Shepherd Circle Priest Podcast

On this week's episode, Father John LoCoco discusses own calling to the priesthood, the role of a Holy Hour in discernment, and his important work serving the faithful at St. John Vianney Catholic Parish and school. He also discusses his important work in canon law working with Catholics seeking annulment. 00:00 Introduction01:13 Meet Father LoCoco01:50 Coming from a large family of 802:50 Once a jock, always a jock03:45 Studying abroad led to vocation call 05:30 Studying philosophy in seminary 07:00 Studying at the Northern American College in Rome07:55 "Always with seminarians even on vacation" 12:00 First time serving sisters as a priest15:00 Time moves differently in confessional 19:00 Spending time in DC22:00 Canon law and the graces from annulment26:00 Leading a house for those discerning32:00 Learning how best to serve the faithful at your parish 34:00 Life on Long Island and cold mozzarella pizza 35:20 Remembering Pope Francis and the future with Pope Leo XIV39:00 Milwaukee and Midwest life

In this week's episode, Father Paul Shovelain of the Diocese of Minneapolis shares some unique outreach he is doing at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and his parish school and discusses the fruits he is witnessing by being mission-oriented and why faith formation is at the core of this "culture of evangelization."00:00 Introduction02:30 Helping students understand Catholic culture04:05 3 core values at the heart of this mission05:50 Getting parents and families involved at the start08:30 Reaction from parishioners has been outstanding09:25 Simple invitation to relationship10:25 How are families living out their faith?12:30 Holding events where the whole family is invited13:00 Special way of celebrating All Saints' Day 16:05 Journey to the Inn event involves entire community17:30 Parishioners getting involved 18:35 Discovering a joy that we are all made for20:50 The 'Faith, Family, and Fellowship Mass'22:44 Culture of discipleship helping prayer life for all 23:35 Modeling prayer first and then teaching 26:00 Special outreach to teachers and staff 29:30 Inviting Christ to be everywhere on our campus32:00 Monthly joy award for staff33:28 The many fruits from this intentional discipleship35:40 Mission matters...39:20 How can other priests bring this culture of evangelization to their parish and school?

In this week's episode, Dominican Father Joseph Anthony Kress discusses his own vocation story beginning with a trip to Lourdes in high school where he acquired his habit Rosary that he still carries to this day, why it's more about the knowledge of love than the love of knowledge, what he learned serving as chaplain to undergrad students at UVA, and the popularity of his podcast, 'Godsplaining.'00:00 Introduction 02:20: From the Blue Ridge to the Big Apple 03:08 Serving as Promoter of the Rosary 03:50 How did 'Godsplaining' podcast begin?06:20 Learning about the Dominican order 07:40 The desire for a "knowledge of love, not a love of knowledge" 09:20 "Graduate level home-schooling" at Dominican House of Studies09:45 Getting steeped in the wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas 10:46 6 months after ordination, serving as chaplain at UVA11:40 Learning to be authentic and genuine with college kids13:15 "Authenticity is the currency of this generation."14:20 Young adults hungry for the truth about faith15:45 Needing a priest approachable not relatable 17:30 Fruits of pastoral leadership: weddings & vocations 18:00 Strong interest in cloistered life and religious orders 19:00 The shock of leaving chaplaincy to work in NYC 20:00 Getting back to the spousal-hood of priesthood 23:00 Understanding the 'spirituality of fundraising' 27:30 The work of promoting the Rosary and the Blessed Mother28:00 Father's own vocation story during his visit to Lourdes30:25 Fierce faith of those approaching baths with terminal illness 31:00 Witnessing so many accept their fate of death at Lourdes31:30 Death-bed confessions at a hospital with a fallen away father34:00 Calling in a Catholic priest in dire moments, exorcism34:50 "Court-side seats to the Lord's mercy" 35:50 Advice on how to pray the Rosary as a seminarian/priest

Happy 1 year anniversary of the Shepherds Circle Priest Podcast!

On this week's episode, Father Dominic Rankin of the Diocese of Springfield, Ill., discusses his calling to the priesthood at a very early age, the fastest time he's ever run a marathon (and it's impressive!), the impact his upbringing had on his vocation (his twin sister is a Dominican nun!), and the spiritual warfare young men experience when considering a vocation. 00:00 Introduction05:00 Running 13 marathons thus far07:45 Upbringing in Quincy, Illinois 09:00 Wanting to be a priest as a little boy 10:20 Making the decision to enter seminary during community college11:20 The important work of vocation direction12:30 Going to seminary in Indianapolis and studying philosophy16:40 Reflecting on a day in the life in the priesthood18:20 Expectations of the priesthood 21:20 The ability to always pray for the faithful 24:00 Philosophy of St. Ignatius to always be mindful 25:20 The work of being present among the many duties of the day28:40 Wrestling with the fear of uncertainty30:40 Helping one men who are discerning but feel insufficient 33:00 Looking at the disciples, God calls those with faults 35:00 Approaching the day with a mindset of a saint36:50 Father Dominic Rankin offers a prayer

In this week's episode, Father Michael Nolan of St. Mary Parish in Waltham, Mass., discusses his upbringing and call to the priesthood, his own experience becoming a priest in the shadow of the clergy abuse scandal, and the many programs he began to help children and college students grow more deeply in their own faith. 00:00 Introduction 02:20 Growing up outside Boston in Framingham07:00 Memories of ordination day, calling upon the saints07:50 First homily and a quote from Pope Francis 09:34 Having a love for Mass as a kid 10:33 First assignment coinciding with the church scandal11:00 Double-down on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy12:00 Clinging to the priesthood amid reports of scandal13:30 "Sin is illogical so you can't make sense of it"15:42 The importance of burying people well18:50 Serving the faithful in Waltham, Mass. 25:10 Building fraternity between brother priests 28:30 Helping a family who has a son missing 29:00 Serving children in a special after school program 32:48 Success stories of children who are excelling 35:50 Pilgrimage for young adults in college 42:00 Crowd funding to help students take part 43:10 Greatest joys after 25 years of the priesthood

On this week's episode, Msgr. Landry talks with Bishop James Wall about his own calling to the priesthood at the age of 19, the joys of camaraderie walking with brother bishops along the Camino, and what he has learned serving the diocese of Gallup, New Mexico. 00:00 Introduction 02:09 Bishop Wall's upbringing and family life 03:35 Deciding to go to Mass everyday during Lent in college 4:00 Signing up for Eucharistic Adoration 05:40 Faith of his family as converts to Catholicism 07:38 Growing up going to public school 08:36 Impact of college life on faith discussing theology 10:22 Memories of seminary life 12:30 Becoming a priest on a hot day in Phoenix14:30 Remembering hearing the first Confession 17:50 Serving a bilingual community 18:32 Becoming a parish priest with a Catholic school 22:38 The fruits of teaching NFP to young couples 26:30 Helping post-abortive women and men29:10 A missed call and the appointment to Bishop 32:25 What it's like leading the faithful in Gallup33:40 Learning from all the distinct tribes of Native Americans 36:00 What it means to be authentic when teaching the faith 37:14 Lessons from watching priests who thrive 40:00 What being 'doers of the word' means to Bishop Wall 45:05 Learning from Bishop Olmsted47:15 Advice for young men discerning the priesthood

On this week's episode, Father Duffy speaks with Dominican Father Lawrence Lew about his conversion and calling to the priesthood, his work as a promoter of the Rosary after being once a skeptic of Marian devotion, and the beauty he sees in the music, liturgy, and art within the Church. 00:00 Introduction 03:00 The old Catholic boys' school in Singapore05:00 Are Catholics really Christians? 7:30 First experience at a Lenten (not lantern) vigil 09:02 Steeped in history is ultimately to become Catholic 10:00 Helping at Mass even before becoming Catholic12:10 Thinking about becoming a De La Salle brother14:10 Wanted to study Latin and Church history but dad said no15:20 Coming from a family of lawyers 09:15 Understanding the Divine Office better 20:30 A real passion for philosophy and theology 22:20 Understanding a normal parish vs. cathedral parish25:40 The need for community and fraternity within the life of a priest30:30 Finding the Dominicans and it 'checked all the boxes' 30:30 Vocations director advises taking some ' time out' 35:50 The impact that Cardinal Ratzinger had on discerning priesthood37:15 Then Cardinal Ratzinger named as Pope Benedict40:25 Serving as chaplain at University of Edinburgh41:00 Connecting with Father Thomas Joseph White 43:40 A unique love for the liturgy, where heaven and earth meet48:20 Taking pictures of the beauty of the Church for 20 years49:30 Early Catholic blogs in the first days of the internet52:15 From skeptic of Mary to Rosary promoter 56:15 The life of the angels is worshipping God

On this week's episode, Father Duffy talks with Father Luke Mata of Opus Dei about his upbringing in a fun Catholic family that always put Mass first, his call to the priesthood, and why camaraderie is so key in the life of a priest. 00:00 Introduction 02:08 Offering spiritual direction at Napa's summer conference03:33 Blessed with a beautiful family growing up in Madrid05:02 Growing up the 2nd of nine kids05:20 Learning from his father as he was dying08:30 Faith was 'free to choose' in the Mata household11:00 Memories of his dad at the lake during childhood 14:10 Impact of a good father on faith formation 14:35 At 14, wanting to come to the United States 16:55 Roots founded in Opus Dei at a young age17:30 The fostering of a priestly soul even within laity18:50 An ordination day Father Mata will never forget 22:00 Moving to Los Angeles to serve as a priest23:00 Lessons in offering spiritual direction 25:16 A calling isn't just to the priesthood, it's a call to be holy26:10 As priests, Jesus has to be our best friend 27:00 The importance of being in the confessional for Catholics 29:33 Depression within the priesthood and many growing up without a dad30:55 As priests, looking out for brother priests to foster friendship31:40 The vital importance of prayer in the life of a priest33:15 Sad reality of a priest dying alone and not found for 3 days 35:00 Making time to attend a priest's funeral 37:00 Fraternity is like 'water in the desert'38:40 The importance of fraternal correction given with love 39:42 Always think: is this getting me closer to Heaven or not? 40:10 The profound beauty and truth of the Eucharist at every Mass42:00 The hope we can all find in our Blessed Mother 43:35 Clinging to the Holy Spirit while hearing Confession44:14 The hope found in our new Holy Father Pope Leo 45:20 Seeing the excitement of students when Holy Father was named

On this week's episode, Msgr. Landry speaks with Archbishop Thomas Wenski of the archdiocese of Miami about his own calling to the priesthood as a young 3rd-grader, working with immigrants who have come to our country, and the many lessons he's learned from the Haitian Catholics he has served in Florida. 00:00 Introduction 02:10 Memories of a 3rd grader aspiring to be a priest03:30 Wanting to please the Lord during time in seminary 03:55 Attending the funeral of the priest who baptized little Thomas05:20 A Kennedy sighting in the 8th grade 06:55 Remembering the Eucharistic congress 8:45 Learning Spanish by listening to the radio11:15 Winning the 'seminarian of the year' award13:05 Working in a parish with a Haitian Mass 15:50 Learning from the Haitians and the Cubans 18:55 Being a parish priest for those navigating new homeland21:23 Bringing cultures alive for the community at the parish 24:20 Making the church visible to Haitians and Haitians visible to Church25:50 Priests learning Creole to serve the community 27:20 Building parishes that are earthquake proof and hurricane resistant28:45 Special ways to support the Catholic Church in Haiti29:25 The surprise news of becoming archbishop of Miami at 46 33:57 The current state of the Church in Cuba 35:38 Words of wisdom from an archbishop to his priests42:01 The role of a controlled border in a Catholic response to immigration45:18 Greatest joys of being a priest

On this week's episode, Cardinal Raymond Burke joins discussing his own call to the priesthood as a young boy playing Mass with his siblings, his memories of being ordained a priest by Pope Paul VI, and also being consecrated a bishop by Pope John Paul II. 00:00 Introduction 03:10 Early life growing up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin04:15 Memories of priests visiting the house when his father was sick.06:20 Playing Mass at home with siblings 07:10 Beginning school days with Holy Mass 10:30 Attending the minor seminary boarding school in La Crosse. 12:20 The great upheaval of 1968 13:20 The importance of persevering with the faith amid upheaval 15:00 The fruits of good camaraderie during the seminary 17:00 Blessed time during seminary in the holy city of Rome 18:40 Being ordained alongside more than 350 other men18:47 The Holy Year and Pope Pius VI20:40 Memories of ordination day and first Mass 21:25 First memories of being a parish priest 25:00 The greatest task is offering daily Mass 25:30 The importance of a daily Rosary27:00 The absence of Mass during suffering 29:30 The days of the Second Vatican Council 30:30 The importance of praying for your flock 31:00 The difficulties of standing up to dangerous ideologies32:00 Priests are in it for the long haul33:01 Priests cannot fall into the 'nice guy' syndrome34:30 Standing up for life from conception to natural death 35:00 Ministering to women that have had abortions 35:30 A powerful homily leading someone to the confessional37:20 The importance of proper catechesis37:35 Being consecrated a bishop by Pope John Paul II 39:00 Celebrating 30 years as a bishop this year 39:50 Being a spiritual father to the priests in the diocese 39:55 Priests facing spiritual warfare and discouragement42:00 Strengthening the bond between priests and their bishop 46:50 The importance of fellowship and fraternity among priests48:10 The dilemma of young priests leaving their vocation these days49:55 Without good priests, no way to accomplish the mission of bishop50:30 Hope in the Holy Father Pope Leo 51:48 Pope Leo's missionary heart after 30 years in Peru 52:30 Advice for priests: never lose faith in grace you received on ordination day

On this week's episode, Msgr. Roger Landry talks with Bishop James Conley of Lincoln, Nebraska about his call to the priesthood through the humanities, a defining moment seeing John Paul II in person in Iowa, and what he has learned about mental health in the life of a priest from his own personal experiences. 00:00 Introduction02:07 Personal priestly autobiography04:00 Knowledge of God himself08:00 Introduction to the Great Books 14:30 Fruits learned while farming 18:20 Falling in love with philosophy and theology20:00 Learning the wisdom of Cardinal John Henry Newman22:15 Impact of Blessed Stanley Rother 24:20 The pro-life witness 27:00 Shepherding kids in university 30:40 The splendor of Rome on the hearts of minds of youth32:30 Praying for the conversion of his parents 36:10 The beauty of parish life within a community 38:30 Learning from Archbishop Chaput 40:30 The fertile soil of Lincoln, Nebraska46:10 New evangelization at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln 51:00 Perfect storm of bad news in the church

In this week's episode, Msgr. Landry interviews Bishop Erik Varden of Trondheim, Norway about his own vocation fueled by his witness of a Dominican nun and his love for music. He also gives glimpses into the life of a Trappist monk and what it's like to serve as bishop in his homeland of Norway. 00:00 Introduction01:07 Meet Bishop Erik Varden02:17 Seeds of vocation 05:07 Exploring Catholicism at 19 studying in Cambridge08:20 Discovering the Church Fathers 13:30 How music moves one closer to God15:40 First monastic experiment18:30 Understanding the many orders of monks 21:10 Not about mortification but following a narrow path23:00 Becoming ordained at the age of 3324:20 Serving brother monks as a priest27:05 Becoming a spiritual father 28:45 Any aspirations about your home country of Norway? 29:42 Being appointed by Pope Francis as Bishop of Trondheim33:00 Seeds of hope germinating in Trondheim 35:36 Trying to form ambassadors with a sense of integrity37:15 The role of chastity in our calling to be saints 41:50 Learning to love with the heart of Christ

In this week's episode, Bishop Thomas Paprocki of the Diocese of Springfield discusses his call to the priesthood at an early age playing Mass with his siblings, his call to the study of law and the importance of justice, and his thoughts on an American Pope from Chicago! 00:00 Introduction01:00 Meet Bishop Paprocki02:15 Paprocki's priestly autobiography 05:00 His mother's faith06:50 Preparing for the priesthood at an early age09:57 Majoring in political science in seminary11:00 Straddling priesthood and law school 15:13 Memories of ordination day 17:33 Growing as a student in Rome19:48 Becoming chancellor within the archdiocese of Chicago23:30 Lessons from being a parish priest27:30 Learning from Cardinal George & Cardinal Bernardin31:48 What have you learned about the priesthood serving as bishop? 36:20 The importance of fitness in the life of a priest41:40 The fruits of canon law43:50 Receiving the news of Pope Leo as a Chicagoan!

On this week's episode, Msgr. Roger Landry speaks with Father Marcel Taillon of the Diocese of Providence about his own vocation story after working as an executive for CVS, forming hearts and minds as a chaplain, and what he has learned serving the parishes on the shores of Narragansett for over 18 years, with a brief stint helping the Archdiocese of Military Services in the vocations department. 00:00 Introduction03:25 Growing up in a devout French-Canadian family 05:10 The Catholic world of a French Canadian 08:10 French-Catholic architecture and schools 10:20 A formation in beauty12:40 Working in the corporate world for CVS15:30 Entering seminary and shock of living in Rome 16:10 Learning to pray and discovering the Holy Hour 17:29 Memories of Ordination day and first Mass19:00 How did studying moral theology impact priesthood?21:00 Helping form young men at all-boys high school in Rhode Island22:20 Helping students deal with tragedy as chaplain23:35 Life at St. Thomas More and St. Veronica's in Narragansett25:05 Serving as vocations director for the Military Archdiocese of USA29:05 The fruits of faith formation and chaplaincy31:00 Understanding the differences between branches of military31:50 Working to quell the shortage of priests in the military33:50 Lessons from being chaplain to police officers and first responders35:50 Serving as spiritual director to Boston Celtics coach 41:20 Importance of liturgy and being a missionary parish43:13 Surprises of the priestly life

In this week's episode, Msgr. Roger Landry talks with Father Paul-Anthony Halladay who serves as vocation director for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. Father Halladay discusses his calling to the priesthood and specifically, serving as a military chaplain, and what his experience on the ground in war-torn regions brings to his role as vocations director for the military. 00:00 Introduction02:21 A 'normal' call to the priesthood03:30 Being an altar server as a young boy with brother04:15 Parents planting the seed for vocations06:16 Discerning the priesthood 07:50 A letter from the Archbishop 8:50 Going to seminary 09:50 Understanding we are incarnational 10:50 Learning from living in community 12:10 Being ordained by then-Cardinal Ratzinger13:35 Memories of ordination day and first Mass15:00 First assignments in Mobile 16:05 You never forget your first parish 17:55 Road to being a military chaplain22:00 Serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, Jordan... 25:45 Always making Adoration available to military29:45 If you don't like the outdoors, don't join the army31:05 Serving at St. Patrick's Seminary in Menlo Park 33:00 Converts having call to priestly vocations 34:30 How does the military form its priests? 36:40 Succeeding Father Marcel Taillon as vocations director40:30 The incredible need for military chaplains 42:50 'A call within a call...'44;30 What to do if you feel a call toward military chaplaincy45:55 Fruits of serving as vocations director with military background47:35 Is it Major Halladay or Father Halladay now? 48:56 Greatest joys serving as a priest

On this week's episode, Msgr. Roger Landry and Father Jim Sichko of the Diocese of Lexington, KY, discuss his call to the priesthood, serving as a missionary of mercy, and ways to see the face of Christ in everyone we meet. 00:00 introduction02:49 The youngest of 5 children09:11 First assignments as a priest12:34 Pastoral year in the mountains of Appalachia 15:45 The joy of teaching youth and teens 19:25 Rising up to difficult situations21:40 Watching a parish grow and flourish28:00 Working as a full-time domestic missionary30:30 The art of being a welcome parish 34:55 The trials of being a nomadic priest 38:30 Offering to pay for funerals and works of mercy42:20 How has giving so graciously changed the giver44:00 Seeing the face of Christ in everyone we meet

This week's episode features Archbishop Paul Coakley of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City in an episode taped in July on the sidelines of the Napa Summer Conference. Now serving as the USCCB president, the prelate discusses his road to the priesthood after dramatic events during.a trip to Ireland, the importance of priestly fraternity and friendship including his close camaraderie with Bishop James Conley, and the impact on the priesthood given the breakdown of family life, and ultimately what gives him hope. 00:00 Introduction01:17 Archbishop Paul Coakley 02:44 Serving as ecclesiastical advisor to the Napa Institute04:10 Following Archbishop Charles Chaput04:48 Childhood and family life 06:30 Great books program in college 07:11 Tragedy in Ireland 09:30 Understanding why we call priests Father12:25 'Let them be born in wonder...'13:31 Memories of seminary 15:00 Learning about Blessed Stanley Rother17:25 Famous quote from Father Rother02:55 Recollections of your first assignment24:40 2 years at the Casa Santa Maria 25:20 What stands out from Spirituality studies 27:10 Opening diocesan retreat center 28:10: Fruits of the JPII pontificate29:20 Impact of World Youth Day in Denver31:28 Surprises from serving as bishop 33:10 Shortage of priestly vocations34:15 Why are young men leaving the priesthood?35:15 Breakdown of marriage and family life 37:00 Lacking the ability to commit 37:50 The fruits of Napa's Shepherd Circle 38:25 Importance of priestly fraternity40:45 Spending time with brother bishops 42:50 Promoting not only mental health but physical health45:30 Advice for young men discerning47:10 What gives you hope?

In this episode, Msgr. Landry speaks with Father Daniel Barnett of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Walla Walla, Washington about his own call to the priesthood, serving as vocations director and what mercy truly is, and he also reflects on his 25 years of priestly ministry.00:00 Introduction 01:45 Catholic upbringing as a middle child03:10 Asking for application to seminary in high school05:42 Entering into a period of discernment06:21 Growing in seminary07:23 Memories of ordination day8:21 Leading pilgrims to the tomb of St. Peter in Rome11:21 What is life like in the Diocese of Spokane 15:12 Anti-Catholic backlash within the state 16:28 The challenge of immigration within the diocese19:15 The role of mercy within parish life 21:00 Essential need for daily prayer25:00 The work of guiding young seminarians29:00 If you're not failing, you're not doing it right32:00 Importance of good advisors including laity34:30 Helping people to encounter Christ38:50 Making healing more ordinary 41:50 The priesthood of Jesus, not me 43:10 Burying the dead, the unclaimed 44:50 Mercy is creative before it's redemptive 46:50 Blessing of working with the Missionaries of Charity

On this week's episode, Msgr. Landry speaks with Father Jeffrey Kirby, Catholic priest, moral theologian, writer, and pastor of Our Lady of Grace Parish in Indian Land, South Carolina, about his own vocation calling beginning with his time in Boy Scouts, serving the faithful during the summer in Myrtle Beach, and what he has learned from being a Missionary of Mercy. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction 02:21 Priestly vocation came from parents 04:00 Impact of Scouts involvement08:14 Experiencing the indulgence in the Baroque12:10 We are formed and fashioned for our vocations12:48 Entering the North American College in Rome 15:15 Meeting the Holy Father 17:22 Memories of ordination 19:05 Greatest miracle of all occur in your fingertips24:07 Assignments with Diocese of Charleston 27:29 Founding pastor of a new community 29:39 Joys and challenges of starting a new parish33:25 Being named a missionary of mercy40:00 Writing for Crux 43:50 Advice for anyone discerning the priesthood

On this week's episode, Father Roger Landry speaks with Msgr. James Shea, president of the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota about his own calling to the priesthood, learning from then-Msgr. Timothy Dolan, and his tips on mastering the art of preaching. To learn more about Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org.00:00 Introduction04:10 Childhood on the farm06:42 Discerning the priesthood7:15 Pre-conceived notions of seminary life8:45 Differences between CUA & North American College11:50 Learning from Msgr. Timothy Dolan13:23 Ordination and First Mass 15:47 Being sent back to the states amid Church scandal19:45 Saying no twice before becoming president of U of Mary25:00 What students should know about university 26:55 Highest ranking nursing program, jazz, and sports program29:35 Reflecting on St John Henry Newman and education34:35 The art of preaching and advice to young priests36:50 Wisdom from Peggy Noonan39:10 Aristotle and Logos, Pathos, and Ethos41: 10 Practical tips for writing good homilies42:30 Listening to Fulton Sheen45:20 Shout out to George Weigel 47:00 Good preaching should draw one upward48:20 Human vs. supernatural 51:50 Greatest joys of preaching 54:30 Hopes for the church today58:00 Cultural shift in young college students today59:13 Hungry for faith after pandemic

In this week's episode Msgr. Roger Landry speaks with Father Leo Patalinghug about his own faith journey beginning as a child not really like Mass, to discerning his own vocation to the priesthood, and the theology of food as he not only talks faith in the kitchen, but helps to serve those in need, both with nourishment of the body and soul. He also discusses his culinary showdown with celebrity chef Bobby Flay and the intersection between food and faith. To learn more about Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org.00:00 Introduction02:57 Answering the call to the priesthood04:40 Impact of conversion moments on pilgrimage05:10 Being bored at Mass to captivating the attention of millions06:10 The real meaning of homiletics07:22 The awkward days of seminary09:12 The fruits of studying politics alongside religion10:30 Growing into an ontological identity as a priest12:22 The world of liberal vs. conservative viewpoints13:18 Weathering the storm of not getting along at times15:09 Working at Mount St. Mary's Seminary16:00 A letter from a former student16:20 The cooking battle against Bobby Flay17:32 Intersection of food and faith18:15 Fruits of a regular family meal23:58 Conversion stories of food and faith25:25 Hospitality Retreat for 12 priests28:45 Balancing time in the kitchen with the faithful30:00 Bite-sized moments for Holy Hour 31:30 The art of living without complaining32:52 Discerning the Voluntas Dei Insittute37:20 Seeing the fruits of the connection to the institute40:00 Ministry of feeding others42:50 Sharing the same name as Pope Leo 45:38 Greatest joys of being a priest

In this week's episode, Msgr. Landry talks with Msgr. Thomas Richter, a priest of the Diocese of Bismarck about his call to the priesthood and the role his father played in honing that decision, what Archbishop Fulton Sheen taught him about daily Holy Hours, and what true fraternity looks like among priests. 00:00 Introduction 03:28 Witnessing marriage of parents06:55 The day his father called him 'Son' 08:30 Discerning every day12:18 Fulton Sheen and daily Holy Hour14:15 Recipe for.a good Holy Hour 16:55 The need for fraternity within the priesthood18:15 Monthly check-ins with fellow priests20:15 Vocation boom in the Diocese of Bismarck with young priests21:48 Remembering the day of ordination

On this week's episode, Msgr. Landry talks with Father Christopher Marino, rector of the southernmost diocese at the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea located in Key West, Florida. The two discuss his calling as a priest while working at his parent's fish market, his friendship and love for his brother Joey, and why the beauty of the liturgy even at the young age of 7 drew him to the Mass. 00:00 Introduction02:28 Growing up in his parent's fish market03:27 His father's love for the Mass despite dementia04:40 Mom... what's a nun?05:44 Drawn to the beauty of the Mass06:35 Clowns around the altar 07:35 Faith of his parents 08:20 Hearing his father's confession at the fish market09:23 Moving down to Florida 10:23 After 10 years of trying, his mother is pregnant with his brother11:41 Called to the priesthood at 7 years old 12:32 Having a sibling who has Down syndrome13:10 Learning to love his little brother 16:25 Deciding to attend CUA 19:25 Being named the 'neighborhood snake boy' 22:00 Parents support vocation but first, college 23:10 The decision to leave college to join the seminary 24:35 "There is no humility without humiliation" 27:44 The gift of determination to make it through seminary28:55 Ordination day 33:00 First Mass 34:50 Say the black and do the red35:58 Growing in love through priestly ministry 37:30 Communion and Liberation 40:35 Being present to the presence of Christ 43:30 Serving the faithful in Key West 50:00 Biggest joys of the priesthood

In this week's episode, Msgr. Landry speaks with Father Paul Hoesing of the archdiocese of Omaha, Nebraska, who also serves as president of Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. Father Hoesing speaks about his own call to the priesthood including a tale of two fatherhoods he witnessed as a child, the impact of losing a cousin that was like an older brother to him, and his incredible 'side gig' as he works to help those discerning. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction 02:22 Growing up on a farm and unique school life 05:15 Entering into seminary07:06 Growing as a seminarian 08:42 Remembering ordination day10:35 First assignment as a priest12:31 Studying dogmatic theology13:57 The work of forming other fathers15:10 Lessons learned from the people served18:11 Trying to bring in more laborers for the harvest20:31 The informal side gig that keeps on giving25:15 Proudest moments as a vocations director 32:23 Were you excited to go work at a seminary?36:27 The work of forming priests for the vineyard39:55 How to accompany men through the process 42:28 What is the Augustine Way? 45:15 Going from academic to an integral vision of the priesthood49:00 Greatest joys of priesthood

On this week's episode, Father LoCoco talks with Father Greg Parent of the Diocese of Green Bay about his own vocation story to the surprise of his parents, the impact Catholic Youth Expeditions had on his own faith, and now the role he gets to play forming young Catholics as the executive director of CYE. To learn more about Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org.00:00 Introduction 01:28 A day in the life of a priest02:54 The seeds that were planted for discernment04:20 A mother's watchful eye and love05:27 The role youth ministry played in formation 06:42 Faith fostering fraternity and friendship 07:34 Importance of truth and integrity learned at a young age08:50 Rediscovering the beauty of the hierarchy within the Church09:40 The role sports and athletics plays in formation 11:55 When did the priesthood idea crop up? 14:25 What is Catholic Youth Expeditions? 21:04 ...and why is it not camping?26:30 Life-giving moments with CYE & difficulties of not being in a parish31:03 Practical advice for those discerning the priesthood 32:18 Importance of pursuing a relationship with the Lord

In this week's episode, Msgr. Landry speaks with Father Boniface Hicks of the Benedictine Archabbey of St. Vincent's in Latrobe, Pa., about his own conversion as a student at Penn State, his life in the monastery in prayer, study, and teaching, and what is was like to lead 50,000 people in Eucharistic adoration during the National Eucharistic Congress. To learn more about Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org.00:00 Introduction 02:26 Growing up in a loving home but no knowledge of who love is...2:57 Entering Penn State as an atheist 03:05 Getting invited to Bible Study on campus 04:05 My conversion was two phases 08:08 Visiting the Archabbey for the first time11:23 Entering into a year of discernment 13:56 Studying computer science but moonlighting in campus ministry14:40 Maybe God wants me to go to Saint Vincent 15:32 Memories of ordination and first Mass 18:30 Helping others in spiritual formation 20:18 The importance of spiritual direction in the life of a priest23:13 Teaching the mastery of prayer 24:27 3 things necessary to be a spiritual director26:22 Seminarians and priests can enter into Father's program 29:03 Writing a book on spiritual direction 29:30 Understanding the interior life 31:37 Leading Eucharistic Adoration for 50,000 faithful36:53 Latest book, The Hidden Power of Silence in the Mass

On this week's episode, Father LoCoco speaks with Father Michael Friedel of the Diocese of Springfield, Ill. all about his own call to the priesthood, the road from chemical engineering to clerical life, and the importance of getting to know the Lord for all those discerning religious life. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction 05:42 Remembering the truth from a theology teacher09:05 Taking classes with seminarians09:41 From chemical engineering to clerical life 12:25 Connection between science at faith 14:03 Near-death experience after career fair20:13 Choosing priesthood over secular life and career25:10 Finding confidence as a priest32:51 Working with children and parish school 36:00 Advice for those discerning: get to know the Lord

On this week's episode, Father LoCoco interviews Father Joe Laramie of the Society of Jesus who serves as director of the Sacred Heart Jesuit Retreat in Sedalia, Colorado, about his own road to the priesthood, his role leading the Apostleship of Prayer, and his special devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction 02:00 Serving the faithful in Colorado02:30 love of baseball 03:15 The impact Jesuits have on imprint of Church04:07 25th year of priestly ministry 04:44 Promotion of the Sacred Heart devotion05:15 Exposure to priests at an early age 05:35 Upbringing and formation 08:29 Rise of woundedness helping devotion to Sacred Heart10:45 Pope Francis' encyclical on the Sacred Heart14:40 The seeds of a Sacred Heart devotion16:23 The beauty of prayer and self-reflection16:45 Most grace-filled moment of ministry 18:15 The need for good spiritual direction and confession18:38 Talking about one's brokenness20:40 Discussing priestly balance with those discerning22:00 A calling to the priesthood doesn't mean sainthood23:13 The Pope Leo effect on priestly vocations 24:30 Apostleship of Prayer 28:00 The Sacred Heart of Jesus & the Rosary29:00 Advice on beginning a devotion to the Sacred Heart30:30 The work of running a retreat center 31:40 Father Joe offers a closing prayer

Msgr. Landry sits down with Father Christopher Sullivan of Holy Family Parish in Hicksville, NY about his own road to the priesthood, serving as master of ceremonies for the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, and accompanying Catholics through the annulment process. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction 02:18 Vocation story10:00 A mother's intuition about the call11:13 Serving an altar boy as a child12:41 Fruits of Marian consecration 14:01 The deep end of spirituality 14:33 200 parishioners follow in the act of consecration17:33 Remembering ordination 19:30 Parish assignments 21:01 Opportunities for growth in first 8 years of ministry23:07 The art of being a master of ceremonies 25:55 Centering oneself on Christ in the midst of the crowd. 27:05 Finding time to stop and just look at Jesus. 28:40 Tips on being a master of ceremonies 30:27 Organizing Long Island's Eucharistic procession 33:30 An altar piled high with pokemon cards33:50 Serving as master of ceremonies for the NYC Eucharistic procession34:12 An exchange between a cop and a woman stuck in traffic 36:44 Walking with Catholics through the annulment process46:05 Advice to young men discerning the priesthood

On this week's episode, Msgr. Roger Landry talks with Father Bryce Sibley of the Diocese of Lafayette about his conversion to the priesthood, working with FOCUS to build up Catholic campus life at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and how he works with his brother priests now in formation at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction02.15 The wild path that God brought Father Sibley into his vocation03.38 A deeper conversion through Our Lady during college05:20 Growing in seminary07:20 Seeing yourself in young wild seminarians today 09:06 Remembering ordination and your first Mass 09:55 Always remember that first confession I heard10:56 First assignments as a priest13:28 Lessons learned through daily work as a priest14:40 Background in debate helpful for constructing homilies16:45 Getting the call to go into campus ministry 18:14 Bringing FOCUS to campus first order of business 20:30 Highest records of vocations, seminary and women religious22:40 The importance of befriending those discerning26:19 Advice for every diocese to expand vocations 28:25 Importance of vision and relationality 29:45 Advice for young priests asked to lead Catholic college centers32:20 What about women religioius--how to help those discern? 36:20 The shift from campus life to leading seminarians39:05 What do you really want seminarians to know about moral theology? 41:29 Takeaways working with seminarians as spiritual director44:23 Working with those who have suffered sexual abuse 47:06 Greatest joys over 25 years of priestly ministry48:53 Visiting the chapel of St. Landry in Lafayette

On this week's episode, Msgr. Roger Landry talks with Msgr. Christopher Nalty about his own call to the priesthood after working as an attorney, serving the Holy See with the Congregation of the Clergy, leading a now basilica in New Orleans, and why fraternity and fellowship are so important to the Catholic faith. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction01:38 Vocation story02:15 Life as an altar server02:59 Feeling the call during law school 04:21 Good company with saints that had late vocations04:52 Attending Catholic school in New Orleans05:05 Going to college at University of Notre Dame 08:46 Time at the North American College in Rome09:55 Importance of priestly fellowship 10:53 Learning from Cardinal Timothy Dolan 12:53 Being a guide to St. Peter's Tomb15:31 Transition back home after living in Rome17:08 Working for the Congregation of the Clergy25:35 The impact of church closures27:10 Process of having a church named a basilica29:57 Allowing church doors to remain open during the day33:20 Focusing on the seminary 34:35 Champion of bringing priests together34:52 Asking dad to build a chapel on family property37:05 Giving some of the land back to God38:48 A culture of fraternity 39:25 Face-to-face time at the table41:48 Baby steps to the priesthood43:00 Visiting a hospital as Jesus

On this week's episode, Msgr. Landry speaks with the director of the Angelicum, Father Thomas Joseph White about finding the Catholic faith in college, his road to the Dominican House of Studies where he founded the Thomistic Institute, and how even playing banjo for the Hillbilly Thomists is a way of reaching those most in need of Christ. To learn more about Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org.00:00 Introduction02:49 Growing up in Georgia 05:51 Searching for God In literature07:05 Finding God 08:26 Studying ancient Christianity10:30 Learning about St. Thomas Aquinas12:35 Getting off campus for catechesis14:40 Advice from Benedictine monks on vocations17:10 Living as a lay Catholic attending daily Mass20:45 Keeping faith thru scandal24:25 Making solemn vows as a Dominican25:45 Becoming a source of grace31:00 Preaching, teaching, and giving counsel34:00 The awesome gift of the sacrament of confession35:20 Teaching in the classroom vs. a book 41:05 Serving as rector of the Angelicum46:38 Enduring work of the Thomistic Institute48:46 Happiest hobby of all: Hillbilly Thomists!

In this new episode, Msgr. Roger Landry talks with Father Paul Scalia of the Diocese of Arlington about his own vocation story, sharing comical stories about his father, the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, helping his brother priests as clergy director for the diocese, and the vital role strong families play in vocations to the priesthood. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction02:50 Running an errand after confirmation04:00 Memories of his father and his parish priest06:55 Seeing Pope John Paul II in Chicago08:22 Running an alternative campus newspaper09:44 Studying Greek and Latin at Holy Cross 11:48 Seminary life 13:40 Meeting John Paul II in Rome17:00 Parish priest for huge Chicago parish20:10 Being pastor at his home parish in McLean22:42 Helping priests as clergy director30:20 Priorities every priest should have 32:00 The art of the homily 34:15 How have you changed during your tenure as a priest?34:57 Preparation for Sunday Mass36:50 Learning from commentaries ahead of writing38:09 Advice for young men discerning the priesthood38:42 Learning how to pray

On this week's episode, Msgr. Landry interviews Father Jonathan Meyer of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis (and a well-known YouTuber!) about his own conversion story, what it was like to organize the largest Eucharistic procession, and the 'radiating grace of our Lord.' To learn more about Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org.00:00 Introduction 2:00 Spiritual autobiography 3:55 Discernment process5:44 Entering seminary 6:48 In Rome with Pope John Paul II 8:46 First assignment in youth ministry10:45 Eucharistic retreat11:55 Teaching youth how to pray13:13 Parish life 14:32 Advice on burnout 16:37 Shepherding seven parishes17:50 Making Perpetual Adoration a reality 21:20 Helping parishioners pick up Holy Hours 23:56 What can we learn from St. Jean Vianney29:18 Coaching track as a priest to kids in public school 32:47 Coordinating the largest Eucharistic procession in Indianapolis35:20 Hearing gratitude for the priestly ministry 36:20 Advice for young men discerning the priesthood

Father Eric Cadin interviews Father Korey LaVergne about his road to the priesthood, Servant of God Charlene Richard, and how we are all called to be saints. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction02:32 Road to the priesthood05:45 Ordination 08:45 Servant of God Charlene Richard13:23 Inspired by sainthood18:22 Cajun culture33:00 Advice for those discerning

On this week's episode Msgr. Roger Landry sits down with Father Paul Shovelain of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in New Brighton, Minn., about his own call to the priesthood, the fellowship he is helping to create with family get-togethers and ice-fishing competitions, and the history of faith in one of the greatest Catholic hubs of our nation! To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org.00:00 Introduction 01:48 Blessing of a strong Catholic family03:13 Recognizing a love for the priesthood04:47 Seeds planted during youth ministry05:46 Is Minnesota a Catholic hub? 06:21 Rich Catholic history within the state09:38 Paul's call to the priesthood12:00 Learning how to pray13:18 Marks of formation16:14 Tears on ordination day19:50 Celebrating first Mass23:00 First assignment 29:00 Traveling with the tabernacle31:08 Unique Catholic school approach 34:15 Building saints36:34 Uptick in conversions37:48 Greatest joy and greatest challenge

In this week's episode, Father Michael Duffy talks with Father Sean Suckiel of Holy Family Parish in Brooklyn about his own calling as a priesthood at the young age of 8, leading his parish through calamities like Hurricane Sandy and COVID, and helping other men answer the call. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction01:28 Shepherd of Brooklyn 02:30 Christmas After Hurricane Sandy05:30 Faith Tested07:15 Family upbringing08:45 What is a lifer? 10:45 Life in Seminary13:00 Learning from Archbishop Henning13:46 Ordination 15:20 Asked to lead Vocations18:30 Does God want me to be a priest? 22:36 Covid crisis in New York 25:40 Blessed Sacrament in the window32:38 Praying with your flock35:40 Joy of the priesthood

On this week's episode, Msgr. Roger Landry talks with Father John Burns of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee about his own unique vocation story, the joy he felt on ordination day, and what 'Friends of the Bridegroom' is all about when it comes to the renewal of women's religious life. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction01:35 Growing up 04:00 Discerning a vocation 09:00 The moment he knew11:45 Focusing on Bioethics12:50 Intersection of grace and psychology13:37 The joy of ordination 14:48 Remembering first Mass 15:35 First assignment18:58 Fruits from small groups 23:08 Friends of the Bridegroom 29:00 Women Religious 30:00 Bucking the trend, vocations growing in US35:10 Spiritual advising women religious38:32 How to help Friends of the Bridegroom 41:13 Biggest joy of the priesthood 42:20 Advice for those discerning

In this 5th episode, Father Eric Cadin speaks to Father John Baumgardner who serves as Vice Rector at Saint Francis de Sales Seminary in Milwaukee, about his own calling to the priesthood, the impact a younger sibling with disabilities had on his vocation, and the fraternity felt every year at the annual basketball tournament! 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Interview begins01:37 Family upbringing02:01 Brother with disabilities03:07 Catholic family formation03:58 Priests that had impact on his vocation04-29 Playing football in college 05:22 Conversion on retreat 06:52 Personal conviction to join the priesthood07:38 Life in seminary 08:31 First assignment 10:09 Accepting position as Vice Rector 13:50 De Sales Invitational basketball tournament 20:02 Preparing men for ordination 22:10 Challenges men face in seminary24:25 Opportunities within parish life 28:50 Capital campaign for Francis de Sales 35:55 Advice on those considering the priesthood

In this fourth episode, Father Michael Duffy interviews Father Matt Wheeler, administrator at USC's Caruso Catholic Center, about his own journey to the priesthood, serving students at his alma mater, and how to live more intentionally.To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Introduction02:00 Intentionality 03:00 Young Adults Packing Pews 04:40 Serving Alma Mater 06:00 Catholic upbringing08:10 Dreams of Rock 'n Roll 08:45 Discerning the Priesthood 11:08 Spiritual Direction 16:50 Finding Community 19:40 First Parish 24:47 Serving as Administrator27:00 Opportunity of a lifetime29:00 Prioritize People, Not Perfection30:55 FOCUS Missionaries 32:42 What does it mean to be a fisher of men? 33:55 Dreams and Goals 35:09 Advice for others discerning?

In this third episode, Father Eric Cadin interviews Father Peter Saucedo, director of Vocations for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, about his own journey to the priesthood, the role his own family played in his vocation, and the importance of spiritual fathers, especially with so many young men growing up without a father at home.00:00 Introduction00:45 Interview begins02:12 Family life 04:15 Mission12:40 Zeal to EvangelizeTo learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org

In this 2nd episode, Father Eric Cadin, director of the Office of Vocations and director of the Office of University Ministries for the Archdiocese of Boston interviews Msgr. Roger Landry, national director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the US, all about his own vocation story, his experience walking an entire leg of the Seton route of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, and the true joy he finds everyday being a priest. To learn more about the Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org00:00 Beginning 01:52 Msgr. Landry begins05:53 Childhood upbringing07:59 Praying the Rosary everyday19:44 Preaching22:13 National Eucharistic Pilgrimage

In this first episode, Msgr. Roger Landry of the Pontifical Missions Society, USA speaks with Father Michael Duffy, rector at St. Agnes Cathedral in Rockville, NY about his own vocation story, his new role serving as police chaplain, and tending to the needs of his thriving parish including outreach to students and young adults. They also discuss the riches of the National Eucharistic Revival and the importance of perpetual adoration chapels. To learn more about Napa Institute and our priest formation programs, please visit Napa-Institute.org.Published April 17, 2025