The Foxhole with Father Kapaun: Recent Episodes
Kapaun's Men
A podcast for those fighting on the frontlines of faith.
Inspired by Servant of God Emil Kapaun, heroic Catholic Priest and Medal of Honor Army Chaplain, we offer encouragement for your pursuit of virtue by connecting you with people all over the world who are living the Gospel in simple yet extraordinary ways. The battle for souls rages around us; we're here to offer you inspiration and strength.
Never heard of Father Kapaun? Check out our website to learn more about this future saint!
Produced by Kapaun's Men. Photo: Chaplain Kapaun (right) assists a soldier during the Korean War, 1950.
Today is the culmination of years of waiting: Father Kapaun is home, and his funeral Mass will be a historic event. Watch it live or find it later at https://www.youtube.com/user/dioceseofwichita.
The Kapaun family and a delegation from Wichita are on their way to Hawaii to receive Father Kapaun's remains and accompany them back to Wichita. We're joined in this episode by Scott Carter, Coordinator of Father Kapaun's Cause, who shares the exciting events that will happen in Hawaii, as well as what to look for at Father Kapaun's vigil, funeral and procession.
Watch the events unfold at www.KapaunComesHome.com or on Facebook and Instagram.
Tim Frank has been an historian at Arlington National Cemetery since January 2015 and is responsible for maintaining the Arlington National Cemetery research collection, briefing visiting dignitaries on ANC history and conducting end of tour and career interviews with civilian and military personnel. He joins Joe Farris in the Foxhole to talk about the United States’ history of honoring the fallen, as well as sharing the history of the unknown soldier and some of his favorite Medal of Honor recipients alongside Father Kapaun.
This episode is part of our ongoing Father Kapaun Comes Home Series, leading up to the return of his remains and his Mass of Christian Burial at the end of September. To learn more, visit KapaunComesHome.com.
The Chairman of Kapaun’s Men joins us in the hot seat for this episode of The Foxhole, and he continues the great conversation about Father Kapaun’s homecoming. Listen to hear about friendship with the saints and why Jason thinks this moment is such a momentous one for the Church in the US.
This episode is part of our ongoing Father Kapaun Comes Home Series, leading up to the return of his remains and his Mass of Christian Burial at the end of September. To learn more, visit KapaunComesHome.com.
It’s the most impactful article ever written about Father Emil Kapaun, but it’s likely you’ve never encountered it. Featured in the Saturday Evening Post, an enormously popular magazine, the article is told from the perspective of Lt. Mike Dowe, who met Chaplain Kapaun on a march to a North Korean Prisoner of War Camp. The story is narrated in excellent fashion by Father Matt Pawlikowski, a Foxhole veteran and friend of Mike Dowe. Get ready for an absolute treat, and share this episode with a friend.
This episode is part of our ongoing Father Kapaun Comes Home Series, leading up to the return of his remains and his Mass of Christian Burial at the end of September. To learn more, visit KapaunComesHome.com.
Joe Farris is joined today by Joe Dellasega, whose life has become very intertwined with Father Kapaun's. Joe shares about the origins of Kapaun’s Men, how Father Kapaun’s miraculous intercession in his son’s life changed his perspective, and why Father Kapaun’s homecoming is such a powerful thing no matter where we live.
Learn more about this year’s Kapaun’s Men Retreat at www.kapaunsmen.com
We say it every Sunday in the Creed, but sometimes it takes a tangible reminder to let it sink in: our bodies are destined for resurrection. We’re joined in The Foxhole today by the chaplain of Kapaun’s Men, Father John Lanzrath, to share his insights into the spiritual meaning of Father Kapaun’s remains returning home and what relics mean in the Church.
The first episode in our Father Kapaun Comes Home Series, where we will be highlighting Father Kapaun’s story and preparing for the return of his remains at the end of September. Jack Korbel is a singer-songwriter who has long had a love of Father Kapaun, but who was so moved by the news of Father Kapaun’s remains being found that he put his talents to work writing a song in his honor. In this episode let Jack- and his song- get you ready for Father Kapaun’s body to come home.
You can also listen to "When They Bring Your Body Home" on most streaming services and here on YouTube.
It's Joe's 50th Birthday today, and he's joined in The Foxhole by a guest who is very dear to him: his wife. Ashley Farris talks about their story and why she's so grateful for Father Kapaun's example in her husband's life.
Make a donation in honor of Joe's birthday: https://give.catholicdioceseofwichita.org/pages/fr-kapaun/donate-now or click "Donate" at frkapaun.org.
Don’t miss the moments where God is at work in your life. Joe Farris speaks with musician Mikey Needleman about the terrors of going full time with his band right as the pandemic struck, but how he kept his faith and adapted. He also shares about family life and his faith journey.
Check him out at www.mnband.com
Joe is joined by Laura Camacho, corporate strategist and consultant, who gets straight to the point: communication is at the heart of our relationships, our work and our Catholic life, and we need courage to do it well. So listen up and then speak up!
Trust, fraternity, prayer, joy. Father Mark-Mary Ames, a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal, gets to the heart of all these things in today’s episode. If you’ve ever had the chance to meet one of these brothers, you know that there’s something special about them, and Father Mark-Mary has a ton of spiritual advice and joy to share with you, so make sure you don’t miss this episode!
A former history teacher of the year, Joe Hughes joins Joe Farris in The Foxhole to talk about making an impact on young people and why history is so important to all of us. And being very knowledgeable about the Korean War, shares his thoughts about Father Kapaun.
Joe is joined in The Foxhole by John Christensen of Loyola Press, who bucks the appearances and gets real about the challenges of middle age, including not feeling like he has everything in order. Joe and John talk about faith, going through life with others, and about simplifying so that we can see God more clearly.
Do we go through life fighting the things that make us uncomfortable, or do we trust in God's plans for us? Joe interviews Katherine Plucinsky, a young Catholic author who shares her experience with grief and learning to open her hands to God's love and healing.
Visit her website and find her book "High Tides & Open Hands" at https://www.katherineplucinsky.com/
Charlie Sloan is the Director of Development & Stewardship at Diocese of St. Augustine, Florida. He joins us in The Foxhole to talk Father Kapaun, the saints, and living the faith as a layman who is faithful to the Church.
Father Joel Haug of the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas has thought a lot about the message he will give as a priest. He joins us in The Foxhole to discuss repentance and forgiveness, surrender to God's will, and of course, the Father's joy.
Find the Surrender Novena at: https://catholicexchange.com/the-surrender-novena-let-jesus-take-care-of-everything
Listen to more of Fr. Joel at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-fathers-joy/id1558873780
Joe catches up with his friend Jackie Angel in this episode, and they discuss whether or not their spouses would advocate their cause for sainthood. Then Joe challenges Jackie to identify the troubles facing the Church today, but without using all the current Catholic buzzwords. Finally, Jackie gets real and talks to us directly as men in a powerful challenge.
Thanks for listening!
He has the best 45 seconds in college basketball history. He played around the world for the Harlem Globetrotters. He impressed Pope Francis.
Anthony Atkinson is a stud, but what is most precious to him is his faith. Joe Farris interviews Anthony about how Jesus has been a part of his life during all these events, but also why he gave it all up to coach at the high school he graduated from. It's a conversation that will give you gratitude, confidence and a new outlook on life.
Check out the best 45 seconds in college basketball history here: https://youtu.be/0WzmQmz9Kdc
"I said, okay, let's go after the athletic world."
Thomas Wurtz has a love for sports and a love for Christ. He brings the two together with Varsity Catholic, a division of FOCUS that seeks to engage and evangelize college athletes, and through them influence the world. Thomas shares some great stories from Catholic athletes, but also powerful advice for how we as men and fathers can pursue freedom and live our faith in an influential way.
Check out his book "Pursuing Freedom: Becoming the Man You Can Be" https://www.amazon.com/Pursuing-Freedom-Becoming-Man-Could/dp/1681923483
What’s at the heart of your parish? Of the liturgy? Of all the programs and activities that go on? Author and Speaker Tim Glemkowski joins us in The Foxhole to help us get back to the basics. Jesus founded the Church to form us into disciples and then to send us out to invite others into that same discipleship. We are made for mission, but do we live it?
Check out Tim’s book, Made for Mission: Renewing Your Parish Culture
https://www.amazon.com/Made-Mission-Renewing-Parish-Culture/dp/1681924587
Father Eric Weldon, pastor of Sacred Hearth Church, in Colwich, KS is the founder of the annual "Father Kapaun Walk". This journey starts in Wichita, and progresses on foot for over 60 miles, to Father Kapaun's home town of Pilsen, KS. Over the last decade, thousands of pilgrims have walked the 4 day journey, with hundreds making the pilgrimage each year. Learn the inspiration and origins of the pilgrimage, and how sacred, and sacrificial acts can bring you closer to our Lord. Father Eric shares a very similar back ground to our podcast's name sake, having served in the US Army, as well as being a brother priest to Fr. Kapaun. He also talks about the significance of the recent news regarding finding Fr. Kapaun, and how this year a record number of pilgrims is expected to lace up their shoes to join on this holy journey.
Fr. Chad Arnold is the vocations director for the Catholic Diocese of Wichita. His own vocation story is one that teaches us how to never let a moment go by unnoticed, and to always invite God into our story. While some moments in our journey are heart wrenching, and others are beautiful, intentionally sanctifying moments by acknowledging and thanking God, is a calling we all need to respond to.
We met Dr. J while on the Father Kapaun Pilgrimage- and once you meet him, you can't forget. This week we talk to Dr. John Crotty about his joyful witness to Christ and his spirit of encouragement that he shares with the people around him. Join us for this joyful episode!
He was an Air Force test pilot and a NASA astronaut. He piloted the space shuttle Endeavor and commanded the Atlantis. He’s seen views that few people are privileged to ever see, and he has received the Eucharist in space. In his own words, he has been blessed.
General Kevin Chilton is a retired 4-Star General who joins us in The Foxhole to talk about all of these things through the perspective of faith. You’ll hear about General Chilton’s trips to space, but also some great advice on leadership, and even a bit about marriage. Strap in and get ready for the episode that’s out of this world.
Whenever the heart of the Church speaks, we as men ought to be listening!
From faith to vocations, from understanding women to our role as men, Dominican Sister Anne Catherine is here to share her joyful wisdom with us and to encourage us to embrace our vocation as men.
We end our Lenten series in The Foxhole by recognizing that the battle isn't over, yet we are still called to celebrate the triumph of Christ in the Resurrection. Bishop Kevin Rhoades of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend joins us to plot the path to victory from the Passion and Death of Jesus to his glorious Resurrection and victory over sin and death. He helps us understand how to live united with our victor and move forward as a community of the redeemed.
A big thank you to all who have joined us on this journey of Lent, and stay tuned for more great things to come, including more guests and improved audio quality.
Servant of God Emil Kapaun, pray for us!
Should we be shocked that the Church and followers of Christ are misunderstood and under attack? St. Peter, and even Jesus himself, tell us that this is part of what it means to be Christian.
As we approach Holy Week and the Passion, Father Curtis Hecker, chaplain at Kapaun-Mt. Carmel High School in Wichita, helps prepare us for this great battle. In order to help the Church, we don't need power or influence. Instead, we must be able to see our target clearly and continue to do the small things well- and with joy. If we do that, we'll be able to keep the darkness at bay.
Father Kapaun's remains have been identified! Okay, you've probably already heard about this, but we're still ecstatic about the news. In this bonus episode we talk with Father Kapaun's nephew Ray Kapaun, as well as Father John Hotze, the Episcopal Delegate for Father Kapaun's Cause for Sainthood about the great news. How did Father Kapaun's body get to Hawaii? How did Ray and Father John take hearing the news? And what impact does this have on Father Kapaun's Cause for Sainthood? Listen and find out! Learn more about Father Kapaun and access our great video content at www.kapaunsmen.com.
It's the solemnity of St. Joseph (March 19th), and we're talking the Battle for Families with Bishop Carl Kemme of the Diocese of Wichita. Even before Pope Francis did it for the whole Church, Bishop Kemme declared a Year of St. Joseph for the Diocese of Wichita to help guide us as a Church, clergy and especially as fathers and families. He joins us to talk about this, the hope that he sees for families, and and why treating Sundays as sacred is such a game changer.
Weekly Challenge: Make this upcoming Lord's Day holy.
Prayer to St. Joseph, Terror of Demons:
Saint Joseph, Terror of Demons, cast your solemn gaze upon the devil and all his minions, and protect us with your mighty staff. You fled through the night to avoid the devil’s wicked designs; now with the power of God, smite the demons as they flee from you! Grant special protection, we pray, for children, fathers, families, for priests and religious and the dying. By God’s grace, no demon dares approach while you are near, so we beg of you, always be near to us! Amen.
There's a battle that's fought in all of our hearts, a battle between light and darkness. Father John Lanzrath of the Diocese of Wichita joins us to discuss this battle, and how the evil one tries to conquer us by using the weapons of fear and despair. But Jesus's suffering and resurrection give us hope that we will win this fight.
It's the father of lies, the prince of darkness versus Jesus, who is the way the truth and the life, and the light that dispels the darkness in this episode of The Battle.
Challenge: Pray with Psalm 119 and see what the Lord wants you to bring to his light.
Father Stephen is a former West Point Grad and Artillery Officer in the US Army. He's now a Catholic Priest, and he joins us today to talk about Jesus' cleansing of the Temple and to encourage us embrace a life of virtue and balance so we can pursue the Lord with an undivided heart.
"If God is at the center of your life, everything else falls into proper place around that; He’ll perfectly balance you out."
Weekly Challenge: Recall your "why" from Ash Wednesday, and identify what in your life is keeping you from that why. Make the changes needed to help you reach your goal.
Prayer to St. Michael:St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen.
The evil one hates communion and harmony. He wants to divide, and the thing he wants to divide most is the vowed union of marriage. But God is on our side, and he gives us the weapons to fight for our spouses and the good of society.
Father Daniel Scheidt, Pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is the perfect person to lead us in the Battle for Marriage, having studied at the John Paul II Institute for Marriage and the Family in Washington, DC, as well as having much practical wisdom from his own family and the inspiring men and women he has served as a shepherd of souls. This is an episode you'll want to listen to over and over again to soak in Father Daniel's great insights.
"The evil one is incapable of emerging from himself: he is totally self-absorbed. Marriage reverses that. Marriage is being taken out of one self for the other person. And of course the paradox is the more I allow my life to be given as a gift the more myself I become."
Weekly Challenge:Continue to say the Prayer to St. Michael
Think and pray about one way you and your spouse can grow closer together, talk about it, and put a plan into place to do it.
Jesus went into the desert and faced temptation. The devil attacked his identity. As long as we're in the Battle, the same will be true for us.
Father Royce Gregerson from Rekindle the Fire leads us in a meditation on this mystery and how we too can listen to the voice of God over the voice of the enemy.
This is part 2 of our Lenten series called "The Battle". If you missed week 1, listen to Father David Lies lay the stage for the spiritual battle we're in.
Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel:St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen.
We at Kapaun's Men are teaming up with the men of Rekindle the Fire in the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend for an 8-week Lenten Podcast Series called "The Battle". The devil wants to attack our identity as men, fathers, husbands and friends. Lent is the perfect time to embrace the tools the Church offers to help us draw closer to God.
Father David Lies of the Diocese of Wichita joins us today to describe the spiritual battle that has been taking place for millennia. There is no neutral place to hide away, no spiritual Switzerland. The enemy is real, and Father David helps identify him and point out his tactics, but also gives us the weapons that God has given us to fight on the side of grace. The lines are drawn; which side will you fight on?
To join us in The Battle:
- Listen to this podcast these 8 weeks
- Complete the weekly challenge
- Pray the Prayer to St. Michael daily for yourself and everyone else joining in the spiritual battle
"We want our students to live the mission while they’re here, but the reason we want them to do it is so they will live the mission after they leave."
Steve Minnis had a successful law career before putting it aside to serve as President of Benedictine College, a Catholic school in Atchison, Kansas. Thanks to some hard work and incredible intercession from Mother Mary, whom he is convinced watches over the college, Benedictine has become one of the best Catholic Colleges in the country, both academically and more importantly in Catholic identity. Hear some amazing stories of Mary's aid, President Minnis' thoughts about living the faith in our daily lives, and his thoughts about preparing for the end of the Covid crisis. This is an episode not to miss!
Don't forget, our Lenten Series "The Battle" begins next week. Subscribe to participate!
The Memorare:
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me.
Amen.
Viruses aren't the only things that are contagious: courage is too. Plus, a tournament of saints?
Father Drew Hoffman is an associate chaplain at St. Isidore's Catholic Student Center and Kansas State University. In this episode he shares with us his great love for the saints (and the 64-saint knockout tournament bracket he and some friends put together) as well as his ministry on a college campus. He loves Father Kapaun, he loves basketball, he loves his students, and he loves seeing the ripple effects of courage on other people.
Download the Saint Bracket and determine who you think was the most influential saint in history!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1s6jPqgkdDXG6qyb48WDUh9OzRarm8doU/view?usp=sharing
"I was walking up these steps, but I fell flat on my face. And when I looked up I realized I was on the property of St. Peter in Chains Cathedral. And when I realized I was on the grounds of the Catholic Church and I had fallen, I broke down in front of all my friends. That was actually the turning point where I said, I’ve had enough, I can’t let this control me anymore. I have to live for him."
David Patterson of Yes Catholic shares his powerful testimony of his own "Yes" to God, and the struggle to overcome sin and live that yes. It's an affirming reminder of God's love and dedication to us, and that although our response isn't always perfect or smooth, God writes straight out of crooked lines.
Now he has a ministry to share other people's stories.
Give David a listen and check out his ministry at YesCatholic.com and at Instagram @Yes.Catholic
Joe sits down with Scott Carter, Coordinator for Father Kapaun's Cause and of Kapaun's Men, to talk about his own faith, what motivates him about Father Kapaun's life and promoting his cause, and even challenges Scott with a surprise question about married life. Then Jason realizes how much he appreciates Scott's role of finishing out the podcast.
Follow the Father Kapaun Guild and Kapaun's Men:
Father Kapaun Guild:
www.fatherkapaun.org
https://www.facebook.com/fatherkapaun (Father Emil Kapaun Cause for Sainthood)
https://www.instagram.com/fr.kapaun/ (fr.kapaun)
Kapaun's Men:
https://www.kapaunsmen.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KapaunsMen
https://www.instagram.com/kapaunsmen/
Dr. Joshua Miller has spent his life developing ways to help people discover their unique personal call by God. He's a co-developer of not only an institute at the Franciscan University of Steubenville to help young people cultivate their vocations, but also of a highly-successful program to help businesses identify and maximize their employees' inner motivation. Dr. Miller joins us in The Foxhole to shed some light on recognizing the unique ways that God made us and helping others do the same.
For more, check out www.inscapevocations.com and www.motivationcode.com
"From holy conversations, God does magnificent things, and he does them with ordinary people." - Joe F
In this episode we take a moment to look back at the blessings of 2020 through the lens of our guests on The Foxhole. Yes, you heard that right, 2020 was filled with blessings- even if in a different form than we usually think of. Jason, Joe, Nick and Scott dig into the year's episodes and share their highlights of the year and how they've been inspired through this work.
What impacted you this year? We want to hear about it! Follow this link for a short 3-question feedback about The Foxhole.https://form.jotform.com/203634200663143
Fr. Isaac Coulter leads an excellent meditation on the wonder of Christmas, the reason why we as Christians can take hold of hope, and how we can respond like St. Joseph with "courageous creativity". Get ready for a profound entry into the miracle of God becoming man, and a lesson on how to recognize God's Presence in our daily lives this coming year. Don't let this opportunity go by to reignite your sense of wonder at the Father's goodness to us.
"I hope we never grow out of the wonder that the kids have at Christmas."
"The only thing that’s going to make your marriage alive, your job alive, is the awareness of this Presence that changes everything."
What's one of the best kept secrets in the Church? That we're not only Roman Catholic, but a Communion of Churches under the Pope! Bishop Gregory Mansour of the Eparchy of St. Maron in Brooklyn, NY (listen to find out what the word eparchy means), joins us to discuss the Church from the Maronite view.
Bishop Gregory shares what Advent means to his Church, why Holy Saturday is such an important spiritual focus, the reason for his hope for the Church, and what we can do as Catholic men to become better servant leaders. Plus you might learn something about Joe Farris that you didn't know.
Learn more about Bishop Gregory at www.StMaron.org and read his Pastoral Letter directed to men at https://www.stmaron.org/pastoral-letter-on-man-and-woman
The thoughtful and well-spoken Searl twins join us for an insightful episode about how we can make an impact on the lives of our children and become saints ourselves. From the importance of witness and accompaniment to the power of suffering and intention; from the joys of the Father Kapaun Walk to the struggles that young women face, they have loads of great nuggets of wisdom for us.
The world tells us to go the easiest route. These twins are here to remind us that heaven is our goal.
Haley's story is one not only of overcoming the odds, but of the power of prayer and love of a faith community. What began as a tragedy on the way back from a college swim meet became a remarkable true story of how God led Haley into the Catholic Church and how He continues to lead her on her pilgrimage of life.
Haley joins us in The Foxhole to discuss this life-changing moment and the ways that she tries to use it to encourage others on their own journeys.
"It didn’t matter if I never walked again. It didn’t matter if I didn’t swim again. It didn’t matter that I had only been on campus 5 months as a student- I was a part of this family, and I was a part of this community of faith. Whatever it was going to be, I was going to be okay because I was a part of that community."
Check out Haley's Book, What Though the Odds, and more at www.HaleyBook.com
Randy Raus is the President and CEO of Life Teen, an international ministry dedicated to leading teens closer to Christ. He joins us to share his own journey to the faith, which involves a wonderful story of someone challenging him to a deeper encounter with God. Randy shares his years of wisdom of connecting with teens and leading them to Christ, as well as the mindset we should have as husbands to really help our marriages flourish.
"We as a Church need to let people know that they still matter, that they really are important....Relationships don’t cost a lot of Church budgets."
www.lifeteen.com
You've probably heard of it: cold showers for 90 days, no alcohol, no TV. But did you know that over 30,000 men have already started their path to freedom through Exodus 90?
This episode we're joined by Nathaniel Binversie, Director of Mission at Exodus 90. Many Kapaun's Men have already participated in this life-changing exercise, and it's how Joe Farris wants to begin his 2021. Even if you're not called to participate this round, the principles that Exodus 90 espouses are key to living a full life as a Catholic man.
"If we’re not living prayer, if we’re not living asceticism, if we’re not living fraternity, we’re simply not living the life that God literally became Incarnate to model for us."
The next Exodus begins January 4th. Learn more at www.exodus90.com
Bishop Spencer, a retired Chaplain and Colonel in the US Army served those who serve us in the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA,joins us on this special Veteran's Day episode in the Foxhole.His duties took him all the world, and he graciously takes our listeners along a journey to better understand the ministry of the Archdiocese, and he reveals his personal story that weaves in brushes with danger, and encounters with Fr. Emil Kapaun, as their common service to others unfolded. Bishop's remarkable story is a can't miss tribute to not only those who serve us in uniform, but to all of those who serve these very brave men and women.
Chris Benzinger spent years training missionaries. Now he helps parishes become launching pads for mission and evangelization. He's a man with incredible wisdom and dedication to others, and he joins us in The Foxhole to discuss the power of engaging in our neighbor's stories as well as transforming parish culture.
"Great community is not communal events. Great community comes from a group of people that love one another on a person to person basis."
Chris and his wife Michelle Benzinger (of the Abiding Together Podcast) are doing the pivotal work of growing missionary disciples. Check them out at www.greenhousecollective.org.
No, we're not talking about something from Downton Abbey. We're talking about real men who have both strength and compassion. We're talking about men as God created us to be.
Sam Guzman, founder of The Catholic Gentleman, joins us to talk about his path to the Catholic faith, how we can lead our children to embrace the faith, and of course striving to become a Catholic gentleman. Be a man, be a saint!
Find Sam at www.catholicgentleman.net
Join us in praying the Father Kapaun Novena Nov 2-10 or whenever you listen to the podcast!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LtDbIr9NI4j-BYts18JXTIBqClKrhZUy/view?usp=sharing
Is business inherently selfish? Is it a profession that requires you to atone for it like a sin? Or instead, is it possible to approach business in a way that glorifies God and benefits both us and the world?
Dr. Jim Otteson, a business ethics professor at the University of Notre Dame, has thought a lot about these questions and shares with us a refreshing take on the ethics of enterprise. Taking into account the dignity of all human beings, honorable business is actually one of the best ways we can use our God-given gifts well and spread the joy of the Gospel.
Hear and read more from Dr. Otteson at https://jamesotteson.com/ and listen to his TED Talk at: https://youtu.be/eiJh0h79K-8
Colonel Douglas Thomas is using his faith and six principles to aggressively push back against a foe that does not wear a uniform. His battle against cancer has been supported by his family, faith and spiritual director who are helping him to continue to engage to be fully alive despite his illness. He relies on his following six principles to maintain strength in his fight.
- Be Aggressive
- Keep It Simple Stupid
- Moral Courage
- Attitude
- Family
- Have Fun
In his own words, Tyler Blanski went from a granola-crunching spiritualist to embracing whole-heartedly the Catholic faith- and his vocation as a Catholic father. Embracing his vocation was freeing, but it wasn't easy, and that's why Tyler started Fight for Milk, a resource that seeks to connect, encourage and build up fathers in all aspects of their lives. And yes, he loves the movie Cinderella Man.
"Fatherhood is an all-encompassing vocation. It’s so much bigger than parenthood. Fatherhood means you have to be a breadwinner, a spiritual leader; it means you have to step up and be a better husband. Fatherhood is a vocation that encompasses all of life."
Check out his great resources at www.fightformilk.com.
This is a story of Father Kapaun's intercession.
Ten years ago Nick Dellasega was 26, a former athlete in great shape, running a 5k race, when suddenly his heart stopped and he collapsed a few hundred feet from the finish line. His uncle applied CPR and shocked him with a defibrillator, but nothing happened; Nick had the look of someone who was dead.
But his cousin Jonah, who was also running the race, knelt down on the pavement and said a desperate but trusting prayer to Father Kapaun: heal Nick, and quickly. His prayer was heard, and Nick revived, much to the amazement of doctors and paramedics. Nick shares his miracle story on this episode of The Foxhole and just how much that fateful day has impacted his life.
"I don’t think a lot of 26 year olds get to have an experience where they’re faced with death... It’s something I’ve pondered, and I really want to make sure I’m living consistent with how I want to die."
Nick's prayer at the end of the episode:
Gracious God,
Thank you for the gift of today.
Refresh me. Invite me to discover your presence
In each person that I meet
And every event that I encounter.
Teach me when to speak and when to listen
When to ponder and when to share.
In moments of challenge and decision
Attune my heart to the whisperings of your Wisdom.
As I undertake ordinary and unnoticed tasks,
Gift me with simple joy.
When my day goes well, may I rejoice.
When it grows difficult, surprise me with
New possibilities.
When life is overwhelming, call me to
Sabbath moments
To restore your Peace and Harmony.
May my living today reveal your Goodness.
The Church needs both men and women to be at their best for her mission to succeed, but what if we're trying too hard to be something we don't have to? That's where Liz and Janine come in. They've created Project Light Ministries as a way to speak God's truth to what it means to be a Christian man or woman, and it's had powerful effects. Their first film, Speaking to Sparrows, has touched the hearts of women across the country, and their newest project, The Fourth Man, is set to release on September 29th. It will seek to counter the work of our current culture that tries to distort and even uproot masculinity. Instead, it will show us that authentic, heroic Christian masculinity is possible.
How did two women end up producing a film for men? They followed the breadcrumbs...
Check out The Fourth Man at https://www.projectlightministries.com/the-fourth-man
For a great resource to connect with the women in your life, watch Speaking to Sparrows at https://www.projectlightministries.com/speaking-to-sparrows
"You see these beautiful sceneries that God has created- you’ve gotta believe that anything is possible."
Tim Knittig has been influenced by a lot of saints in his life. Benedictines, Dominicans, St. John the Baptist, and many more. He joins us in the Foxhole to talk about building a new Catholic High School in the Houston area, putting a bell tower on top of a mountain, and finding God outdoors.
Plus he compares Father Kapaun to Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, whose name Joe struggles to pronounce.
"Both of these men knew the meaning of eternal life, and that serving others to get to this eternal resting place, was really the goal, and to help others get to heaven."
Major General Pat Brady flew over 2500 combat missions as a "Dust Off" air ambulance pilot in Vietnam. With his crew he rescued over 5000 men. Recognized with the Medal of Honor for his bravery at the risk of his own life, he is one of our nation's heroes. He's also a devout Catholic.
We're honored to feature General Brady in this episode, where he discusses how his faith guided him on the battlefield, finding meaning in life after an exciting career in the military, and why he thinks courage is one of the most important virtues we can foster.
Many thanks to General Brady and all those who have put their life on the line at the service of our nation.
To learn more about General Brady's foundation or to make a donation, visit https://generalpatbradyfoundation.org/
General Brady is on the Board of the Medal of Honor Museum Foundation, check it their great plans here: https://mohmuseum.org/
"Get me my weapon. Get me my rosary."
Adam Wright is the host of Roadmap to Heaven, a Catholic Radio show based in St. Louis. He's passionate about the faith and passionate about becoming a saint, and he has some great wisdom to share with us as men.
In this episode he covers a range of topics, such as the attack on the statue of St. Louis, why he loves Father Kapaun, setting himself up for success in family life, and why he keeps a bag of hairbrushes at the ready in his bedroom.
Don't miss this modern day apostle of joy.
Link to Adam's show: Roadmap to Heaven
We're joined in The Foxhole by Dave Kelly, a cancer survivor who tells us about devastating news, a simple prayer, and an amazed doctor.
Oh, and why do brown bears eat yellow flowers? Dave will answer that question too.
Father Nathaniel Haslam had great ambitions of becoming a multi-billion dollar CEO when younger, but God had different ideas. Now as a priest he is a spiritual director to many men and women in the business world. He joins us in the Foxhole to share some thoughts on identity, balance and mission in the business world, and ultimately our supreme joy.
"What should define you as a businessperson is God’s love for you: I am loved, infinitely valuable, treasured, a son or daughter of the Father, always wanted by the Lord, and always meaningful to the Lord."
“Often we see people like Father Kapaun and we wonder, ‘How can I ever measure up?’ But it doesn't require that. Simple acts of kindness can have extraordinary effects on people’s lives."
Although he is a retired Vice Admiral and Judge Advocate General of the US Navy, Jim Crawford defines his life by service to others. He joins us in the Foxhole to talk about Father Kapaun and the people who had a great impact on his life, including his father, a speech from Martin Luther King, Jr., and the religious sisters that ran his school.
Listen to hear how you too can have a life of richness and vibrancy, no matter who you are.
Like St. Ignatius or St. Francis, Fr. Steven Rindahl went from a soldier who yearned for battle to a soldier of God in the battle for souls. Hear his story and his work to help combat veterans heal by walking the Camingo de Santiago. Warriors on the Way averages an incredible 70% reduction in PTSD symptoms for those who walk by helping them through religion and psychology to lay their burdens at the foot of the cross- something we all can learn to do.
Listen to the podcast, then check out the great organization at www.WarriorsontheWay.org
"The great commission, this mission of the Church, is still in its infancy. Jesus leaves the Church with one thing: the great commission, to go and make disciples."
There are 7 billion people in the world, and only 2 billion of them are Christian. Like it or not, Jesus has given each of us a mission to share his good news with others and make disciples. Joseph Miller comes from a family who has dedicated their lives to fulfilling their part of the great commission. He shares some stories about mission work around the world, including places where evangelization and conversion are illegal, but also gives some pointers about how we can evangelize in our own neighborhoods and workplaces.
Will you go all in for Jesus?
Check out www.FamilyMissionsCompany.com for more of their great work, and stay tuned for Into the Deep, coming in September.
Father John Hotze is the Episcopal Delegate for Father Kapaun's Cause for Beatification and Canonization, which is a fancy way of saying that he was responsible for conducting all the official research used for his cause for sainthood. If anyone knows Father Kapaun it's him. In this interview, Joe Farris and Father Hotze explore Kapaun's story and the impact he had on the world. Who is Father Kapaun? What motivated him? What can we learn from his life? Find out in this episode!
Also, check out the Father Kapaun Guild for more about Kapaun's Cause, and watch Kapaun's Men's documentary on Father Kapaun's life, featuring two of Kapaun's fellow POWs as well as his Medal of Honor Ceremony.
From retro video games to the original Mardi Gras to excellence in the liturgy to hidden acts of charity, Fr. Stephen Vrazel of the Archdiocese of Mobile covers a little bit of everything, including a powerful conversion moment in his life by St. Michael the Archangel. Ain't no one like God!
Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel
Consecration to St. Michael the Archangel
In this episode we get to hear more from Kapaun's Men Chair Jason Searl, who shares a little more about his background, how the Lord led him to Kapaun's Men, and how St. Ignatius, Father Kapaun and a quote from Thomas Merton shape his outlook on life. He also shares his thoughts on the mission of Kapaun's Men.
"Success at Kapaun's Men is asking: are we checking in and doing life together? Are we walking with our brothers? Are we calling them when they need our help and when they don't? It's just about doing life together...from a Catholic perspective just walking with one another and making sure we're strengthening one another and helping one another out on our journey."
www.kapaunsmen.com
"My agents were often frustrated with me, 'Billy, you’re just acting.', but my response was 'Yeah, but these are gifts of mine and if I use them for things that are not healthy, that’s what I’ll be remembered for, that’s what my children someday will see.'"
Billy Hartung is a vibrant Catholic husband and father who has acted both in Hollywood and on Broadway. In this episode he shares his thoughts on his biggest role, what true character is, and how an attitude of looking for life's blessings opens us up to the working of the Holy Spirit.
"Actors use that word 'character' all the time. Well, Jesus has the greatest character of all time, and if I’m going to spend my time in character analysis, my life is really served in watching his life."
"This may have affected my faith in man, but I won't let it affect my faith in God."
Catholic musician PJ Anderson shares how pilgrimages have shaken up his life in a good way, how he fought bitterness in a terrible job loss by trust in God, and what St. John Paul II told him that trumped any trouble he could get into.
Listen to PJ's music at PJAndersonMusic.com or his pilgrimage company at CiaoRomaTravel.com
"When I stepped into the streets of Rome the energy was incredible- it was like electricity was coming out of my fingertips. It immediately struck me: this occurred on pilgrimage."
Will Peterson's first real recognition of the Holy Spirit came while on pilgrimage, and the experience has inspired him to create a movement to reintroduce people to this innate spiritual practice. In this episode Will tells his story and why Biblical hospitality is the one Christian characteristic that he is dedicating his life to renewing.
"Man instinctually is a wanderer and a wayfarer, and it is second nature for him to go on pilgrimage in search of a privileged and holy place, a center and source of indefectible light." - Thomas Merton
Check out his website at ModernCatholicPilgrim.com or give him a like on Facebook.
"I feel like this next wave that is coming from the Holy Spirit will be a restoration of men."
Joe is joined by Michelle Benzinger, co-host of the popular women's podcast, Abiding Together. Michelle speaks to women all over the country, so her insights into what we can do to become better husbands and fathers is pure gold. Hear her thoughts on accompaniment and being on adventure with your spouse.
Plus, did she or did she not snub Nick Saban at the sign of peace?
"If men get out there and learn how to fight you will win your beloved. The war is already upon us, so get in the battle."
Hear more from Michelle at:
Abiding Together Podcast
Greenhouse Collective
"I've realized being fully alive is a lot more about the work being done in us than the work we're doing. Without realizing it, I had been placing my worth, my identity in what I accomplish. That's a frustrating way to live."
Dom Quaglia is one of the young and upcoming Catholic speakers in the United States today. In our call he shares how Jesus showed him that a life fully alive is possible, how he goes about living that life, and how to get young people invested in the faith. We're not called to be spectators, but to be saints!
www.thetentengroup.com
Dom's Instagram
"The world needs strong, bold, courageous, fearless Catholics. We can be inspired by Father Kapaun. We have the examples, we have the armor, and we have the weapons to get through this life, knowing where we’re going.”
Bishop Joe Coffey is an Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. He recently retired as an active-duty Navy Chaplain after 28 years and currently serves as the Archdiocese's Vicar for Veterans Affairs. In this call he talks about his experience on the Father Kapaun Pilgrimage, serving the combat assault battalion of Marines in Okinawa, and what he would say to us Catholics who are called to mission in our daily lives.
"And so I literally prayed, 'Father Kapaun I’m never going to talk about you to anyone ever again.'"
Chris Stefanick is one of the most popular Catholic speakers in the country, and his video on Servant of God Emil Kapaun has over 1.4 million views, but it almost never happened. In this podcast, Chris shares how sometimes we think things are failures (like his video), but God is really just trying to tell us that he's got it under control. He also shares thoughts about how we can go about winning the head game and emotional game, and how the coronavirus has helped him realize the need for some much needed silence in his life.
Join the founder of Real Life Catholic for some uplifting encouragement from the Foxhole!
Check out Chris' Father Kapaun Video: https://youtu.be/AZuPrQBSDCs
Chris' website: www.RealLifeCatholic.com
"We like to think that in moments of crisis we'll rise to the occasion, but in reality I haven't had a great history with that..."
Father Nathan March, a priest from the Diocese of Portland, Maine, shares how a simple act by group of high schoolers changed his perspective on life, the importance of witnessing to Christ through our everyday joy and service, and his key to persevering when things seem to be spiraling out of control. Do we see these times as opportunities to allow God's grace to be revealed through us?
"The apostles that changed the world were all broken men. Brokenness doesn't disqualify us, it qualifies us."
Dr. Bob Schuchts is a therapist who founded the John Paul II Healing Center to help people live a bold, resurrected life. On our call he talks about living in hope, being an advocate of healing in our homes, and why we can step up just like the apostles did.
"I'm watching men now get serious about their faith as everything else is stripped away, and watching men step up, and when men step up the Church changes."
Some great resources from Dr. Schuchts and the John Paul II Healing Center:
- Be Healed Book
- A Journey to Resurrected Life
- Restore the Glory Podcast
“Last August we moved onto this 12 acre farm, and we're trying to figure out how the Lord wants us to use it to help people encounter him. At least for now He is telling me to just keep mowing the grass.” In this call, Mike McGann, a former Marine and business man, shares how the Holy Spirit took him from just checking the boxes with his faith to diving in and casting the nets of evangelization wide.
Men, check out "Speaking to Sparrows", the film that Mike and Joe reference. It WILL help you understand your wife or daughter. Then share it with your sons.
Join the Speaking to Sparrows Facebook Group for free access to the film through May 16th.
Visit Project Light Ministries to learn more about their mission or to order a copy of the film.
Chris Padgett enjoys his best introduction ever, shares why true masculinity means loving vulnerably no matter what, and tells us how a simple idea profoundly impacted his family of 9 while on quarantine. Listen to Chris' call from the Happy Place Homestead in upstate New York and learn more about him at www.ChrisPadgett.com.
Some people simply admire Father Kapaun, others seek to live like him.
Chaplain (Col) Matthew Pawlikowski is a Catholic Priest and the head Chaplain at West Point Military Academy. Like Father Kapaun, God fused together his love for God and his love for his country. Father Matt shares with us the importance of the lay members of the Church and encourages us not to back down due to fear but to embrace the virtue of courage in finding creative solutions to our current crisis.
"It's in challenging times that we can share the biggest message of hope with those in need." Greg Murphy is a medical doctor and member of the US House of Representatives from the State of North Carolina. On this call Congressman Murphy shares how God has guided his life of service both as a doctor and now in the public realm, why he's confident that God will see us through our current struggles, and why Father Kapaun's example is so important for our country. A big thanks to Congressman Murphy for joining us!
Kapaun's Men Chaplain Father John Lanzrath, a regular on our videos, shares why the upcoming feast of Divine Mercy is just what we need in our daily battles, especially right now.
Wounded by a grenade during a battle with Chinese Communists, Sergeant Herbert Miller found himself staring at the barrel of an enemy rifle. He thought it was the end of the road for him, until he noticed a US Army Chaplain make his way across the battlefield to push the Communist soldier aside and pick Miller up. He then proceeded to help Miller along a grueling march to a Prisoner of War Camp. Hear Herb share how that Chaplain, Emil Kapaun, continued to give men hope in the midst of their trial, and how Herb came to know God in the darkness of the POW Camp.