My Stogie Mystagogy Podcast

What happens when a blockbuster alien movie raises questions about God, faith, and humanity's place in the universe?This week, Don is joined by special guest co-host Kevin Gonzalez, who steps in while Mark celebrates his father's 90th birthday. Together they discuss Steven Spielberg's new film Disclosure Day and the controversy surrounding claims that the movie is anti-religious or anti-Catholic. Along the way, they explore what the Catholic Church teaches about the possibility of extraterrestrial life, whether aliens would challenge Christian belief, and how Catholics can engage popular culture as an opportunity for evangelization. In the second half of the episode, the conversation shifts to the Gospel's call that "the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few." Kevin shares the story behind his Saturday morning men's coffee group and how a simple invitation grew into an informal apostolate that has fostered fellowship, accountability, and faith formation for years. Together, Don and Kevin challenge listeners to discover how God may be calling them to evangelize through their ordinary talents, friendships, and daily lives. Whether you're interested in science fiction, Catholic theology, or practical ways to live your faith, this episode offers thoughtful conversation about listening to God and becoming fishers of men.What Ya Smokin'Arturo Fuente Don Carlos No. 4Drew Estate Deadwood Fat Bottom BettyWhat Ya Drinkin'Glenmorangie Triple Cask ReserveChick-fil-A LemonadeFilm Reviews & CommentaryDisclosure DayDecent Films Review ArchiveDecent Films Substack (Deacon Steven Greydanus)Catholic Teaching & ResourcesCatholic AnswersJimmy Akin on faith and extraterrestrial lifeSolemnity of Christ the KingMatthew 9:37-38Matthew 10:1-8Matthew 28:18-20Saints MentionedSaint Clare of AssisiSaint John the BaptistSaint Josemaría Escrivá

What does the Catholic Church actually teach about the Eucharist?On this Solemnity of Corpus Christi, Don and Mark discuss the Church's belief that Jesus Christ is truly, really, and substantially present in the Eucharist. They examine the Bread of Life Discourse in John 6, the Last Supper, and the witness of the earliest Christians.Why did so many disciples walk away when Jesus spoke about eating His flesh and drinking His blood? Why didn't He correct them if they misunderstood Him? And how did the first generations of Christians understand His words?The conversation also explores the connection between the Incarnation and the Eucharist, the meaning of transubstantiation, and why the Catechism calls the Eucharist the "source and summit" of the Christian life.Don shares a personal story about a season when he was unable to receive Holy Communion and how that experience transformed his appreciation for the Blessed Sacrament.The episode concludes with practical suggestions for becoming more Eucharistic people through Mass, Adoration, prayer, and intentional discipleship.What Ya Smokin• Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Personal Reserve Parejo• Casdagli European Experiment Short Double PerfectoWhat Ya Drinkin• Chivas Regal 18 Year Old Blended Scotch WhiskySources Referenced• Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1324-1327• John 6 (Bread of Life Discourse)• Matthew 26:26-28• Mark 14:22-24• Luke 22:19-20• 1 Corinthians 10:16-17• 1 Corinthians 11:23-29• St. Ignatius of Antioch• St. Justin Martyr• St. Irenaeus• St. Thomas Aquinas• St. John Paul II, Ecclesia de Eucharistia• St. Carlo Acutis

We discuss the Church's doctrine of the Holy Trinity. Then we explore how we can grow in understanding of a mystery that is beyond our comprehension. The answer lies in relationship, in participation.What Ya SmokinFuente Hemingway Work of ArtKnuckle Sandwich, Guy Frieri CigarsWhat Ya DrinkinRedbreast 12

This episode explores the significance of Pentecost, confirmation, and the Holy Spirit in the Catholic faith. Don and Mark discuss the spiritual gifts, charisms, and the importance of being open to the Holy Spirit's work in our lives, emphasizing maturation and active participation in faith. Apostolates Cited in EpisodeChristian Community of God's DelightEncounter School of MinistryWhat Ya Smokin'Wildfire The Fault LineFuente Hemingway Work of ArtWhat Ya Drinkin'WL Weller Special Reserve Bourbon

A brief Joe Catholic talk in which we discuss the Christo-centric nature of the Rosary.

This episode explores the papacies from John XXIII to Leo XIV, analyzing their historical context, metaphysical themes, and spiritual guidance. It emphasizes the providential guidance of the Holy Spirit in selecting popes and the importance of living out faith authentically.

"Have we forgotten the true wonder of receiving Jesus in the Eucharist?" ✨Drop a 🙏 if you agree it’s time we see this gift with childlike wonder again.We often approach Communion casually, forgetting it’s not just symbolic — it’s an ontological encounter with Christ himself. When you receive the Eucharist, you're actually taking in Jesus, becoming more like Him each time. This isn’t routine, it’s radical — a moment to be joyful, to rejoice like a child who just met their best friend. Yet, so often we let forgetfulness or routine dull that sense of awe.Imagine if we treated each Holy Communion as if it’s the first and last — with reverence, joy, and gratitude. What would change in your spirit? How would it deepen your connection with Jesus and the Father?Let’s recover that childlike wonder and approach the Eucharist with fresh eyes 💫.Does this inspire you to reframe your mindset next time you receive?

This episode of My Stogie Mystagogy opens with the familiar pairing of cigars and spirits (see below for links for reviews) before moving into a thoughtful and candid conversation on two central themes of the Easter season: Mystagogy and Divine Mercy. Don and Mark explore Mystagogy as more than a brief post-Easter program; they present it as a lifelong process of “living the mysteries,” reflecting on how newly initiated Catholics often lack the guidance, mentorship, and formation needed to truly understand the transformation brought about by the sacraments. Drawing from early Church practices and modern parish experiences, they challenge the idea of treating sacramental initiation as a completion point, arguing instead that it is the beginning of a deeper journey of faith and identity .The discussion then turns to Divine Mercy, unpacking its theological depth and practical implications. The hosts emphasize that mercy is not opposed to justice but fulfills it; it is God’s love in action, offered freely yet requiring a human response of repentance, participation, and transformation. Through reflections on Scripture, the sacraments, and real-life experiences, they contrast the dangers of presumption and despair, highlighting the call to both receive and extend mercy in daily life. The episode closes with a renewed focus on reconciliation as the “sacrament of mercy” and a practical invitation to trust in God’s mercy, return to Him often, and live out the grace received.Cigar:Fuente 8-5-8Spirits:Johnnie Walker Double BlackKnob Creek Bourbon 9 year

This past Sunday's Gospel reading is often used to discuss vocations. In this archived episode, Mark is joined by Patrick Norton, a pipe smoker and mead maker. During their Holy Smoke, they discuss the meaning of vocation and how it applies to the laity.

It's summer time and vacation and side projects have Mark and Don unavailable for a new episode. We did some hunting and digging around and uncovered the original episode one. Over the 9 years the podcast has existed, we had lost content because of platform changes. Thankfully the old Internet Archive has many of the originals. We cleaned up the raw audio. In this short, first outing Mark and Don talk about how the idea of the podcast came to be. Missing from the audio is that one of the guys who had popped in on their week "holy smokes" said you guys should be recording this. We hope you enjoy our travel back in time.

In this episode from the archives of the early days of the podcast, hosts Don Gonzalez and Mark Connolly delve into the world of cigars, specifically the Monte Cristo #2 and the Arturo Fuente Work of Art, discussing their experiences with different cigar and drink pairings (Glen Moray scotch and Pyrat Rum). The conversation transitions into a deeper discussion on fatherhood, exploring themes of sacrifice, duty, and the importance of being present for one's children. They reflect on personal experiences, the impact of fatherly love on self-esteem, and the ongoing journey of parenting, emphasizing that it's never too late to be the father one aspires to be.

This is a lost file from the early days of the podcast. Neither Mark nor I can figure out how it came to be. Mark and I start ournormal cigar talk and delve into our Catholic EDC (every day carry). Suddenly I am no longer present and it's a whole new episode with just Mark and my son Kevin. We discussed the pairing of tequila with cigars. Kevin and Mark speak about prayer and struggle to commit daily and the other challenges we face in speaking with God.We hope you enjoy.

In this conversation, we explore the importance of experiencing literature rather than just analyzing it, and the implications of Pope Leo XIII's teachings on labor rights and human dignity (cf. Rerum Novarum). We discuss the relevance of these teachings in today's context, particularly in relation to unbridled capitalism and the treatment of workers. The conversation culminates in reflections on the potential direction of the Catholic Church under Pope Leo XIV, emphasizing the need for a focus on human dignity and the common good.What Ya DrinkinBenromach 10Yr Single Malt Scotch WhiskyWoodford Reserve BourbonWhat Ya SmokinRocky Patel Renaissance Arturo Fuente Hemingway Work of ArtWhat Ya ReadinAn Experiment in Criticism by C.S. LewisSaxum by John F. CoverdaleA Man Who Knew How to Forgive by Francisco Faus

We explore the significance of prayer in our lives, recounting miraculous experiences and the impact of faith on our journeys. The discussion highlights the importance of community, intercessory prayer, and the belief that God answers prayers in various forms, ultimately emphasizing the power of faith in overcoming life's challenges.

Mark and Don discuss their reactions and thoughts about the election of Pope Leo XIV.

We explore the art of cigar and whiskey pairings, delve into literary discussions about imagination and poetry, and critically examine the role of AI in modern life. We discuss the importance of intentional reading, and reflect on how AI can enhance creativity and productivity. In this conversation, we discuss various applications of AI in education, writing, and spirituality, while also addressing ethical concerns and the role of AI in creativity and art. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of understanding AI as a tool that can be used for both positive and negative purposes, depending on the user's intentions. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of AI and its interaction with human creativity and ethics.

We return from a 6 month hiatus/sabbatical with a discussion on the death of Pope Francis. We then discuss whether it is fair to call Thomas doubting. Are we in fact identifying him with his worst day?What Ya Smokin'Nameless Williams' CigarArturo Fuente Hemingway Work of ArtWhat Ya Drinkin'Benromach 10 Year Single Malt ScotchGlen Fohdry Fion FrangachWhat Ya Readin'An Experiment in Criticism, C.S. LewisFriends of God, St. Josemaria EscrivaJesus at the Door, Scott McNamaraSaxum: The Life of Alvaro del Portillo, John F. Coverdale

The conversation delves into various themes including philosophical concepts like the veil of ignorance, personal reflections on cigars and drinks, and a deep exploration of discipleship and apostolic work within the Catholic faith. The speakers discuss the importance of intentional discipleship, the distinction between ministry and apostolate, and the transformative power of a relationship with Christ. They also touch on personal growth, the significance of community, and the cyclical nature of faith development.

We discuss the 5 pillars of Catholic Social Doctrine: the Common Good, Human Dignity, Solidarity, Subsidiarity and Participation. Included is a discussion of the proper meaning of justice and mercy. Cigars Gurkha Cellar Reserve Platinum Gurkha Ghost Rocky Patel 1990 Drinking Messina's Special Reserve Tawny Port Dewar's White Label Reading The God Delusion, Dawkins Mark's Substack Reviews on The God Delusion The Life of Christ, Fulton J. Sheen Healing, Dr. Mary Healy References Compendium on Catholic Social Doctrine (online) Compendium on Catholic Social Doctrine (book) The Loreto House Bambi Meets Godzilla

In addition to our regular segment - What ya drinkin' and what ya smokin', we introduce a new topic, entitled DAN: Doubts, Answers and Non-Sequiturs. We also discuss our Lenten practices. In our main segment, we discuss Gaudium et Spes. In particular we examine the role of the Church in the modern world and some of the world issues predicted by the Second Vatican Council. Cigars El Pulpo by Artesano del Tobacco Casa Cuba Doble Cuatro Whisky Dewar's White Label Glenmorangie 10 Year What We're Reading The Word and the Spirt, Congar Treasure in Clay: The Autobiography of Fulton J. Sheen Healing: Bringing the Gift of God's Mercy to the World, Healy

Our main focus is a discussion of the meaning and make up of Catholic Moral Theology. We conclude by unpacking a series of scenarios to discuss real world applications. Subtopics: Formed and informed conscience; venial and mortal sin; willful ignorance. What Ya Drinkin' Dewars White Label Liquid Death Grim Leafer Tea Glenmorangie 10 ⁠Story⁠ about dad packing beer in son's lunch. What Ya Smokin' La Flor Dominca Ligero Gurkha 125 Arturo Fuente Hemingway Work of Art (N) What Ya Readin' Gaudium et Spes Great Expectations Dune Courtship of the Saints Misc References Gaudium et Spes 22 Catholic Stuff

We discuss the role of the laity in evangelization and ways we can be intentional in personal apostolate. Books Through Winds and Waves Plan of Life Coached by Josemaria Escriva Witcher Series Tolkien's Faith Divine Mercy in My Soul Free Will and the Rebel Angels in Medieval Philosophy Cigars Arturo Fuente 8-5-8 Arturo Fuente Hemingway Between the Lines Gurkha Ghost Exorcist Whisky Glenmorangie 10

As we begin the new year, we discuss the importance of having a plan for daily prayer, for daily conversation with our Lord. We lay out two general approaches (ADEPT and ACTS) and then discuss our own daily plans. Here is a Joe Catholic post that contains all of the prayer links discussed in this episode. Whiskey Glenmorangie 10 Maker's Mark Cigars Arturo Fuente Hemingway, Classic (N) Tampa Sweethearts #24 Prayer Apps iBreviary St. Josemaria (Plan of Life)

We discuss the unique liturgical challenge of getting to go to Mass twice in two days. We also discuss ways we can witness to and evangelize Chreasters. Mass Times App Whiskey: Woodford Reserve Cigars: Crux Epicure Fuente Sun Grown Queen B

We discuss how we maneuvered through the liturgical challenges discussed in last week's episode. We also share a bit about our Christmas family traditions. In our main segment, we frame our discussion on community, duty, friendship and hospitality within the context of pastoral theology. Whiskey Glenmorangie 10 Cigars Alec Bradley Magic Toast Arturo Fuente Hemingway Work of Art, Maduro House of Cigars Factory

We discuss schools of spirituality and share our introduction to the Order of Preachers (Dominicans) and Opus Dei. We further discuss the Rule of Life and Plan of Life for each respectively. We close out with a discussion on the intentionality of formation. Cigar Arturo Fuente Anejo Whisky Johnnie Walker Double Black

We briefly discuss Aristotelian friendship and Mark's writing projects. We dig into Lumen Gentium⁠. We talk about the call of holiness, participation and our vocation. Additionally, we talk about the lack of men attending Mass and being "involved." Whiskey: Glenmorangie Tale of Tokyo Cigars: Monte Cristo 1935 Anniversary Edicion Diamante Casa Fuente LINKS: Mark's Substack

We review a couple of cigars we've smoked before as we pair them with Woodford Reserve Bourbon. We then discuss the meaning of Christ the King, renewed our annual debate on whether or not Advent is a penitential season and we thought back to our days in grad school. Oh and we ponder the salvation of alien beings on other planets.

My Stogie Mystagogy was launched on March 4, 2016. We have dug up the original episode to share with you.

Mark Connolly, my best friend, got together last week to talk about relaunching the podcast. We didn't plan a topic so we are little bit disjointed, but the primary theme is evangelizing in the modern world. Oh and we discuss our time at the Las Vegas Big Smoke.

We cover the ABC's of Divine Mercy, its devotion, chaplet and the Sunday liturgical celebration. Resources mentioned in the episode can be located at our Joe Catholic website.

This is a throwback Thursday episode. We share a My Stogie Mystagogy conversation from 2017 in which Mark and I discuss the shortest liturgical season of the Catholic calendar - Triduum. We apologize for some of the spotty sound; we were experimenting with recording on Skype. 

This is our audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Luke 13:1-9. The commentary reflects on the need for repentance and the parable of the barren fig tree. Additionally, we give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium.  We have excluded the reading of all of the references and scriptural cross references to permit a better flow of the reading. You can locate these references, as well as the paragraphs from the Catechism in which passages from this Gospel reading are cited, at www.thejoecatholic.org.  We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

We discuss St. Joseph's role as a personal patron and for the universal Church. We also discuss how to build good, Catholic habits in our children, even as young as 3 years old. This episode also includes a My Stogie Mystagogy segment wherein we review a few cigars and Bullet bourbon.

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Luke 9:28-36. The commentary reflects on the Transfiguration of Christ as a consolation for the three apostles (Peter, James and John) in preparation for his passion. We have excluded the reading of all of the references and scriptural cross references to permit a better flow of the reading. You can locate these references, as well as the paragraphs from the Catechism in which passages from this Gospel reading are cited, at www.thejoecatholic.org.  We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

We discuss the meaning of the the 3 Pillars of Lent, the two-fold challenge of trying to do too little or too much and recommendation on how to get back on track.  We reference several resources and you can find all of those links on the Joe Catholic post associated with this episode. That can be found at www.thejoecatholic.org

On this episode we do a Throwback Tuesday and revisit last year's podcast from My Stogie Mystagogy in which we discuss our current Lenten practices and how we are doing. Sources mentioned: Exodus 90, Dynamic Catholic, In Conversation with God (Relevant Radio Podcast), Liturgy of the Hours, Life of Christ (Fulton Sheen) and more.

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Luke 2:16-21. The commentary reflects on the encounter between the shepherds and the newborn Jesus. Additionally, the commentators explain the significance of the naming of Jesus. We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Luke 2:41-52. The commentary reflect on the interaction of Jesus at 12 years old with His parents, Mary and Joseph. The commentary describes this passage as the only instance in any of the Gospels in which we get a glimpse into Jesus' hidden years of obscurity as He lived out an ordinary life before His public ministry. We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

We discuss the Church's teaching on the Incarnation and offer a reflection on the meaning of the hidden years of Jesus. We also explain the connection between the 12 Days of Christmas and the liturgical end of Christmas. 

Audio from a Joe Catholic workshop in which we discuss the apparition and image Our Lady of Guadalupe as a mini Mariology course.

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Luke 21:25-28, 34-36. The commentary begins the Advent Season by reflecting on Christ's exhortation to His followers to be vigilant in preparation for His return. We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from John 18:33-37. The commentary analyzes the dialogue between Jesus and Pilate in which our Lord is questioned about His kingship. We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

The audio is taken from a Joe Catholic workshop held in November 2014 in which we discuss a unique way to look at our patron saints and how to incorporate their intercession in all aspects of our lives. We also explain the nuts and bolts about the Communion of Saints and then look at developing a Board of Intercessors or "go to" saints that are part of your daily plan of life.

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Mark 13:24-32. The commentary analyzes Jesus' exhortation to prepare for His second coming at the end of time. We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Mark 12:38-44. The commentary analyzes the account of the widow's mite as an example of the importance of the "little things." We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Mark 12:28-34. This passage analyzes answer to scribe about the Greatest Commandment. We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Matthew 5:1-12. This passage begins the Sermon on the Mount discourse. This particular Gospel reading lays out the Beatitudes and the commentary analyzes and explains how they provide us with a guide on how to live our lives in union with Christ. We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Mark 10:46-52, the account of Bartimaeus, the blind man in Jericho. In this commentary, we learn that Jesus is also teaching us how to answer His call to apostolate and holiness. We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. tinyurl.com/NavBible

We give an overview on Catholic exegesis in conformity with the Church's Magisterium and then share an audio version of the Navarre Bible commentary on today's Gospel from Mark 10:35-45, the account of the sons of Zebedee making a request of Christ. In this commentary, we learn that Jesus is also teaching us how to pray and how to respond to God's answers. We recommend you purchase and read the Navarre Bible for personal study. https://tinyurl.com/NavBible