Ave Maria in the Afternoon Full Hours

Segment 1: Higher Education and the Formation of Character (2 segments)Trust in higher education is fractured. Why have universities at all? To answer such a question, we need first to recover the very idea of a university. Universities exist in order to discover, understand, and articulate truth in each discipline of human endeavor. Do they also exist to help foster the virtues of character? Jonathan Sanford thinks they do – he explains why.Segment 2: An Inside Look Fulton Sheen’s Path to Sainthood (2 segments)It has been a long and winding path to beatification for Fulton Sheen. Msgr. Jason Gray has lead the investigation into his cause, and he joins us with an inside look at the process. 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

Segment 1: Catholics and the FBIThe FBI was established on July 26, 1908. Catholics have played a significant role in the organization throughout its history. Marcus looks at some of the stories. Segment 2: Catholic Charities brings hope to Detroit Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan is working directly with the unfortunate in the Detroit area as a working arm of the Church. Paul Propson tells us more about the work they are doing.Segment 3: Are we less polarized than we thought? (2 segments)People who hold traditional values on marriage, gender and sexuality have been led to believe they are in the minority – that at least half the country holds their views in contempt for being backwards and divisive. But it turns out much of this polarization is a myth – and these so called ‘unpopular’ views are much more mainstream than you thought. Jonathan Butcher has more. 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

Segment 1: The Treasure Buried in a Field (2 segments)In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus explains how the Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure buried in a field. Marcus unpacks the readings.Segment 2: We ignored Humane Vitae, and we’re paying the price (2 segments)On July 25, 1968, Pope Paul VI published Humane Vitae. And on July 25, 1978, the first test-tube baby was born. It seems fitting that these events would fall on the same day; the culture and even some within the church disregarded the warnings of Humane Vitae when it was published, and we’ve been paying the price ever since. Rachel Coleman has more. 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

Segment 1: A Tax on Light and AirOn July 24, 1851, the citizens of Britain celebrated the end of the “Window Tax,” a tax residents had to pay based on the number of windows in their house. This historical curiosity tells us a deeper truth about state overreach. Marcus has more.Segment 2: What does it mean to be human? (3 segments)As humans, we are much more than cogs in a machine or raw material for technology, and when we die, we will be much more than food for worms. From the first breath of Genesis to the final hope of heaven, what does it really mean to be human? Dr. John Grabowski 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

On July 24, 1851, the citizens of Britain celebrated the end of the "Window Tax," a tax residents had to pay based on the number of windows in their house. This historical curiosity tells us a deeper truth about state overreach. Marcus has more. 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

Segment 1: Does the Pope Speak with Political Authority? (2 segments)US Ambassador Brian Burch recently said that when Pope Leo spoke out against the war in Iran, he was not doing so as a leader of the Roman Catholic Church, adding that he was speaking as a world leader of the Holy See. What authority does the pope have in such occasions? Matthew Bunson joins us with more on this and other Church news.Segment 2: What do our seminarians need? (2 segments)A new study from the University of Notre Dame calls for better preparation for celibacy, greater use of psychological resources and a focus on vocational quality over quantity. Dr John Cavadini has the details. 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

Segment 1: Why did Jesus speak in Parables?In today’s Gospel, Jesus is asked why He teaches in parables. He warns us of people who will hear but not understand, and look but never see. We have the privilege of knowing our Messiah – we’ve not only seen his public ministry, we are in his public ministry. Have we taken for granted just how immensely blessed we are? Have we lost sight of the urgency of the Gospel message? Marcus shares some thoughts. Segment 2: Living our Faith at Work For John Hale, faith work and family go hand in hand. He explains why.Segment 3: The American MartyrsWhen we think about the founding of the United States of America, we think of our Founding Fathers and the events surrounding the American Revolution. But there is another part to the founding – the American Catholic martyrs. We talk about them with Jared Staudt. 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

Segment 1: Reclaiming a Eucharistic CultureThousands of Catholics flocked to Detroit today for the Rising from the Ashes revival. Fr. Adam Nowak joins us at the conference to talk about how the Eucharist can revitalize the culture.Segment 2: Fr. John Riccardo: People’s Most Urgent Need (3 segments)Fr. John Riccardo was recently speaking with a fellow priest about what people most urgently need right now. He believes that, more than anything, people need clarity on who God is and what He has done – and how we should respond. He 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

Segment 1: Was Mary Magdalene a Harlot?Today we celebrate the Feast of St. Mary Magdalene. Many popular films and other depictions imagine Mary Magdalene as a harlot, or as the woman caught in adultery. However, the real Mary Magdalene was someone far different. Marcus has more.Segment 2: Music Brings us to Jesus Laura Hovious considered herself an agnostic, until one day when she walked into a church and had an encounter with God through worship music. Today, she is a worship leader who helps bring that encounter to others. She shares her story.Segment 3: A Saint’s Guide to Discernment (2 segments)How can Catholics learn to recognize God’s voice amid the noise, distractions, and spiritual confusion of modern life? Fr. Timothy Gallagher has written on a new book, based on the writings of St. Ignatius and his fourteen Rules for the Discernment of Spirits. He 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

Segment 1: How Guilt can Set us FreeIt has become a popular trope to criticize or mock Catholics for being “preoccupied” with guilt. But there is a distinction between healthy Catholic guilt and hopeless shame. Properly understood, guilt can set us free. Dr Greg Popcak has more.Segment 2: Meet England’s new Catholic Prime MinisterAndy Burnham was officially named the leader of Britain’s governing Labour Party on July 17, paving the way for him to become the United Kingdom’s first prime minister to enter office publicly identifying as a Catholic. Joanna Bogle tells us more about him.Segment 3: Proclaiming Jesus to Our Jewish Friends (2 segments)The entire Christian faith is an overflow of a tree that began with a true Abrahamic heritage: the Hebrew people. In his letter to the Romans, St. Paul prophesies of us that the deliverer will come from Zion and that the gifts and call of God are irrevocable. And therefore, there is an onus of evangelization of our Jewish brothers and sisters. Tom Nash has more. 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

Segment 1: Who were Jesus’ “brothers?”Today’s reading from the Gospel of Matthew includes one of the most misunderstood passages in the Bible. Matthew says that while Jesus was speaking, “his mother and his brothers appeared outside.” Given this verse, why do Catholics insist that Mary had no other children? Marcus explains.Segment 2: The First Step to Increasing Vocations In 2026, the Church in the United States saw 9% fewer priestly ordinations than it had 10 years earlier. Despite widespread decreases in priestly vocations, some diocese have seen steady or even growing numbers of vocations. Jack Figge joins us with a look at where things are working, and why.Segment 3: Why “Calvin and Hobbes” Still Matters (2 segments)Bill Watterson retired his comic strip Calvin and Hobbes more than thirty years ago, but its legacy endures. The young boy and his tiger friend regularly escaped the confines of reality to explore matters of philosophy, ethics, theology and more. 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

Segment 1: The Tates’ Warped MasculinityThe Tate brothers have become a defining symbol of “masculinity” in today’s culture. And their popularity shows that our culture is hungry for true, Christ-centered masculinity – it just doesn’t know where to look. Marcus has more.Segment 2: Can Catholic Colleges be Saved?Since March 2020, over 70 public and private nonprofit colleges and universities have closed entirely, with nearly 50 more merging with other institutions. Other statistical trends suggest the future of Catholic colleges is unstable at best. Dr Randall Smith joins us with more.Segment 3: Sacrifice and the Natural Law (2 segments)The concept of blood sacrifice, so prevalent in the Old Testament, can be shocking to our modern eyes and ears. But it is deeply rooted in the Natural Law. We explore it with Michael Pakaluk. 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

Segment 1: We are not isolated believersThere’s a common theme in today’s Office of the Readings – the way we are all in communion with the covenant body. God does not form us to be isolated believers. Marcus has more.Segment 2: Hilaire Belloc, Culture Warrior July 16 marks the death of Hilaire Belloc, the French writer and political activist who died in 1953. Along with G.K. Chesterton, he was hugely influential in the growth of the Catholic presence in the wider culture. Joseph Pearce has more on his life and work.Segment 3: America’s Shining City (2 segments)The United States represents the most successful, most extraordinary experiment in religious liberty the world has ever known. Religious freedom is a big part of America’s story, but for that reason, America is also part of Christendom’s long story. Rachel Lu joins us with more. 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

Segment 1: What is the Kingdom of Heaven? (2 segments)In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus uses several short parables to illustrate the meaning of the Kingdom of Heaven. Marcus unpacks the readingsSegment 2: What we learned from President Trump’s Speech (2 segments)In a much-hyped address on Thursday night, President Trump presented documents which he claimed were proof of foreign interference in the 2020 election. We look at his comments with Peter Laffin and discuss other matters related to our political climate. 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

Segment 1: The Witness of the Martyrs of CompiègneToday is the feast of the Martyrs of Compiègne, French nuns who were executed during the Reign of Terror. They bravely walked to the guillotine singing hymns and offering their lives, “so that peace may be restored to the Church and the State.” Marcus honors their memory.Segment 2: Advancing our Knowledge with Aristotle (2 segments)One of the big questions emerging from the rise of artificial intelligence is what exactly it means to know something at all – and it’s a question that AI cannot answer. Philosophers have explored this question for centuries, and Aristotle recognized three fundamental rules for understanding logic. We talk about them with Mike Schramm.Segment 3: The Massacre of the RomanovsIn the early hours of July 17, 1918, members of the Bolshevik Revolution executed Tsar Nicholas II and his family. The execution of the Romanovs was a declaration to the entire world that the Bolshevik Revolution was going to do more than transfer political authority. It was going to, by bloodshed, destroy the entire moral and political order grounded in Christianity and natural law. Marcus has more. 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

Segment 1: French Bishop: Catholic Lawmakers Who Back Euthanasia Bill Cannot Receive Communion (2 segments)French Bishop Marc Aillet has declared that Catholic members of France’s National Assembly who voted for the country’s euthanasia and assisted-suicide bill will no longer be able to receive holy Communion. Matthew Bunson joins us to discuss this and other Church news.Segment 2: What the Founders believed about the Common Good (2 segments)The Founding Fathers believed the common good consisted in securing a community in which individuals could fulfill their natural duties, duties to God and to their families and to their fellow man. We look at how they expressed this vision with Dr. Phillip Munoz. 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

Segment 1: The Rewriting of Junipero SerraToday marks the anniversary of the founding of the first California mission by St. Junipero Serra. Modern outrage has tried to “cancel” him for being a colonizer and oppressor of Indigenous peoples, but that is not who the historical record actually shows him to be. Marcus has more.Segment 2: Beware the Cotton Candy GospelMany Christians today are suffering from an epidemic of “spiritual sugar.” It looks enormous from a distance, it tastes sweet, but it immediately dissolves into empty air and leaves souls spiritually malnourished. Marcus has more.Segment 3: How Homeschooling went Mainstream (2 segments)The popular imagination of homeschooling has rarely aligned with reality. Amidst the COVID lockdowns of 2020 and 2021, the public was forced to reconsider its understanding of what homeschooling really was – and it’s becoming more popular than ever. We discuss how homeschooling went mainstream with Dixie Lane. 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

Segment 1: Lawsuit: Colorado discriminates against religious familiesFor many families, there is a clear answer to the question of who they trust to help them raise their children: a school that shares their mission — a genuine partner in a child’s education. But some families in Colorado are being denied that opportunity, a case the Supreme Court will hear next term. Andrea Picciotti-Bayer has more.Segment 2: Empowering High School ChaplainsDrew Vilinski has a dream: make sure every high school club, team, intramural group, and other organized activity be guided by the presence and guidance of a designated chaplain. He is hosting a nationwide conference on the idea this fall, and he joins us with the details.Segment 3: Fr. Raymond De Souza weighs in on Pope Leo (2 segments)In his first year as leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV has published an Apostolic Exhortation on the poor, promulgated an Encyclical on humanity and technology, made several key appointments, and implemented measured changes in governance. He has also chosen to reflect on the documents of Vatican II during his Wednesday general audiences. What can we learn from Pope Leo’s first year and what implications does it have for promoting a free and virtuous society? Fr. Raymond de Souza 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

Segment 1: Tim Staples made me CatholicToday, Catholic Answers announced that legendary apologist Tim Staples has retired as senior apologist, though he will continue with regular appearances on Catholic Answers Live. Tim’s book Behold your Mother was instrumental in Marcus’ journey to the Catholic Church. Tim announced his retirement today, and Marcus reflects on the impact he has had.Segment 2: Confronting the Anti-Humanity of AI (2 segments)Artificial intelligence poses an existential threat to human freedom. It is already rapidly changing everything from the economy to relationships to attitudes about what it means to be human. Kevin Vallier joins us to look at how the people of the Church can engaged in the governance of AI technologies.Segment 3: How Twitter Broke Public DiscourseTwenty years ago today, a small social media platform called “Twitter” was launched to the public. Nobody could have foreseen the cultural juggernaut it would become. Driven by algorithms that promote the loudest, punchiest, most controversial statements, Twitter and the larger digital revolution have reshaped our public habits. 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

Segment 1: Two Personality Traits of Long-Term CouplesWhen people talk about marriage from a secular perspective, they often ask whether a couple is “compatible.” There’s a new study from the Journal of Research in Personality that seems to show “compatibility” is overrated, and other factors are more important for long-term intimacy. Dr Greg Popcak has more.Segment 2: Surrogacy Hurts WomenYesterday, Marcus looked at some of the social and legal ramifications of surrogacy. He continues his discussion looking at the medical effects on the practice.Segment 3: A Tale of Two Constitutions (2 segments)Everyone knows about the US Constitution and the role it played in forming American society. But Jordan Ballor proposes that there are actually two constitutions, both of which are foundational, but whose relationship requires attention and consideration. He 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

Segment 1: “You will go down to the nether world.”In today’s Gospel, Jesus seems to use some particularly harsh language – or it at least seems harsh without its Old Testament context. Marcus has more.Segment 2: Washtenaw County allocates emergency funding to Planned ParenthoodOn July 1 the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to allocate $500,000 in local taxpayer monies to Planned Parenthood of Michigan. The commission indicated there may be more local resources committed to the organization in the future. Genevieve MarnonSegment 3: The Foundations of Revolution (2 segments)On July 14, the French remember Bastille Day, when revolutionaries stormed the infamous Paris prison. It’s regarded as the start of the French revolution. How does the French revolution differ from the American Revolution? What were their philosophical foundations and what kinds of societies did they seek to create? Brad Birzer is our guest. 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

Segment 1: The Problems with SurrogacyOur civilization is learning that, while nature can be manipulated, it is only a matter of time before human nature demands its own accounting before God. This is especially noticeable in the matter of surrogacy. Marcus has more.Segment 2: Should a Catholic be “Swole?”Thomas Lahart created Flight Foods to unite faith, fitness, and clean nutrition under one mission, helping people fuel their training while honoring the body as a temple. He joins us to share his work.Segment 3: What it means to be in Intimacy with Jesus (2 segments)It’s easy for us to take for granted the unique, incredible gift of having a God that wants to have a personal relationship with us. No other faith has a God who demands a personal covenant bond with His followers. We reflect on this gift with Fr. Patrick Gonyeau. 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

Segment 1: “Not Peace, but a Sword”In today’s Gospel Jesus says He has come not to bring peace, but a sword – but what kind of sword? Marcus looks at the Old Testament connections to this passage.Segment 2: Remembering a British Politician who Championed the UnbornAnn Widdecombe, who converted to the Catholic faith in 1993, was known for advocating conservative and pro-life positions in the British House of Commons. She died last week at the age of 78, and her friend Joanna Bogle joins us to remember her.4:30 – American Catholics: A People in Exile?Regardless of what political system they are born into, every Catholic has social responsibilities toward their fellow man. What responsibilities do American Catholics have? Are we a people in a place of grace, or a people in exile? David Deavel 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

Segment 1: “A Sower went out to Sow”(2 segments)In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus tells the famous Parable of the Sower. Rob Corzine joins us to unpack the readings.Segment 2: Spiritual Fatherhood and the Cost of Discipleship (2 segments)Bishop Jerry Vinke of Salina, Kansas joins us to share his experiences of spiritual fatherhood and how he has seen the Holy Spirit transform lives as we continue from the 2026 Encounter Conference. 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

Segment 1: The Significance of the Scopes Monkey TrialOn July 10, 1925, the Scopes Monkey Trial began. The state of Tennessee accused John Scopes, a high school teacher, of violating the Butler Act, which prohibited teaching human evolution in a state-funded school. The trial brought national attention to the Fundamentalist-Modernist Controversy, a debate over the compatibility of Scripture and modern human science. Marcus looks back.Segment 2: Bringing Jesus to the StreetsIn his work with St Paul Street Evangelization, Adam Janke brings the heart of the Gospel to people in their everyday lives. He joins us at the 2026 Encounter Conference.Segment 3: Be Transformed by the Renewing of your Mind (2 segments)In Romans 12:2, St Paul calls on us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This is the essence of metanoia – a transformation of our hearts and souls in how we view the world, empowered by Christ’s Spirit. We talk more with Matt Ingold. 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

Segment 1: Pope Leo XIV Continues Reform of Diocese of Rome (2 segments)Pope Leo XIV has named the first moderator of the curia for the Diocese of Rome, as the pontiff continues to reform the diocese’s central organization in the wake of administrative upheaval. Matthew Bunson has more on this and other Church news.Segment 2: Placing Scripture at the Heart of our Lives (2 segments)We must never forget that the Scriptures are the Father’s love letter to us, inviting us to join Him in covenant life. Part of this covenant life is understanding where God is calling us. Dr Mary Healy joins us to discuss reading the Scriptures from the Heart and Mind of the Church. 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

Segment 1: How does the Gospel transform us? (2 segments)It feels perfectly natural to tell friends – and even strangers – about our favorite movie, why our favorite team keeps coming up short, or a new restaurant we just discovered. So why does it sometimes feel so unnatural to share the transforming story of the Gospel? Pete Burak joins us.Segment 2: What is God’s Plan for your Life? (2 segments)As the rector of St Paul Seminary, Fr. Joseph Taphorn spends his life helping young men discerning the priesthood to discover the power of the Spirit in their lives. The King of the Universe has a plan for all of us – including you! Fr. Joseph joins us to discuss the power of the Holy Spirit in discernment. 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

Segment 1: The Quiet Potential of the Daily ‘Examen’Do you ever find yourself out sorts doing the summer months, once you get out of the regular routine of the school year? Andrea Picciotti-Bayer has felt this way, and found that incorporating the Examen into her evening routing helped her to find order in the chaos. She joins us.Segment 2: Washington’s Warning to AmericaBenjamin Franklin famously described the American government as “a Republic – if you can keep it.” In his Farewell Address, George Washington issued a warning to America about how that Republic might be lost – and it bears striking similarities to what Moses warned the Israelites thousands of years before. Marcus has more.Segment 3: Forging Identity in the Age of Social Contagion (2 segments)We are surrounded by tribes: political, professional, online, ideological. Each offer belonging at a price. Join, and you risk dissolving into a ready-made identity. Refuse, and you risk drifting into isolation. Either way, the modern person is pulled toward the same end: forming a fragmented self that is easier to manage, easier to sell to, and easier to recruit. Luke Burgis joins us with an alternative to this worldview. 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

Segment 1: The Kingdom of Heaven is at HandIn today’s Gospel, Jesus tells His disciples to go out into the world and proclaim that the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. It’s an invitation for us to unite ourselves at the Heart of the Father and center everything on Jesus, the true King. Marcus has more.Segment 2: The Educational Vision of St. John Henry NewmanWe’ve talked much before about the wisdom of St. John Henry Newman, especially when it comes to education. Fr. Nate Davis joins us with more, looking virtue formation and his approach to education through personal encounter.Segment 3: Why Government Can’t Engineer a Baby Boom (2 segments)Nations across the globe are scrambling to reverse collapsing birth rates, but they’re unlikely to accomplish this through policy intervention alone. Sub-replacement fertility is rooted in a cultural shift that has embraced a false narrative—too often viewing another child as a burden or impediment rather than a gift and source of meaning. Reversing demographic decline is not to be found in policy but rather in re-imagining children as the supreme manifestation of the common good. Dr. Stephen Barrows has more. 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

Segment 1: Dept. of Education Cracks Down on Schools for Hiding Students’ Gender Dysphoria from ParentsThe U.S. Department of Education has announced a major escalation in protecting parents’ rights. In a report published last week, the D.o.E. alleged that a Kansas City school district overstepped major student privacy laws when teachers hid student’s new transgender identities from parents. Theresa Farnan has more.Segment 2: Twelve-Year-Old Euthanized in the Netherlands The media is reporting that a Dutch doctor euthanized a sick twelve-year-old child with a non-disclosed illness. It is a “first” under a new Dutch law that allows euthanasia for children ages one to twelve. But it’s hardly the first pediatric case we have seen in recent years. Wes Smith has more.Segment 3: The Church Fathers Explain Why Union With Rome Is Essential (2 segments)As an Eastern Catholic deacon, Father Deacon Robert Klesko has a unique view of unity with Rome and why it is essential. He 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

Segment 1: World Cup spat shows the futility of Identity PoliticsAfter French star Kylian Mbappé eliminated her country from the World Cup, a progressive senator from Paraguay unleashed a tirade of racist taunts on social media. Mbappé criticized her, saying she was a “despicable woman who is unworthy of office,” and in response she accused him of sexism and threatened legal action if he didn’t apologize. The senator’s comments are another example of the silliness and futility of identity politics. Marcus has more.Segment 2: Catholic Charities sues Michigan over loss of women’s services designationA Michigan branch of Catholic Charities has filed a lawsuit against the state, after the state stripped its Cristo Rey Counseling Center of its designation as a women’s specialty services organization because of the organization’s religious on abortion and birth control. Jeremiah Galus of the Alliance Defending Freedom has more.Segment 3: Engaging the World as Christ Did (2 segments)In an increasingly secular world, Christians are often pulled in two directions. Some urge us to retreat and build insular communities. Others call upon us to wage a culture war, harnessing the government to shore up Christian cultural power. But there is another way—and it’s as old as the church itself. Stephen Pressley 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

Segment 1: The Problem with Pre-NupsTravis Kelce and Taylor Swift, who were married this weekend, reportedly signed one of the most elaborate prenups ever written. The practice of prenups has skyrocketed in recent years, and there are popular arguments for their use. But they also lay the groundwork for the marriage to fail. Marcus has more.Segment 2: Thomas More’s Advice on Dying Well (3 segments)On this day in 1535, Thomas More was taken from his cell in the Tower of London to his execution. He spent his final months on this earth extensively writing, especially on the topic of death. We look at his advice for living and dying well with Stephen Smith. 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

Segment 1: A Father Pleads for his Daughter’s LifeToday’s Gospel tells us of two dramatic healings. Jesus heals a sick woman simply by virtue of her touching his cloak, and then He raises the daughter of Jairus. Marcus reflects on the covenantal theme of the readings.Segment 2: Fulani militia now ranked as Nigeria’s deadliest terror groupA new six-year report has challenged the widespread belief that the Boko Haram terrorist organization and its affiliates are responsible for the majority of civilian killings in Nigeria. The report instead finds that Fulani ethnic militia have killed far more than the other groups combined. Ed Clancy has more.Segment 3: The Benefits of not CohabitatingWhen Fr. Matt DeGance tells engaged couples they should refrain from having sex during the six-month waiting period before their wedding — even for those living together — there’s a palpable tension in the silence. Even among couples who seek to be married in the church, the concept of abstaining from sex is countercultural. But research shows that, once again, the Church’s teachings lead to stronger marriages. Fr. Matt joins us with more.Segment 4: America at 250: The Last, Best HopeAmerica’s greatness has never rested in her military strength or economic prosperity alone. It has rested in her willingness—even after failure—to strive toward justice, virtue, and the dignity of every human person. Lisa Wheeler has more. 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

Segment 1: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” (2 segments)In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus promises that we will find rest in Him, for His yoke is easy and His burden is light. We unpack the Sunday readings with Rob Corzine.Segment 2: The Greatest Political Experiment in History (2 segments)The founding of the United States was the greatest political experiment in history. The Founding Fathers stood on the shoulders of the geniuses that came before them, drawing on the wisdom of philosophers, historians, political thinkers and theologians to create the framework of the nation. Dylan Pahman joins us looking at the Christian roots of American liberty. 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

Segment 1: The Covenantal View of the Founding FathersThe American experiment was, at its root, a bold political covenant—a sacred pledge under God, in view of posterity, that a free people, guided by divine law, could govern themselves according to justice and truth. Marcus has more in this commentary.Segment 2: American History for Kids (2 segments)Tara Ross has written two new books about the American founding and the Constitution that explain these amazing events at a level kids can understand, but with an extraordinary level of detail. She joins us.Segment 3: A Warning – and a Promise – for the SemiquincentennialAs Americans celebrate the 250th birthday of the nation, we should take heed – for historians have observed many great civilizations begin to decline about two and a half centuries after their rise to power. Marcus reflects on how we can celebrate the nation’s birthday and have hope for its future. 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

Segment 1: Vatican excommunicates SSPX bishops (2 segments)The Vatican has issued a decree declaring that the SSPX bishops consecrated yesterday are excommunicated and the group is officially in schism. Furthermore, Catholic clergy and lay faithful are not to adhere to the SSPX’s schism under penalty of excommunication. Matthew Bunson has more.Segment 2: What the Founding Fathers said about the Revolution (2 segments)How should we think about the American Revolution on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence? The American revolutionaries themselves can help us answer this question. Christopher Flannery 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

Segment 1: What John Adams wrote on July 3, 1776On July 3, 1776, John Adams wrote a letter to his wife telling her the colonies had passed a resolution declaring their independence. The letter opens a window into Adam’s convictions and his vision for the nation. Marcus shares some thoughts.Segment 2: Huck Finn’s America Turns 250America’s 250th birthday has arrived, albeit in a time that is somewhat chaotic. Many have talked about what our Founding Fathers would say about the state of our nation – but what about our authors? Cassandra Nelson believes that Mark Twain would feel right at home. She joins us with a look at “Huck Finn’s America.”Segment 3: Religious Liberty and the American FoundingDoes the First Amendment guarantee us the right to be free from religion in the public square? Does it guarantee religious individuals and institutions the right to be exempt from otherwise valid laws that burden their religious beliefs and practices? Dr. Vincent Phillip Muñoz joins us with a look at our “first freedom” in light of the thought of America’s founding fathers. 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

Segment 1: Supreme Court Delivers Victories for Parental Rights, Women’s Sports and Free SpeechThe Supreme Court has closed its books on a consequential term that delivered significant wins for parental rights and free speech, disappointed prisoners seeking to remedy offenses against their religious liberty, redrew the boundaries of executive power and closed with developments that serve as reminders of how much work remains. Andrea Piciotti-Bayer has a roundup.Segment 2: SSPX Officially Consecrates BishopsToday the SSPX went through with their illicit episcopal consecrations. Despite this troubling development, the Church has endured far greater crises over her 2000-year history. Marcus has more.Segment 3: Winston Churchill, American Patriot (2 segments)Most people remember Winston Churchill as a British hero of World War II who encouraged his fellow citizens to stand firm against the Nazi threat, but he was also a great political thinker who thought deeply about the meaning of freedom in the modern world. We look at his thought with Michael Lucchese. 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

Segment 1: Why Jesus cast the demons into pigsIn today’s Gospel, Jesus casts demons into a herd of pigs. The pigs are a significant symbol in this story, and it has to do with the Jewish understanding of cleanliness. Marcus has more.Segment 2: Continuing Fulton Sheen’s LegacyFulton Sheen is the greatest preacher in history on the topic of Adoration and the importance of spending time with the King of Kings. We celebrate his legacy with Monsignor Roger Landry.Segment 3: The Catholic Man’s Call to Heroism (2 segments)A man―especially a father―is called to defend, protect, and foster what is noble and good. Indeed, it is for this he was created, not only spiritually, but physically. Bravery is written into his very being. Men can only be truly happy when they have laid down their lives for the Kingdom of God. But despite society’s promotion of health and fitness, modern life has all but quenched man’s heroic spirit, smothering it with distractions. We talk about man’s call to heroism with Doug Barry. 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

Segment 1: The Christian Vision of a Free Government (2 segments)A free and flourishing society needs two things: the rule of law, and freedom. The purpose of government is to secure those two conditions. But the dominant view today is that freedom and law are in opposition to each other. Dr. Adam MacLeod looks at the Christian vision of a free government.Segment 2: Hamilton and Jefferson’s Schools of Thought (2 segments)Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton represent the best known and broadest schools of American thought on how best to balance liberty with the need for order. Dr. John Pinheiro looks the intellectual origins of their principles and what we might glean from each to help build a free and virtuous society. 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

Segment 1: What made this nation possible?We are reaching the celebration of the semi-quincentennial anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and at this crossroads in history we must ask a question. What made this nation possible? Marcus shares some thoughts.Segment 2: Retiring Fijian Priest reflects on healing and missionFr Kusi Cobona is a Fijian priest who is retiring after more than 40 years of ministry, most recently at Sts. James, Cornelius and Cyprian parish in Mason, Michigan. He joins us to reflect on his years of priesthood and shares a healing experience he had while on a parish mission.Segment 3: Newman’s Vision of the University (2 segments)To remove God from education is to tear education itself at the seams. Ali Ghaffari joins us looking at John Henry Newman’s vision of the University and how education should address the entire person. 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

Segment 1: Robert Nisbet: Conservative and Communitarian (2 segments)Though he was not a Christian, Robert Nisbet was closely allied to Christian Humanists and the Christian Humanist movement throughout his life. Dr Brad Birzer looks at his core ideas--of community and conservatism.Segment 2: What would CS Lewis say about Politics? (2 segments)The conventional wisdom has it that C.S. Lewis disdained and ignored politics. The conventional wisdom is mistaken. Dr. Micah Watson joins us to explore Lewis’s understanding of the political as it relates to timeless principles of morality and the stubborn realities of fallen human nature. 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

Segment 1: Peter, Paul, and the Two Wings of TruthToday we celebrate the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul. They represent two essential roles of the Church – Peter, the magisterial authority, and Paul the evangelical mandate of the Gospel. The Catholic Church is unique in how she unites the understanding of both these saints as necessary parts of our baptism. Marcus has more.Segment 2: What it means to be an ambassador of ChristStephen Henley joins us to share his work with Legatus and how his organization helps prepare Catholics to be ambassadors of Christ.Segment 3: The Problems with Post-Liberalism (2 segments)Over the past few years, some conservative Catholic theologians have reintroduced the political philosophy of “Catholic integralism” as the true social teaching of the Catholic Church, one even binding on the consciences of Catholics. These “neo-integralists” argue that governments must be subject to the spiritual authority of the Catholic Church, and for that reason governments ought to coerce the baptized to obey the Catholic hierarchy. We discuss the problems with this approach with Dr. James Patterson. 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

Segment 1: “Whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” (2 segments)“Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me.” These striking words from Jesus are the focus of this Sunday’s Gospel. We unpack the readings with Rob Corzine.Segment 2: Understanding Abraham Kuyper’s Public Theology (2 segments)Abraham Kuyper was a man of many talents and achievements. He edited two newspapers, founded a university, led the formation of a new denomination, championed a new political movement, and served as prime minister of the Netherlands. He was also a formidable controversialist, a brilliant theologian, and a tireless advocate of public justice. We examine his public theology with Dr. Jordan Ballor. 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

Segment 1: Why can’t a layperson preach the homily?This week the Vatican officially rejected a request from the German bishops to allow laypeople to preach the homily at Mass. Marcus looks at the liturgical significance of the homily and why it is reserved for the clergy.Segment 2: Fusionism – What it Is and What it Isn’tFusionism is a political philosophy, rooted in the Cold War, that attempts to unite different wings of the Conservative movement. We look at some of its tenants with Dr. Jason Duncan.Segment 3: Is Free Trade Free? (2 segments) So in the last 40 years, we’ve seen the biggest and most meaningful reduction in global inequality that we’ve seen in the whole economic history of the planet. Can we credit globalization with this change? Philip Booth examines the concepts of globalization and free trade within the current political environment. 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

Segment 1: SSPX issues declaration of faith (2 segments)The traditionalist Society of Saint Pius X has issued an open letter and a declaration of faith to Pope Leo XIV and the College of Cardinals. The accompanying declaration contains 154 statements defending traditional Church teachings, including on the sacraments, the Virgin Mary, and fidelity to the Traditional Latin Mass. Matthew Bunson looks at this and other Church news.Segment 2: What AI can’t know, be, or do (2 segments)Enthusiastic supporters of Artificial Intelligence are particularly impressed by the amount of knowledge that AI apps seem to have. They are convinced that the apps know everything. But the technology has its limits – and there are things that AI cannot ever know, do, or be. John Horvat has more. 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

Segment 1: Obedience Shows our FaithIn today’s readings, the theme of obedience appears again and again. As the faithful, we are called to a life of moral obedience. In the Gospel, Jesus warns us that “only the one who does the will of my Father” will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Marcus has more.Segment 2: Does Capitalism Destroy Culture?One of the most enduring critiques of capitalism is that it is morally and culturally corrosive. This is a complex topic, in part because there are many definitions and demarcations of both capitalism and culture and the political Left and Right are both concerned about this topic, for different reasons. We take a look with Michael Matheson Miller.Segment 3: Winning the War on Government Debt (2 segments)Is it really true that excessive government debt creates inflation, or rather is the lesson of history that it creates something far, far worse? David Bahnsen 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

Heal, Not Harm: The Importance of Free and Virtuous Medicine (2 segments)The First Amendment guarantees the right to express one’s religious convictions both privately and publicly. Naturally, public expression extends to professional life - we mustn’t check our conscience at the door to our workplace. Yet, that is precisely what is expected of many health care professionals. This expectation harms the health care professional, the patient, and the overall profession. We look at the problem and a solution with Dr. Andrew Kubick.Christianity Compels the Transformation of Culture (2 segments)As Christians, it’s easy to be lured by the prospect of casting aside the culture and the sinful world, and to simply fend for ourselves. But the Scriptures call for the baptized to engage the culture, to bring about the transformation of the culture, so that our vocations intersect with our occupations for the sake of sanctifying the entire world for Christ. Charlie Self has more 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

Segment 1: Fatherhood First: The Man Who Left the World CupJérémy Doku is living a soccer player’s ultimate dream: he’s playing in the FIFA World Cup. But this week he set that dream aside, leaving his team so he could be present for the birth of his son. Sadly, his decision was met with some blowback. Critics accused him of abandoning his duties, and one television personality went as far as to claim that fathers play no role in the delivery process. Marcus looks at what this shows about our culture’s understanding of family and vocation.Segment 2: Empowering Workers: A Better Way ForwardWorkplace harmony tends to increase productivity, and greater productivity leads to flourishing. Jim Babka joins us with a look at strategies for empowering workers for greater unity and flourishing.Segment 3: Thinking Theologically about Work (2 segments) We devote hours and hours each week to our work – often spending more waking hours there than anywhere else. What if we approached our work as a vocation, regardless of what that work might be? We explore a theological vision of work and vocation with Scott Rae. 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

Segment 1: Marriage as a MinistryDuring his papacy, St. John Paul II detailed the challenges of evangelizing a world where words don’t matter and truth doesn’t exist. We can do this by living out the free, total, faithful, fruitful love that we receive from Christ in communion in our marriage and family lives. Dr. Greg Popcak has more.Segment 2: Immigration: Facts, Economics, and MoralityImmigration policy is one of the most hotly contested topics of our age. Daniel Di Martino joins us to examine immigration policy through the lens of human dignity, solidarity, and ordered love, weighing the duties nations owe to their citizens and migrants alike.Segment 3: The Ethics and Economics of Sports Gambling (2 segments)You can no longer watch a professional or collegiate sporting event without being inundated by ads for gambling. What effects does this have on our society? We look at the ethics and economics of sports gambling – past, present, and future – with Dr. Jared Pincin. 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