Cathedral Square

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, Father welcomes returning guest Ellen Roy back to the studio. Ellen is the Executive Director for Catholic Charities of Orange County. In this landmark episode, Fr. Christopher and Ellen celebrate the 50th anniversary of Catholic Charities of Orange County! This is truly a celebration of God’s faithfulness to a ministry that has served countless thousands of people in the Orange Diocese over the years. Happy anniversary to Catholic Charities of OC!

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square, featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. Over the course of several years going back to 2015, Fr. Christopher has had the opportunity to be interviewed on another one of our popular podcasts called OC Catholic Radio. This time, Father gets to turn the tables to interview longtime host, Rick Howick. Rick stepped away from his weekly hosting duties in the Summer of 2025, as he took a position at the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. Listen in and see what Rick has been up to. For more, come visit us at occatholic.com and click ‘radio.’

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square, featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On today’s podcast, Father welcomes special guest Maureen Pratt to the studio. Maureen is an author and the founder of the fast-growing ministry, "The Peace in the Storm Project.” This ministry brings scripture, prayer and insight to caregivers seeking God's comfort, grace and peace.  They also tap into technology to bring virtual pilgrimages, prayer, and resources to the homebound and their caregivers, a community within our church that needs the hope she brings.https://www.thepeaceinthestormproject.com/

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square, featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. In case you hadn’t heard, it’s not just the United States of America celebrating their epic 250th birthday this year. Orange County’s very own Mission San Juan Capistrano also celebrates 250 years in November of 2026! Joining us in the studio today is Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence-Adams to share with us this once-in-a-lifetime milestone and all the activities surrounding it. Listen and share this podcast with a friend.

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square, featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On this week’s show, Fr. Christopher welcomes two very special guests to the studio: Fr. Greg Walgenbach (The Director for the Office of Life Justice and Peace & The Missions Office for the Diocese of Orange) and Alba Ramiro (The Coordinator of Hispanic, Migrant, Young Adult Ministry at St. Boniface Church in Anaheim). Our primary topic of conversation today is the annual Mass in Recognition of All Immigrants which is celebrated each year by Archbishop Jose Gomez and held at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles. Tune in for this important and timely discussion!

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square, featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On this week’s show, Rick welcomes Rebecca Freeman to the studio. Rebecca is the Pastoral Care Ministry Coordinator for the Office for Family Life in the Diocese of Orange. Our discussion today centers around the ‘Caring for the Whole Person Initiative.’  You are sure to enjoy and glean a lot of good information from this fascinating discussion. Be sure to share this material with a family member, friend, co-worker or neighbor! 

Hear first-hand from the folks at Christ Cathedral about all the exciting musical happenings going on right now! Joining host Fr. Christopher Smith on this podcast episode are David Ball (the Head of Music Ministry and Cathedral Organist) and Lauren McCaul (Cathedral Music Administrator). Our conversation centers around the annual Cathedral Choir Camp (that just finished its summer program) and our Organ and Choral Scholars at Christ Cathedral. There are so many dynamic happenings taking place with the music ministry at Christ Cathedral, tune in and be inspired!

This special episode of Cathedral Square features the audio of a parish mission talk given by Fr. Christopher Smith recorded “LIVE” at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Chino Hills, CA. Fr. Christopher has served as a priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange since 1978. He holds a master’s in divinity from St. John’s Seminary and a master’s in religious education from Fordham University. He has served in several capacities in the Diocese of Orange, including Parochial Vicar, Director of the Office for Religious Education, Vicar for Religious Education, Pastor of St. Joseph Church in Santa Ana, Episcopal Vicar for Priests, and Director of the Ministry to Priests Office. He was the first Rector of Christ Cathedral and is now the Rector Emeritus.  This talk is titled: "The What and The How of Hope."

In this episode of Cathedral Square, Fr. Christopher Smith is delighted to welcome a dear friend to the studio, Karen Castro. Karen has ministered in our diocese in so many profound ways over the years. Most notably, she has served as the chairwoman of the Inspirational Catholic Woman event. This annual experience is put on by the Catholic Charities Auxiliary, a group that supports Catholic Charities of Orange County through outreach, fundraising and community service. Each year they hold a benefit dinner that serves as a fundraiser for New Hope Counseling Services, which provides mental health programs at several diocesan elementary schools. Funds also support the Cantlay Food Distribution Center, which serves thousands of families and individuals in need all over the OC.Listen, learn, and SHARE this podcast!

In this episode of Cathedral Square, Fr. Christopher Smith welcomes a very close family member to the show: his brother, Tad Smith. Among his many talents to go with his diverse background, Tad currently serves in the role of Educator Coordinator of the Garden of Hope at the Cantlay Center in Santa Ana, CA. There are many people of faith who are totally unaware of all the essential ‘boots on the ground’ work being done by Catholic Charities for individuals and families in need in OC. This podcast is sure to be an eye-opener… and in a very good way!Cantlay Food Distribution Center Catholic Charities of Orange County2020 W. Chestnut Ave.Santa Ana, CA 92703(714) 347-9602ccoc.org

This special episode of Cathedral Square features the audio of an Advent Mission “LIVE” talk given by Fr. Christopher Smith at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Huntington Beach, CA. This is Part 3 of a 3-part series! Fr. Christopher has been known to say, “If you want to have a great Christmas, have a great Advent!” This talk is titled: "Being Disciples Jesus Can Count On." It was recorded on 12/11/24.https://www.stbonaventure.org

This special episode of Cathedral Square features the audio of an Advent Mission “LIVE” talk given by Fr. Christopher Smith at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Huntington Beach, CA. This is Part 2 of a 3-part series! Fr. Christopher has been known to say, “If you want to have a great Christmas, have a great Advent!” This talk is titled: "Living Our Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times."It was recorded on 12/10/24.https://www.stbonaventure.org

This special episode of Cathedral Square features the audio of an Advent Mission “LIVE” talk given by Fr. Christopher Smith at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Huntington Beach, CA. This is Part 1 of a 3-part series! Fr. Christopher has been known to say, “If you want to have a great Christmas, have a great Advent!” This talk is titled: "A Time to Reboot." It was recorded on 12/9/24.https://www.stbonaventure.org

In this episode of Cathedral Square, Fr. Christopher Smith is delighted to welcome another first-time guest to the studio, Sr. Jane DeLisle, CSJ. Sr. Jane is the Director at the Center for Spiritual Development in the city of Orange. This is a ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange. Spiritual direction is a ministry deeply rooted in the Christian tradition in which seekers are called to be open to the direction of the Holy Spirit in their lives. The Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange also offer the Art of Spiritual Direction (ASD) is a three-year spiritual direction formation program for individuals who discern in themselves a call to the ministry of spiritual direction. For more info, visit them online at thecsd.org.Center for Spiritual Development434 S. Batavia Street, Orange, CA 92868714-744-3175

Enjoy this wonderful conversation between the only two rectors in the brief history of Christ Cathedral Parish: Fr. Christopher Smith and Fr. Bao Thai. These two pillars of our diocese have much to discuss, including the official opening of the St. Callistus Chapel and Crypts. This newly re-designed space can be found in the undercroft of the main cathedral church. If you’ve been wondering about all the construction and progress of all the goings-on at Christ Cathedral - this podcast is for you.  Listen and share! 

Catholic Charities of Orange County had a rare opportunity to film this podcast episode on the campus of Christ Cathedral recently. In this episode of Cathedral Square, Father Christopher Smith talks with CCOC's Executive Director, Ellen Roy, and Deacon Tom Saenz. They talked about their life stories, topics surrounding Christ Cathedral campus, and our upcoming Treasure of the Church event. To support the St. Lawrence Fund, visit ccoc.orgThis episode can also be accessed on video. Go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fPuus6SM30

In this episode of Cathedral Square, Fr. Christopher Smith is delighted to welcome a first-time guest to the studio, Sr. Kathy Schneider. Sr. Kathy is a sister of the Order of the Company of Mary; and she currently works in campus ministry at UCLA. Listen as she shares her fascinating story of growing up in a large family on a farm in Indiana; and the truly unique circumstances that brought her all the way out to southern California. Her story of being called to the religious life is rooted in some life-changing experiences she had in a vibrant, parish-based young adult group.

In this episode of Cathedral Square, Fr. Christopher Smith is delighted to welcome a first-time guest to the studio, Nancy Lopez. Nancy has served the deaf community in the Diocese of Orange in various ways over the course of several years. In fact, if you’ve ever had the privilege to watch a livestream of a mass from Christ Cathedral, you’ve most likely seen Nancy’s smiling face in the bottom right corner of the screen as she signs for the deaf community. Listen and learn about this thriving ministry to some very special people in our diocese! 

In this episode of Cathedral Square, Fr. Christopher Smith welcomes his good friend and fellow priest, Fr. Mike Pontarelli. Fr. Mike currently serves as Pastor at St Julianna Falconieri Parish in Fullerton. Listen to this fascinating discussion as they do a deep dive into the question, what are the charisms of a priest in the Servite order? Listen, and share this podcast!

This special episode of Cathedral Square features the audio of a Lenten Mission “LIVE” talk given by Fr. Christopher Smith at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Laguna Woods, CA. This is Part 2 of a 2-part series!

This special episode of Cathedral Square features the audio of a Lenten Mission “LIVE” talk given by Fr. Christopher Smith at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Laguna Woods, CA. This is Part 1 of a 2-part series! 

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, we enjoy a return visit with Msgr. John Urell, the Rector Emeritus at St. Timothy Catholic Church in Laguna Niguel, CA.Fr. Christopher and Msgr. John have a lot in common, having both served in the Diocese of Orange for many years. They were classmates in seminary; and were ordained priests on the same day in 1978! Since both Fr. Christopher and Msgr Urell are now retired, what exactly does it mean to be a retired priest? Tune in for this delightful, enlightening discussion!

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, Father welcomes a remarkable woman whose face is very familiar to those who spend time on the Christ Cathedral campus. Sr. Kit Gray is a sister of St. Joseph of Orange and is currently the facilitator and presenter for the Center for Spiritual Development. Both Sr. Kitt and Fr. Christopher were part of the founding staff at Christ Cathedral going back to 2012, and their lives of ministry service have intersected many times over the years. Tune in for this delightful, encouraging discussion!

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, Father welcomes Fr. Ben Tran to the show. Fr. Ben has been a priest in the Diocese of Orange for 18 years; and his primary role these days is indeed a very important one – especially when it comes to the mentorship and faith formation of college students and young adults. Fr. Ben is the chaplain for “Anteater Catholic,” the campus ministry of UC Irvine (UCI). Listen as he shares his powerful testimony and his unique calling to the ministry of the priesthood. You are sure to be inspired by his contagious enthusiasm! anteatercatholic.org

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, Father welcomes Fr. Vincent Pham to the show. Fr. Vincent was recently installed as the pastor of St. Bonaventure Church in Huntington Beach. He is thrilled with his new assignment. The central focus of our discussion today will be on the eucharist, which is the source and summit of our faith as Catholics. Tune in and hear all about it! Please share this podcast with a family member or friend.

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, Father welcomes Ellen Roy to the studio for an enlightening discussion. Ellen is the Executive Director for Catholic Charities of Orange County. She shares about her fascinating background; and about some of the incredibly important work that happens behind the scenes every day. This ministry is an absolute lifeline to so many families and our brothers and sisters in our midst. We salute Catholic Charities of OC! Listen and share this podcast!

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, Father welcomes Sr. Mary Beth Ingham to the studio. Sr. Mary Beth is the General Superior of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange. Our primary focus on this podcast is to discuss Pope Francis’ call on the “Synod on Synodality.” It’s a spirit-filled journey of listening, dialogue, and discernment. The synod has been an ongoing three-year process for the global Catholic community that will culminate in 2024. Listen and share this podcast! 

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, Father welcomes two members of the Sisters of the Lovers of the Holy Cross based in Garden Grove. Their names are Sr. Mary Peace Ho and Sr. Tina Dinh. Together, they serve at the Lambertian Ministry Center in Garden Grove, which is located in the Little Saigon area of the city. Facilities include Sacred Heart Chapel, Bishop Lambert Hall and Lambees Preschool. The center offers spiritual and social assistance to the local community including a food pantry, after school program, Respect Life assistance and a yearly Mission of Love to Vietnam. Listen and SHARE this podcast!

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, Father welcomes Fe Tamparong to the studio. In addition to being a longtime parishioner at Christ Cathedral parish, Fe has worked for many years in the parish bereavement ministry, proving tremendous support to grieving families. What are the key components to this ministry; and, how can someone go about assisting those who need this kind of support? Listen and learn as Fe shares from her heart about the life experiences that brought her to where she is today. You are sure to be inspired by this podcast!

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, Father welcomes Fr. Domenico Di Raimondo to the studio. Fr. Domenico is the Director of the House of Prayer for Priests, a spiritual retreat space in Orange County, CA. This lovely facility is described as follows: “An oasis of peace and calm permeates the house of prayer, a retreat center specifically designed for priests who need time and space to rest, pray and rejuvenate.” Listen and share this podcast!

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith, the Rector Emeritus of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA. On today’s program, Father welcomes Joan Patten to the studio. Joan is a familiar face on the campus of Christ Cathedral, as she works for the Diocese of Orange in the vocations office as a delegate for consecrated life. Joan acts as a liaison between the bishop and the local religious communities.  You are sure to be captivated by this dynamic conversation!

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On this week’s program, Father welcomes Pastor Ric Olsen to the program. Ric is the pastor of The Beacon Church in the city of Orange. In recent years, these two gentlemen have collaborated on issues regarding Christian unity. How can we as Christians work together to better serve our local communities? Pastor Ric has some wonderful stories to share that will surely inspire you. Don't miss his reflection on the ‘unity flame’ that came to us straight from Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christ! 

On this very special edition of Cathedral Square, Fr. Christopher Smith offers a message on ‘love and marriage’ to a unique assembly of deacon wives in the Diocese of Orange. There’s even a bit of audience participation along the way.Listen in and be inspired! 

On today’s program, Fr. Christopher welcomes Greg Walgenbach back to our studios on the campus of Christ Cathedral. Greg is the Director of the Office of Life, Justice and Peace for the Diocese of Orange.We’re going to talk about many of the unique ministries that Greg is involved in; and, how we as Catholics can be more active in providing a ‘voice for the voiceless’ in our communities.Some important topics of discussion here, so be sure to tune in!

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On today’s program, Father welcomes the Vicar General for the Diocese of Orange, Fr. Angelos Sebastian.Fr. Angelos holds additional titles to vicar general, tune in and hear about the many other areas of ministry where he tirelessly serves our diocese daily! 

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On today’s program, Father welcomes a friend who is also a longtime parishioner of Christ Cathedral, Attorney Juan Laguna. Attorney Laguna focuses his Orange County based practice on immigration law. Listen in, and learn about some unique perspectives and challenges that perhaps you haven’t heard before.  

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On today’s show, you’ll enjoy a beautifully presented Advent talk given by Fr. Christopher on the Christ Cathedral campus in early December, 2022.  

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On today’s engaging podcast, let's eavesdrop on a talk that Father delivered at the 2022 International Catholic Stewardship Conference at the Anaheim Hilton last October. You are sure to benefit from his thoughtful presentation.

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On today’s engaging podcast, Fr Christopher welcomes to...

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On this week’s program, Father welcomes Dr. Vincent...

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On this program, we are graced by two...

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host Fr. Christopher Smith. On this program, we welcome Julianna Tapia (the...

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host, Fr. Christopher Smith. Listen and be fed by the anointed words...

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host, Fr. Christopher Smith. Fr. Mario Juarez has been the Parochial Vicar...

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host, Fr. Christopher Smith. The Diocese of Orange has amassed quite a...

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring host, Fr. Christopher Smith. On today’s episode, Fr. Christopher welcomes the virtual...

Welcome to another episode of Cathedral Square featuring your host, Fr. Christopher Smith. Today’s installment will provide you with an...

Here comes yet another special edition of Cathedral Square with your host Fr. Christopher Smith. On today’s podcast session, we’ll catch up...

Here comes yet another special edition of Cathedral Square with your host Fr. Christopher Smith. During the just-concluded Advent season, Fr....

This is a very special edition of Cathedral Square with your host Fr. Christopher Smith. Just days ago at Christ Cathedral in...