Ave Maria in the Afternoon Full Hours - June 18, 2026 - Hour 2

Segment 1: A Link between Smartphones and Declining Birth Rates?The US has been in a steep fertility decline for nearly two decades, and a new study may shed some light on one of the causes. The study used mobile coverage maps cross-referenced with fertility data to conclude that the release of the iPhone, the first modern smartphone, is associated with an accelerated decline in fertility that has continued to the present day. Marcus looks at the numbers.Segment 2: We are all called to a Royal PriesthoodDr John Bergsma joins us to explore the theology of the royal priesthood, rooted in the early chapters of Genesis, and look at how God establishes a covenant of sonship with us. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit avemariapm.substack.com