February 26, 2026 - Hour 2

Segment 1: An Atheist who “Loves God?” (2 segments)Pope Leo XIV responded to an atheist who paradoxically described himself as someone who “loves God,” explaining to him that “the real problem of faith” isn’t believing or not believing in him but seeking him. Marcus discusses this and other Church news with Dr. Matthew Bunson.Segment 2: Transgender Lessons from the Dobbs Case Last month, a young woman named Fox Varian won a medical malpractice lawsuit against doctors who convinced her to get a mastectomy so she could “live as a boy.” The case is being hailed as a landmark victory for opponents of prepubescent sex change treatments, but we must use caution. Those same cheers were heard when Roe v Wade was overturned, without a cogent plan for the next steps. Marcus looks at lessons we can learn from the case.Segment 3: Pro-Abortion Professor Withdraws from Notre Dame Leadership AppointmentPro-Abortion professor Susan Ostermann will not assume leadership of the Asia studies department at Notre Dame, following widespread backlash from bishops and other Catholic leaders. Patrick Reilly, founder of the Cardinal Newman Society, joins 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