The Pillar Podcast

Luke is joined by Dr. Sebastian Ostritsch to talk about the development of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, its formal condemnation in 2024 by the German bishops’ conference, and expectations ahead of elections in the German state of Saxony-Anhalt.German bishops pictured during their Sept. 23-26, 2024, plenary meeting in Fulda. © Deutsche Bischofskonferenz/Marko Orlovic.This episode is brought to you by the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota, which leads the nation in the number of graduate programs recommended by The Newman Guide. Pillar paid subscribers are eligible for up to $10,000 in scholarships toward select programs. Learn more at pillar.umary.edu. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd is so happy!Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

Chaldean Bishop Emanuel Shaleta rejects a plea deal. Pope Leo asks the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes to cover its Rupnik mosaics. Then, Ed unpacks Russia’s misinformation campaign this week against the Holy See.JD plays a round of Russia ‘Greater or Lesser?’Photo- Bishop Emanuel Shaleta. Credit: Chaldean Eparchy of Saint Peter the Apostle of San Diego.This episode is brought to you by the University of Mary and its groundbreaking MBA/MA in Philosophy dual degree, a Newman Guide–recommended program for Catholic professionals who want to lead with both competence and conviction.Learn more at pillar.umary.edu This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comSome good news for Pillar reader (in a good way) Trevor Williams. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD asks what the evolution of artificial intelligence demands of canon law?This episode is brought to you by the University of Mary, one of the nation’s most affordable and serious Catholic universities, offering flexible online graduate programs built for working adults. Learn more at pillar.umary.edu This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

Ed is joined by Lord David Frost, CMG, to talk about his decision to become Catholic and his role as an non-affiliated member of the House of Lords.This episode of The Pillar Podcast is brought to you by FUSIONISM, a new book by Catholic journalist and Pillar reader (in a good way) Stephanie Slade.FUSIONISM is now available for pre-order from University of Notre Dame Press here: undpress.nd.edu/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comSometimes a whale is just a whale. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

This week, Australian Bishop Christopher Saunders was convicted of sexual abuse and English Bishop David Oakley had a preliminary hearing in his trial related to sexual abuse. JD and Ed talk about the cases and why Pope Leo hasn’t removed Oakley from his position.This episode is brought to you by the University of Mary, a Newman Guide–recommended Catholic university in Bismarck, North Dakota, offering affordable online graduate programs designed specifically for the working Catholic professional.Pillar subscribers are eligible for up to $10,000 in scholarships toward select programs.Learn more at pillar.umary.edu This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

JD and Ed talk about two big pieces of news from while Ed was on vacation. JD talks about the bankruptcy case in the Diocese of Burlington, Vermont, that has caught his attention.Then, Ed plays a round of papal travel trivia. This episode is brought to you by Christendom College Graduate School of Theology, where the Sacred Science is pursued with uncompromising fidelity to the Magisterium of the Church.Learn more at graduate.christendom.edu This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

We all missed Ed.Bonus episodes of The Pillar Podcast are typically available only to paying Pillar subscribers. Subscribe today so you never miss one. Already a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

JD is joined by Bishop Andrew Cozzens of Crookston, MN., to talk about the planning and impact of the National Eucharistic Congress two years later. This episode is brought to you by St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry, hosting a conference this October on the life and thought of soon-to-be Blessed Archbishop Fulton Sheen. You can join in-person or virtually. Learn more at stbernards.edu This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

We will be back next week with our regular Friday episode and more. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

JD is joined by The Pillar’s Rome correspondent Edgar Beltrán to talk about rumors in Rome this week related to the canonical trial of disgraced former Jesuit Fr. Marko Rupnik. This episode of The Pillar Podcast is brought to you by The Lamp, the only magazine for Catholics seeking intelligent, witty, and clear-eyed commentary on the world.Pillar readers can get 40% off a one-year, six-issue print subscription with the code PILLAR40 at thelampmagazine.com/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD and Ed talk about camping and cowboys. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about a new report that calls for better psychological care in seminaries.This episode is brought to you by V8 for Vocations, hosted by the Diocese of Gallup.V8s for Vocations is back and celebrating the Centennial of Route 66 with another raffle, this time giving away a 1962 Chevrolet Corvette convertible!For details, rules, and to purchase tickets, visit v8sforvocations.org. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comWake up, Ed!Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about the impact of Pope Leo XIV’s return to a traditional papal summer vacation in Castel Gandolfo, and what could be on his desk when he gets back to work.This episode is brought to you by V8 for Vocations, hosted by the Diocese of Gallup.V8s for Vocations is back and celebrating the Centennial of Route 66 with another raffle, this time giving away a 1962 Chevrolet Corvette convertible!For details, rules, and to purchase tickets, visit v8sforvocations.org. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comAnd on America’s birthday, no less.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed unpack the Society of St. Pius X’s illicit episcopal ordinations this week, and the Vatican’s response.A screenshot from the July 1 illicit consecration of SSPX bishops. Credit: SSPX News, Youtube. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD and Edgar talk World Cup. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD Flynn is joined by Pillar Rome correspondent Edgar Beltrán to talk about the aftermath of two devastating earthquakes in Edgar’s home country, Venezuela. Then, Edgar outlines feedback from several cardinals ahead of the consistory that began today, June 26, in Rome. To make a donation to Caritas Venezuela, visit caritasvenezuela.orgThis episode is brought to you by “Fusionism: Liberty, Virtue, and the Future of the American Right,” a new book about the history of the conservative movement in America, written by journalist and Pillar reader (in a good way) Stephanie Slade.To pre-order, visit your favorite online bookstore or the University of Notre Dame Press at undpress.nd.edu-Cardinals at the inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV. Credit: Edgar Beltrán/Pillar Media. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

Ed gives an explanation.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

Could a new nuncio to the United States usher in a new application of Vos estis lux mundi in the nation? Then, comments by Catholic Vice President JD Vance spark a conversation about infant baptism.JD plays a round of World Cup trivia.This episode is brought to you by the Benedict XVI Institute’s Reverent Liturgy Project, offering the practical wisdom of priests who have successfully adopted classically Catholic worship practices to priests who want to embark on the same journey but need a roadmap to get started.To learn more, visit ReverentLiturgy.org This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comGood for Brad.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about why Pope Leo XIV did not have an in-flight press conference on his flight home to Rome from Spain. Then, they recap the U.S. bishops’ June plenary assembly in Orlando.This episode is brought to you by the Benedict XVI Institute’s Reverent Liturgy Project, offering the practical wisdom of priests who have successfully adopted classically Catholic worship practices to priests who want to embark on the same journey but need a roadmap to get started.To learn more, visit ReverentLiturgy.org-Dassault Falcon 900B Spanish Royal Air Force. Credit: Papas Dos via Wikipedia (CC BY 2.0) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD and Ed talk about this week’s appointment to the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at kolivera@…

A wedding sparks a conversation about anticipated Mass. Then, JD and Ed talk about what it actually means to be an exorcist and why a revised Dallas Charter seems to fall short of expectations.This episode is brought to you by the Benedict XVI Institute’s Reverent Liturgy Project. Offering the practical wisdom of priests who have successfully adopted classically Catholic worship practices to priests who want to embark on the same journey but need a roadmap to get started.To learn more, visit ReverentLiturgy.org This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD details some news unfolding in California that has his attention.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

Pope Leo XIV issued his first encyclical this week. JD and Ed give an overview of the document and debate its effectiveness and intended audience.This episode of The Pillar Podcast is brought to you by Holy Family Direct Primary Care in Wenona, Illinois.Now hiring medical professionals who want to treat the whole person in a relaxed environment, with the Catholic faith at the core of all we do.Learn more at holyfamilydpc.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comThose sneaky libertarians.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

The Vatican’s synod department sets this week some deadlines ahead of a 2028 ecclesial assembly in Rome.Then, JD and Ed talk about a shift in how the SSPX is presenting its planned illicit episcopal consecrations in July.This episode is brought to you by the Catholic Education Fund, an initiative of Aequitas Education in partnership with ACE Scholarships.Learn more at catholiceducationfund.org This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd rejects a beloved Nebraska tradition.Let cardinals eat cakeAre you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about reactions to a synod study group’s final report on ‘emerging issues’ and the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith’s warning this week to the Society of St. Pius X. This episode is brought to you by The Secret of the Goldfish, a warm, faith-filled middle-grade mystery for curious Catholic kids, coming to you from Our Sunday Visitor.To learn more, visit GloriaBook.com/SundaySchool-Photo: Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández attends the consistory for the creation of 21 new cardinals in St. Peter’s Square on Oct. 2, 2023. © Mazur/cbcew.org.uk. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comThis is democracy Ed can believe in.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed reflect on the one year anniversary of Pope Leo’s election to the papacy.Then, they talk about a Vatican-ordered Vos estis investigation in the Diocese of Baton Rouge.This episode is brought to you by the 2026 Amazing Parish Leadership Summit. This August, leaders like you from across the Church will gather for three days of inspiration, encouragement and equipping.Learn more at amazingparish.org/pillar-Photo credit: Pope Leo in St. Peter’s Square via Vatican Media. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

The Archdiocese of New York offers an $800 million settlement to victim-survivors of clerical sexual abuse.JD plays a round of occupational ‘Good, Better, Best’ in honor of the feast of St. Joseph the Worker.There is no bonus episode this week.This episode is sponsored by Five Stones, offering critical services for Catholic apostolates – including marketing, order fulfillment, technology, and customer service.Learn more at weare5stones.com/pillar This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd explains why the Benevacantism conspiracy theory is back in the news this week.-Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar Podcast

JD and Ed talk about Pope Leo XIV’s in-flight press conference this week. Then, JD talks about a new database system being tested in dioceses in Brazil.This episode is sponsored by the St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry, a Catholic graduate school that seeks to reunite theology, prayer, and sanctity by providing a true formation of mind and heart led by a personal encounter with Christ while studying theology and philosophy in and from the heart of the Church.You can learn more by visiting stbernards.edu-Pope Leo XIV speaks to reporters during a papal flight April 21. Credit: Vatican Media. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd shares a New Jersey basketball storyAre you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about Pope Leo XIV’s trip to Africa and his letter to the College of Cardinals.Ed plays a round of First Communion ‘Yes or No.’This episode is sponsored by the Institute for Liturgical Formation at Christendom College Graduate School of Theology. This summer, consider spending four weeks immersed in reverent liturgy and rigorous academics.Learn more at christendom.edu/liturgy This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd asks JD a question of etiquette. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about the January meeting between the Vatican’s then-nuncio to the United States and the Department of Defense. JD asks about Pope Leo XIV’s approach to just war. This episode is brought to you by the Catholic Education Fund, an initiative of Aequitas Education in partnership with ACE Scholarships.Learn more at catholiceducationfund.org This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd asks JD for his take on Pope Leo’s plans for a consistory of cardinals in June. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at kolivera@pillarc…

JD and Ed talk about the nature of Holy Saturday.Ed plays a round of MiLB team name trivia. This episode is brought to you by The Cristeros, a new movement of faithful Catholic men committed to prayer, formation and brotherhood.Learn more at TheCristeros.org/Pillar This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comA foolproof plan and a wounded man. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about the sobering case of Noelia Castillo Ramos. Then, the Dicastery for Legislative Texts has a new prefect. This episode is brought to you by The Freedom Group, freeing men from the craving for pornography in one year or less.To learn more, visit thefreedomgroup.co This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

We were going to squirrel away this week’s live recording in Chicago in The Pillar’s secret archives, but it was too good a time not to share.Learn more about Aid for Women Chicago here: aidforwomen.org/Production and photography by Kyle Heimann. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comDo you like sport peppers?Don’t miss the next live recording of The Pillar Podcast on March 19 in Chicago!We’ll meet at 7 pm at the Nisei Lounge (3439 N. Sheffield Ave.) and we’ll probably start making the show around 8 pm.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are…

JD and Ed give an update on Bishop Emanuel Shaleta. Then, they talk about the danger of ecclesial spectatorism. This episode is brought to you by Wallet Win’s Catholic Family Emergency Binder, designed to give Catholic families peace of mind, ensuring you and your loved ones are prepared for the unexpected—whether that’s an illness, injury, or even death.Use code PILLAR for 20% off at walletwin.com/binder, and provide your family with security and peace.-Don’t miss the next live recording of The Pillar Podcast on March 19 in Chicago!We’ll meet at 7 pm at the Nisei Lounge (3439 N. Sheffield Ave). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd asks JD for advice. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]