounds run deep. Brooke also reminds us of all the saints who lived out this radical forgiveness—saints like Maria Goretti and St. Bakhita—showing us the way back to Christ. Yes, forgiveness is hard—but it’s possible, and you are never walking through it alone.

Send us a textTanya, Pete and Batt-lamb continue on their world storytelling adventure and are joined in Sweden by Greger (and Lena) who are long time fans of the Batt- Cave. This story is musical remake of a traditional Swedish folktale about making your wishes come true. Greger's wish comes true on this podcast - he and Batt-lamb sing a duet 'Baa, baa vita lamb' - the swedish version of 'Baa, baa black sheep.'You can find our audios and books to purchase at https://imagined-worlds.net/story-shopOr join the live monthly Batt Cave storytelling club at https://ko-fi.com/tanyabatt0027/tiers Or if you are an educator for children 0 - 8 years subscribe to 'Batt on the Mat' - a monthly online, professional development storytelling and arts programme https://imagined-worlds.net/batt-on-the-matAnd finally, if you enjoyed our podcast, please share with friends and write a review. Or make a donation to support what we do here https://ko-fi.com/tanyabatt0027Kia Ora!

In this Special Podcast episode, I discuss the wrestling events that happened over the weekend. First, discuss the sad news with Adam Cole and Seth Rollins (1:00). Then, give quick hits from Saturday Night Main Event (13:12). Recap what happened on NXT Great American Bash (19:34), Evolution (34:33), and AEW All In (58:10).     Twitter: @My2Podcast Instagram: my2centspodcastg2 Business email: my2centspod@yahoo.com

Here’s the scoop from this powerful episode of The Patrick Madrid Show. Patrick gives you a message a lot of us need to hear, even if it stings a little. Meet Delia Delia calls in from L.A.; she’s been living with her boyfriend for over 10 years.They have a child together; he’s helped raise her other kids, but… they’re not married.She’s Catholic, goes to Mass, and she doesn’t receive Communion because she knows something’s not right. Her big question: “Should I go to confession even though I’m still living this way?” Patrick’s Loving (but direct!) Wake-Up Call Patrick’s response was compassionate but crystal clear: "Yes, you need confession... but confession only works if you’re ready to repent." (i.e., change your life). Right now, Delia is living in a state of mortal sin. Why Moving Out Matters Patrick explains: Jesus calls us to radical decisions: “If your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out.”Translation: Cut off anything dragging you away from God. So, What Should Delia Do? Here's Patrick's advice: Pray for courage.Get on your knees before the crucifix and beg Jesus for help. Patrick recommends the "Prayer Before a Crucifix" on the Relevant Radio app. Make the hard break.You don’t have to hate him or abandon him as the father of your child, but you can’t live as husband and wife when you’re not. Then go to confession.But only after you’re ready to leave the sinful situation. Why This Matters Patrick leaves her with this stunning line:“You’re a daughter of the King. You’re royalty. But you’re living in the worst kind of peasant squalor.” Delia (and all of us in sinful situations) are made for more.God isn’t trying to ruin our fun; He’s calling us to freedom, peace, and true love. Real Talk Takeaway: If you’re stuck in a sinful situation and wondering, “Can’t I just go to confession and keep doing this?” ... the hard truth is: NO.Confession without repentance is like trying to shower in a mud pit. Here’s the good news from Patrick:"You’re one good confession away from becoming a saint." Final encouragement from Patrick:Ask Jesus for help. Put first the Kingdom of God, and everything else will be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33)

Patrick Madrid opens up after the heart-shattering Texas floods that took the lives of many: including two young Catholic girls found holding their Rosaries. This isn’t a tidy theology talk; it’s a gut-wrenching, faith-clinging, grief-soaked conversation about why God allows suffering, and how we hold on when life falls apart. The Caller: Cecile from Bryan, Texas Cecile calls in, her heart cracked wide open. Her nephew just lost his best friend, his wife, and their two children. His question is one we all ask eventually: “How could God let this happen?” Patrick doesn’t pretend to have the magic answer. In fact, his first move is humility: “There is no answer that will make this okay. Not now.” But what he does offer is one of the most compassionate and theological walk-throughs of the “Problem of Evil” you’ll ever hear in Catholic media. Key Takeaways: God Is Not the Author of Evil Evil, whether moral (caused by free will choices) or natural (like floods, cancer, etc.), was never part of God’s original design. These came through the Fall: a ripple effect from the sin of Adam and Eve that distorted creation itself. Natural Disasters Are Part of a Broken World Nature itself is “off” because of sin. But this isn’t a cosmic punishment; it's a sign that we’re living in a world still groaning for redemption (Romans 8:22). God Doesn’t Just “Allow” Suffering... He Entered Into It The ultimate answer to suffering isn’t a what, it’s a who: Jesus on the Cross. God didn’t stay distant. He became a man and suffered with us, for us. A Father’s Heart Patrick shares a personal story about his toddler son, Tim, who was bleeding from a head wound. At the ER, his son cried out: “Daddy, help me!” Patrick could’ve stopped it... but didn’t, because letting the doctor stitch the wound was what would ultimately heal him. The parallel: God the Father sees us screaming in pain... and He still lets it happen; it's not because He’s indifferent, but it's because He knows the healing that’s coming later. Cecile’s Beautiful Insight: She echoes it all with such tender faith: “God is there. Just like you were with your son, Patrick. God is there, with us in it... holding us.” Yes. Amen. The Final Word: Maybe, just maybe... we’ll be like little Tim someday, looking back and finally understanding. Until then, we weep, we pray, and we cling to this promise: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” -Matthew 5:4 Take time today to pray for those affected in Texas. And if you’re struggling with your own grief, go ahead and be honest with God. Cry out. Ask why. He can take it, and He is with you. Jesus, man of sorrows, be near to those who mourn. Hold them. Heal them. And help us all to trust You, even in the dark.

Special Podcast for Support for Flood Victims in Central TX. July 7, 2025.

Brooke Taylor sits in for Timmere on Trending, and she is joined by Brother Richard Hendrick, a Capuchin Franciscan and retreat master here to help draw you closer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Sacred Heart So, what’s the big deal about the Sacred Heart? According to Brother Richard: “The Sacred Heart is the icon of the entire Gospel.” That’s... a big deal. He explains that when Jesus says He is “meek and humble of heart,” He’s not talking about being passive or a pushover. In Greek, that word “meek” (praus) means a heart fully surrendered to the Father’s will. It’s not soft; it’s powerful. He invites you; yes, even with your messy, distracted, sometimes-scrolling-during-prayer self, to graft your heart into His. “To let His heart be the heart of our heart.” Ireland Just Got Re-Consecrated to the Sacred Heart Brooke also mentions some stunning recent news: Ireland was just reconsecrated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus at the Marian shrine of Knock on the Feast of Corpus Christi! The last time this happened was 150 years ago! What the Saints Teach Us About the Sacred Heart St. Thérèse of Lisieux called the Sacred Heart her hiding place. She wrote that she didn’t need purgatory after death, because she was letting His love be her purgatory now. St. Padre Pio prayed a daily novena to the Sacred Heart for anyone who asked his prayers. St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, the Sacred Heart visionary, gave us the image we all know: Jesus revealing His pierced, flaming heart, crowned with thorns and glowing with love. Brother reminds us that these saints weren’t just inspired by the Sacred Heart... they entered it. Enter In; Don't Just Look This is one of the most beautiful takeaways: we’re not just meant to look at or venerate the Sacred Heart; we’re meant to enter into it. Think of it like a divine invitation to spiritual open-heart surgery. Brother Richard quotes St. Anthony of Padua, who said we shouldn’t just stay by the “entrance” of Jesus’ pierced side; we need to go all the way in. That’s where we find: light, peace, and Heaven on Earth. Sacred Heart + Divine Mercy Ever notice the connection between the Sacred Heart and Divine Mercy? Brother Richard ties it all together: The Sacred Heart is Jesus offering His heart. -Divine Mercy is drawing us in, through those rays of grace. -Both devotions are all about growing in trust. So, whether you pray “Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in Thee” or “Jesus, I trust in You”, you’re tapping into the same ocean of mercy. He reminds us: "You exist, so you are already loved." No performance needed. No filters. No spiritual résumé. Here’s the real deal, friend: The Sacred Heart is not a metaphor. It’s real. It’s alive. It’s beating for you. You’re invited in. Not tomorrow. Today. So, whether you’re feeling close to Jesus or like your heart’s been duct-taped together this week… He’s offering you His own heart in exchange. Light a candle. Put up an image of the Sacred Heart. Whisper, “Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like Yours.” And then just… be loved. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us! Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!

In this Special Podcast episode, I discuss what happened at Night of Champions. We have a new King & Queen of the Ring. A New United States champion with a new crew. John Cena was able to pick up the pace in his match with CM Punk. And More.        Twitter: @My2Podcast Instagram: my2centspodcastg2 Business email: my2centspod@yahoo.com

A woman named Lori from Lexington shares a powerful, hope-filled, and heartfelt call-to-arms for all the men out there trying to live with purity and strength in a world full of distractions. This is the kind of encouragement you’ll want to keep in your back pocket: Brothers, You Were Born for Battle Lori gets it: life is full of struggles, and custody of the eyes (aka, keeping your eyes and heart pure) is a tough one. But here’s what she says: “You were made for this battle.” Not just called to it. Not assigned it like a boring chore. You were built for it. Reframe the Fight Instead of saying, “This is too hard,” Lori wants men to think: “This is hard... because it matters. And I was made to rise to it.” You’re not fighting against women; you’re fighting for their dignity, even when they don’t realize it themselves. You’re protectors, not consumers. You’re glorious warriors, not helpless victims of temptation. “That’s Not for Me.” Lori shares how she also made the decision to divert her eyes, saying: “That’s someone else’s husband. Someone else’s son. That’s not for me.” Simple. Dignified. Beautiful. Women, Back the Men Up! She also issues a challenge to the ladies: "Pray for our men." They’re not weak. They’re not doomed to fail. They’re under attack, and they need our support as they go into the spiritual trenches every day. The Final Word: Men, You Can Do This Lori’s words are necessary. She reminds every man listening that: You’re strong. You’re capable. You’re not alone. You were made for this. With God’s help (and Our Lady’s!), you can win. So don’t give up. Don't believe the lies. Don't sit out the fight. Your sisters are praying for you. Your Church is cheering for you. And Jesus is with you.

Timmerie shares a sense of awe and joy at the incredible increase in Catholic conversions happening globally... especially in places like France, the U.S., and the U.K. We’re talking up to 70% increases in some dioceses! The Diocese of Fort Worth, Texas had a whopping 72% jump in conversions from 2023 to 2024. Most of these new Catholics are Gen Z and millennials. Yep... young adults in their 20s and 30s are filling the pews and receiving the sacraments like never before. Why the Shift? Culture, COVID, and the Call of Beauty Timmerie mentions interviews from The New York Post, where recent converts shared what drew them to the Church. Themes like: -A deep dissatisfaction with the "feel-good" culture of non-denominational churches -A hunger for reverence, beauty, and structure, especially found in the Mass and its ancient tradition -The disorienting chaos of the world during the pandemic, which made people pause and re-examine their faith. Take Sydney Johnson, a 30-year-old from California. The hustle culture had her burned out. During COVID, she slowed down, turned to prayer, and was captivated by the depth and order of the Catholic tradition. Same for Adrian Lawson, also 30, who struggled with mental health until the Rosary and Catholic community gave him a new lease on life. He said, "Since I started praying the Rosary and converted, I haven't had any of those issues." Lost in the World, Found in the Church A New York priest, Fr. Raymond La Grange, echoed a powerful point: young people are realizing the world can't give them what they're looking for. Everything is arbitrary, and that’s exhausting. They crave something solid, something with order, and they want something real. The Movement Goes Global And it’s not just the U.S. In France, over 10,000 adults converted this Easter alone, a 45% increase... with nearly half aged 18 to 25. Another 7,400 teenagers received the sacraments, up 33%. In the U.K., 41% of young adult churchgoers are now Catholic, compared to just half that being Anglican. Timmerie even heard from French priests and sisters, many from the Community of St. John, who said some conversions are even coming secretly from Islam, with people risking everything to follow Christ. The sisters emphasized that, even in secular and anti-religious environments, God is still calling hearts, and people are responding. Evangelization Is Working... And We’re All Part of It A French sister told Timmere that this surge is happening because people are evangelizing boldly: sharing the Gospel, standing for truth, inviting others into the Church. That’s our mission too. People are yearning for something more... something whole, transcendent, and healing. The Catholic Church offers exactly that.

Featuring Heinz Winckler – Platinum-selling artist, pastor, entrepreneur, and the first-ever SA Idols winner! In this powerful and personal conversation, Heinz Winckler sits down with us to share the untold stories behind his journey — from pop stardom to purpose-driven leadership.

Image via bella1105 / Shutterstock. Patrick Madrid and Producer Cyrus just served up a Best of the Week moment on The Patrick Madrid Show, and it’s one of those “wait… what??” stories that will make you think twice about what you come across online. Here’s the scoop: The Email That Sparked It All: Mike from Arizona wrote in with a head-scratcher. He stumbled upon a YouTube video claiming to be a speech from Pope Leo. He asked: “Wait, is this even real?” So naturally, he turned to Patrick Madrid. Grok: The AI Detective Patrick and Cyrus took Mike’s link and dropped it into Grok, a snazzy AI-powered search tool. They asked: “Hey Grok, is this video real… or AI fakery?” Grok’s verdict: “AI-generated.” Does It Sound Like Pope Leo XIV? Just because something sounds good, doesn’t mean it’s legit. Cyrus hit the nail on the head: “It’s so easy to fall into the trap of seeing something online that affirms what I already think.” Even if the message is doctrinally fine, using a fake voice to deliver it is misleading. Truth deserves honesty, not a holy deepfake. “Fictitious Pope Leo”? One funny twist: Grok called Pope Leo a “fictitious figure.” Patrick and Cyrus responded: “Uhh... he is literally the Pope." So yeah, even Grok has some news to catch up on. Verify Everything Patrick borrowed a gem from Ronald Reagan: “Trust... but verify.” Then tweaked it for our times: “Actually... don’t trust. Just verify.” Especially when it comes to flashy online content with sacred-sounding messages. Wanna Chime In? Send your questions to patrick@relevantradio.com He might just crack your case next.

Patrick Madrid takes on a question that a lot of Catholics wrestle with today... "Can I go to a wedding that’s not valid in the eyes of the Church?" Think: same-sex weddings, remarriages without annulments, Catholics marrying outside the Church, etc... Now, Patrick’s not into the “grin and bear it, go anyway for family unity” thing. His gold standard is St. John the Baptist, who literally lost his head rather than support an invalid marriage. But the heart of the episode? A powerful letter from a grandma to her granddaughter, explaining why she can't attend her wedding...not out of hate, but out of deep, eternal, radical LOVE. Let’s just say this is the kind of letter that leaves a mark. THE LETTER: Dear sweet granddaughter, I love you and that will never change. But part of loving you is caring more for your eternal soul than your perceived temporary happiness. I wouldn't be loving you the way Christ calls me to love you if I attend something that celebrates your open rebellion against God, which will lead to His wrath being brought down upon you. Colossians 3:6 says that because of things like sexual immorality, 'the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience.' I love you so much that I want you to be saved from God's wrath. Therefore, I can't participate in a celebration that demonstrates how you deserve it. You may not see this as love right now because I'm sure my words hurt. Do you remember the time you ran into the street as a child when cars were coming? I swept you up and spanked you as a reminder to not run into the street. You didn't like that at the time. It hurt you and you weren't real happy with me in that moment. You didn’t speak to me for a little while and that wasn’t easy on a grandmother’s heart. I know my actions didn't feel loving to you in that moment, but they were out of a deeper love for you than you could understand. The pain you experienced was meant to be a warning that if you run in the street you're going to die. Would it have been more loving to watch you run in the street just because you thought it was fun and gave you momentary happiness? Some will tell you that my absence at this ceremony is a lack of love and shows that I'm just judgmental. Nothing could be further from the truth. As painful as it will be for both of us, my absence is to communicate to you how MUCH I love you. I love you so much that I'm willing to sacrifice some aspects of our temporal relationship for your eternal well-being. The street you’re about to run into is far more deadly than the one you ran into that afternoon when you were a child. No one would've called me loving if I had just sat there and watched you then. Those people would’ve been right if I had watched you then, and I would be wrong to watch you now. I cannot sit there and watch you play in a far more dangerous street. I wish I could sweep you up and pull you out of this current street. But you’re no longer a little child; you’re a grown woman and have to make your own choices. But the consequences of running in this current street are far more dangerous than the street you ran into as a child. I can’t sweep you up and pull you out now, but I also can’t sit and just watch you run into oncoming traffic. I believe my presence could be far more dangerous to you than my absence. I fear that my presence might communicate to you that the street you're playing in isn't as bad as it really is. If this causes a separation between us, my grandmother's heart will hurt. But my love as a Christian grandmother must rise above my familial emotions. I pray my absence will cause you to realize how dangerous your choice is and that any separation between us doesn’t even begin to compare to being eternally separated from God. At celebrations, I want to smile, laugh, and have tears of joy. If I attend this ceremony, none of those things would be possible. I don’t want to sit there downcast and crying tears of sadness. So, when you look out and see my absence, I want you to know that I am not sitting at home angry or in a judgmental spirit. I will be home weeping, praying, and asking God to open your eyes to your sin and bring you to repentance. This is not because I think I’m better than you. I am as much in need of God's saving grace as you are. I too once played in the street of sin and thought I was okay. I thought that because God’s wrath had not yet poured down on me that it never would. I mistook God’s kindness to withhold His immediate wrath as tacit approval of me. What I didn’t know was that God’s kindness to withhold His wrath, that I deserved to be immediately poured out upon me, was meant to lead me to repentance. And God loved me enough to send someone into my life to tell me the truth about my sin so that I might be saved from His coming wrath. Someone loved me enough to confront me, help me see my sin for what it is, and share the gospel with me. They warned me of God’s coming wrath. They showed me how God sent His Son Jesus to die in my place upon the cross and pay for my sins. They told me how Jesus not only died, but He rose again from the grave and defeated death so that I could be delivered from the penalty of death that I deserved because of my sin. And they told me I needed to turn from sin and turn to Jesus as my Lord and Savior. You’ve heard me tell you this truth since you were a child. How many times did I tuck you in and tell you of the love of Jesus and quote John 3:16? I continue to beg you to turn from your sin and come to Jesus. Whatever perceived happiness you feel in that ceremony and the relationship you're in will be fleeting. But if you turn from your sin and come to Christ for salvation, you will receive eternal peace and joy that no one can take from you. If you go forward with this ceremony, I won’t be in that room. But I will always love you and be longing for you to turn from sin and come to Christ for salvation. The truth is, I love you so much that I won’t lie to you, either directly or indirectly, about the dangers of playing in the street of sin. Know that I love you and will long for the day when you see my actions as being like Jesus - to seek and to save the lost. In true loving affection, Nana Patrick was blown away by the letter. He noted that while the letter didn’t specify the exact situation, it could apply to: -A same-sex "wedding" -A remarriage after divorce with no annulment -A Catholic marrying outside the Church without following the canonical form Whatever the case, the core truth remains: Real love doesn’t play nice with lies. Real love tells the truth, even when it costs something. Patrick reminded you of1 John 4:18: “Perfect love casts out fear.” This grandma is fearless. She’s not afraid to hurt feelings to save a soul. That is perfect love.

Volume XVIIThe Drunken Guide To The Characters Of The DC UniverseCoarse Language: Listener Discretion is AdvisedAAdam Strange 1Alley-Kat-Abra 9BBalloon Buster 17Beast Boy (New 52) 1Beautiful Dreamer 28Big Barda (New 52) 28Big Bear (New 52) 27Blue Beetle (Jaime Reyes) 2Blue Devil (New 52) 3Broot 25Bronze Tiger 18Bug-Eyed Bandit 18CCaptain Compass 17Captain Storm 18The Citadel 28The Club 11The Creeper (New 52) 13Cyborg (New 52) 5DDeathwing 9Deimos 21Doctor Psycho 23FFifty Sue 15HHighfather 26JJustice League Extreme 8MMirage 10The Movement 2NNightwing 9OThe Omega Men 24RRichard Dragon (New 52) 22Robin (Damian Wayne) 16SStrikeforce Superman 8Superboy (Jonathan Lane Kent) 14Superboy (Jonathan Samuel Kent) 14VVega Star System 26WThe Warlord 20We Think You're Special!Hashtag us as #RSPDCSFriend us on FacebookEmail us at rolledspinepodcasts@gmail.comTweet us as a group @rolledspine, or individually as Diabolu Frank & Illegal Machine. Fixit don't tweet.If the main DC Bloodlines blog isn't your thing, try the umbrella Rolled Spine Podcasts.DC Comics Encyclopedia, DC Special Podcast, Podcast,

If you’ve ever found yourself spiraling after watching a news video, this episode of The Patrick Madrid Show is your spiritual guidance. Be Watchful, Not Paranoid Patrick and Producer Cyrus explore what it means to discern the signs of the times without falling off the deep end into anxiety or conspiracy theories. Yes, we live in crazy times. Yes, there are real threats. Yes, AI can deepfake the Pope now. But that doesn't mean we need to panic. Don’t Believe Everything You See on the Internet Patrick talks about how we're bombarded with fakes and frauds, especially on social media. Be discerning. Check your sources. Here’s how: -Go to Vatican News for real updates from the Church -Stick with trusted Catholic sources like Relevant Radio -Don’t share shocking news until you’ve verified it How to Not Freak Out When the World Is Burning (Spiritually Speaking) Cyrus reminds us: “Go to confession. Get right with God.” That’s the spiritual equivalent of taking out insurance and installing a fire alarm. If you’re in a state of grace, you’ve got nothing to fear. This world isn’t our home. Like St. Teresa of Ávila said: “All things are passing. God never changes.” If you’re still worried? Just remember Padre Pio’s quote: “Pray, hope, and don’t worry.” Don’t believe every headline or deepfake -Stay smart: check sources, especially on Church news -Be ready: Go to Confession, receive the Eucharist, stay rooted in Christ -Remember who wins in the end (Jesus) Pray hard, scroll wisely, and keep your soul squeaky clean. We’ve got work to do, but we’re not doing it alone. Stay faithful, not fearful.

Brian from Lakewood, CA calls in, sounding very torn. His 80-year-old mom has been going through it: on dialysis, suffering, cirrhosis of the liver... just totally worn out. She’s telling him she’s done, but Brian’s heart is aching and he’s scared. Would letting her stop dialysis be a sin? Patrick Madrid assures him: "No... it’s not a sin." Here’s why: Dialysis is extraordinary care, not ordinary care. That means it's morally permissible to stop it if it's burdensome, especially when it’s only prolonging suffering. At 80 years old, in declining health, your mom has a right to say, "I’m ready to go home to God." Patrick gently reminds Brian: This could be a time to trust God and let go even if it's hard. Brian’s love for his mom is beautiful and totally understandable. Wanting to hold on isn’t wrong. But as Patrick said, clinging too tightly can get in the way of letting God do His will. So, if you're in a similar boat? Here’s the takeaway: -It’s okay to say “enough” when treatment becomes more pain than peace. -It’s not giving up. It’s letting go into God’s mercy. And hey... hug your mom today, if you can. Or call her. Or say a Hail Mary for her soul. Moms are priceless.

Timmere and Catholic parenting coach Catherine Johnson just hit it out of the park with this episode of Trending. If you’re a Catholic mom (or know one!) feeling like you’re barely holding it together, this conversation will feel like a giant, grace-filled exhale. You can listen to the entire episode here! "Catholic mom guilt" is that feeling of never doing enough, especially when we’re comparing ourselves to other moms. But here’s the thing: a lot of us don’t even realize we’re carrying this guilt until it’s quietly wrecking our peace. It’s sneaky. Like spiritual glitter. Compare & Despair: The Catholic Edition Ever see another mom totally crushing it and then suddenly find yourself spiraling into thoughts like: "I don’t pray enough." "My kids don’t know the St. Michael Prayer by heart!" "I forgot to make Zeppole for St. Joseph’s Day... again." You’re probably not called to 6am Angelus with toddlers if you’re 39 weeks pregnant and haven’t slept. And that’s okay. Guilt vs. Conviction: How to Tell the Difference Timmere and Catherine get into a super helpful distinction: Healthy guilt = the Holy Spirit nudging you toward holiness, like "you snapped at your kids, go apologize and confess." Toxic guilt = inner condemnation, "You’re the worst Catholic mom ever, how dare you skip that novena?" If your inner voice sounds more like a bully than Jesus, it’s not from God. When Mom Guilt Turns into Mom Condemnation Another nugget: If you catch yourself being a little judgy toward the moms who are “doing all the things” ... that might actually be your own mom guilt, just wearing a mask. Time to flip the script and get curious: What is it about that other mom’s life that’s triggering something in me? Is it something I admire but am not ready for? Or something that’s just... not my calling? Authenticity Over Perfection Timmere reminds us: your domestic church doesn’t need to look like everyone else’s.Take the things that inspire you and make them your own. Some moms wake up their kids with a bell and pray the Angelus. That’s beautiful. Others pray a morning Hail Mary while surviving the cereal chaos. Also, beautiful. And that “perfect mom” you see on social media? She’s struggling too. Promise. Timmere admitted to losing her patience recently; she apologized to her kids, and later her 4-year-old apologized back. Modeling mercy is one of the most powerful ways we can teach the faith. Let them see you mess up. Let them see you get back up. Practical Takeaways for Catholic Moms Catherine shares two golden nuggets: Learn how the Lord speaks to you: When you can tell His voice from the world’s noise, parenting becomes way more peaceful. Learn to receive mercy: God is gentler with you than you are. Let that sink in. And finally: instead of chasing someone else’s Catholic parenting blueprint, ask: “Lord, how do YOU want me to raise these little saints?” You're Not Called to Be Her. You're Called to Be YOU. This episode was a giant permission slip to drop the guilt, laugh a little, and lean into the grace. You're doing better than you think.

So, get this... Timmerie shares that Pope Leo has had an excellent workout routine. His trainer had no idea this humble, smiley, modest guy showing up a few times a week was even a Cardinal, let alone about to become the Pope. This whole situation made Timmerie pause and ask: “Am I taking care of my body?” “Are you?” We’re Body and Soul. God didn’t just make us spiritual beings; He made us embodied souls. The Pillars of Self-Care (According to Timmerie) She breaks it down to four non-negotiables for basic human thriving, backed by science and super doable: Sleep Get eight hours a night. Hormones and brain function need it. Food = Fuel Start tracking protein. Your ideal body weight = your daily protein grams. E.g., goal weight: 150 lbs → eat 150g protein/day. This curbs hangry-snacking and helps you feel full, stable, and energized. Sunlight Aim for 15–30 mins of sun a day, even if it’s just working on your laptop outside. Sun helps with vitamin D, sleep cycles, stress, and mood. Exercise Pope Leo did it 2–3x/week (before becoming the Pope). You can too. Minimum goal: 30 mins, 3x/week. Ideal: Something daily, even if it’s just 15 minutes. Whether it's walking, dancing, lifting random Amazon gear you forgot you owned, or following some quirky YouTube routine; you don’t need a gym membership. You just need a plan. Spiritual Mic Drop from Timmerie: "God created our bodies. He knows what they need. So, let’s stop starving them of sleep, nutrition, light, and movement... and start treating them like the temples they are." And hey... next time you’re exercising, maybe offer it up for the Pope. He’s probably doing the same. Want more life-giving Catholic content? Check out Relevant Radio +. There's no cost, it's ad-free, and it's streaming everything from the Daily Mass to the Rosary. Available on Smart TVs, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV & more!

A potential convert from California wrote in with a super honest, thoughtful question that maybe you’ve wondered too: "Why does it matter for our salvation if Mary was immaculately conceived, ever virgin, or assumed into heaven?" Here's how Patrick lovingly and logically answered this question: "If God Revealed It, It Matters" The short and holy answer: Because God chose to reveal it. That’s the whole game. If the Lord wanted to make something known, whether directly through Scripture or through Apostolic Tradition, then it’s part of the deposit of faith. He compared it to the fact that we don’t know the color of Jesus’ eyes, because that detail doesn’t impact salvation. But Marian dogmas have been preserved and proclaimed because they do. Not Just Bible... Tradition Too Patrick emphasized that while you can see hints and threads of these Marian teachings in Scripture, the explicit clarity often comes from Apostolic Tradition... which Catholics are commanded to follow. He backed it up with solid Bible credentials: 2 Thessalonians 2:15 ➤ Hold fast to traditions, whether oral or written. Matthew 28 ➤ Teach everything Jesus commanded; not just the parts we like. Luke 10:16 ➤ “He who hears you, hears me…” Rejecting what the Church teaches about Mary is not just rejecting a doctrine; it’s brushing aside Christ's own voice through His Church. Not a Choose-Your-Own Gospel The Church isn’t a salad bar. Jesus didn’t say “teach most of what I commanded”; He said “all.” The Church, in faithfulness to Him, passes that on, including truths about His Blessed Mother. This episode was a gentle but firm invitation into the beauty of trusting what God has revealed. Mary's story is not a footnote to salvation history; it's a key thread in the tapestry of grace. Keep listening. Keep asking. And let Our Lady Walk with you on the journey.

Timmerie is talking about a trend that’s turning heads and raising eyebrows: Gen Z gals (we’re talking late teens to late 20s) dating men decades older. It’s Not Just About the Money (But Also… Kinda) Timmerie sits down with Jim O’Day, Executive Director of Integrity Restored, to unpack this cultural phenomenon. It’s complicated. Here’s what they think might be at play: -Some Gen Z women don’t want to hustle. Burnout is real. Years of soccer practices, AP classes, and pressure to achieve has left them ready to say: “Sir, take me to a restaurant and pay for the charcuterie.” -The financial comfort older men bring isn’t the only thing, but it’s definitely part of the attraction. Free dinners? Vacations? Yeah, that helps. Emotional Stability One of Jim’s friends is dating a woman 25+ years younger, and when asked why, she said: “He’s emotionally stable. He does what he says he’s going to do. He makes plans.” Older men, in many cases, are less glued to their phones, actually know how to have a conversation, and don’t ghost when life gets slightly inconvenient. Some Gen Z guys, meanwhile, are struggling with timidity, fear of real-life interaction, and a failure to launch. Daddy Issues or Dating Wisdom? Let’s be honest... there’s some truth to the idea that some of these girls are looking for a father figure. Not in a weird way, but in a “I never saw a man treat women with respect so I’m craving that” kind of way. But Timmerie and Jim caution us: it’s not all sweet. With big age gaps come: -Power imbalances -Life-stage mismatches (think: he’s planning retirement and she’s picking out throw pillows from the store) -Cultural confusion (she doesn’t know his music, his political history, or what dial-up internet was) The Spiritual Dimension Let’s not forget... spiritual mentorship is key here. These young women are often searching for good men, virtue, and leadership. And those are beautiful desires! But they don’t always need to be fulfilled through dating. Timmerie suggests: -Healing and discernment in friendship and faith -Mentorship from mature men and women (not romantic!) -And yes, a reminder that Jesus is the true Bridegroom

The Caller’s Question: Tyler from Santa Barbara phoned into The Patrick Madrid Show with a simple but important question: “Why didn’t Vice President JD Vance kiss Pope Leo’s ring?” Patrick’s Take: Not a Sin, Just a Skip Patrick handled it with his usual blend of insight, clarity, and wisdom. Here’s the gist: There are diplomatic protocols at play when you're dealing with heads of state. JD Vance, while not a head of state himself, is pretty high up there, so formalities might have been planned in advance. Kissing the pope’s ring isn’t required. It’s a beautiful tradition, yes, but not a divine commandment. It came about in the Middle Ages. So, Vance skipping it is not a sin. Not disrespectful. Just… not traditional. Giving Grace Patrick gently reminded us: JD Vance is a new convert to Catholicism. He didn’t grow up in Catholic culture, so ring-kissing might be unfamiliar or even feel a bit odd to him. He’s from a very humble, rural background, and some of his choices may still reflect that down-to-earth, “no-frills” sensibility. The American Factor Patrick also pointed out a larger cultural angle: The U.S. has a strong anti-aristocracy streak, going way back. That “no kings, no crowns” mindset could subtly influence even how Catholic leaders act, especially on the world stage. There's still anti-Catholic sentiment in parts of the U.S., and Vance may have wanted to avoid fueling any fire or being seen as overly deferential to a “foreign prince.”

Timmerie just went there in this episode of Trending with Timmerie. She takes you into the world of Botox, plastic surgery, and our sometimes-awkward relationship with the mirror… and she does it with reverence and realism. Wait, Baby Botox is a Thing?! Yes. Yes, it is. And it's popular with teens and 20-somethings. Baby Botox = smaller doses of Botox to “start early” and prevent wrinkles. It’s now basically a rite of passage for some young adults… which is sad. What’s Really Behind the Needle? Timmerie challenges us to ask the why: -Why are we doing this? -Why do we feel not enough? -Why is our value so tied to how we look? She connects it to something deeper: the rise of body dysmorphia and our cultural obsession with changing what God already made good. Botox and surgeries don’t fix the real issue. Celebrity Regrets Tons of stars are now regretting their cosmetic tweaks: -Cameron Diaz: “I’d rather see my face aging than one that doesn’t belong to me.” -Kylie Jenner: Started procedures at 19, now says she hopes her daughter doesn’t. -Ariana Grande: Quit Botox/fillers because it felt like hiding. The wisdom from these women: Aging gracefully isn’t shameful. It’s authentic. Even Kids Aren’t Safe from the Pressure Brace yourself: Someone actually told Timmerie she should teach her little daughter not to be so expressive... because of future wrinkles. If that’s not a sign that our culture needs prayer, what is? Botox ≠ Harmless Think Botox is NBD? Think again. Timmerie points out: -Long-term use paralyzes muscles. -Some users are developing autoimmune issues and allergic reactions. -And yes; it’s a literal toxin being injected into your face. What the Church Says: Beauty, Body, and Limits She pulls in wisdom from the USCCB's 2023 doctrinal note on the moral limits of tech and bodily manipulation. Key truths: Our bodies are good. Treating them like something we can endlessly “fix” or “upgrade” breaks down that truth. We’re body and soul, made in God's image... and messing with that order has spiritual consequences. So, Where Do We Go From Here? Here’s Timmerie’s loving (but bold) call to action: -Reclaim body literacy; know and understand your body. -Celebrate natural aging; your laugh lines are signs of joy! -Talk to your kids about where their worth comes from. -Root your identity in God, not filters and fillers. You are fearfully and wonderfully made, even if your face moves when you laugh. You don’t need injections to be beautiful. You need to see yourself the way God does. And that, friend, doesn’t come in a syringe. This episode is for anyone who’s ever looked in the mirror and sighed. You’re not alone. But let’s not let the world define beauty; let’s let the Creator do that. Wrinkles are not the enemy. Lies about our worth are.

Timmerie is all in on our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV... and not just because he’s the first American Pope (though whoa, how cool is that?!). This episode of Trending with Timmerie feels like a heart-to-heart over coffee and YouTube reels, as she unpacks Pope Leo’s first homily and what it means for you and me. Here’s what you need to know A Pope Who Gets It Timmerie kicks off by sharing her joy, and honestly, her giddiness about Pope Leo. Her four-year-old is already obsessed (“He’s so cute!”), and it’s contagious. Timmerie talks about the homily from his inauguration Mass and what it reveals about his vision as our spiritual papa. Pope Leo’s Big Theme: Holiness Through Sacrificial Love Pope Leo is setting the tone: he’s calling us to holiness... not by climbing a ladder of success or checking off boxes, but by sacrificial love. That’s the kind of love Christ modeled, and it's the love Peter was called into. Guess what?! You and I are called into it too. Love + Unity = The Mission Quoting St. Augustine, Pope Leo reminds us that our hearts are restless until they rest in God. We were made for Divine Love. That restlessness we feel is a hunger for the sacrificial, unshakable love of Christ. Pope Leo connects this to Peter's calling: to be a fisher of men, pulling souls from “the waters of evil and death.” This is a battle cry. Pope Leo wants to rescue souls (our souls) by anchoring us in God’s unshakable love. St. Peter's Call Is Our Call The homily goes into that famous post-Resurrection moment when Jesus asks Peter three times: “Do you love me?” Here’s the twist: -Jesus uses the Greek word for sacrificial love. -Peter responds with the Greek word for friendly love. It's awkward... but deeply human. Jesus is inviting Peter into deeper love, total self-giving love. Eventually, Peter gets it. He dies upside-down on a cross because he felt unworthy to die like Christ. That’s love. That’s leadership. The Church’s Call: Not Just “Nice,” but Holy Pope Leo quotes St. Augustine again to say the Church isn’t just a group of people who “get along.” It’s people who are radically united in loving their neighbor sacrificially: no fluff, no half-measures. So, Pope Leo’s message is to stop playing Church. Let’s be the Church. Takeaway from Timmerie: Pray for Pope Leo. Read his homilies. And most of all, join him in this mission. The path to holiness isn’t glamorous, but it’s epic. And now we’ve got a Holy Father who’s not just talking the talk; he’s walking with us every step. So… ready to be a fisher of souls with the Pope?

Patrick Madrid and Producer Cyrus are on the front lines defending your digital discernment! There’s a 36-minute AI-generated video on YouTube that’s being passed around as a “historic” speech by Pope Leo XIV. It's not actually from him. The video kicks off with a flowery intro supposedly addressing President Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso. The Vatican News has already squashed it, putting out an alert saying the speech was 100% AI fakery, complete with lip-syncing tech that makes it look like the Pope is speaking... but he’s not. Patrick compared today’s AI technology to seeing Star Wars in 1977: it blew his mind then, but looking back... just models and strings. Now, AI has that same wow-factor... but don’t be fooled. The tech is crazy good, and people are falling for it left and right. Cyrus Chimes In: “How Do We Even Know What’s Real Anymore?” Cyrus is feeling it too: the confusion, the uncertainty. Every day the tech gets better, and even people like them (who live and breathe this stuff) have to double-check what they’re seeing. So, what’s the fix? Your Catholic Digital Survival Kit: Patrick & Cyrus laid out some super practical tips: Trust Only Verified Sources: Vatican News, the official Vatican Press Office, etc. Not random YouTubers. Clean Your Feed: Block accounts that post fake news or manipulate the truth. If someone lies to you online... buh-bye. Stay Suspicious (in a Holy Way): In today’s world, don’t believe it just because it looks real. Ask questions. Check sources. Be holy and savvy. Final Thought: It’s about truth, trust, and staying grounded in Christ when the world gets digitally chaotic. Patrick and Cyrus are calling Catholics to discernment, vigilance, and maybe a little bit of digital housecleaning.

Jonathan Clements is a former Wall Street Journal personal finance columnist who is battling a rare form of terminal cancer, Jason Zweig is a current Wall Street Journal personal finance columnist, and Christine Benz is the director of personal finance and retirement planning for Morningstar, as well as the president of the John C. Bogle Center for Financial Literacy.    In this podcast, we discuss the Jonathan Clements Getting Going on Savings Initiative, a non-profit research project set up on Jonathan's behalf, and his new book, The Best of Jonathan Clements: Timeless Advice for a Financial Life Well Lived. Tax-deductible donations for the initiative can be made at BogleCenter.net, and profits from the sale of his book also go to the initiative.    Rick Ferri, CFA, a long-time Boglehead and investment adviser, hosts the Bogleheads on Investing podcast. The Bogleheads are a group of like-minded individual investors who follow the general investment and business beliefs of John C. Bogle, founder and former CEO of the Vanguard Group. It is a conflict-free community where individual investors reach out and provide education, assistance, and relevant information to other investors of all experience levels at no cost. The organization supports a free forum at Bogleheads.org, and the wiki site is Bogleheads® wiki.    Since 2000, the Bogleheads have held national conferences in major cities across the country. The 2025 conference will take place in San Antonio, Texas, from October 17 to 19. In addition, local Chapters and foreign Chapters meet regularly, and new Chapters form periodically. All Bogleheads activities are coordinated by volunteers who contribute their time and talent.   This podcast is supported by the John C. Bogle Center for Financial Literacy, a non-profit organization approved by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) public charity on February 6, 2012. Your tax-deductible donation to the Bogle Center is appreciated.  

Timmerie sits down with Katy Faust, the fierce, truth-telling founder of Them Before Us, to talk about something that should be obvious but somehow isn’t anymore: why kids need their mom and their dad. The Truth Your 4-Year-Old Already Gets Timmerie kicks things off with a conversation she had with her 4-year-old daughter, who declared (with all the sass and certainty only a preschooler can muster): t’s not true. They’re lying. Kids need a mommy and a daddy.” Out of the mouths of babes. In a world where everything is questioned (including whether moms and dads are interchangeable), this little girl sees reality clearly... and so does Katy Faust. The Cultural Crisis: When Kids Are the Casualties Katy explains how our culture has flipped the script. Instead of asking what children need, we now ask what adults want and then use kids to fulfill it. She explains why this is a major problem: Kids Have a Right to Their Mom and Dad Not just “a” mom or “a” dad... their biological parents. They’re the ones wired to love and protect that child in a uniquely fierce, sacrificial way. Adoption, Katy says (as an adoptive mom herself), is a loving response to tragedy, not a model for how we should design families from the start. Biological Identity = Personal Identity Children deeply need to know: "Whose am I?" When kids are cut off from their origins: via IVF, surrogacy, anonymous sperm donors, it fractures their sense of self. Gender Balance Isn't Optional. It’s Essential. Men father. Women mother. They do it differently. That’s a gift, not a glitch.Two dads, two moms, or three poly-partners can't replicate the complementarity of a mom and a dad. And when we pretend otherwise, kids pay the price... often through confusion, identity struggles, or even increased risk of abuse. Where the Battle’s Fiercest Katy doesn’t mince words. The two biggest cultural flashpoints where kids are denied a mom and dad: -Gay marriage made moms and dads legally optional. -Reproductive technologies intentionally separate kids from their biological parents in the name of adult “choice.” Real love puts kids first. Love = Sacrifice As Catholics, we believe children are a gift, not a right. And that means saying a loving no to practices that intentionally deprive them of their parents, even if it’s uncomfortable or unpopular. Want more? Check out Katy's book, "Them Before Us". It’s a total eye-opener, and it's a call to put children’s rights before adult desires. Kids need a mom and dad. And guess what? Even your preschooler knows it.

The Email That Sparked It All Cyrus read an email from Ray in Texas, who asked a fair and honest question: “Aren’t we spending too much time on Mary? Shouldn’t we focus more on Jesus?” You could practically hear Patrick rubbing his hands together; he was itching to respond. And respond he did... with biblical insight and big-time love for the Blessed Mother. Patrick’s first big point: The Rosary is all about Jesus. Even though we’re repeating the Hail Mary, we’re actually meditating on key events in Jesus’ life: -The Annunciation The Baptism -The Passion -The Crucifixion -The Resurrection These are Jesus-focused mysteries. Mary is in the picture, sure... but as the ultimate mom. She is always directing us straight to her Son. Mary's Role: The Ultimate "Point You to Jesus" Mother If anyone’s worried that Mary might steal the spotlight, Patrick reminds us of John 2:5. “Do whatever He tells you.” That’s Mary talking. Not “Do whatever I say” or “Look at me!” but “Go to Jesus.” So even if someone’s spiritual life gets a little too “Marian-heavy”, Mary will lovingly redirect them. She’s the queen of humility. Scripture shows Mary as a constant presence throughout Jesus’ life: -She carried Him in the womb. -She nursed Him and raised Him. -She taught Him as a child. -She stood at the foot of the Cross. -She was there at Pentecost, too. No one was closer to Jesus in His earthly life. And God Himself chose her for this role. So... if she’s important to Him, she should be important to us too. The Bottom Line So don’t stress if you love Our Lady. You’re in excellent company, including Jesus Himself.

Patrick shared a quick but oh-so-needed reflection that will resonate deeply. He read a recent interview from Vatican News featuring Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo (from Africa), about that ever-present buzz around division in the Church. The real story is way deeper than the drama on your social media feed. Media vs. Reality: Not the Same Thing Cardinal Ambongo said this: “The press often claims the Church is divided between conservatives and progressives... These categories do not exist among the Cardinals themselves.” Whoa. So, while social media might make it seem like the Church is at war with itself (team trad vs. team modern, etc.), the actual Cardinals are not playing that game. According to the Cardinal, what really happened at the conclave (you know, the one that just gave us Pope Leo XIV) was unity. Not fake, PR-crafted unity, but a shared love for Jesus Christ. The Church = A Person, Not a Platform Cardinal Ambongo gets to the heart of it: “The Church is not an ideology... but rather an attachment to a person, and that person is Jesus Christ.” Can we get an Amen? This isn’t about being “Team Benedict” or “Team Francis” or “Team Trad Latin Mass Only.” The real “team” is: Team Jesus. At the end of the day, Jesus didn’t ask Peter, “Do you have the right liturgical preference?” He asked, “Do you love me?” Patrick’s Take: Strive for Unity, Not Cliques Patrick ties it back to Scripture: St. Paul calling out early Christians for splitting into camps (remember “I’m with Apollos!” “I’m with Cephas!” etc.). Paul shut that down hard because it missed the point: It’s all about Christ. Patrick’s challenge for us? Even when the online world feels loud, snarky, and divided... especially within Catholic circles, we have to remember our purpose. And live like it. It’s Jesus. Period. Final Word If you’ve been feeling a little disheartened by all the Catholic infighting online, let this be your reminder: the Body of Christ is bigger than our factions. Like Patrick said: this is also an ideal to strive for. Let’s get back to what unites us. Want more thoughtful commentary like this? Catch The Patrick Madrid Show live weekdays on the Relevant Radio app, 8–11am CT. Because in a noisy world, we could all use a little more truth... and a little less X/Twitter.