I Thought You'd Like to Know

Rich May on his book Addressing Loss of Belief in the Real Presence: What we can do as a parish and as an individual to better restore belief in and evangelize Christ’s Eucharistic Presence (May 23, 2026)The greatest crisis in the Church today is the desacralization of our Lord in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass … contributing to loss in belief in the Real Presence. Drawing from the fruits of the USCCB three-year revival as a starting point, and recent survey data, Rich digs deeper evaluating our posture for reception of Communion, catechesis, decorum, modesty of dress, liturgical music and some simple improvements our parishes can implement. It is not enough to believe, we must act like we believe, because actions speak louder than words!Addressing Loss of Belief in the Real Presence: What we can do as a parish and as an individual to better restore belief in and evangelize Christ’s Eucharistic Presence by Rich May | En Route Books and Media

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Kiki Latimer interviews Bernadette Burnette on Meet Karen: The Friend That Nobody Likes “BFF4L” Part I. The first book to the novel series, Meet Karen: The Friend That Nobody Likes by Sayre Fidei.Meet Karen, she's 29 years old and still lives at home with her parents and older brother Kevin in Burbank, California. Karen dreams of becoming a famous television host and best friends with the ones she admires. Karen has a homemade doll collection of them. Three of which are, little oprah winfrey, little ellen degeneres and little jimmy fallon. These are her BFF4Ls, ‘Best Friends Forever For Life’ along with stray cats that she feeds. Karen doesn’t have any real friends, that is, until her neighbor named Frank comes knocking at the door. When Karen answers, she opens it to more than she could have ever imagined… or dreamed up…Excited about the story and want to learn more? Then head over to the Sayre Fidei website at www.sayrefidei.com where you can also purchase the books!

Roxane & Troy Salonen on Real Presence Radio Network on their Meeting with the Pope (November 18, 2025)

In this episode of WCAT Radio, Michael Brennan interviews Ben Bongers on his book True Love: 12 Christmas Stories, My True Love Gave to MeLet’s face it, life is messy and so are emotions. But, as Hellen Keller said, “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.” This book was written with love, for someone the author loves, and who loves him in return. The twelve stories contain every emotion that we feel daily, but we’re too afraid to let out. They are offered in the hope that readers will give themselves permission to really feel. To laugh, to hope, and yes… to cry. What better time of life than the Holidays to open that little door to our hearts that we slam shut and lock most of the time.True Love: 12 Christmas Stories, My True Love Gave to Me | En Route Books and Media

In this episode of "I Thought You'd Like to Know," Spirit Radio interviews Kenneth Francis on his book Theology in Music (August 28, 2025)Theology in Music: How Christian Themes Permeate Classic Songs by Kenneth Francis reveals the hidden grammar in classic popular songs theologically marinated in existential narratives, featuring idolatry, sin, love, pathos and meaning. And what better religion to focus on than Christianity for such themes, from the soul-music classics of the 1960/70s, to the Top 100 Billboard hits of the same eras. Welcome to the world of classic songs permeated with Christian themes.Theology in Music by Kenneth Francis | En Route Books and Media

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Chris Reilly interviews John Livingston, Director of Evangelization & Adult Faith Formation at St. Peter Catholic Church in Kirkwood, MO.

In this episode of WCAT Radio's "I Thought You'd Like to Know," Bishop Joseph Coffey interviews Mo Moured on Cross the Divide Ministry (June 11, 2025)Cross the Divide is helping veterans and their families navigate the challenging terrain of life, promoting healing, hope, strength and growth by application of Christ-centered, biblical truths in the venue of God’s creation.Cross The Divide provides transformational experiences in the venue of the outdoors such as hunting, fishing, backpacking, horse camping, and llama packing trips, as well as retreats and seminars. With the assistance of track chairs and an incredible team of guides and facilitators, we are able to accommodate physically disabled veterans on some of our hunting and fishing trips. Through the personal care and attentiveness of our team, we give veterans a place to talk about their non-physical wounds and personal challenges as well. Cross The Divide is focused on sending each veteran back to their family and their community in a healthier place while connecting them with other veterans and inviting them to a deeper relationship with God. Cross the Divide

In this episode of Synods and Synodality, Robert Fastiggi and Michael Vacca interview George Weigel on the concept of synodality and its impact on the Catholic Church.George Weigel emphasized that synodality in Eastern Christianity involves governance by synods of bishops, unlike the current Western interpretation. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong doctrinal identity and moral boundaries, citing Sub-Saharan Africa and Germany as examples.Weigel praised John Paul II's contributions, including his personal witness, interpretation of Vatican II, and the Theology of the Body. He also discussed the need for a return to the teachings of Veritatis Splendor to address moral relativism. The conversation concluded with reflections on the future of the Church and the importance of hope.

“What is truth?” Pontius Pilate scoffed at Jesus (Jn 18:38), and that’s how we think about matters today in our culture—subjectively: my truth, your truth, etc. To make the argument that there is a knowable Truth (with a capital T) that is written in the world and in our bones, theologians Deborah Savage and Robert Fastiggi examine a selection of autobiographical accounts of ‘lived experience.’ They take a number of personal essays written by those who have erred from the path of Catholic social teaching and sexual morality—in the dark forest of the world, to borrow from Dante—and their subsequent disappointments and suffering. They examine these narratives through the anthropology of John Paul II and the authority of the physical and social sciences, including medical doctors. So, there is Good News for all of us: if we find ourselves lost and unhappy in our errant meanderings, the Church can bring us home. We can always choose, as God reminded Cain gently (Gen 4:7), “sin is couching at the door; its desire is for you, but you may overcome it.”Here is the book on the En Route Books website (which includes video links)here is the book on Amazon.com.Deborah Savage’s website.Robert Fastiggi’s website (as a theology professor at Sacred Heart Major Seminary).The article we refer to by Leah Fessler, “A Lot of Women Don’t Enjoy Hookup Culture—So Why Do We Force Ourselves to Participate?” Quartz Online, May 17, 2016.Humanae Vitae by Pope Paul VI on Wikipedia and on the Vatican website.Robert Fastiggi’s previous appearance on Almost Good Catholics, three years ago (recorded in February of 2022, on the eve of Putin’s invasion of Ukraine):Robert Fastiggi on Almost Good Catholics, episode 7: Mother of All Nations: Immaculate Conception, Virgin Birth, Assumption, and Coronation of MaryAn episode of Almost Good Catholics on the same theme:Garrett Johnson on Almost Good Catholics, episode 42: Who Do You Think You Are? Thorny Questions about Sex, Identity, and Catholic Doctrine.

Christian principles for thriving with artificial intelligence with guest Christopher M. Reilly onTrending with Timmerie.(1:30) Volunteering and donating to the LA fire victims with Catherine Contreras. (26:17) Good news in the debate on gender. California: Teachers have no obligation to follow policies that require them to keep secrets from parents (45:09)

In this episode of Synods and Synodality, Dr. Robert Fastiggi and Michael Vacca, JD, interview Edward Pentin on his College of Cardinals Report (February 19, 2025)

In this episode of Synods and Synodality, Dr. Robert Fastiggi and Michael Vacca, J.D. discuss with Fr. Deacon Robert Klesko of EWTN, Fr. Daniel Dozier, Pastor of St. George the Great Byzantine Catholic Church, Olympia, WA, Fr Michael Winn, LTh and Fr Deacon Anthony Dragani, PhD.  how Synodality works within the Eastern Catholic Churches. (February 13, 2025)How does Synodality work within the Eastern Catholic Churches? How do these synods enjoy authority without compromising the authority of the Roman Pontiff? Is Eastern Catholic synodality a possible motivation for Pope Francis's desire to promote synodality in the Catholic Church today? Interview A production of En Route Books & Media and The International Catholic Jurists Forum. Dr. Robert Fastiggi and Michael Vacca, J.D., co-moderating.

Why have some of the Synods generated so much controversy? What documents have resulted from these Synods? How are we to understand synodality?  What are some highlights of the final document of the Synods on Synodality? What parts might need further clarification and development? How will synodality influence the Church’s future? Interview with Sr. Bernadette Reis, FSP, who has worked for the Holy See, and Dr. Pedro Gabriel, author of The Orthodoxy of Amoris Laetita; 3 PM EST/ 8 PM in Portugal (where Dr. Gabriel lives).2012 The New Evangelization for the Transmission of theChristian Faith [held under Benedict XVI] Evangelii gaudium (apostolic exhortation of Pope Francis)2014-2015 The Vocation and Mission of the Family in the Church and in the Contemporary World Amoris laetitia (apostolic exhortation)2018 Young People, Faith, and Vocational Discernment Christus Vivit (apostolic  exhortation)2021-24 For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission Final Document of the XVI Synod of Bishops Special2019 Pan-Amazon region Francis, Pope (2 February 2020),  Querida Amazonia  (Apostolicexhortation), Rome: Libreria Editrice Vaticana

In this episode of Synods and Synodality with co-hosts Dr. Robert Fastiggi and Dr. Michael Vacca, Dr. Eduardo Echeverria, Professor of Philosophy and Theology at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, addresses some important points on Synods, namely:1) Why do you think Paul VI established the Synod of Bishops on Sept. 15, 1965 (while Vatican II was still in session)?2) Which of the Synods during the time of Paul VI, John Paul II, and Benedict XVI do you think were the most significant?3) What insights from these Synods would you like to discuss? 4) What role would you like to see these Synods play in the future of the Church?SYNOD OF BISHOPS PROFILE  The Synod of Bishops was established by St Paul VI on 15th September 1965 with the Motu Proprio  Apostolica Sollicitudo. Its formation took place in the context of the Second Vatican Council which, with the Dogmatic Constitution Lumen Gentium (21st November 1964), had largely concentrated on the doctrine of the episcopate, urging greater involvement of the Bishops cum et sub Petro in matters that concern the universal Church.The Council Decree Christus Dominus (28th October, 1965) describes the newly established body as follows: «Bishops chosen from various parts of the world, in ways and manners established or to be established by the Roman pontiff, render more effective assistance to the supreme pastor of the Church in a deliberative body which will be called by the proper name of Synod of Bishops. Since it shall be acting in the name of the entire Catholic episcopate, it will at the same time show that all the bishops in hierarchical communion partake of the solicitude for the universal Church» (n. 5).Over the years the synodal norms have undergone successive improvements, as witnessed by the various editions of the Ordo Synodi Episcoporum published in 1966, 1969, 1971 and 2006. In the meantime, the Code of Canon Law (25th January 1983), canons 342-348, and the Code of Canons of the Eastern Churches (18th  October 1990), canon 46, have integrated the Synod into the universal law of the Church, specifying its nature and functioning.Recently Pope Francis, with the Apostolic Constitution  Episcopalis communio  (September 15th   2018), has profoundly renewed the Synod of Bishops, inserting it within the framework of synodality as a constitutive dimension of the Church, at all levels of her existence. In particular, the Synod is understood as a process composed of three parts: the preparatory phase, in which the consultation of the People of God on the themes indicated by the Roman Pontiff takes place; the celebratory phase, characterized by the meeting of the assembly of Bishops; and the implementation phase, in which the conclusions of the Synod, once approved by the Roman Pontiff, are accepted by the local churches.The central phase, in which the work of discernment of the Pastors is carried out, is thus preceded and followed by phases that call into play the totality of the People of God, in the plurality of its components. The Synod - which avails itself of a General Secretariat composed of a General Secretary, an Under-Secretary and a number of special Councils of Bishops - meets in different types of Assembly: in an Ordinary General Assembly, for matters concerning the good of the universal Church; in an Extraordinary General Assembly, for matters of urgent consideration; in a Special Assembly, for matters which mostly concern one or more specific geographical regions. Furthermore, it is also the responsibility of The Roman Pontiff to convene a Synodal Assembly in accordance with other modalities which are established by him.References include the following:The Synod of Bishops Listshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synod_of_Bishops_in_the_Catholic_ChurchPope Paul VI's Apostolic Letter Issued Motu Proprio Apostolica Sollicitudo establishing the Synod of Bishops for the Universal Churchhttps://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/en/motu_proprio/documents/hf_p-vi_motu-proprio_19650915_apostolica-sollicitudo.htmlPope Francis' (September 15, 2018) Apostolic Constituion Episcopalis Communion on the Synod of Bishops.https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_constitutions/documents/papa-francesco_costituzione-ap_20180915_episcopalis-communio.html

In this episode of Synods and Synodality, Dr. Robert Fastiggi and Dr. Michael Vacca discuss what an ecumenical council is, and how we know that a council is ecumenical. Why does the Catholic Church accept 21 councils as ecumenical but the Eastern Orthodox only accept the first 7? What have been some of the most important ecumenical councils in Catholic Church history? Interview with Dr. Robert Fastiggihttps://wcatradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Synod-and-Synodality-Podcast-Series-011525.pdfhttps://wcatradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ecumenical-Councils-Fastiggi.pdfhttps://wcatradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ecumenical-councils-fact-sheet.pdf

"Synods and Synodality: History, Purpose, and Current Controversies" Co-sponsored by En Route Books & Media (https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/) and the International Catholic Jurists Forum (https://icjurist.org/). Dr. Robert Fastiggi and Michael Vacca, J.D., M.A. will co-moderate the podcast interviews.  Description: The 2023 and 2024 Synods on Synodality have generated both interest and controversy. This seven-part series explores the role of Church synods (or councils) in Catholic history; the different types of synods (e.g. local, regional, ecumenical); and why the recent synods under Pope Francis have generated so much controversy. The final two podcasts will explore possibilities for the future of the Church. The podcasts will be scheduled for Wednesday evenings from January 15, 2025 to February 26, 2025. Most begin at 7 PM EST except for the February 12, 19, and 26 podcasts (see indicated times).  Episode 1: (Jan. 15, 2025): What is a Church synod or council? How does the Council of Jerusalem in Acts 15 serve as a prototype? What is the difference between a local diocesan synod, a regional provincial synod, a national synod, and an ecumenical synod or council?  How are we to understand the Synod of Bishops begun by Paul VI after Vatican II? What were some good and not so good local synods in Church history? Interview with Dr. Robert Fastiggi.Notes: https://wcatradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/What-is-a-Church-synod-or-council-011525.pdfhttps://wcatradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Synod-and-Synodality-Podcast-Series-011525.pdf

Carlos Martini, de la Universidad Católica de Paraguay, entrevista a Mario Ramos-Reyes sobre su libro La Navidad

On this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Dave Palmer of Guadalupe Radio Network with Rich May on his Addressing Moral Confusion (November 20, 2024)The goal of this workbook is to help our youth to receive catechetical instruction without getting bogged down by the mindset of the world today, thereby enabling them to be more open to the truth of the Gospel of Christ and His Church. It uniquely addresses these challenges, drawing from The Catechism of the Catholic Church, as well as great theologians and philosophers including C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesterton, Fulton Sheen, St. John Cardinal Newman and others knowledgeable in moral psychology and human behavior.Age group: High school and young adults especially those already enrolled in institutions of higher learning. Not all of them may be practicing Christians. It should be of interest to all teachers including those that are currently working with younger age groups. Parents will also benefit from the material and convey basic themes … example, Session One: “Should you believe everything you hear?Addressing Moral Confusion | En Route Books and Media

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Dr. Ronda Chervin reads her book Talkaholics: Fate or Work-in-Progress (November 23, 2024)Why would I ever think I talk too much? Here are some tiny stories to show you why:“Ronda,” asked my spiritual director, “what would it be like if you joined a table (at the seminary where I was teaching and took my meals) and didn’t talk first?”“Ronda,” a co-professor at a university told me: “when you interrupt me while I am talking it feels as if you think nothing I am saying is important, only what you say!”“Ronda,” a mentor asked me: “how many sentences do you enunciate which start with the word I”?“Ronda,” someone said: “it’s as if when I talk your foot is on the brake, but ready in a second to jump onto the accelerator to say what you wanted to say, not as a response, but just what you happen to think is more important."During a conversation with another talkaholic, David Dowd, a co-author of mine of the book “Always a New Beginning,” we joked this way: “How about we start a group called Talkaholics Anonymous?”

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, former priest Mike Oslance is interviewed by Mike Kish on his book Reimagine Jesus: Gospel for the 21st Century.MANY PEOPLE ARE CONFUSED ABOUT JESUS AND RELIGION. DOES THIS APPLY TO YOU?Many people believe in Jesus…yet they no longer regularly attend church services.Many people believe in Jesus’ promise to forgive 70 times seven times…but cannot understand how God could condemn anyone to eternal hell.Many people believe we are created in the image and likeness of God…but are simultaneously told that some people are “disordered.”Many people believe that a newborn baby is precious and beautiful…yet are also told that all people are intrinsically sinners and unworthy of God.Many people feel that the gospels are spiritual and traditional stories…but question how these stories of Jesus are directly relevant to their own lives in the 21st century.If this sounds like you, then…THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU.REIMAGINE JESUS: A Gospel "According to St. John and St. Mary Magdalen”Actually, each Gospel was attributed to (though not written by) the evangelist it was named after. This book maintains that long-established tradition. Nevertheless, the words within this gospel-book reflect the spiritof the methodology that put the original stories of Jesus into the reach of the public. With that said, perhaps we can address a few obvious questions that might arise from readers unfamiliar with this somewhat unorthodox gospel methodology.HOW IS THIS GOSPEL ADAPTATION UNIQUE OR DIFFERENT?This approach strictly adheres to the parameters of science/ physics. However, the narrative also includes a deliberative approach to including Gospel incidents and faith traditions. Thus, it is named the TheoPhysics Gospel (theology and physics.) Above all, effort has been made to simultaneously develop a comprehensive and plausible context. This is accomplished by using 2techniques:FORENSIC DEDUCTIONINVESTIGATIVE PSYCHOLOGYThe Gospel examines the biblical events similar to a detective. It builds a theory of the case to understand the purpose and meaning of Jesus. This reimagined narrative will delve deeply into the motives/ mindsets of all participants, while also presenting the familiar Jesus-narrative.WHAT PRECISELY ARE THE BIBLICAL METHODOLOGIES BEING USED?The narrative is constructed using the same approach as the ancient evangelists---with the sayings and exploits of Jesus serving as the cornerstone. Scholars observe that each evangelist might utilize incidents and sayings differently to convey a special message for a unique community. The reimagined Gospel matches this approach but adds the needs of our contemporary world---including modern prophetic voices. The scholarship of Catholic theologian Raymond Brown and the extensive work of the Jesus Seminar experts, among other noted biblical scholars, were utilized. Over 75 various books and articles comprise the research expertise of this gospel narrative.WHY SHOULD THE GOSPEL BE ADJUSTED FOR THE 21st CENTURY?Simply put, scriptures and Church teachings were adjusted many times in the past to help better understand the message of Jesus. Examples:Gospel writers adapted Jesus’ sayings/deeds to fit the needs of local communities.Vatican Councils updated and renewed teachings to meet modern demands.Pope Francis advocating for a paradigm shift in theology (November 2023.)Christianity HAS already adapted before, due to scientific advancements such as those of Galileo (the Earth is not the center of the universe,) Darwin (evolution,) and the Big Bang.REIMAGINE JESUS IS THE NEW DRAMA FOR THE NEW MILLENNIUM!A book that is relevant to everyone who seeks a meaningful life.

Rich May on Driving Home the Faith with Fr. Rob Jack (June 12, 2024)

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Jonathon Fessenden of Missio Dei interviews Fr. Patrick Resen and Dcn. Mike Plese on their upcoming Tour to Ireland and Scotland (June 13, 2024)Trip Store (proximotravel.com)

In this episode of "I Thought You'd Like to Know," Deacon Benedict LoCasto, LCSW, interviews Cynthia Toolin-Wilson on her book Survivor: A Memoir of Forgiveness (November 1, 2023)

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Roy Schoeman of Ave Maria Radio interviews Ronda Chervin on her book Charles Rich, Give Me Your Heart: Preparing for Eternal Life (October 14, 2023)How about a book for the elderly by a sage who was still making disciples in his nineties?Who was this Charles Rich, anyhow? One of the most fascinating Hebrew-Catholics of all times was Charles Rich (1899-1998). Born in Hungary in a Jewish village similar to the one in Fiddler on the Roof, Charles was noticed by the rabbis as an extraordinarily religious boy. He loved to stay in the forests to pray alone. His father joined one of the many waves of Jews who went to America to seek better opportunities. After establishing himself in New York City, he sent for the family.This was the beginning of a very dark time for Charles. He found it impossible to be close to God in the teeming city and among the strict legalistic rabbis he had to study with. Eventually, he lost his faith. He worked as a waiter by night and spent 8 hours a day at the 42nd St. public library searching world literature, philosophy, and religious writings searching for the God he had lost.Eventually, Charles fell into despair and tried to commit suicide. Three times he tried; three times he failed, being rescued the last minute. Feeling even more of a failure, one day he went into a Catholic Church. Jesus spoke to him directly from a painting telling him that He was God and to trust in him.Instructed by the Jesuits, Charles became a Catholic and then a lay contemplative, spending hours and hours of the day rapt in prayer. Catholics seeking a deeper prayer life were attracted to him, especially Jewish converts such as myself. Quite a number of books of his thoughts and meditations have been published.Charles Rich: Give Me Your Heart–Preparing for Eternal Life by Charles Rich | En Route Books and Media

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Ben Bongers interviews Mary Kloska on Angels, Demons, and Ghosts (October 3, 2023)

In this episode of Frontline by Joe and Joe, Dr. Gerard Verschuuren talks about his book Faith That Makes You Think. (July 4, 2023)Doesn’t faith contradict thinking? Actually, no. The Catholic Church teaches that there is a strong relationship between faith and reason. In fact, it’s a characteristic of us rational creatures to practice a faith that seeks understanding. This book is specifically written for Catholics—fallen-away Catholics, lukewarm Catholics, struggling Catholics, would-be Catholics—for all those in search of the truth, as it gives life-saving answers to life-size questions.Faith That Makes You Think by Dr. Gerard Verschuuren | En Route Books and Media

In this webinar delivered on Saturday, June 3, 2023, Jeannie Ewing engages a live audience on her book Waiting With Purpose: Persevering When God Says ‘Not Yet’ (En Route Books and Media, 2017).All of life involves waiting. We wait at stoplights. We are caught in traffic jams. We agonize over medical test results. We hang on to a much-anticipated getaway. Sometimes, we wait to finish a project, welcome a new relationship, or open our hearts to the work God has begun in us. Regardless of how often we wait or upon what, Jeannie Ewing explains with clarity and encouragement how we can use the moments of waiting in our lives to grow spiritually. Waiting with Purpose will show you why God asks you to wait and how He is speaking to you in the times when nothing seems to be happening.https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/waitingwithpurpose/

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Francis Etheredge moderates a conversation on the Nature of the Human Person with Fr. Kevin FitzGerald, SJ, and Dr. Ted Furton (May 31, 2023)

In this episode of "I Thought You'd Like to Know," Teresa Tomeo interviews Joni Seith on her book Pain of Grace: Living and Suffering with Dignity (En Route Books & Media, 2023)For the original broadcast, see Catholic Connection - April 18, 2023 - Ave Maria RadioWalking her readers through her conversion from a culturally Jewish background to Catholicism, Joni J. Seith relates her struggle to live with a chronic, painful, and progressive debilitating genetic condition called Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. Written with candor, in an upbeat and uplifting humorous style, Pain of Grace: Living and Suffering with Dignity escorts the reader on an amazing journey of faith as shown in Joni’s dizzying, remarkable life. Her story gives unforgettable testimony of God’s love in suffering to a world in great need of this truth, providing hope to many who question life’s purpose. This heartfelt and honest memoir is for all those struggling with depression, despair, and chronic pain–and for all who need to be reminded of life’s true meaning.Pain of Grace: Living and Suffering with Dignity | En Route Books and Media

In this segment of Catholic Connection, Teresa Tomeo interviews Fr. Chris Seith on his book Rekindling Wonder: Touching Heaven in a Screen Saturated World.For the full program on Ave Maria Radio, see Catholic Connection - May 10, 2023 - Hr 2 - Ave Maria RadioOur screens are not morally neutral. The devices that we are so attached to affect our perception of the world. Unless we use them in a way contrary to the way in which they are intended to be used, we will find ourselves imprisoned in our own minds and living in a boring and lifeless world. In this book, Fr. Chris Seith exposes the spiritual apathy consuming our lives and, more importantly, God’s response to our imprisonment. In Jesus Christ, God has set us free from our spiritual malaise and rekindles in us a sense of wonder at the beauty of reality.Rekindling Wonder: Touching Heaven in a Screen Saturated World | En Route Books and Media

Dave Palmer of Guadalupe Radio Network interviews Marge Giangiulio on her Life and Ministry. Marge Giangiulio provides an honest and compelling account of her life of those touched by an outpouring of God’s goodness and mercy.Marge Giangiulio is a former New Yorker who found herself relocated to Texas while working as a Corporate Executive at American Airlines. She describes herself as a fallen away Catholic who experienced a deep conversion after going on a pilgrimage to Medjugorje. This experience awakened her desire to more fully live out her Catholic faith. As a daily Adorer of Eucharistic Adoration, she received many promptings from the Holy Spirit that came to fruition throughout the Diocese of Dallas and cascading to eventually touch the lives of hundreds, if not thousands of people around the world. Her many involvements include implementing Eucharistic Adoration programs, Sidewalk Counseling at Abortion Clinics, instigating a worldwide program for praying for our priests, volunteering with Eucharistic Centered Youth retreats, Guadalupe Radio Network, St Vincent de Paul and the Catholic ProLife Committee. She wrote Non Nobis Domine at the request of her Spiritual Director whose hope is to provide one more opportunity to direct souls to God.Non Nobis Domine: Not Unto Us, O Lord | En Route Books and Media

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Dr. Cynthia Toolin-Wilson interviews Luiza Tojiboeva of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on Weight Loss, the Community She Formed, and Domestic Violence (April 19, 2023)

Fr. Chris interviews Joni J. Seith about my book Pain of Grace: Living and Suffering with Dignity. Joni presents a much needed truth in today's confused, and troubled world. The focus of the book is about the beauty of Redemptive Suffering as seen in a lived experience.Walking her readers through her conversion from a culturally Jewish background to Catholicism, Joni J. Seith relates her struggle to live with a chronic, painful, and progressive debilitating genetic condition called Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. Written with candor, in an upbeat and uplifting humorous style, Pain of Grace: Living and Suffering with Dignity escorts the reader on an amazing journey of faith as shown in Joni’s dizzying, remarkable life. Her story gives unforgettable testimony of God’s love in suffering to a world in great need of this truth, providing hope to many who question life’s purpose. This heartfelt and honest memoir is for all those struggling with depression, despair, and chronic pain–and for all who need to be reminded of life’s true meaning.Pain of Grace: Living and Suffering with Dignity | En Route Books and Media

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Dr. Lawrence Hopperton participates in a Poetry Reading at Tyndale University - Table for Three and Such Common Stories (February 13, 2023)Table for Three: New and Selected Poems, 1982-2021These poems, written over forty years, illustrate a spiritual landscape evolved from both secular and profane perspectives, from church windows to a handful of dirt, love and grief to redemption at the edges of our world. They invite readers into an engagement with the world – an engagement both thoroughly spiritual and sensuous. Personal experiences and associations become anchorage on this journey with the spirit of God (Spiritus Dei) and the spirit of creation (Spiritus Mundi).Table for Three by Larry Hopperton | En Route Books and MediaSuch Common StoriesThere is one story only. It’s woven out of personal experiences and memories, the worlds that we have actually known and loved. The poems in Such Common Stories connect to our individual stories, so that the experiences they present become our own and we become the storytellers of our own multifaceted lives.Such Common Stories by Lawrence Hopperton | En Route Books and Media

Conversion through the word of God: A Catechesis on Edith Stein in Poland and a Family Pilgrimage to the World Meeting of Families in Milan. (February 11, 2023)An interview of Francis Etheredge by Maria Colfer on her programme, 'Simply Divine', which is a part of the work of an Irish, ecumenical radio station, drawing on contributions from the Church of Ireland, Methodist, Presbyterian Congregations and that of the Catholic Church.

Les deux principales sources de la prière de Marie de l’Incarnation par Fr. Michel Legault, MSA Le 28 octobre 1999, l’Église catholique a célébré le 400e anniversaire de la naissance de Marie Guyard, connue aujourd’hui sous le nom de Sainte Marie de l’Incarnation, canonisée le 3 avril 2014 au Palais apostolique par le pape François, «La Thérèse du Nouveau Monde.» Je souhaite que cette simple recherche sur la prière de Marie de l’Incarnation, réalisée en 1999, soit considérée comme un acte d’admiration et de reconnaissance envers Dieu le Père qui a fait de cette humble femme un témoin lumineux de son amour dans le début de l’Église en Amérique du Nord. À l’heure actuelle, le New Age est à la recherche de nouvelles voies de connaissance pour atteindre le Divin. Pourquoi cherche-t-on aussi dans l’ésotérisme le contact avec les pouvoirs de l’Au-delà? Notre monde a faim de spiritualité. Marie Guyard, dès l’âge de sept ans, éprouvait la faim de Dieu. Grâce à l’Esprit Saint qui l’habitait depuis son baptême, elle connut très tôt le chemin vers Dieu le Père: ce chemin pour elle fut Jésus qu’elle rencontrait dans l’Église, qui lui parlait dans l’Écriture, qui l’unissait à lui-même dans la l’Eucharistie, et qui lui enseignait les mystères divins par l’action de l’Esprit Saint. Quelles ont été les lignes de force de la prière de Marie Guyard? Comment l’a-t-elle nourrie alors qu’elle travaillait pour son beau-frère sur les quais de Tours ainsi qu’elle enseignait aux jeunes filles algonquines et françaises pendant ses premières années de la fondation de Québec durant la première moitié du dix-septième siècle? Quels sont les piliers de sa vie contemplative et apostolique? C’est pour répondre à ces questions que j’ai choisi de réfléchir sur les fondements de la prière de Marie de l’Incarnation. Avec quelle nourriture spirituelle a-t-elle nourri sa prière et son union intime avec Dieu? Après avoir lu quelques-unes de ses Lettres et quelques commentaires sur sa spiritualité, je crois pouvoir retenir deux sources principales: tout d’abord, la Parole de Dieu, qui lui parlait dans l’Écriture Sainte. Puis, j’ajoute les sacrements, en particulier, l’Eucharistie, que Jésus a confiés à son Église pour donner à ses fidèles la vie de la grâce et qui sont célébrés dans la liturgie sacrée, la prière de l’Église. A partir de ces deux sources, l’Écriture Sainte et la Liturgie. Je montrerai brièvement comment ces sources ont influencé la vie spirituelle de Marie de l’Incarnation, tout comme elles doivent d’être les sources de la vie de prière de tout chrétien.Les deux principales sources de la prière de Marie de l’Incarnation | En Route Books and Media

In this episode of "I Thought You'd Like to Know," Dr. Ronda Chervin interviews Fr. Michel Legualt, MSA, on his The Two Main Sources of Marie de l’Incarnation’s Prayer (January 6, 2022)On October 28, 1999, the Catholic Church celebrated the 400th anniversary of the birth of Marie Guyard, known now as Saint Marie de l’Incarnation (canonized 3 April 2014 at the Apostolic Palace by Pope Francis), “The Teresa of the New World.” I wish this simple research on Marie de l’Incarnation’s prayer (conducted in 1999) to be considered as an act of admiration and gratitude to God the Father who made this humble woman a luminous witness of His love in the beginning of the Church in North America.At the present time, the New Age is searching for new ways of knowledge to reach God. Why does one search in esoterism for the path to God? Marie Guyard, even when she was seven years old, already knew the path to God the Father: this path for her was Jesus whom she met in the Church, who spoke to her in the Scripture, who united her to himself in the Eucharist, and who taught her the divine mysteries through the action of the Holy Spirit.What were the lines of force of Marie Guyard’s prayer? How did she nourish it while working for her brother-in law on the docks of Tours as well as teaching Algonquin and French girls in the early years of Quebec City? What are the pillars of her contemplative and apostolic life? It is to answer those questions that I chose to reflect on the foundations of Marie de l’Incarnation’s prayer. With what spiritual food did she feed her prayer and her intimate union with God?After having read her letters and some commentaries on her spirituality, Fr. Legault underlines two important sources: first, the Word of God, speaking in Holy Scripture. Second, the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, that Jesus entrusted to his Church to give the life of grace and which are celebrated in the sacred Liturgy, the prayer of the Church. From these two sources – Holy Scripture and Liturgy – he shows how they influenced Marie de l’Incarnation’s spiritual life and are the sources of each Christian’s life of prayer.https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/mainsourcesofprayer/

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Dr. Robert Nicastro of Villanova University interviews Fr. Joe Bracken on his book Reciprocal Causality in an Event-Filled World (Dec 14, 2022)Given the current sense of helplessness in dealing with environmental change and other urgent issues, a new world view is needed that emphasizes the unique contribution that individual citizens can make to the common good as opposed to their individual needs and desires. In a recent encyclical on the environment, Pope Francis set forth reasons from Scripture and Church teaching for this shift in perspective, but he did not provide a philosophically based foundation for this change of heart. To fill that gap, Joseph Bracken examines key writings of process-oriented philosophers like Henri Bergson and Alfred North Whitehead along with systems-oriented thinkers like Ludwig von Bertalanffy and Ervin Laszlo to create a systems-oriented understanding of the God-world relation.https://www.amazon.com/Reciprocal-Causality-Event-Filled-Joseph-Bracken/dp/1978709781About the InterviewerRobert Nicastro’s research interests straddle many disciplines, namely, evolutionary theology, quantum physics, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and the philosophical trends of post- and trans-humanism. Given the new science of relational holism, his work specifically explores the notion of divine emergence through the progressive integration of consciousness. Robert taught for two years as an adjunct lecturer at Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania. He presently lectures at the Center for Christogenesis, run by Ilia Delio, O.S.F., Ph.D., which is an online organization that seeks to deepen Teilhard de Chardin’s unique integration of science and spirituality to realize new possibilities of religion and evolving life for the twenty-first century.

In this episode of WCAT Radio's I Thought You'd Like to Know, Bishop Joseph Coffey of the Military Archdiocese interviews Chris Bell, President and Executive Director of Good Counsel Homes on the book "Target Heaven: What You Didn’t Know About Father Benedict Groeschel" (En Route Books & Media, 2022)For more about Good Counsel Homes, see https://www.goodcounselhomes.org/Concerning the book, Mother Agnes Mary Donovan, SV, opens it by proclaiming Fr. Benedict Groeschel a prophet. “Father Benedict has,” she explains, “forcefully proclaimed the Word to the world through his books, his preaching, and through EWTN. He has proclaimed the Word in a thousand ways to all of us who needed hope. He has guarded the Church and the treasures of its grace. We really can’t imagine the millions who have listened to him and who have been blessed.” And with that, this book carries the reader through half a dozen interviews on the life of Fr. Groeschel, including his own testimony, concluding with a statement from his successor, Fr. Fidelis Moscinski, CFR, as Chairman of Good Counsel Homes. A work of grace, by grace-filled people.https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/targetheaven/

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Bishop Joseph Coffey of the Military Archdiocese interviews Teresa Shick, Founder of The Pillar Foundation (November 21, 2022)At The Pillar Foundation we understand the challenges the backbone of the family faces, silently and supportively holding the family together one transition at a time. Our retreat participants are NSW spouses of veterans. Leaving the military can often mean moving the family away from a support network that has meant both family and a true understanding for the life that can only be embraced by the women who have lived it. Our mission is to provide a support network, to share resources, to mentor and guide newly transitioned military wives into the civilian world by holding retreats and garnering a database of sisterhood to reconnect state to state.https://www.thepillarfoundation.com/

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Catholic author Dr. MaryRuth Hackett talks about her book Daughter by Design: Discovering Your Identity as God’s Beloved Daughter. (November 17, 2022)https://maryruthhackett.com/shop/What is my purpose in life? Who am I, really?These are questions that every woman will find herself asking in a culture swirling with increasing confusion around meaning and identity.Struggle, failure real or perceived, loss, grief, suffering–these are the things that tend to bring us face-to-face with ourselves, stripping us of the illusion that our identity and calling has anything to do with what we do or accomplish in life–or what we want to become or think we must be, for that matter. A woman’s deepest identity, however, is founded on something far more lasting and real. Her discovery of God’s original design for her life, to be in a relationship of love as His daughter forever, is a truth that will set her radically free to live the fullest life possible, a life of integrity, authenticity, fulfillment, hope, trust, and joy.In Daughter by Design, MaryRuth Hackett offers every woman:The key to growth and good discernment: becoming aware of our God-given strengths and natural weaknesses.The means to prioritize our spiritual life and develop a healthy habit of daily prayer–the foundation of our Father/daughter relationship.The opportunity to identify and claim her own version of the feminine genius.The invitation to surrender as the only true cure for perfectionism.And much more.Daughter by Design is a must-read for every woman seeking to stake her life on the eternal truth of her existence: that she is a daughter forever. Available in paperback orAfter earning her PhD in Educational Psychology, Dr. MaryRuth Hackett left the halls of academia to be a stay-at-home mom. With her podcast Parenting Smarts and her blog, available through her website at MaryRuthhackett.com, MaryRuth offers resources for families everywhere. Her conversion from Protestantism to the Catholic Faith in 2006 allowed her to further embrace the Church’s timeless wisdom around authentic femininity. As the key to both personal wholeness and effective parenting, she has come to appreciate the need to strengthen a woman’s identity as daughter of God before anything else. She lives in Arizona with her husband and four children.

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Penny Abbruzzese, Peter Breen, Barbara Lorenzo, Forrest Yanke and Mary Kloska share their experiences at Medjugorje (October 3, 2022)Penny Abbruzzese has a strong devotion to Our Blessed Mother and is a religious pilgrims’ coordinator, who made her first pilgrimage to Medjugorje in Bosnia-Herzegovina in March 1984. Since then, Penny has been to Medjugorje more than 100 times with groups from near and far. For more, see Medjugorje: My Lifelong Journey with Our Lady, Queen of Peace | En Route Books and Media https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/medjugorje/Peter Breen is an Australian writer who returns to letter writing in a book of correspondence to Pope Francis about the Church in the modern world and private Marian revelation. For more see Prodigal Pilgrim: Letters to Pope Francis from Lourdes, Fatima, Garabandal and Medjugorje | En Route Books and Media https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/prodigalpilgrim/Upon graduating from Notre Dame in 1999, Mary Kloska spent almost 20 years in the missions serving the poor (including orphanages) as well as praying as a consecrated hermit all over the world –Siberia, Nigeria, Tanzania, South Africa, Philippines, Mexico, the Holy Land and all over Europe as well. For more, see Mornings with Mary (A Rosary Prayer Book) | En Route Books and Media https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/morningswithmary/Barbara Lorenzo is a wife, mother, sister, teacher, storyteller and a seeker of faith. A recent graduate of The Cenacle of Our Lady of Divine Providence School of Spiritual Direction, she loves to share her story of transformation and conversion through her witness of extraordinary faith. For more, see Miracle Mission to Medjugorje: A Journey of Faith | En Route Books and Media https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/miraclemission/Forrest Hemphill Yanke is a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed marriage and family therapist who has integrated her Catholic faith and knowledge of Christian healing into her therapy and teaching practices. For more, see The Call to Prayer: Intimate Moments with God | En Route Books and Media https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/thecalltoprayer/

In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Catholic Author and Opera Singer Catholic Author and Opera Singer Ben Bongers interviews 5 Students from Chesterton Academy Our Lady of Victory Denver (September 30, 2022)https://www.ourladyofvictorydenver.com/Please consider making a tax-deductible donation at https://www.ourladyofvictorydenver.com/2022-giving-dayFrom Julian Solak, Prefect of House Augustine:This is Julian Solak. I am now a junior and I am beginning my second year at Our Lady of Victory. This year I am also serving as prefect for House Augustine. Chesterton Academies prepare students to triumph over the challenges of our modern world and to accept our Lord's offer to have life and have it abundantly. My experience at Our Lady of Victory has been so full of richness. It has developed my spiritual life through frequent reception of the Sacraments and through the development of my understanding of the Faith and through better knowledge of Sacred Scripture. It has taught me how to truly think in light of the great philosophers, and how to look at the world. Further, it has helped me to grow my writing and mathematics and has given me a more full understanding of the history and culture of the West.Our Lady of Victory is committed to making tuition affordable for even the largest of Catholic families. To that end, our school is holding a Giving Day on October 7. To cover the costs of my education, beyond my tuition, I need to raise $5,000 this year, which pays for teacher salaries, building costs, and formation events. This means I will need at least 10 people who will assist me with a monthly gift of $40 to $200 by October 7. However, any contribution you can give toward this cause is greatly appreciated.To give:1. Please go to this link: https://www.ourladyofvictorydenver.com/2022-giving-day.2. Select or enter your donation amount and choose Monthly or One-Time Gift3. Type in my name and house: Augustine (we are in a competition with the other houses!)4. Enter your billing and payment information and submit your gift!Or mail a check payable to Our Lady of Victory at:Our Lady of VictoryP.O. Box 2062 Centennial, CO 80161

Wake Up Faith interviews Dr. Gerard Verschuuren (September 22, 2022)Doesn’t faith contradict thinking? Actually, no. The Catholic Church teaches that there is a strong relationship between faith and reason. In fact, it’s a characteristic of us rational creatures to practice a faith that seeks understanding. This book is specifically written for Catholics—fallen-away Catholics, lukewarm Catholics, struggling Catholics, would-be Catholics—for all those in search of the truth, as it gives life-saving answers to life-size questions.https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/faith/

Fr. Jacob Dankasa talking on Guadalupe Radio Network about his Spiritual Plan for Families

Dr. Cynthia Toolin-Wilson interviews Jennifer Olson on ALS (July 8, 2022)To donate to ALS, please visit https://raceroster.com/events/2022/58563/kimmswick-5k/pledge/participant/14269417

The Deacon and the Doctor: A Prescription for Navigating Child Loss provides a spiritual, medical, psychological guide to help families A.C.Q.U.I.R.E peace after child loss. As one in four women experience miscarriage, it is essential to provide resources, bring awareness, and teach the community how to engage appropriately so these families are supported properly. Our hope is this book will help families and the community navigate the many obstacles encountered after child loss.https://enroutebooksandmedia.com/deaconanddoctor/