Big City Catholics Podcast

Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue host Father Michael Bruno, Vicar for Clergy and Consecrated Life of our diocese and Professor of History at St. Joseph’s Seminary, for a special July 4th episode of Big City Catholics, marking America's 250th anniversary. They trace the history of Catholics in the founding and shaping of the United States. The conversation weaves personal family immigration stories with reflections on Catholic identity, patriotism, and faith in America.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan visits South Carolina, where Sister Migdalia “Meggie” Flores, of the Farmworkers Ministry Coordinator for the Diocese of Charleston, along with the Vincentian Daughters of Charity, brings the Church directly to the fields. For workers who spend months away from their families and often lack access to Mass and other pastoral support, the ministry provides the sacraments, spiritual care, and a compassionate presence. It's a conversation about gratitude, human dignity, and seeing Christ in the face of the poor.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan joins Father Heanue, fresh from the USCCB meeting in Florida, where the U.S. bishops consecrated America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Their conversation touches on the beauty of that ceremony, the meaning of Juneteenth, and Pope Leo's recent words on slavery and human dignity, woven together by a shared call to embrace our nation's history with humility, gratitude, and hope as it nears its 250th anniversary.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan co-hosts with Lucero Manzanares, Associate Director for Youth and Young Adult Ministry, as they welcome Kiana Carrington, President of Young Catholic Professionals (YCP) Brooklyn, to discuss the successful launch of the chapter and the growing desire among young adults for authentic Catholic community, integrating faith into their careers, and discovering a place to call home in the Church.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue welcome four members of the Diocese of Brooklyn's 2025 priest ordination class. Each priest shares the joys and graces that have shaped their early ministry, offering an inspiring glimpse into what it means to serve the Church today.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Father James Kuroly and Father Joseph Zwosta join Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue to discuss the encyclical by Pope Leo XIV, Magnifica Humanitas: Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence. They unpack how the Church grounds its response to AI not in fear or rejection, but in the timeless principle of human dignity. Topics include AI in education, warfare, surveillance, tech addiction among youth, and the dangers of mistaking efficiency for goodness, or information for truth.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue explore the Church's pastoral response to assisted suicide legislation and the call to accompany the dying with compassion and dignity. They also discuss Pentecost, Trinity Sunday, Corpus Christi, as well as the upcoming consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart, focusing on themes of love, mercy, healing, and renewal through the Holy Spirit.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan sits down to talk about the brand-new Young Catholic Professionals (YCP) Brooklyn chapter and how young adults are connecting faith with professional life through mentorship, community, networking, and authentic Catholic fellowship. Lucero Manzanares (Associate Director for Youth and Young Adult Ministry), Steven Mezzacappa (YCP Regional Chapter Manager), and Vanessa Garcia (YCP Brooklyn's founding chapter leader) join him to give insight on the journey behind Brooklyn's newest Catholic community and what's coming next for our diverse diocese.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father John Hwang reflect on Pope Leo XIV's first year as Pope, highlighting his defining themes of peace, care for the poor, and social justice, all rooted in his missionary experience and Augustinian spirituality. Bishop Brennan encourages listeners to embrace Pope Leo's call to allow Christ to convert our hearts.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue reflect on Pope Leo’s call for peace—“War No More”—linking pro-life values to the dignity of every human life. They also examine the rising acceptance of political violence among young adults, while offering hope in the Church’s role—through Catholic education and young adult ministry—in forming a generation rooted in faith, respect, and true peace.

In this second of a two-part episode of Big City Catholics, Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez joins the conversation to share personal and heartfelt memories of Bishop William Murphy — a globally connected yet deeply humble leader who helped shape both his own ministry and that of Bishop Brennan. Together, they reflect on Bishop Murphy’s authentic friendships and remember a compassionate mentor who showed them how to be bishops not just through words, but through the witness of his life.

In this two-part episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Fr. Heanue remember Bishop William Murphy of the Diocese of Rockville Centre. Msgr. Joseph DeGrocco, pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Lindenhurst, joins Bishop Brennan for a warm conversation about Bishop Murphy's life and legacy, recalling his defining traits: his infectious joy, deep love for his diocese and its people, and his ability to bring people together across all walks of life.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan shares his Easter homily, which centers on the Resurrection of Jesus and the theme of being “fearful yet overjoyed.” He acknowledges the real anxieties of modern life and encourages us to hold fast to the hope and courage that come from faith in Christ, who walks with us each day. Bishop Brennan calls us not to be afraid, but to go and tell the Good News that Christ is risen.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan shares his Chrism Mass homily, reflecting on a young Confirmation candidate’s statement that he “can’t imagine life without God” as a witness to God’s constant love. He connects this to the Gospel and Pope Leo’s call to be “fishers of men,” reminding priests to remember their “first love” and all the faithful to bring hope and God’s presence to the world.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan highlights the 30th Annual Way of the Cross—a powerful public witness of faith that processes across the Brooklyn Bridge into Lower Manhattan, with a stop at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. Featuring guests from the lay Catholic movement Communion and Liberation—Christopher Vath, John Ronan, and Luca Lupi—who reflect on the meaning and impact of this tradition founded in 1996.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue welcome Edward Clancy, Director of Outreach for Aid to the Church in Need, an organization dedicated to supporting Christians through funding, education, and rebuilding efforts. Together, they raise awareness about the global persecution of Christians ahead of ACN’s Courage and Faith Week, highlighting the sharp decline of Christian populations and ongoing violence. Bishop Brennan invites listeners to pray, learn more, and stand in solidarity with the persecuted Church during Lent.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue reflect on vocations to the priesthood and religious life, sharing their own stories and the influence of joyful priests and Eucharistic Adoration in their discernment. They highlight encouraging signs of young people exploring vocations today. The conversation also explores the many forms of ministry within the diocesan priesthood and the call for priests to strive for holiness, not perfection.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue reflect on the Lenten season and recent diocesan activities. Bishop Brennan shares highlights from the Lenten Pilgrimage and explores the meaning of the Lenten scrutinies and their connection to baptism. As we continue our Lenten journey and celebrate the Jubilee year honoring St. Francis, Bishop Brennan invites listeners to become instruments of peace in their own communities.

Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue record this episode of Big City Catholics from St. Joan of Arc parish, one of the station churches for the Diocesan Lenten Pilgrimage. They explore how pilgrimage is a sacred act of sacrifice, prayer, and charitable giving of one's time—one that draws pilgrims ever closer into the presence of the Lord. As Lent is a season of transformation and preparation, we are encouraged to draw closer to God.

Deacon Kevin McCormack, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, joins Bishop Brennan on Big City Catholics to discuss transition plans following the news of seven school closures. While announcing the pursuit of global settlements in sexual abuse cases, Bishop Brennan introduces Maryellen Quinn, Director of the Office for the Protection of Children and Young People, and Elizabeth Harris, Victim Assistance Coordinator, who emphasize the diocese's collaborative efforts of dedication and continued commitment to child protection and safe environment practices. The discussion frames these difficult situations through a Lenten perspective of confronting painful realities while trusting in God's grace for healing and renewal.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue reflect on the approach of Lent and the need for thoughtful, intentional preparation rather than last-minute resolutions. They emphasize that Lent is meant to foster true spiritual growth, not simply physical sacrifice, and highlight how prayer, fasting, and almsgiving work together to deepen our relationship with God. Bishop Brennan also encourages concrete Lenten practices and taking part in the Diocesan Lenten Pilgrimage as meaningful ways to live the season more intentionally.

Cathedral Club President Harry D’Onofrio and spiritual director Father Michael Falce join this episode of Big City Catholics to explore the Cathedral Club’s legacy of lay Catholic leadership. The conversation highlights the club’s bipartisan community, expanding scholarship support for Catholic education in Brooklyn and Queens, and its mission to mentor young people and live out faith through service.

In this edition of Big City Catholics, Bishop-Elect Manuel de Jesus Rodriguez shares the story of his unexpected appointment by Pope Leo XIV to lead the Diocese of Palm Beach, reflecting on the surprise call and his vision for the growing Florida diocese. The conversation touches on youth ministry, Catholic education, pro-life advocacy, and answering God's call to serve.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue reflect on the cultural life of the Diocese, from Bishop Brennan’s missionary experience in Peru to celebrations like the Feast of Our Lady of Altagracia and the Mass honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. They highlight upcoming events that celebrate diversity and affirm the Church’s commitment to human dignity. The episode also contrasts a recent religious liberty victory, exempting Catholic institutions from providing abortion coverage, with concerns over the newly signed euthanasia law.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue center their conversation on human dignity. With the upcoming March for Life events, the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Bishop Brennan reflects on the enduring call to defend civil rights and uphold the sanctity of human life. He calls us to be instruments of peace and solidarity, to defend human life at all stages, and to recognize that every person is created in God’s image.

This special edition of Big City Catholics features Bishop Brennan and diocesan priest Father John Hwang, on the road at the SEEK Conference. Joined by two Queens College students, the group reflects on their experiences, highlighting the enthusiasm and faith of the young Catholics present, the global diversity of attendees from around the world, and the inspiration drawn from seeing young families and religious vocations. The episode touches on the broader experience of being a young Catholic in New York City, the temptation to feel isolated in faith, and the value of virtuous friendships. Bishop Brennan encourages us to live out the fruits of the SEEK experience in daily life and parish communities.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, we hear Bishop Brennan’s homily for the Feast of the Holy Family, which marks the close of the Jubilee year for the local church. He reflects on Joseph and Mary as the first pilgrims of hope, fleeing Herod’s persecution while carrying the Christ child and facing life’s realities with strength from God. Though the Holy Year has ended, Bishop Brennan reminds us that the pilgrimage of life continues, emphasizing the importance of hope, solidarity with the poor and vulnerable, the value of family and community, and the need for God in our daily lives. Bishop Brennan encourages us to support one another by drawing strength from our faith.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue reflect on the mystery of the Lord’s Incarnation as we celebrate the Octave of Christmas. Bishop Brennan shares his Christmas homily, reminding us that when we truly behold God’s presence in our lives, we can find the courage to overcome our fears. He encourages us to draw comfort and strength from Emmanuel — God with us.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue reflect on hope and light amid darkness. The discussion addresses recent acts of violence and hardships both locally and globally. Bishop Brennan encourages us during Advent to acknowledge the darkness in the world, the reality that our existence is finite, and the longing for eternity in Heaven. He motivates us as Christians to be agents of the light and to inspire each other by walking together on the journey of life, pointing in the direction of hope.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Lucero Manzanares, Associate Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry in the diocese, joins Bishop Brennan to share her background engaging youth and young adults through holy hours, youth days, and community-building activities. Lucero shares personal stories and cultural traditions surrounding the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the missionary spirit of St. Juan Diego. Their conversation touches on the importance of encounter, meeting people where they are, building relationships, and challenging them to grow in faith.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop James Massa, Rector of St. Joseph’s Seminary and Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Brooklyn, joins Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue to commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. Together, they explore the significance of the Nicene Creed as a cornerstone of Christian belief. Their conversation reflects on the council’s historical context and its role in articulating essential doctrines, particularly the divinity of Jesus Christ. They also highlight ecumenism, which aims toward Christians of different denominations collaborating, strengthening relationships among their churches, and working toward greater unity in the Christian faith.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan reflects on his recent trip to the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in Indianapolis. He is joined by four young participants from our diocese who share their experiences and insights from the event, touching on the sense of community and inspiration they received from speakers. This year’s conference was particularly special as it was the first digital interaction with Pope Leo XIV, live from Rome, who addressed the youth on various topics and provided relatable advice, making a strong impression on the attendees.

In this special edition of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan joins The Respect Life Podcast to speak with Kat Talalas about authentic, compassionate care at the end of life. He reflects on his own family’s experience, contrasting true dignity with the despair often linked to assisted suicide. Bishop Brennan also touches on his perspective on abortion and Roe v. Wade, offering a message of hope for caregivers, the suffering, and all who seek to defend human life.

In this special edition of Big City Catholics, produced by the Catholic Faith Network, President and CEO Msgr. Jim Vlaun joins Bishop Brennan from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Baltimore. Together, they discuss the fraternal dialogue among bishops, the missionary spirit of Pope Leo XIV, the 100th anniversary of the Pontifical Mission Societies, and the challenges facing immigrants, reaffirming the Church’s commitment to human dignity.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Fr. Heanue sit down with Fr. Dwayne Davis, pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas in Flatlands, to reflect on November as a time of remembrance. They discuss the significance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, the impact of Hurricane Melissa, and the strength that comes from community during challenging times. The episode also spotlights the Ambassador youth program and invites listeners to pray for and support those affected by the storm.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Fr. Heanue take us to Washington, D.C., where diocesan pilgrims gathered at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. They reflect on the powerful spiritual experience of the pilgrimage and share conversations with the faithful of all ages who represent the unity and diversity of our diocesan family. Pilgrims offer their testimonies, prayer intentions, and hopes from a grace-filled day of faith and fellowship.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue highlight a busy October in the diocese, celebrating the 375th anniversary of the Sisters of St. Joseph and honoring religious vocations. They reflect on Polish Heritage Day and the enduring influence of St. John Paul II. They also preview the diocesan pilgrimage to Washington, DC, emphasizing the significance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, and reaffirm support for survivors of abuse at the annual Mass of Hope and Healing. Bishop Brennan spotlights the importance of staying faithful to the Gospel "in season and out of season" despite modern secularism.

Monsignor Peter Vaccari, priest of the Diocese of Brooklyn who serves as the president of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association and Pontifical Mission, joins Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue on Big City Catholics to discuss the humanitarian crisis in the Holy Land and the Church’s mission to bring hope to those in need. Monsignor Vaccari shares CNEWA’s mission to provide supplies, increase psychosocial counseling, and send aid into the affected areas. As we celebrate World Mission Sunday, Bishop Brennan encourages listeners to support missionary work and reminds us of the effective nature of praying in solidarity for peace.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue welcome Kristen Curran, Director of Government Relations for the New York State Catholic Conference, for a Respect Life Month conversation. Bishop Brennan expresses disappointment over the legislature’s passage of the assisted suicide bill but appreciates the governor’s careful consideration. He emphasizes that life is a sacred gift from God, and warns of a radical cultural shift, calling for greater investment in elder care, hospice, and palliative care, and urging advocacy, compassion, and ongoing dialogue within the community.

In this special edition of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan joins the Beyond Damascus podcast, recorded in Columbus, Ohio, for the Damascus Speaker Series. In this conversation, he reflects on faith, the essential role of prayer, and the power of young missionaries bringing the Good News to the world. The Damascus Speaker Series continues to inspire and invite people into a deeper relationship with Christ and the Catholic faith.

Angie-Lee Vazquez, Director of Children’s Faith Formation for the Diocese of Brooklyn, joins Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue on Big City Catholics to discuss Catechetical Sunday and the vital work of catechists. She shares the joy of seeing young disciples grow in faith, the importance of partnering with families in faith formation, as well as the challenges and rewards of catechetical ministry. This episode highlights the mission to build a diverse, faith-filled community through hope, adaptability, and collaboration between catechists, families, and parish leaders.

Bishop Brennan returns to the Diocese of Columbus in this episode of Big City Catholics, joining St. Gabriel Radio’s morning show, Saint Gabriel Café, with hosts Dave Orsborn and Amanda Miller. He reflects on his personal experiences along the path from Ohio to Brooklyn, and discusses faith, community, cultural diversity, the role of young people, holiness, and his hopes for the Church’s spiritual renewal.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue reflect on how the cross is present in every part of our lives. Amid suffering and sin, God’s greatness shines. We are called to embrace the cross as Jesus did, trusting that He is always with us. With Mary’s help, we remain hopeful, grow in faith, and bring comfort to one another.

Deacon Kevin McCormack, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Brooklyn, joins Bishop Brennan on this episode of Big City Catholics to discuss the start of a new academic year. In response to the recent tragedy in Minneapolis, Bishop Brennan calls us to stand in prayerful solidarity, asking God’s blessings upon our entire school community and all those who protect our children. He emphasizes that prayer is the primary means of aligning ourselves with the Lord. Deacon McCormack adds that we are called to live as people of hope, therefore rejecting apathy, cynicism, and despair.

Father Joseph Zwosta, Academic Dean of Pope Saint John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts, joins Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue on Big City Catholics to discuss the urgent call to pray for peace. Echoing Pope Leo XIV’s appeal, Bishop Brennan highlights the start of the academic year as a powerful time to unite prayer with action for peace. He calls on all of us to serve as instruments of the Lord’s peace and to help cultivate a culture that embraces God’s will.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue reflect on recent events within our diocese and around the world. They emphasize the need to turn our hearts toward God, stand together in solidarity, and rely on the power of prayer to foster lasting peace and uphold human dignity. The conversation also highlights current and upcoming diocesan events that invite us to come together in the presence of the Lord.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue reflect on the recent religious vocations emerging from Brooklyn and Queens. As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a source of hope and inspiration, we are reminded to focus our attention and soul on eternal life in Heaven. Bishop Brennan notes that this solemnity flows from the joy of Easter, revealing our share in Christ’s Resurrection.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan joins the Jubilee of Youth in Rome, where he speaks with three diocesan pilgrims about their experiences. They share firsthand reflections, transformative moments, and their plans to live out their faith moving forward. Bishop Brennan reflects on the profound blessing of witnessing this journey through the eyes of young people and expresses his pride in the depth of their faith and sincere spiritual search—a powerful sign of great hope for the Church.

Bishop Brennan records this episode of Big City Catholics from the heart of the Eternal City, Rome, as he welcomes pilgrims from our diocese for the Jubilee of Youth. Joined by Lucero Manzanares, Associate Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, they reflect on the powerful witness of young people alive in their faith. From a moving pilgrimage to Assisi and the tomb of Blessed Carlo Acutis, to the celebration of Mass and their highly anticipated encounter with Pope Leo XIV, every moment overflows with God’s presence. Bishop Brennan shares how being surrounded by others who are rooted in the same vibrant faith can be a true game changer.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan shares the special experience of celebrating Sunday Mass at Citi Field—a powerful way to serve those who work to create a safe and meaningful experience for Mets fans. He’s joined by James Benesh, Vice President of Ballpark Experience for the New York Mets, who shares how these Masses, much like those in a parish, bring people from all corners of the community together. Bishop Brennan also speaks with Rev. Msgr. Thomas C. Machalski, Jr., pastor of Sacred Heart in Bayside and chaplain to the Mets, who discusses Catholic Athletes for Christ, an organization that facilitates the celebration of Mass for Catholic players, coaches, and team personnel at many stadiums.