Catholic Stuff You Should Know: Recent Episodes
J. 10 Initiative
Join newly ordained, Fr. Jacob, and Fr. Sean in this week’s episode as they delve into priestly ordinations and the significance of the first mass celebrated by newly ordained priests. They also discuss Pentecost and a few other holy feasts celebrated within the Church.
Join Fr. Mike & Fr. John as they dissect Huxley's "Brave New World," focusing on the absence of the Church and the loss of motherhood.
Dcn. Jacob, soon-to-be Fr. Jacob, and Fr. Sean discuss the soon-to-be St. Pierre Giorgio Frassati.
Fr. Mike's inspiration for this week's topic was T.S. Eliot's poem, The Waste Land. Join him and Fr. John as they discuss the chaos of the wasteland and the hope we should have in knowing God will restore the world back to paradise.
Alongside Fr. Mike, Dcn. Jacob encourages listeners to look at reality with the lens that allows us to see the way God is speaking to each one of us.
Fr. John & Fr. Sean are joined by special guest and author Megan Nix. Megan is the author of "Remedies for Sorrow: An Extraordinary Child, a Secret Kept from Pregnant Women, and a Mother's Pursuit of the Truth", a memoir about her deeply personal experience with congenital CMV. Join Megan as she shares a little bit about her journey and her hopes to spread awareness to other expecting mothers.
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Remedies-Sorrow-Extraordinary-Pregnant-Mothers/dp/0385548591
Fr. Mike recently returned from a retreat at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament which inspired the topic for this episode — joined by Dcn. Jacob, Fr. Mike shares some interesting information about Mother Angelica, the history of EWTN, and the shrine she was inspired to build to honor the Child Jesus.
Episode #625 is inspired by Walker Percy's essay, "Bourbon, Neat". Fr. John and Fr. Sean talk about how eating and drinking is a form of giving glory to God. Fr. John fears that the current generation is losing the aesthetic of bourbon drinking, therefore missing out on the opportunity for conversation and community.”
Inspired by a topic suggestion sent in by a listener, Dcn. Jacob and Fr. Mike touch on how contemplation can be found in all vocations. They remind us that no matter what our vocation is, we all have the same opportunity for holiness.
Fr. Sean & Fr. John touch on the different stages of evangelization and discuss the importance and necessity of the first stage, pre-evangelization.
In this episode Fr. Mike and Dcn. Jacob discuss scriptural commentaries and the prophetic character of Jesus and the Church in the Gospel of Luke and Acts of the Apostles. The conversation was inspired by the biblical scholar Luke Timothy Johnson and one of his books, “Prophetic Jesus, Prophetic Church.”
In this thought-provoking podcast, Fr. John proposes the question, "Am I living my Catholic faith in the world as a utopian or an eschatological thinker?". Tune in as he and Fr. Sean discuss the damaging effects of trying to build a utopia within a society and how the real utopia is not of this world.
In light of Dcn. Jacob’s thesis, he and Fr. Mike discuss the renewal within the church and the need for renewal within our own hearts, all in light of the Holy Spirit.
Join Fr. John & Fr. Sean as they discuss the true essence of chastity and the denial needed to achieve it.
This episode is a follow-up to the episode “The Quiet Parts." Tune in as Fr. Mike and Dcn. Jacob pick up where they left off last time, discussing the quiet prayers a priest prays during the mass.
Fr. Sean and Fr. John reflect on Our Lady of Lourdes in light of her feast day coming up. Additionally, they reflect on Mary, Mother of the Eucharist in light of a triptych that Fr. Sean helped make. Tune in to hear about the apparitions at Lourdes as well as the title we give to Mary as Mother of the Eucharist and what these mean for us today.
In this episode Fr. Mike shares the “sotto voce” or quiet (literally, under-voice) prayers that the deacons and priests pray during the Mass. Deacon Jacob and Father Mike discuss how these prayers help their own focused devotional participation at Mass and invite you to consider how you can engage the prayers of the Mass with more preparedness, awareness and devotion.
In this episode Fr. Sean and Fr. John look at what Sundays ought to look like for a Catholic. Fr. Sean asks the simple question, “What should I wear to Mass on Sunday.” Tune in to hear their thoughts and how you can enter into your Sunday Best.
In this episode Dcn. Jacob and Fr. Mike discuss the likeness and difference between the self-help movement and the Christian practice of asceticism. Do we still need God, or can we help ourselves?
In this episode Fr. John and Fr. Sean break down the new book by the University of Mary entitled, The Religion of the Day. Seeking to understanding the deeper meaning beneath the phenomenon of the "none," we realize that though secular, they are in fact religious - and that a new form of evangelization is now required.
In this banter heavy episode all four hosts gather to ring in the new year and look back at the last year of the podcast and their lives. It was full of mountains and Marian devotion. There is also a bit of looking ahead to the year to come. It's been a great year and the hosts have loved sharing it with listener land. Listen along to hear some of the lessons they've learned and hopes they have for the future.
In this episode Fr. Mike teaches Dcn. Jake the history of Rome's frustrated hopes as they expected an eternal empire full of peace and prosperity that never quite panned out. The hosts invite all of us to wish big and pray for big world changing things because Jesus has come into the world and he is King of the Universe.
Frs. John and Mike discuss Norway, their mild obsession with Bishop Erik Varden and the profound imagery of light and darkness in the Advent and Christmas Season.
In this special episode, Fr. John is joined by special guest Fr. Joseph Fessio. Fr. Fessio shares the story about the founding of Ignatius Press as well as his experiences learning from and being mentored by many incredible and well-known theologians.
Fr. Mike and Dcn. Jacob discuss the scriptural genre of apocalyptic literature focusing on the Book of Daniel with its historical context and controversy. They conclude by reflecting on the lessons we can learn from the Prophet Daniel for our current historical moment and as a preparation for Advent anticipation.
In light of recent events and requests on the topic, Fr. John and Fr. Sean offer rules for thinking about Pope Francis, which they also call a "primer for unsettled laymen".
In this episode, Fr. John and Dcn. Jacob discuss the latest box office hit "Barbie" and the themes and lessons found in the movie.
Fr. Mike and Fr. Sean's conversation is inspired by 1 Thessalonians 2:7-19. Fr. Mike talks about viewing the church as our Mother and the virtues and similarities shared between the two.
In episode 604, Dcn. Jacob and Fr. Sean talk about St. Thomas' remedies to cope with sadness and sorrow and how to interpret it.
Fr. Mike and Dcn. Jacob walk through the vesting prayers, giving lay people an inside look into the sacristy as the priest and deacon prepare to celebrate mass.
On October 2nd, Fr. John and Fr. Sean accomplished the feat of summiting all 54 14ers in Colorado. Fr. Sean successfully summited all the 14ers and Fr. John has now celebrated mass on top of all 54. In celebration, the two reminisce on stories and experiences from hiking over the years.
In this week's episode, Fr. John tells Dcn. Jacob about a very interesting conversation he had on an airplane and how it led him to ponder three big questions that we should all be thinking about.
Fr. Mike is joined by special guest and former host of CSYSK, Fr. Michael O’Loughlin. Enjoy their discussion on the traditions and practices found within the Byzantine Catholic Church.
Fr. Sean and Fr. Mike discuss the different criteria that an individual must meet in order to be recognized as a doctor or father of the church.
Fr. Sean and Dcn. Jacob discuss the story of St. Andrew Kim Taegon and the evangelative efforts in the East.
Fr. Mike teaches Fr. John about Genesis 32, where Jacob wrestles with an angel and changes the world forever.
Dcn. Jacob and Fr. Mike discuss the apparent paradox of two different scriptures. How can we simultaneously by be still (Exodus 14:14, Psalm 46) while also running so as to win (1 Corinthians 9:24).
Fr. John provides an outline of what to expect from his new book, "A Bride Adorned". Fr. Sean joins him as they discuss the term perichoresis and how Mary and the Church cannot be understood apart from each other.
Dcn. Jacob and Fr. John discuss the experience of faith throughout different stages of life and the deaths and crises that happen throughout a life of faith.
Fr. Mike and Fr. Sean discuss the beauty of a vulnerable heart and the importance of turning our brokenness over to God to allow Him to do great work.
Sleep deprived Fr Sean and Dcn Jacob recount their experience of World Youth Day, and share their reflections on the week spent leading their parish group on pilgrimage to Lisbon.
This week Fr. Mike and Fr. John welcome their priest friend Fr. Joe McGill from Scotland for a conversation on the Catholic vision expressed in Cervantes' Don Quixote - as well as Fr. Mike's tattoo.
This week Fr. Mike and Dcn. Jacob wax poetically about chaos and order. In context of the Companions own self reflections, they discuss the interplay of stability and uncertainty, and the important harmonies of life that allow for healthy growth and adventure.
The four hosts join together for a discussion on Larry Chapp's Confessions of a Catholic Worker: Our Moment of Christian Witness - the focus of this year's Companion's Summer Conference.
Fr. John passionately talks with Fr. Sean about two common misinterpretations made against Balthasar.
In the midst of summer, Fr. Sean and Dcn. Jacob discuss the purpose of vacation and offer some practical suggestions on how to enter into a time of true rest.
Fr. John uses a classic piece of literature, "The Odyssey", to give future dating advice to his new goddaughter, Penelope. Fr. John and Dcn. Jacob discuss the restlessness of the human heart found within all of us but specifically found in men.
Fr. Mike and Fr. John talk about the essence of three well-known pilgrimage sites and how we can journey on them in our own personal prayer life.
Fr. Mike and Deacon Jacob take us back to where it all began... the book of Genesis. The two discuss marriage, the beauty and complexity found within the vocation and the war on marriage.
Fr. Sean and Fr. John discuss the importance of having friendships in our lives and with the Trinity. The conversation is structured around Aristotle's three degrees of friendship.
Dcn. Jacob has been hard at work preparing to lead the discussion on this week's topic: Artificial Intelligence. Tune in to hear Dcn. Jacob, Fr. John, and Fr. Sean discuss their opinions and thoughts on AI and its impressive yet alarming capabilities.
In this episode, Fr. Mike and Fr. Sean discuss the Tetragrammaton, the four letter name of God in Hebrew. They remind us of the reverence and importance that lies within His name and to be cognizant of when and how we use Jesus' name.
Dcn. Jacob and Fr. Sean discuss how not all knowledge is equal and that there is a proper ordering of knowledge. They are concerned with showing that the material and technological sciences do not supersede ethical, moral or theological truth.
Fr. John reminisces with Fr. Mike on an experience he had hiking Little Bear Peak, one of the most challenging 14ers in Colorado. This experience along with many others has inspired Fr. John to write a book this summer giving the perspective of how a person can rebuild a Christian worldview and rediscover God and themselves in the backcountry.
Inspired by David Attenborough's animal documentaries, Fr. Mike muses with Dcn. Jacob about how cultures, nations, and families use animals to represent their core ideals. Ultimately they discuss how the Lamb is a symbol of the Christian.
This week's episode is inspired by Fr. John's recent feat of completing the Grand Traverse. Fr. John uses J.R.R Tolkien's essay, Leaf by Niggle, to share a beautiful reflection with Fr. Sean on his experience of the Grand Traverse.
This week's topic is inspired by the writings of political philosopher, Augusto Del Noce. Fr. John & Dcn. Jacob discuss the dangers and consequences that are a result of living in a culture that has mistaken authority for power.
In wake of the recent death of Fr. Mike's grandmother, Fr. Mike and Fr. Sean discuss grieving the passing of our loved ones.
Fr. Sean presents the liturgies of the Paschal Triduum and Dcn. Jacob keeps trying to derail him by talking about the joy of the resurrection.
In this episode, Fr. Mike and Fr. John offer a unique perspective on contemplating Jesus as He enters His Passion.
Fr. Mike & Deacon Jacob talk about life lessons learned on their annual hut trip, putting trust in God, and the necessity of perseverance in the life of a Christian.
Fr. John and Fr. Sean discuss the importance of making room for silence in our lives and homes, forcing us to reflect on our life and aiding us to see the face of God.
Fr. John & Deacon Jaacob discuss three of Christopher Nolan's films, Inception, Interstellar and Tenet and present the good that can be gleaned from secular art viewed from a Christian perspective.
This week Fr. Mike and Fr. Sean continue the conversation on lent. They discuss the ways in which our penances and fasting can contribute to fighting the war against evil and ultimately benefiting the world as a whole.
Fr. Sean is joined by recently ordained Deacon Jacob in this week's podcast. The two discuss how to enter into lent and the scripture readings that we will read throughout the liturgical season of lent.
Fr. John and Fr. Mike are joined by The Most Reverend Bishop Andrew Cozzens, the Bishop of the Diocese of Crookston, Minnesota. Bishop Cozzens also serves as the chairman of the National Eucharistic Revival. Our special guest and the hosts discuss the three-year initiative and the mission of renewing the Church's encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist.
For more information on the National Eucharistic Revival visit: https://www.eucharisticrevival.org
Fr. Mike and soon to be Dcn. Jacob, discuss the little known and oft forgotten Deacon Epaphras who served the Colossians. Fr. Mike invites Jacob to take the description St. Paul gives of Epaphras as the model for his diaconal ministry.
Fr. John and Fr. Sean discuss the importance of reading classical literature, the impact that can have on our thoughts and how God reveals himself through narrative.
Fr. John and Jacob use the writings of CS Lewis and St. Augustine to discuss the true relationship between love and worship.
This week's topic is inspired by Pope Francis' Motu Proprio, "APERUIT ILLIS" from 2019. Fr. Mike and Fr. Sean discuss how to make the Bible a part of your life and the importance of finding a love for scripture.
In this episode, Fr. Sean and Jacob discuss a parent's important role in creating a religious environment and culture at home to foster their child's desire to live out the Christian life, ultimately leading them toward their vocation.
Fr. Mike and Fr. John circle back on the life of Pope Benedict and discuss the Catholic view on atonement.
In this week's discussion, Fr. Mike and Jacob discuss Mary, Mother of God and the recent passing of Pope Benedict and striving for virtue in this upcoming year.
In light of the Companions 15th Anniversary, Father Sean and Father John discuss the rule of the companions, specifically the importance of laboring in the field together and the necessity of community in the Christian life.
In the chaos and busyness that comes with this time of the year, Fr. John and Jacob discuss the true meaning of rest, the importance of knowing our limitations and how to receive rest from God.
A virgin without stain or blemish, what does that actually look like? Tune in to this week's episode to listen to Fr. Sean and Fr. Mike's deep dive on the Immaculate Mary.
Fr. John & Fr. Mike discuss examples throughout history where goodness triumphs over evil.
Fr. Mike & Jacob discuss the penitential season of Advent and practicing gratitude throughout the liturgical season.
Fr. Sean and Fr. John welcome their friend Fr. Eric Gilbaugh from Helena, Montana in an extended discussion on the purpose of the reforms of the Second Vatican Council, the "big five" issues in liturgy today, and lastly, propose a vision of the liturgical ideal of the Church today.
In this episode, Jacob and Fr. John discuss the topic of the personal narrative of our lives, in light of God's greater story.
In this week's episode, Fr. Mike & Jacob take a deep dive into the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
In this episode, Father Sean and Jacob discuss that a pilgrimage isn't so much about the destination, rather about the transformation along the way.
This week's episode, features all four of the CSYSK hosts and special guest, Fr. Timothy Danaher, aka “the most interesting man in the world” or “the man behind the curtain”.
In this week's episode, Fr. John & Fr. Sean discuss Luigi Giussani's addresses, "To Give One's Life for the Work of Another" and his idea of the "Five Withouts".
Fr. John and Jacob discuss how Christ is the key to interpreting reality and the necessity of seeking meaningfulness in all things.
You asked and we answered. All four hosts kick off fall by taking on a list of your questions.
What was the topic anyway?
Fr. Mike & Jacob discuss ecumenism, Mother Theresa and the Bible.
In this week’s episode, Father John & Jacob discuss the paradox of living a life hidden in Christ while living in the world as a Christian.
How many Popes can fit in a nursing home?
Fr. Sean & Fr. Mike discuss the question, “Does the Pope ever phase out of fulfilling the role of Pope?”.