In this special Christmas edition of Good News, we take you on a captivating journey through the history of the Nativity scene. Celebrating its 800th anniversary, the public depiction of Christ's birth was first staged by St. Francis of Assisi, illustrating the humble beginnings of Jesus, the savior, born in a stable and honored by the humblest of hearts.

Join us as we explore how this symbolic representation became a cherished tradition in Christian homes worldwide, weaving together scripture, prophecy, and the enduring legacy of faith and artistry. Witness the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the profound events surrounding the birth of Jesus, culminating in the homages by shepherds and magi alike.

This episode encourages reflection and prayer for peace, forgiveness, and healing in the world, inspired by the timeless story of the birth of Christ.

Email your questions to Deacon AL: goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Welcome to Catholic Conversations on Catholic Spirit Radio! In this episode, host Paul Garcia interviews Stephen Thomas, the author of "Catholic Joe, Superhero," the first book in an exciting new series. Stephen, a serial entrepreneur and family man, shares his inspiring journey of faith and discusses the motivations behind his book that addresses the challenges faced by Catholic men today.

Paul and Stephen explore the powerful themes of faith, courage, and the spiritual battle depicted in "Catholic Joe," and how the protagonist, Joseph Salvatore, embodies the virtues of a strong, virtuous man in a world often skeptical of such values.

The conversation also delves into the character's real-life influences, the depiction of family struggles, and spiritual and moral battles against corruption within the government and the church. Stephen provides insights on how the book highlights the crucial role of family and explores the connections between the church and societal issues.

Join this engaging dialogue to discover how "Catholic Joe" not only inspires Catholic men but also resonates with a wider audience, including women who see Joseph's inspiring portrayal of masculinity. As Stephen's book continues to make waves, hear firsthand about the journey from inspiration to impact in this captivating discussion.

https://catholicjoesuperhero.com/

This episode of 'Being Catholic' invites listeners on a profound journey into the heart of the Christmas season, guided by Bob Johnston and his wife, Lynn. Together, they explore the true essence of Advent, shedding light on its rich traditions and spiritual significance. Bob and Lynn discuss the history and importance of Christ's Incarnation and its alignment with historical events, drawing from articles in the Catholic Answers magazine.

The episode delves into three pivotal Advents of Christ, connecting them with present-day observances and reflections. It encourages listeners to embrace the humility and mystery of Christmas while navigating through today's materialistic distractions. Additionally, the discussion touches upon early marital customs surrounding Mary and Joseph, unveiling deeper understandings from scripture about their unique relationship.

Enriched with historical insights and reflections on faith, this episode aims to deepen one's spiritual appreciation of Christmas, encouraging active preparation for the coming of Christ through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Join in for an enriching exploration, styled to reawaken the powerful mysteries and spiritual truths of the season.

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Catholic Conversations on Catholic Spirit Radio, hosted by Paul Garcia. In this episode, Paul engages with Father Thomas Loya, a Byzantine priest and host of The Light of the East Radio, to delve into the profound topic of Christmas viewed as the divine condescension of God.

Father Loya shares insights from the Byzantine tradition, exploring the theological concept of Christ's kenosis—his self-emptying and descent from heaven to earth. Through thought-provoking discussions, he illustrates how the infinite God became tangible, exchanging divine glory for humanity's redemption. Discover why Christmas is not merely a seasonal event but an ongoing reality, reflecting God's boundless love and humility.

This episode challenges us to perceive the incarnation as a continuous act of divine love, urging listeners to embrace a deeper appreciation for every aspect of creation as touched by God's presence. Join us as we contemplate the mystery of God's love that descends through the ages, from the manger to the cross, transforming our understanding of Christmas.

In this compelling episode of Catholic Conversations on Catholic Spirit Radio, host Paul Garcia invites two remarkable guests to share their transformative journeys to the Catholic faith. First, we hear from Ray, who grew up in a Jewish family and experienced an unexpected conversion to Catholicism, highlighting the profound influence of music and a family's collective journey to faith.

Next, we meet Vicki, who courageously opens up about overcoming a troubled past marked by an abusive family environment. Her path to finding faith and a sense of belonging within the Catholic Church offers a powerful testament to healing and divine guidance.

Join us for these moving testimonies of faith, redemption, and grace, as Ray and Vicki illustrate the power of belief and the peace that comes with spiritual transformation.

Welcome to this special episode of Good News on Catholic Spirit Radio, hosted by Deacon Al Lundy. As we celebrate Gaudete Sunday, a key moment in the Advent season, Deacon Al shares his insights on why this is a time for joy and preparation. Reflecting on his personal experiences and the biblical readings of the weekend, he emphasizes the joy of the coming Nativity and how we should prepare our hearts for not just Christmas, but also for the eventual return of Christ.

Join us as Deacon Al relates stories from his past, including a memorable snowy experience in New York, and ties these in with the teachings of the Gospel. He highlights the uniqueness of this liturgical period, encouraging listeners to engage in prayer and sacraments as part of their spiritual journey. Deacon Al reminds us that our faith is a journey, not just a one-time event, calling for active participation and love towards God and our neighbors.

Email your questions to Deacon AL: goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Join Deacon Al Lundy on Good News as he shares the extraordinary events at his parish, including the rare consecration of a new altar by the Bishop of the Peoria Diocese. Witness the beauty of this sacred ceremony, filled with traditional rites that reflect the deep significance of faith.

Delve into the joyous message of Advent as Deacon Al reflects on the rapid approach of Christmas and the importance of preparation, both for the nativity and the eventual return of Christ. This episode highlights the essence of charity during the liturgical season, encouraging listeners to participate in parish giving programs to support those in need. Discover how these acts of kindness are not just simple gestures but profound expressions of love that align with the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Explore the scriptural readings of the second Sunday of Advent and their relevance to modern life. Deacon Al discusses the call to repentance and transformation, urging believers to seek deeper connections with their faith through actions of love and forgiveness. Learn about the balance of persistence and grace in living a Christ-like life, as emphasized by St. Paul and the Gospel of Luke.

This episode promises to enrich your understanding of the faith, offering guidance and inspiration for a meaningful Advent journey.

Email your questions to Deacon AL: goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Little Office on Catholic Spirit Radio, where hosts Will Anselm and Diane Henry delve into the vital topic of safeguarding in the church. With recent controversial news stirring discussions, we explore how the church has implemented measures to protect vulnerable individuals and the misconceptions that surround the prevalence of abuse within church settings. This episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the truth and defending our faith against unfounded judgments.

Additionally, we engage with Louis Ungit, author of "Return of the Dragon," as he shares his insights on the historical use of hallucinogenic psychedelics. Ungit offers a fascinating exploration of how these substances have influenced societies and religions, both past and present. Join us as we bridge historical practices with contemporary issues, shedding light on the complex intersections of drug use, spirituality, and societal perceptions.