SJS Podcast

In this episode of the SJSPodcast, Fr. Stanislaus Achu sits down with Bishop Bruce Lewandowski, C.Ss.R., to explore the art and mission of Catholic preaching in today’s world. Drawing from pastoral experience and the Church’s rich tradition, Bishop Lewandowski reflects on how preaching is meant to lead people into a deeper friendship with Christ—meeting them in moments of joy, struggle, and longing.The conversation highlights the importance of keeping Christ at the center while thoughtfully weaving together personal experience and the story of the faithful. Bishop Lewandowski shares practical insights on homily preparation, from scriptural study and storytelling to structure and delivery, emphasizing clarity, authenticity, and spiritual nourishment.He also offers a candid perspective on the use of AI in preaching, urging caution and underscoring the irreplaceable role of human creativity and charism in proclaiming the Gospel. Through memorable pastoral anecdotes—from a joyful embrace that reflects God’s eager love to a parishioner’s challenge to “feed” the faithful—this episode invites listeners to rediscover the power of preaching to inspire, nourish, and transform.USCCB: Fulfilled in Your Hearing: The Homily in the Sunday Assembly

In this episode of the SJS Podcast, Dr. Michael Coughlin is joined by Fr. Stanislaus Achu for a thoughtful and timely conversation on the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith’s 2025 doctrinal note Mater Populi Fidelis. Together, they explore how the Church understands Mary’s role in salvation—and why clarity in language matters more than ever.Grounded in Scripture, the discussion examines key moments in the New Testament—from the Annunciation to Cana to the Cross—revealing Mary as “full of grace,” the first believer, and a model disciple whose life always points to her Son.The episode also addresses common questions and pastoral challenges surrounding Marian devotion across cultures, including how certain titles—though well-intentioned—can sometimes lead to confusion. Why does the Church discourage the use of “co-redemptrix”? In what sense can Mary be called “mediatrix”? And how can the faithful honor Mary without obscuring the truth that Jesus Christ alone is the one mediator and redeemer?Drawing from Scripture, Tradition, and theological insight, this conversation offers a clear and faithful framework for understanding Mary’s place in the life of the Church—one that deepens devotion while safeguarding the centrality of Christ.Whether you’ve long had a devotion to Mary or are seeking clarity about her role, this episode provides a balanced and accessible guide to one of the Church’s most beloved—and sometimes misunderstood—teachings.

In Episode 9 of the SJSPodcast, Fr. Stanislaus Achu and Dr. Coughlin reflect on Pope Leo XIV’s Apostolic Letter A Fidelity that Generates the Future (December 8, 2025), issued on the 60th anniversary of Vatican II’s teaching on priestly formation.The conversation centers on fidelity as the foundation of priestly life—rooted in a living relationship with Jesus Christ and lived out in communion with the Church. Fr. Achu and Dr. Coughlin explore key themes of the letter, including priestly fraternity, the importance of mentorship, and the reality that “there is no lone priest.”They also discuss the role of synodality and mission, emphasizing the call to be a listening Church and to keep evangelization at the heart of parish life and seminary formation.Ultimately, this episode highlights how daily fidelity to Christ sustains joyful, effective ministry and helps generate the future of the Church.

In this episode of the SJS Podcast, Saint John’s Seminary hosts AI expert Matthew Sanders for a timely conversation on Artificial Intelligence and the Church’s mission. Sanders explains how tools like Magisterium AI and Volgate AI are grounding answers in authentic Church documents while expanding global access to theological resources.The discussion also confronts the real risks of AI—from anthropomorphizing machines and rising loneliness to job displacement and transhumanist ideology—while offering clear pastoral guidance. AI, Sanders argues, must remain a tool for evangelization, always directing people toward the sacraments, real community, and the dignity of the human person. The episode challenges the Church to lead boldly in the digital age without losing sight of what makes us human.

In this episode, fourth-year seminarians Ryan Henderson and Liam Warner reflect on Saint John’s Seminary’s Pro-Life Committee and its prayer-centered mission. They discuss organizing overnight adoration vigils, joining local sidewalk prayer efforts, and making the annual pilgrimage to Washington, DC for the March for Life. The conversation highlights the march’s distinctly prayerful witness, its continued importance in a post-Dobbs era, and how these experiences shape priestly identity and future parish leadership.

What can basketball teach seminarians about fraternity, virtue, and priestly ministry?In this episode, seminarian Joe Jasinski shares how seminary basketball—though not formally one of the pillars of formation—has become a powerful space for human and spiritual growth. Through early-morning practices, national tournaments, shared victories, and hard losses, the court becomes a place where character is tested and brotherhood is formed.Under pressure and fatigue, seminarians learn humility, accountability, and reliance on one another. Mistakes become opportunities for growth, encouragement, and reconciliation—habits that directly translate to pastoral ministry and community leadership.Drawing parallels between sport and discipleship, the conversation highlights formation as progress rather than perfection, the importance of practicing virtue before it’s needed, and the call to remember God even in struggle. Seminary basketball ultimately reveals a holistic vision of formation—body and soul—where becoming a good teammate helps form good shepherds.

In this Fourth Week of Advent reflection, Father Joseph Briody continues the St. John’s Seminary Advent series Awaiting the Blessed Hope, the Coming of Our Saviour. Drawing from the prophecy of Isaiah and its fulfillment in the Gospel, he invites listeners to pause and “behold” — to see anew by grace the mystery of God’s saving plan.Fr. Briody explores the promise of Emmanuel, “God with us,” fulfilled in the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, and reflects on the profound roles of Mary, the Mother of Divine Grace, and Saint Joseph, the silent and obedient guardian who gives Jesus his Davidic lineage.As Advent draws to a close and our gaze turns toward Christmas, this episode offers scriptural insight, theological depth, and practical spiritual guidance — encouraging us to welcome Christ with gratitude, hope, and peace as we await the joy of his Nativity.

In this third installment of our special short Advent series, Fr. Joseph Briody reflects on the readings for the Third Sunday of Advent, traditionally known as Gaudete Sunday—a day marked by joyful expectation as the coming of Christ draws near.Fr. Briody guides listeners through the rich scriptural themes found in Isaiah’s vision of renewal and healing, the Psalm’s proclamation of God’s steadfast justice, and St. James’ call to patient, hope-filled perseverance. He also unpacks the Gospel scene in which John the Baptist, from prison, seeks confirmation of the Messiah—and Jesus responds with works that reveal the breaking-in of God’s kingdom.Through these readings, Fr. Briody invites us to recognize how Advent prepares our hearts to welcome Christ at Christmas: with joy, courage, and firm trust in God’s saving presence.

In this week’s Advent reflection, Fr. Joseph Briody explores the scriptural promise of hope found in Isaiah’s prophecy and the call to conversion proclaimed by John the Baptist.Isaiah’s image of “a shoot from the stump of Jesse” anchors the episode, revealing God’s faithfulness to David and the promise of new life after desolation. The prophet’s vision of a peaceable kingdom—where all creation lives in harmony—points toward the Spirit-anointed Messiah who will gather the nations to himself.Fr. Briody then turns to the New Testament, where Jesus identifies himself as the one foretold by Isaiah, and St. Paul reminds believers in Romans that all Scripture is written for our encouragement and instruction. John the Baptist emerges as the herald who prepares the way of the Lord, calling God’s people to genuine repentance and readiness for Christ’s coming.As Advent continues, this reflection invites listeners to welcome Christ’s merciful presence now and to live each day with renewed faith, conversion, and hope as we await his final coming.

Join Fr. Joseph Briody for the first episode of a special four-part Advent reflection series. Over the four weeks of Advent, Fr. Briody will guide listeners through each Sunday’s Scripture readings, helping us enter the Word of God and let it transform our hearts and lives.In this episode, reflecting on the First Sunday of Advent (Year A), we explore Isaiah’s vision of inclusion, peace, and God’s promise to rebuild what is broken. From the “mountain of the Lord’s house” to turning swords into plowshares, Isaiah calls us to vigilance and hope. Fr. Briody connects these prophecies to Matthew’s Gospel, highlighting the call to stay awake and prepared for Christ’s coming—both personally and in glory at the end of time.Step into Advent with Scripture as your guide, watching, praying, and welcoming the Lord into every moment of your life.

In this episode, Fr. Denis and Alex open the doors to the world of priestly formation, guiding listeners through what makes the seminary experience unique. They unpack why formation is more than academics, why it can take up to seven years, and how it differs from a typical college education or career track.From daily life and spiritual growth to human, pastoral, and intellectual development, they explore the pillars that shape a man preparing for the Catholic priesthood. At its heart, formation is an invitation—a time for God to shape our hearts to His call.Whether you're discerning, curious about seminary life, or simply want a deeper understanding of how the Church forms her future priests, this episode offers a clear, engaging look into the journey.

In this episode, Col. Mike Manning and Fr. Denis Nakkeeran reflect on the historic election of Pope Leo XIV, exploring the spiritual and symbolic weight of the moment. Together, they examine the role of the papacy, the profound legacy of Pope Francis, and the significance of welcoming an American pope to the Chair of Saint Peter.Highlights include:The Pope’s Role: As the visible sign of unity for the Church, especially among bishops, the pope is called to be a shepherd who strengthens the faithful in their journey.Legacy of Pope Francis: Remembered for his pastoral presence and radical closeness, Pope Francis emphasized synodality, listening, and serving those on the margins.Personal Encounters: Fr. Denis shares his own experience meeting Pope Francis, reflecting on his humility, joy, and spiritual presence.Election of Pope Leo XIV: The surprise announcement of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the new pope stirred excitement and hope. The conversation captures where Mike and Fr. Denis were when they heard the news—and their reactions to seeing an Augustinian from Chicago step onto the loggia.Tradition and Symbolism: From papal attire to the significance of colors like red and white, the episode also explores the powerful symbols that shape our understanding of the papal office.🎵 Music Note: This episode features the “Hymnus Pontificius” in Latin—also known in English as the “Pontifical Anthem”—a stirring piece that underscores the reverence and gravity of this historic moment.

In this episode, Col. Mike Manning and Fr. Denis Nakkeeran reflect on the timeless parable of the Prodigal Son. Their conversation highlights the deep spiritual truths behind this familiar story—truths that resonate even more profoundly during the Easter season. As the prodigal son rises from his place of despair and walks back to the father, we’re reminded that Easter is about rising with Christ, reclaiming our identity, and returning to the arms of the Father who always welcomes us with love and joy.Through thoughtful discussion on the Eucharist, prayer, and the grace that calls us home, this episode is a reminder that Easter is not just a day—it’s a way of life. The Resurrection invites all of us to live as people of hope, rooted in mercy, and renewed by God’s unfailing love.

In this episode, Col. Mike Manning and Fr. Denis Nakkeeran reflect on Paragraph 2843 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which calls us to forgive from the depths of our hearts. Drawing from the Parable of the Merciless Servant (Mt 18:23-35), they explore our own need for God’s mercy and the challenge of extending that same forgiveness to others. How can we move beyond hurt and resentment? What role does the Holy Spirit play in transforming our wounds into compassion?Join us for a heartfelt conversation on the power of forgiveness and the freedom it brings.

In this episode, Col. Mike Manning and Fr. Denis Nakkeeran dive into the Gospel from the First Sunday of Lent, reflecting on Jesus’ time in the desert and the significance of fasting in the Christian life. They explore how fasting is more than just a tradition—it’s a powerful spiritual discipline that draws us closer to God, strengthens our faith, and prepares our hearts for renewal. Join the conversation as they discuss the role of sacrifice, self-discipline, and prayer in the Lenten journey.

In this episode of the SJS Podcast, hosts Col. Mike Manning and Fr. Denis Nakkeeran explore Operation Loreto, a movement dedicated to fostering Catholic faith, community, and joyful witness. They discuss how Operation Loreto encourages engagement with the sacraments—especially the Eucharist—as the foundation of family life.Through Holy Mass, Adoration, Confession, the Rosary, and Christian Fraternity, Operation Loreto offers a "new type of freedom"—one rooted in love for God, moral clarity, and the celebration of our ability to choose what is right. Join us as we reflect on the Eucharist’s central role in strengthening faith, families, and communities.Learn more about Operation Loreto with this LINK.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Saint John's Seminary podcast, hosts Col. Mike Manning and Fr. Denis Nakkeeran are joined by Dr. Pete Kilner to explore two essential and interconnected aspects of leadership: character and moral injury.The conversation begins with an examination of character—the foundation of effective and ethical leadership. Together, they discuss how a leader’s values, integrity, and ability to make principled decisions influence not only their success but also the trust and respect of those they lead. Dr. Kilner shares insights on how character shapes a leader’s ability to inspire, guide, and serve their teams.From there, the discussion shifts to moral injury—the psychological and spiritual wounds that occur when leaders act in ways that violate their own moral compass or harm their subordinates. The hosts and Dr. Kilner delve into the profound responsibility leaders carry, exploring how breaches of integrity can damage trust, create lasting harm, and undermine the very fabric of leadership.Join us for a deep dive into the qualities that define great leaders and the moral complexities they face, offering guidance on how to lead with both courage and compassion.

In this episode of the SJS Podcast, hosts Col. Mike Manning and Fr. Denis Nakkeeran kick off with a brief recap of the unforgettable Saint John’s Seminary 140th Anniversary Gala, held at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. The heart of the episode dives into the Be, Know, Do leadership philosophy, exploring how it aligns with the cardinal virtues—prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. Mike and Fr. Denis unpack how leaders are called to be virtuous in their character, know their faith and responsibilities deeply, and do what is right and just through their actions. They discuss how these principles guide clergy and lay leaders alike, fostering a life of integrity, service, and spiritual growth.Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on how faith and virtue inform leadership at every level. Whether you're in ministry, education, or the business world, this conversation will inspire you to lead with purpose and grace.The book mentioned at 26:30: Created for Greatness: The Power of Magnanimity

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the SJS Podcast, hosted by Saint John's Seminary. In this session, our hosts Col.Mike Manning and Fr. Denis Nakkeeran embark on a thought-provoking and open-ended discussion covering a variety of topics.Fr. Denis kicks off the conversation by introducing himself and sharing his background. He delves into themes of identity, culture, and vulnerability, exploring how these elements shape leadership and intertwine with a life of faith. As the dialogue evolves, Mike and Fr. Denis tackle the complex issues of life, including abortion rights and end-of-life care, discussing the moral responsibilities of Catholics, especially during an election season.Join us for an engaging and insightful episode that sets the tone for the SJS Podcast's mission to explore faith, leadership, and the challenges facing our community today.