Episode 153 - This conversation explores the significance of St. Francis and the Creche, delving into the origins of the Nativity scene, its symbolism, and its role in inspiring devotion during the Advent season. Hosts, Father Sean Danda and Nathanael Rea, discuss how St. Francis revived the tradition of the Nativity, emphasizing the importance of imagination in experiencing the Christian faith. They also provide practical suggestions for incorporating the Nativity scene into family traditions and fostering a deeper understanding of Christ's birth.

Episode 152 - This conversation between Father Sean Danda and Nathanael Rea delves into the life of St. Malachy, exploring his early life, spiritual formation, rise to bishop, challenges he faced, and his lasting influence on the church in Ireland.

The discussion highlights the historical context of Ireland during Malachy's time, his commitment to asceticism, and the miracles attributed to him, culminating in a reflection on his legacy and the universal call to holiness.

Takeaways:

• St. Malachy is a lesser-known but significant saint.
• His life was preserved by his friend, St. Bernard.
• Ireland was chaotic during Malachy's time, leading to the rise of great saints.
• Malachy was dedicated to reforming the church.
• He faced significant challenges from power-hungry individuals.
• His commitment to asceticism was a hallmark of his spirituality.
• Malachy sought to unify the church in Ireland.
• He was known for performing miracles and healings.
• His friendship with St. Bernard influenced his life and work.
• Malachy's legacy inspires a universal call to holiness.

Episode 47 - He's known all over the world and is loved by many but how much do you know about St Nicholas? We encourage you to listen as a family to this episode as you prepare for the feast day of St Nicholas on December 6th. Happy Advent!

Episode 151 - Guest Tom Rohn, a Third Order Dominican, joins host Nathanael Rea to discusses the significance of praying for the dead, the role of the Dominican order in this practice, and the various ways individuals can intercede for souls in purgatory. He emphasizes the importance of Masses for the deceased, the concept of accompanying souls in their purification, and the spiritual benefits of daily sacrifices. The discussion also touches on the communal aspect of praying for the dead and the need to remember forgotten souls who have no one to pray for them.

Takeaways:

• Praying for the dead is a unique charism of the Dominican order.
• The Third Order Dominicans consist of lay members and apostolic sisters.
• Masses said for the deceased are among the most efficacious prayers.
• Indulgences can be obtained through daily sacrifices and prayers.
• Accompanying souls in purgatory is a form of spiritual support.
• Praying for the dead fosters a sense of community and connection.
• Daily sacrifices can earn indulgences for the living and the dead.
• Forgotten souls in purgatory need our prayers the most.
• The act of praying for the dead is rooted in love and mercy.
• The journey to heaven often requires purification for most souls.

Episode 150 - In this 150th episode, Father Sean Danda and Nathanael Rea delve into the concepts of purgatory and indulgences, exploring their significance within the Catholic faith. They discuss the nature of purgatory as a temporary state of purification for souls, the importance of prayers and sacrifices for the deceased, and the church's teachings on indulgences as a means of remitting temporal punishment. The conversation emphasizes the need for a balanced understanding of divine mercy and justice, encouraging listeners to aim for heaven while engaging in acts of faith and charity.

Takeaways:

• Purgatory is a temporary state of purification for souls.
• Prayers and sacrifices can assist souls in purgatory.
• The church is divided into the suffering, triumphant, and militant.
• The journey of the soul involves purification before entering heaven.
• Aiming for heaven is essential; purgatory should not be the goal.
• Scriptural foundations for purgatory are found in 2 Maccabees.
• Purgatory involves both the pain of loss and physical suffering.
• Indulgences provide a way to remit temporal punishment for sins.
• The church plays a crucial role in administering indulgences and guiding the faithful.

Episode 149 - This conversation between Father Sean Danda and Nathanael Rea delves into the profound and often avoided topic of death and dying, emphasizing the importance of spiritual preparation, family involvement, and the Church's teachings on end-of-life issues.

The discussion highlights the need for open dialogue about death, the role of sacraments, and ethical considerations in care for the dying. It also addresses practical aspects of funeral planning and the significance of burial practices in the Catholic faith, ultimately encouraging listeners to live in a way that prepares them for eternity.

Takeaways from this episode:

• Life is short, and death is certain, making it essential to prepare for the end.
• The Church teaches that death, judgment, heaven, and hell are the final things to consider.
• Spiritual preparation is crucial for both the dying and their families.
• Family members should give permission to their loved ones to let go when the time comes.
• The last moments of life can be spiritually significant and should be approached with care.
• Ethical dilemmas in end-of-life care require thoughtful consideration and guidance.
• Funeral arrangements should be made in advance to ease the burden on family members.
• The Church allows for cremation, but there are specific guidelines to follow.
• Respect for the body after death is important, reflecting the belief in resurrection.
• Living a life of faith and kindness prepares us for eternity.

Episode 147 - On this episode Fr Sean Danda and Nathanael Rea answer more questions that were submitted by our listeners. Topics discussed include purgatory, priestly titles and more.

Episode 146 - Catholic Q&A is back by popular demand! In this episode Fr Sean Danda and Nathanael Rea answer new questions about the faith submitted by our listeners.

Do you have question you'd like answered about Catholicism or an idea for a show topic? Leave us a note in the questions area on Spotify.