Opening Up The Tent

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Key topics:

-Christian growth was not mainly about messaging - it was about making life more livable

-A community grows when it asks more of people, not less

-Martyrdom worked as testimony because it made belief visible

-The church’s sexual ethic is not prudishness - it is protection

-Women were not peripheral to the early church - they were structurally important

-Belief becomes stronger when it is organized around a shared center, not generic inclusion

-The real competition is not religion versus unbelief - it is costly meaning versus cheap comfort

Timestamps:

00:00 — Intro, homily writing, and AI as a tool
03:52 — Dream analysis and AI’s “general” answers
05:18 — Pope’s encyclical on AI and the church’s cautionary role
07:51 — Back to Rodney Stark: setting up the chapter on women in Christian growth
09:14 — Summary of the chapter: Christianity’s respect for women
10:27 — Gym tangent: modesty, attention, and clothing
16:29 — Greco-Roman culture and women as property
19:19 — Sexual mores, chastity, and protecting women from exploitation
23:48 — Demographics, abortion, and why Christianity grew faster
27:35 — Women’s roles in the early church
31:14 — Women deacons and women martyrs
34:53 — Oppression, martyrdom, and why persecution spread Christianity
38:27 — Martyrdom as rational choice
44:18 — “Martyr” as witness and testimony
45:57 — The church as a shared vision, not “Walmart”
47:23 — Church community, witness, and modern Christian sacrifice
48:51 — Closing thoughts on Rodney Stark and future books
49:21 — Prayer and outro

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our way at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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Key Topics:

Christianity grew through relationships, service, and trust — not force.
Early Christians often came from the middle and upper classes, not just the poor.
Caring for the sick and vulnerable gave the early church its credibility.
Wealth wasn’t the problem; it became powerful when used for education, healthcare, and charity.
Christian teaching pushed equality, unity, and dignity across class lines.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and overview of Rodney Stark’s sociological approach
02:00 - The myth of forced and propagandist growth of early Christianity
04:30 - How Christian care during plagues and epidemics fostered conversions
07:15 - The role of social networks and family ties in church expansion
10:00 - The importance of community virtue and integrity in Christian witness
13:30 - The class background of early Christians and their social influence
16:00 - How Christian resources and charities served societal needs
19:00 - The dramatic growth rate of the early church and demographic insights
22:00 - The theological message of sharing and material abundance
25:00 - The impact of crises on the spread and resilience of Christian communities
29:00 - The danger of envious narratives and the true contribution of wealth to Christian growth
33:00 - The early church’s support from middle and upper classes, and its societal contributions
36:00 - The importance of community unity and treating all persons equally in worship
40:00 - The symbiotic relationship between clergy, laity, and wealth in the church
43:00 - Practical applications: living out Christian virtues and community service today
45:30 - Preview of upcoming topics and closing reflections

Resources & Links

The Rise of Christianity by Rodney Stark
Bearing False Witness by Rodney Stark
No More Mr. Nice Guy by Dr. Robert Glover
Tom Holland's book Dominion
Rodney Stark - LinkedIn | Official Website

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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Key Topics Covered:

The ten common lies about the Catholic Church debunked through history
The church’s true stance on authoritarian regimes and tyranny
Clarification on the church's role in slavery and colonialism
How the church supported early scientific inquiry and education
The influence of Protestant Reformation myths on modern perceptions
The development of capitalism within church institutions
The contrast between the church of power versus the church of piety
Historical facts about the church’s opposition to violence and persecution
The importance of understanding historical context through a modern lens
Invitations for listeners to submit controversial questions about the church

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to common misconceptions about the church
00:30 - Unpacking the church's support against tyranny and dictatorships
02:32 - The church's role in early abolition and anti-slavery efforts
05:00 - The historical inaccuracies surrounding the Dark Ages
07:15 - The church’s involvement in scientific advancements
09:40 - Clarifying the myths about the church and capitalism
11:07 - How Enlightenment ideas misrepresent church history
13:04 - The church’s resistance to violence and persecution
15:00 - The influence of the Reformation and the myth of laziness
17:24 - The distinction between the church of power and church of piety
19:48 - The church’s opposition to totalitarian regimes
21:14 - The church and the French Revolution
23:39 - The church’s stance on authoritarianism and religious freedom
25:01 - Liberation theology and political violence
27:23 - The church’s efforts to improve conditions for slaves
30:08 - The true impact of the Dark Ages
33:28 - Slavery in the context of biblical and church teachings
36:23 - The evolution of science and moral understanding
38:14 - Understanding the origins of capitalism within church communities
42:33 - The role of monasteries as economic and cultural hubs
44:27 - Reflection on historical power struggles and the church’s true influence

Resources & Links:

Bearing False Witness: Debunking Centuries of Anti-Catholic History by Rodney Stark
Rodney Stark - Official Website
The Mission (Movie)

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.

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Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Rodney Stark and revisionist history
01:14 - Stark's background and influence
02:13 - Discussion on apostasy and church history
03:08 - Misconceptions about the Crusades and Dark Ages
05:00 - Revisionist history and its impact
06:28 - The truth about the Crusades
08:21 - Just war theory and intent
09:20 - Early misconceptions about the Catholic Church
10:13 - Importance of nuance in historical understanding
12:07 - History's role in God's plan
13:09 - Evaluating historical events and figures
15:08 - Revisionism targeting the Catholic Church
16:35 - Topics covered in Stark's book
18:33 - The Inquisition and historical myths
21:53 - Witch hunts and the role of the Inquisition
25:10 - Enlightenment and witchcraft
28:02 - Secular authority vs. church actions
30:22 - Dark Ages and Renaissance myths
34:13 - Faith and reason in history
39:02 - The importance of obedience and understanding
41:20 - Reason and faith alignment
44:10 - Christianity's role in ending slavery
45:08 - Anti-Semitism and the Catholic Church
46:23 - Hitler's Pope and historical accuracy
50:39 - Wisdom and truth in history
56:25 -The role of the Holy Spirit in truth

Key topics:

Debunking church history myths.

Distorting church roles in events.

Avoiding oversimplification.

Complementary in doctrine.

Misconceptions about oppression.

Ending slavery and promoting rights.

Protective vs. destructive actions.

Humility in seeking truth

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: Stoicism and its fascination
02:07 - Origins of Stoicism and influential figures
04:32 - Stoicism’s relationship with Christian and Jewish history
05:02 - Common misconceptions about Stoicism being emotionless
06:28 - The founder Zeno and the philosophy’s Greek roots
07:56 - Differences between Stoicism and Epicureanism
09:22 - Key Stoic quotation: "Power over your mind"
10:50 - CS Lewis’s "Men Without Chest" and emotional integration
12:20 - Personal stories of courage, fear, and duty in battle
15:39 - The four virtues of Stoicism: wisdom, justice, courage, temperance
17:35 - How these virtues align with Catholic virtues and Holy Spirit gifts
18:00 - The intersection and differences between Stoicism and Christianity
21:50 - The false pursuit of self-reliance and emotional control
22:49 - CS Lewis’s metaphor: "Stoics pay for their cake and don't eat it"
23:18 - Christian alternative: "Holy indifference" and surrender
24:20 - Saint Paul’s example of suffering and growth in Christ
25:46 - The virtue of hope as essential in Christian life
27:52 - Practical virtues: justice, courage, wisdom, self-control
30:20 - Discerning the right, choosing the right, and mastering emotions
33:22 - The importance of hope’s role in spiritual resilience
34:52 - Infinite vs. discrete events: Stoicism’s perspective
36:18 - Jocko Willink’s "Good" mindset for adversity
38:39 - Applying these principles in marital struggles and suffering
40:51 - The transformative power of Christ compared to Stoic self-discipline
41:09 - The missing virtue in Stoicism: hope
42:28 - The role of grace, forgiveness, and redemption in Christian life
43:55 - Practical takeaways: tools for growth, surrender over control, prayer reflections

Key topics

Origins and misconceptions of Stoicism
Core virtues: wisdom, justice, courage, temperance
Stoic self-reliance vs. Catholic grace and hope
Stoicism as a tool for spiritual growth
Importance of hope in Christian life
Managing emotions with a Christian perspective
"Holy indifference" and surrender to God's will
Personal stories and biblical reflections

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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Key topics

Jonah's Story
Jordan Peterson's Insights
Divine Mercy
Forgiveness and Boundaries
Moral Responsibility
Symbolism
Active Participation

Chapters

00:48 - Introduction to Jonah's story
01:17 - Jujitsu benefits
04:06 - Jonah's significance
07:21 - Jonah's call and reluctance
08:19 - Flight and storm
09:43 - Prayer and mission
10:40 - Nineveh's repentance
11:12 - Jonah’s anger
13:31- God’s reproach
16:48 - Peterson’s interpretation
18:45 - Speaking truth
19:16 - Divine mercy
21:13 - Responsibility
24:45 - Civic duties
27:40 - Moral leadership
29:07 - Jonah in the Bible
32:14 - Jesus and Jonah
34:47 - Mercy message
36:11 - Forgiveness
39:16 - Boundaries
43:03 - Forgiveness teaching
45:51 - Love and justice
48:10 - Responsibility and well-being
50:31 - Faith and stewardship

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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Key Takeaways:

Symbolism of Serpents

Role of the Cross

Handling Life's Challenges

Spiritual Resilience

Community and Formation

Embracing Adversity

Faith Over Fear

Moral Responsibility

Community Support

Symbolic Lessons

Chapters:

1.- 00:00 - Introduction: Welcome and reflections on Lent and Easter.

2.- 01:10 - Church Growth: Young people returning to the faith.

3.- 06:23 - Serpents in Numbers: Symbolism and spiritual lessons.

4.- 15:05 - Bronze Serpent: Connection to healing and redemption.

5.-21:22 - The Cross: Jesus as the ultimate symbol of salvation.

6.- 31:19 - Living the Gospel: Embracing spiritual practices and resilience.

7.- 37:03 - Community Role: Importance of formation and moral integrity.

8.-48:35 - Next Episode Preview: Introduction to the story of Jonah.

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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Chapters:
1. 00:47 – Introduction and Context

The Golden Calf and Materialism - 01:12
Peterson's Thesis on Materialism - 02:08 –
Critique of Rationalist Atheism - 04:03 -
Cultural Reflections: WALL-E and Independence Day - 08:41
Divine Order and the Ten Commandments - 14:08
Consequences of Abandoning Divine Law - 17:21
Moral Responsibility and Civic Duty - 22:14
Founding Principles and Civic Responsibility - 23:41
Cultural Decline and Hedonism - 30:44 –
Christian Responsibility and Moral Courage - 37:43 –
Conclusion and Prayer - 46:24

Key takeaways:

Big materialism is rooted in cowardice
Nihilism disguises irresponsibility as freedom
Order grounded in divine hierarchy sustains society
Responsibility is the foundation of true freedom
Modern crises trace to neglect of spiritual and moral foundations
Responsible community leadership is rooted in moral courage

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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Key Topics:

Leadership vs. Management: Evoking action and creating space
Moses’ Leadership: Growth through divine connection
Freedom vs. Slavery: The journey through wilderness
Suffering and Transformation: The role of wilderness
Hierarchy and Subsidiarity: In society and the Church
Laws and Commandments: From Ten Commandments to Great Commandment
Atonement and Sacrifice: Essential for leadership and growth

Timestamps:

00:47 - Introduction to Moses as a leader
01:13 - Leadership, management, and followership
03:34 - Leaders evoke action
06:34 - Moses and divine authority
11:15 - Journey from slavery to freedom
13:41 - Meeting people spiritually
19:13 - Spiritual counsel and growth
22:02 - Freedom and liberation
25:29 - God's law and true freedom
28:33 - Wilderness and transformation
31:02 - Cyclical nature of leadership
34:48 - Prioritization and atonement
36:36 - Subsidiarity and hierarchy
39:27 - Great Commandment and leadership
44:14 - Spiritual choice and law
47:49 - Preview of next chapter

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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Key Topics

Moses' early life and rise to leadership
The significance of the burning bush as a call to adventure
The importance of paying attention to divine signs
Maturity and self-actualization through divine trust
The role of responsibility and calling in personal growth

Sound Bites

"The burning bush is your call to adventure."
"Moses attends voluntarily to his calling."
"Read Exodus as Moses' biography and watch him change."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Series Context
03:12 Overview of Moses' Life in Scripture
05:59 Moses' Birth and Early Power
09:11 The Burning Bush: Call to Adventure
13:29 Moses as a Leader and Maturity
22:19 Responsibility, Calling, and Divine Trust
34:30 The Divine Life and Personal Growth
42:16 Conclusion and Reading Recommendations

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.

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Takeaways

Trust is key to unlocking potential.
Sacrifice is necessary for growth.
Adventure requires stepping out of comfort zones.
Abraham's story is a journey of faith.
Real estate trends are influenced by cultural shifts.
Interest rates impact housing markets.
Generational changes affect home buying.
The importance of leaving a meaningful legacy.
Spiritual growth involves detachment.
Consistency and teamwork are crucial in real estate.
00:00:00 -Introduction to Abraham's Story
00:03:00 - The Call to Adventure
00:06:00 - Trust and Sacrifice
00:09:00 - Real Estate Trends
00:12:00 - Cultural Shifts and Housing
00:15:00 - Spiritual Growth and Detachment

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.

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Takeaways

Pride is not just a personal flaw but can unravel communities.
Ambition can serve God or sabotage peace.
The Tower of Babel story is a cautionary tale about human overreach.
Jordan Peterson's interpretation highlights the dangers of intellectual pride.
The story's themes are relevant to modern issues like AI and success.
Empathy can become misdirected and harmful.
The importance of recognizing the true source of our gifts.
The need for humility and gratitude as antidotes to pride.
The role of boundaries and order in maintaining peace.
The story of Babel is a reflection on human nature and divine order.

Sound bites

'Pride can unravel communities.' 'Ambition can serve God or sabotage peace.' 'The Tower of Babel is a cautionary tale.' 'Intellectual pride is dangerous.' 'Babel's themes are relevant today.' 'Empathy can become misdirected.' 'Recognize the true source of our gifts.' 'Humility and gratitude combat pride.' 'Boundaries maintain peace.' 'Babel reflects human nature and divine order.'

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction to the Tower of Babel
00:03:00 Pride and Its Consequences
00:09:00 Jordan Peterson's Interpretation
00:15:00 Modern Relevance of Babel
00:21:00 Empathy and Misguided Intentions
00:27:00. - Conclusion and Reflections

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.

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Takeaways

The importance of discipline, prayer, and community in spiritual growth.
Exodus 90 and Beloved 90 as tools for personal development.
The power of saying no to distractions.
Fraternity as a central aspect of the Christian life.
The role of spiritual exercises in connecting with faith.
Insights into becoming the person your family, church, and God call you to be.
Encouragement for those curious about spiritual exercises.
The transformative journey of spiritual growth.
The significance of community in personal development.
The path to a deeper connection with faith

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction to Spiritual Growth
00:03:00 Exploring Exodus 90 and Beloved 90
00:09:00 The Power of Saying No
00:15:00 Fraternity and Community
00:21:00 Becoming Who You're Called to Be
00:27:00 Conclusion and Encouragement

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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Episode NotesThe Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.

SHARE this episode with someone.

SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.

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Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - Summary: Part 4 of Peterson's We Who Wrestle With God SeriesIn this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland continue the discussion of Jordan Peterson's We Who Wrestle With God, exploring the profound nature of gifts and gratitude, emphasizing that everything we have is a gift from God. They discuss the importance of recognizing these gifts and how our actions in response to them serve as a tribute to the divine. The conversation delves into the themes of envy and the contrasting behaviors of Abel and Cain, illustrating deeper spiritual reflections.TakeawaysEverything we have and enjoy is a gift.Recognizing our gifts leads to gratitude.Our actions reflect our appreciation for these gifts.Envy arises when we fail to acknowledge our gifts.Tribute to God is shown through our actions.The story of Abel and Cain illustrates deeper truths.Gratitude can transform our perspective on life.Understanding gifts can lead to spiritual growth.Envy can distort our view of others' blessings.Acknowledging gifts fosters a sense of community. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - Summary: Part 3 of Peterson's We Who Wrestle With God SeriesIn this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland explore the themes presented in Jordan Peterson's book - Chapter 3 - focusing on the story of Adam and Eve. They discuss the nature of creation, the significance of free will, and the role of temptation represented by the serpent. The conversation delves into the concepts of pride and envy, the metaphor of the garden as a representation of life, and the importance of boundaries. They emphasize the role of Jesus in restoring order and the need for personal reflection and self-examination. The discussion also touches on the complementarity of marriage and the collaborative effort required to cultivate a well-ordered life.TakeawaysWe are made in God's image and likeness, but not complete mirrors.Genesis serves as a metaphor for the human condition.Pride leads to chaos and disobedience.The serpent represents temptation and the struggle against God.Free will allows for both creation and destruction.Boundaries are essential for a well-ordered life.Jesus is central to restoring order in our lives.Self-examination is crucial for personal growth.Complementarity in marriage enhances the cultivation of life.Community support is vital in tending to our gardens.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Trailer03:11 The Nature of Creation and Free Will06:11 The Role of the Serpent and Temptation08:59 Pride, Envy, and the Fall11:42 The Garden as a Metaphor for Life14:40 The Importance of Boundaries and Limitations17:28 The Role of Jesus in Restoration20:22 Personal Reflection and Self-Examination23:20 The Complementarity of Marriage26:09 Conclusion and Call to Action The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Summary : Part 2 of Peterson's We Who Wrestle With God SeriesIn this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland explore the various themes present in Chapter One surrounding human dignity and the interpretation of Genesis as presented in Jordan Peterson's book, 'We Who Wrestle With God.' They discuss the essence of human dignity, and the complementarity of men and women. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of recognizing our inherent value as individuals created in the image of God, and how this understanding shapes our relationships and societal interactions. Bonus: Fr. Craig and Jimmy answer the first question emailed to askthemonk@mqpwg.org - please reach out too if you have a question you'd like The Monk & The Meathead to answer!Link to ACTS Retreat Info Page: https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/men-s-acts-retreat-nov-20-23-2025 TakeawaysHuman dignity is a fundamental aspect of Christian anthropology.We are made in the image and likeness of God.Dignity is a gift from the Creator to every individual.Complementarity between men and women is essential for family and society.The concept of inherent value is a distinctly Christian idea.Isolation is the greatest punishment for humans.Treating oneself with dignity allows for better treatment of others.Understanding our divine image helps us recognize our worth.A church wedding should not be expensive.The only necessary elements for a wedding are the couple and the minister. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - Summary NEW SERIES! In this episode, Fr. Craig and Jimmy begin a new series delving into Jordan Peterson's book 'We Who Wrestle with God', exploring its themes of spirituality, the human experience, and the moral journey. They discuss the significance of the title, the biblical foundations of Western civilization, and the ongoing struggle of wrestling with God. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal growth, the transformative journey from good to better, and the role of the Bible in shaping moral values. Through engaging dialogue, they highlight the call to adventure and the necessity of embracing challenges in life. Link to ACTS Retreat Info Page: https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/men-s-acts-retreat-nov-20-23-2025 Takeaways Dr. Peterson challenges everyone to aim higher in life. Wrestling with God is a natural part of the human experience. The Bible serves as the foundation for Western civilization. The sanctity of the individual is rooted in Christian values. Struggles and challenges are integral to personal growth. God often speaks to us in a still small voice. The journey from good to better is a continuous process. Transfiguration symbolizes our potential for transformation. Opting out of spiritual growth leads to personal peril. The book refutes the notion of soft Christianity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to 'We Who Wrestle with God' 04:59 Exploring the Title and Its Significance 11:52 The Tension of Wrestling with God 19:19 The Foundation of Western Civilization 27:35 The Call to Moral Excellence 34:13 The Still Small Voice of Conscience 39:58 Looking Ahead: Chapter One Preview The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - SummaryIn this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland explore the theme of faith as an adventure, drawing insights from Bishop Robert Barron's podcast. They discuss the biblical figures of Abraham, Jacob, and Jonah, emphasizing the call to trust in God and the importance of self-giving. The dialogue highlights the struggles of faith, the necessity of wrestling with God, and the transformative power of responding to God's call. The conversation culminates in an invitation to participate in the ACTS Retreat, a spiritual journey designed to deepen one's faith and sense of adventure.TakeawaysFaith is not just belief; it's a call to adventure.God invites us to a life of self-giving.Abraham's story illustrates trust in the improbable.Wrestling with God is part of the faith journey.Self-giving love leads to true happiness.Life's struggles can lead to deeper understanding.The adventure of faith includes peaks and valleys.God is always pursuing us, inviting us to engage.The ACTS Retreat offers a chance to deepen faith.Finding meaning often requires looking where we least want to. Chapters00:00 The Call to Adventure in Faith18:00 Wrestling with God: The Journey of Jacob27:41 The Reluctant Prophet: Lessons from Jonah31:35 Embracing the Adventure of LifeLink to Bishop Barron Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wof-503-our-call-to-radical-self-gift/id1065019039?i=1000722484340Link to ACTS Retreat Info Page: https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/men-s-acts-retreat-nov-20-23-2025 The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - 📖 Episode SummaryIn this episode, Fr. Craig (the Monk) and Jimmy (the Meathead) dive deep into the final five disciplines of the Catholic Christian life. Using stories from jiu-jitsu training, The Matrix, Tolkien, and even Disney fast passes, they explore what it really means to grow in faith and holiness in the middle of busy, modern life.From cultivating virtue to reading Scripture without getting overwhelmed, building true community, living generously, and sharing your faith with others, this conversation blends wisdom and humor into a roadmap for spiritual growth.🕊️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why the moral life is like training for a black belt—it takes a lifetime of discipline.How to read the Bible in a way that actually makes sense (and doesn’t put you to sleep).The secret to building deep, lasting friendships in community—even as an adult.Why generosity isn’t just about money, but a way of living with open hands.How evangelization is really just “one beggar telling another where to find bread.”📌 The Nine Catholic Disciplines (Full List)The Sacramental LifeThe Interior Life (Prayer)Fasting & AbstinenceSilence & SolitudeThe Moral LifeKnowledge of Sacred ScriptureThe Communal LifeThe Generous LifeThe Fruitful Life (Evangelization) The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - SummaryThe Interior Life, Silence & Solitude, and Fasting: Spiritual Disciplines for a Magnanimous HeartIn this episode of The Monk and the Meathead, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland continue their series on the Nine Spiritual Practices of a Catholic Christian Disciple, recorded on the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola.They explore how St. Ignatius’ dramatic “cannonball conversion” and his Spiritual Exercises offer timeless guidance for growing in prayer, focus, and love. From the difference between civic and religious inquisitions to the benefits of curbing our appetites, this conversation blends practical wisdom with lighthearted storytelling.You’ll hear:The interior life — why tending your soul is essential to becoming more lovingThe value of silence and solitude in a distracted, noisy worldHow fasting and abstinence sharpen self-control and spiritual clarityJimmy’s West Point contrast story on why “sleep’s a crutch”Why cutting certain appetites can free you to focus on what matters mostThis is a practical, encouraging guide for living a disciplined Catholic life in the modern world—without losing your sense of humor. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Join Fr. Craig and Jimmy as they delve into a modern tool for the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola, exploring how these practices can enrich the lives of Catholics today and help you defeat the noonday devil! Discover the benefits of using the Hallow app for daily spiritual exercises and the importance of the Eucharistic assembly in nurturing a devout life. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - Most Catholics are doing all the right things—attending Mass, going to confession (fasting during Lent etc.) —but are we actually becoming more loving? In this thought-provoking episode, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland dig into the real reason behind spiritual discipline number 1 in our series of and why simply “working out your faith” isn’t enough.This conversation explores how spiritual disciplines are means, not ends, and the danger of becoming a “fit Catholic” who never actually transforms. If you’ve ever questioned whether your prayer, fasting, or church attendance is working, this episode is for you.🛑 What You’ll Learn:Why the sacraments aren’t “magic” and how to know if they’re bearing fruitHow to measure real spiritual growth (hint: it’s not how often you fast)Review of the 9 key spiritual practices of a fully engaged Catholic.The one question that should guide all your spiritual habitsWhat “beige Catholicism” is—and how to avoid it🔥 Notable Moments:“I don't want to be really good at working out—I want to be changed.”“You can fast at a steakhouse and still be gossiping. That’s not holiness.”“The Eucharist isn’t just a recharge—it’s a call to community and transformation.” The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - SummaryIn this conversation, the monk & the meathead, Fr. Craig and Jimmy, explore the intersection of spiritual practices, and daily life, emphasizing the importance of discipline and community in achieving a fulfilling life. They kick of a series of nine spiritual practices that can enhance one's relationship with God and promote happiness, while also addressing the challenges of maintaining consistency and joy in these practices.Today’s Topic: A Introduction to 9 Spiritual Practices--Creating an Ecosystem that is conducive to Life with God, Sustained Happiness and Hope for Eternal LifeThe 9 Practices of a Catholic Christian Disciplea.The Sacramental Lifeb.The Interior Lifec.Fasting and Abstinenced.Silence and Solitudee.The Moral Life: Christian Perfection and Holinessf.Sacred Scriptureg.The Communal Life: Community and Stewardshiph.Christian Charity: The Generous Lifei.The Fruitful Life: EvangelizationTakeawaysSilence and structure are essential for a balanced life.Fasting can lead to greater happiness and mental clarity.Nine spiritual practices can create a fulfilling life.Discipline is key to achieving freedom in life.Consistency in spiritual practices leads to optimal living.Community support is vital for spiritual growth.Joy should be a part of living the gospel.Sacrificing for spiritual growth can lead to greater rewards.Applying these practices can enhance daily life and relationships.Chapters01:19The Role of Silence and Structure in Daily Life02:23Spiritual Practices for a Fulfilling Life12:42Discipline Equals Freedom: The Path to Joy17:27Closing Thoughts and Prayer The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Happy Memorial Day! With Fr. Craig on a pilgramage in Rome, we return to an foundational topic of The Monk & The Meathead. The Hero's Journey. On this episode Father Craig and Jimmy discuss a 5,000 year old pattern that can be seen in every myth, legend, novel, movie, and comic book. Humans love watching the Hero's journey. Father Craig give the introduction to the stages of this journey and talks about how it relates to the spiritual life. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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What if your setbacks were actually the stepping stones to a richer life? In a world where external losses are often weighed more heavily than personal growth, we invite you to rethink the game of life. As we celebrate the election of Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Prevost, we discuss the profound spiritual and personal journey ahead. His quick election and the significance of his chosen name set the stage for an exploration into human formation, drawing inspiration from influential books like "What I Learned by Losing a Million Dollars" and Simon Sinek's "The Infinite Game." These works challenge us to embrace ongoing development rather than viewing life as a win-or-lose scenario.Join us as we navigate the complex terrain of external and internal losses in sports, business, and theology. While losing a game or business deal is universally acknowledged, the impact of personal setbacks on self-esteem and spirituality is often overlooked. Through a theological lens, we explore how recognizing these internal battles can lead to spiritual growth and reconciliation rather than despair. We delve into the dangers of confusing external outcomes with personal identity and the importance of maintaining an infinite mindset, ensuring that life's finite challenges don't hinder our participation in the greater adventure of life.Inspiring resilience and hope, we examine the increasing prevalence of athletic injuries and how visualizing a positive future can transform our relationships and spiritual lives. Through the lens of Daniel Kahneman's insights and the timeless narratives of "The Lord of the Rings" and Winston Churchill's words, we find redemption and hope even amidst trauma and personal loss. Finally, we extend an invitation to our listeners to join a study group focused on dissecting dense material, fostering an environment of thoughtful discussion and personal growth. Engage with us as we turn life's challenges into opportunities for redemption and resilience. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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We navigate the poignant moment of Pope Francis' passing and the impending conclave to elect a new pope. Reflecting on the surprise and sadness of the Pope's rapid health decline, we balance these emotions with the acknowledgment of his journey to eternal life. We explore Pope Francis' impactful ministry, marked by symbolic acts and a focus on marginalized communities, which, while sometimes controversial, did not alter core Church doctrines. As the Church prepares for the conclave, we shed light on these papal elections' historical significance and variability, ranging from swift decisions to prolonged deliberations.In our discussion, we also explore the enduring role of the Pope as a spiritual leader, tracing the roots of apostolic succession back to St. Peter and Jesus. The episode highlights the contributions of recent popes, including John Paul II and Benedict XVI, and examines Pope Francis' focus on service to the poor and environmental stewardship. Join us in contemplating the resilience of faith amidst the Catholic Church's rich history and the principle of subsidiarity in maintaining unity and spreading the gospel. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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In this episode, we explore the profound significance of Holy Week, likening it to the Super Bowl of the Christian faith. This week represents the essence of being a follower of Jesus, as we journey through the Triduum—Thursday, Friday, and Saturday—culminating in the joy of Easter Sunday. Together, we unravel the depths of the Paschal mystery, rooted in Greek and Hebrew traditions, and its connection to Jesus as the Lamb of God. We also discuss the challenges of setting aside time for spiritual reflection amidst life's busyness and offer insights and strategies for immersing oneself in the spiritual richness of this sacred week.We explore the concept of the hero's journey through the lens of the Christian narrative, with Jesus as the ultimate hero. His journey, from the comforts of Capernaum to his suffering and resurrection, is the archetype for all hero's journeys. We reflect on how the passion narrative profoundly reflects our own lives, offering a template for understanding and enduring personal suffering. By engaging with the Paschal mystery, we can find meaning and guidance in our struggles, navigating life's challenges through the example of Jesus' journey.As we conclude, we examine the paradox of suffering and joy, particularly through Holy Thursday and Good Friday. These moments invite us to see suffering not as meaningless but as a path to deeper understanding and fulfillment. Through fasting, abstinence, and the veneration of the cross, we challenge the cultural pursuit of convenience and avoidance of pain. With hope and confidence, we embark on Holy Week, invoking the blessings of the Holy Spirit and the intercession of the Blessed Mother.Join us in celebrating Easter as a time of renewal, complete with church services, brunches, and festive attire, as we emphasize the brighter side of the journey through life's challenges. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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What if the challenges you face daily mold you into a stronger, wiser version of yourself? That's the intriguing idea we explore with Jimmy in this episode, as we draw from the timeless image of God as a potter-shaping clay, lifted from the pages of Jeremiah. Our conversation spins a tapestry of personal growth, weaving together life's trials, laughter-filled anecdotes from the old man's basketball court, and the lighthearted lessons that come along the way. With each story, we remind ourselves that growth is not just a destination but an ongoing journey.Together with Jimmy, we untangle the rich tapestry of spiritual and personal formation within the Catholic framework, breaking the myth that faith and reason are at odds. By highlighting the Church's historical contributions to intellectual pursuits and the nurturing of one's soul through prayer and virtue, we show how curiosity and faith can walk hand in hand. Our discussion touches on the importance of excelling in our vocational roles and how these can be pathways to sanctification. As we explore the shaping forces in our lives, we're challenged to consciously choose which values guide us—whether sacred or secular.In the spirit of growth and accountability, we delve into practical frameworks like Arthur Brooks' "five F's"—faith, family, finance, friends, and fitness. We discuss the power of setting realistic goals and the transformative potential of spiritual detachment as taught by saints like St. John of the Cross and St. Ignatius of Loyola. Closing with a call to embrace the divine potter's hands in our lives, we invite listeners to trust in the discomfort of transformation, as it aligns us with our higher purpose. Tune in to hear how you can incorporate these insights into your journey and become the masterpiece you were meant to be. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Picture this: two hosts, one with the discipline of a monk and the other with the vigor of a meathead, coming together to explore the balance between faith and worldly pursuits. This episode marks the relaunch of our podcast as "The Monk and the Meathead," inspired by our own unique journeys and the book "The Monk and the Merchant." We dive into why we believe long-form content is crucial for tackling life's profound spiritual questions, aiming to enrich the lives of Catholic men and women with a blend of humor, professionalism, and relatability.Do you find yourself wrestling with the tension between spiritual devotion and material success? We get it, and we’re here to explore that struggle. In this episode, we address the common misconception that one must choose between wealth and faith. We explore how wealth can be a tool for greater good, advocating for a hierarchy of values where God and family come first. We also introduce the "five F's"—faith, family, finances, friends, and fitness—to help maintain life's balance. We unpack the deeper meaning of poverty, not merely as material lack but as a spiritual reliance on God.We also reflect on how trials and setbacks can be stepping stones to growth, drawing from "The Monk and the Merchant" and Jesus' teachings. We discuss the virtues of humility and meekness, and how they are vital for personal transformation. With anecdotes and reflections, we champion the idea of voluntary self-sacrifice and the strength found in humility. We share how cultivating patience and understanding can lead us closer to God and loved ones, encouraging young listeners to balance boldness with humility, just like characters we admire in stories and films. Join us on this insightful journey to find strength in faith and purpose in every challenge.The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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There are many resources for studying scripture, exploring theological mysteries, or understanding the current events of the church. But what about a forum for those most basic questions? Questions like why is my work miserable? How do I better my family life? Why do I have to go to Church every week? Why are people attacking our faith? For each of these questions and many more like them, The Monk, Father Holway, will approach each of these questions with patience and sincerity and do his best to help each of us dive deeper into our faith. Jimmy, our resident 'Meathead' will be a voice for those questions. There are so many people ready to experience their Catholic faith in a deeper way, and are just waiting for the right invitation to do so.Get ready to share, share, share when the first episode drops THIS Monday! The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Send your questions to Father Craig at askthemonk@mqpwg.org

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish is Webster Groves, Missouri.

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with strength, truth, and purpose.

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.

SHARE this episode with someone.

SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Father Craig and Jimmy discuss a reading from the Gospel of Luke talking about how the the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, Matthew 13:46 who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Father Craig invites listeners to sign up for 20 90 Day programs that help participants find the Pearl of Great Value, Beloved 90 and Exodus 90. If interested here are sign up links for both programs. Here is info for Exodus 90: https://exodus90.com/ And here is the sign up link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfXnqD7yxk7z_t-G4i3yK_yh4tfZ_U8RN2DvaeW55EGZAo2YQ/viewform. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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In this episode Father Craig and Jimmy talk about the classic Christmas movie Christmas vacation. They also talk about how the real meaning of Christmas and how to best prepare for the birth of our Lord Jesus ChristThey also mention in the show last years Christmas episode where the talk about the symbolism of our holiday traditions and show how they are all rooted in Jesus even though some of these traditions have been secularized and their true nature has been forgotten about. Here is a link to that show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-up-the-tent/id1663351684?i=1000639217253 The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Father Craig could not make this one but Jimmy Vreeland, Justin Basara (Director of this year's Acts Retreat), and Craig Avery (Co Director of the retreat) talk about their experience on the Acts retreat and invite those listening to attend The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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In this Episode Father Craig Discusses an article from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops called Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship. Here is the link to that article: https://www.usccb.org/sjp/forming-consciences-faithful-citizenshipFather Craig discusses what the individual Catholic's responsibility is in the public square and what the Church's role in is in politics and the public square as well The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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The conversation today starts with Father Craigs Homily encouraging all parishioners to vote NO on amendment 3 which is Missouri law that will allow anyone with a medical license to perform an abortion and will also allow 9 month abortions. The Conversation then goes into a a deeper dive on Freedom, Rights, and the Corresponding responsibilities that come with those rights. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Father Craig discusses the book Practicing the Way. This book is very challenging and inspiring because it asks all of us to become an apprentice of Jesus. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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"The worst part of Catholicism is to see people in Church and not know why they are there." - Chris StefanickFather Craig has a new initiative to introduce in order to end the phenomenon of people not knowing why they are at church and to get more people in the church.In this podcast, he discusses his plans to fire up the the MPQ community with small discipleship groups. He has a new initiative starting Mondays this fall to form prayer groups to go through the book Foundations of Discipleship starting this fall. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Father Craig and Jimmy discuss one of the greatest themes from the Bible. The fact that every spiritual adventure starts with hearing a call to run towards God, a crossing of some type of threshold, and the straight to the wilderness. And the wilderness is either the place you grow by encountering God or where you wilt by being encountered by the evil. This is a spiritual theme in all of our lives and Father Craig and Jimmy dive into how we can apply that to our lives today. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Father Craig talks about his faith journey during the early 2000s when he entered the seminary. The early 2000s was not the easiest time to join the Priesthood but Father Craig talks about the challenges the Church and society were facing at the that time actually strengthened his faith and his resolve to serve the Church and his fellow Catholics The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parishis Webster Groves, Missouri. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estateentrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… nowstriving to push deeper into his faith.The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritualcoach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity withstrength, truth, and purpose.If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it ourway at askthemonk@mqpwg.org. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, comevisit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.orgRATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.SHARE this episode with someone.SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!

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Is there a Revival Brewing? The New Atheists who dominated the early 2000s seem to have lost steam and people are returning back to God and Religion. Here is the recent evidence; Richard Dawkins has said that he is cultural Christian and Bill Maher is turning against the woke crowd. In this Podcast Father Craig talks about this phenomenon and references a recent book that is talking about this revival phenomenon: The Surprising Belief in the Rebirth of God. Here is a link to the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1496466772?k=the%20surprising%20rebirth%20of%20belief%20in%20god&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_l_k0_1_8&crid=3VHEBQ8DZAY3U&sprefix=the%20surp

The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: Why New Atheism Grew Old and Secular Thinkers Are Considering Christianity Again

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Special guest, Susie Vreeland, joins the podcast to discuss the Harrison Butker commencement address at Benedictine University. Father Craig, Jimmy and Susie discuss the conclusion that no one male or female will find their ultimate fulfillment in their career. People find their ultimate fulfillment with their relationship with God, family, and their community.

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In this episode Father Craig discusses how when you combine the Great Commission that happened at Pentecost with the Greatest Commandment to Love Your Neighbor as yourself, Christians are given the great Challenge. Listen in to hear how to accept and with Gods grace live up this challenge.

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Father Craig invited two parishioners to discuss the women's Acts Retreat for 2024. It is occurring in 2 weeks if you are interested. The guests talked about the great results they have experienced in going on the Acts Retreat and what people who are interested in the Acts Retreat can also expect. Anyone who is interested in going to the Acts Retreat, please sign up here:https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/women-s-acts-retreat-may-16-19-2024

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Father Craig talks about how Christianity is more than just being "nice" and Christ was so much more than just a moral teacher or philosopher. Christianity is an all encompassing choice to pick up your cross and follow Jesus. If the appeal to "join the church" is that is will nice and unchallenging it is false advertising and misses half of the power of being a Catholic Christian

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Father Craig discusses how truly deep and meaningful the Passion Story and how to have that lead you in your Holy Week

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Father Craig does a deep dive on the CS Lewis Article: Men Without Chests. He discusses what it means to be someone who in the Christian life is called to be "All Heart or Magnanimous" as opposed to someone with out a chest "No Heart". He also discusses that to be magnanimous it requires alignment with Truth and Objective values and it is impossible to be "All Heart" inside a subjective world view.

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Father Craig goes through the best practices and mindset anyone can have to make sure that Lent is as meaningful and as impactful as possible.

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Father Craig and Jimmy discuss what Real Freedom truly means and more importantly what True Freedom is not. They discuss these three Catholic ideas on freedom: freedom to pursue excellence vs freedom from constraint disciplining desire so that the good becomes inevitable freedom to pursue what we ought to do.

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Father Craig and Jimmy Vreeland team up to discuss the Hero's Journey during the MQP Exodus 90 Kickoff.

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Father Craig discusses the traditions, dates, and rituals that represent the Christmas season, and he shows how all of them point back to Jesus. He also brings up the point that Advent is a time to prepare for Jesus' coming by reflecting on how we have been living, repenting, and pursuing the adventure of Christian Spirituality

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Father Craig and Jimmy discuss the concept that to truly find the adventure of your life you must first start with responsibility and self sacrifice. On the surface it does not seem like self sacrifice and responsibility creates adventure, but throughout the podcast Fr Craig reminds listeners that this is exactly what we are called to do as Christians and that Jesus was the best example of Self Sacrafice.

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Father Craig and Jimmy are joined by two guests, Steve Schaefer and James Chalmers to discuss the Exodus 90 Challenge. Steve brought the program a few years ago to the parish and it has resulted in a revival around Mary Queen of Peace. James Chalmers is taking over leadership of the program for this year. Steve and James talk with Father Craig about the grace opening benefits of these spiritual exercises.

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They also discuss the concept of the Gap and the Gain. This is from a book from Dan Sullivan and Ben Hardy and the main idea of the book is that ideals are something to aspire to but they will never be accomplished. Ideals are meant to inspire and generate action they are not something that you should measure against. The correct thing to measure behavior against is the past. Father Craig and Jimmy make the claim that when it comes to Christianity all of society is in the GAP. Of course when you measure Christians against their ideals they will fall short but if you measure the Church's and Christianity's progress from where it came from you cannot help but be grateful.

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Father Craig discusses the parable of the talents and the importance of being a good steward in order to honor and glorify God.

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Father Craig discusses how intellectual ascent is not necessarily faith. He also discusses the concept of cheap grace and virtue signaling and how that is pulling your punches when it comes to the great faith adventure.

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In this podcast Father Craig reviews "This is My Body", Bishop Barons latest book. The book describes and explains to the believer and skeptic the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Father Craig explains the theology behind the Real Presence and how it is is the culmination of the Incarnation.

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In this episode Father Craig discusses the importance of intellectual formation and that those seeking a closer relationship with God need to constantly be nurturing and feeding their mind. He then moves on to discussing one of his new favorite books: And There Was Light by John Mecham. This book shows the fascinating story of Abraham Lincoln's spiritual journey during the Civil War and how his faith informed and the faith of all the Abolitionists sustained them in their fight to end slavery.

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On this episode Father Craig dispels several myths and misconceptions about the ACTS retreat and talks about how powerful of an experience that the ACTS retreat and how it helps to build Believers, Families, and the Community Parish

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One of the big questions that Father Craig gets all the time when someone feels called by the Holy Spirit to start Evangelizing is "where to start". The good news is that after 2000 years of experience the Catholic Church has developed a play book to bring people into the tent and it is called the Kerygma. The Kerygma consists of 5 ideas. 1. You were created by God for a purpose. 2. That purposed is difficult to act on because we live in a fallen state. God loved us so much that He send Jesus to redeem us. Redemption from Jesus requires us to change and be more like him; this is also knows as Metanoia. And finally the way to fully live out our purpose and experience our redemption is through immersion in the Church.

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Father Craig talks about the real purpose of All Things New: Evangelization.

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In this episode Father Craig discusses one of his favorite books and one he recommends all of the time: the Relentless Elimination of Hurry. He discusses his main take aways from the book and how the recommendations can lead to a healthier spiritual and day to day life.

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In this episode Father Craig discusses how pursuing moral excellence is how we as humans fulfill our greatest desire. He gets into how moral excellence is so much more than just adhering to rules and prohibitions. When you humans are chasing their greatest desire, Union with God, "the rules" are simply the starting point that those making the spiritual journey to God use as a boundary to start their journey. And as the desire for God becomes stronger and stronger the person seeking God's grace does not "break the rules" because it keeps them from their greatest desire.

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In this episode Father Craig discusses the best practices for Catholics to follow during the Easter Season. Lent was a time where the Church encouraged its followers to impose strict limits on themselves in order to develop detachment and freedom. The Easter season is best used as a time to enjoy the new hard won freedoms and continue to develop our spiritual lives.

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On this episode Father Craig the best practices in order to make the most of Holy Week. Holy Week is the most important week of the year in the Catholic Calendar and Father Craig talks about how to make the most out of this week.

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The vision of our lives that we are called to requires three things:

Moral excellence
Contentment and fulfillment in this life through God’s Grace
And the attainment of life in Heaven: the fulfillment of our deepest desires

As the proverb writer says: without this vision we will perish. We have to know where we are going and why we are willing to bear our crosses as Christians.

I also discuss in this podcast that part of the inspiration for the podcast was a series of lectures from Jordan Peterson discussing the same thing about identity and vision. Here is a link to the discussion:

https://www.dailywire.com/trial/jordan?utm_campaign=7dft&utm_medium=paid&utm_source=googlesearch&utm_content=na_subscriptions&cid=7dft∣=g&xid=0&gclid=CjwKCAjwq-WgBhBMEiwAzKSH6OZDHtw4TycYV2oxir5l25ESaBfA0nxHqWKeMcB-wBWpcgIJDu7XixoCoLgQAvD_BwE

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Last week I sent a challenge to the Mary Queen Community to stretch and challenge themselves during Lent. Lent is a time that the Church sets apart in order for each Catholic to get closer to God in anticipation of the Easter Season. Throughout this podcast, I discuss the benefits of a self imposed challenges. They actually have a curative property. When we stretch ourselves in order rid ourselves of a vice, or in order to build new habits and virtues we actually become more free and closer to the person the God is calling us to be. Enjoy the podcast.

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In this episode Father Craig discusses that when we detach from our worldly and trifling desires we are actually building virtues that will ultimately lead us to True Freedom: Communion with God. He explains why simple asceticism that Catholics practice during lent do not take a way but actually add to a Catholic's joy. He asks the audience to consider that Lent is actually a time to rejoice about because it allows those who participate in it to get closer to God.

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In this episode Father Craig discusses how the "boon" or the prize that we are all searching for is the Union with Jesus Christ. He discusses how the ultimate prize of all human life comes from being part of the grace loop, receiving Eucharist, being strengthened by the virtue of the holy spirit and finally being part of a community inside the Church that is on the same Jodrey

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In this episode Father Craig discusses the power of metamorphosis and metanoia. Every Christian is called to pick up their cross, die to themselves and suffer in order to be tested and to change into someone who is closer to God. And in going through these series of abysses we will find what we really want in our Hero's journey: Union with God.

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Reading from the Sermon on the Mount in the Gospel of Matthew. We hear Jesus compare his disciples to three things: the salt of the earth, the light of the world and a city set on a mountain. Father Craig encourages all of us to go out and be the light of the world and to let our lives be a city set on a mountain

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On this episode Father Craig discusses one of his favorite subjects: The Hero's Journey. This Journey is a 5,000 year old pattern that can be seen in every myth, legend, novel, movie, and comic book. Humans love watching the Hero's journey. Father Craig give the introduction to the stages of this journey and talks about how it relates to the spiritual life.

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Father Craig discusses why it is so important that people come into the tent. It is in order create and cultivate a relationship with God and to experience God and Jesus and mass in the sacrament of holy communion. He also makes the point that in the Catholic Church purpose, and meaning, and a relationship with Jesus can be found.

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On the first episode of opening up the tent Father Craig Halway introduces the podcast and he discusses one of his latest homilies

Opening Up The Tent: Recent Episodes

Father Craig Holway