Stoking the Embers

A priest says Mass isn’t about worship, but "a meal" — Catholics are outraged. But is the real problem what he said… or what he LEFT OUT?In this Moment of Truth segment, I break down exactly what he said, what he got wrong, what he might have meant, and why the theology behind the Mass actually proves the opposite.Get FIRE BRANDED !Get the podcast at its new home:The Forge (New Home!) | Apple | Spotify | Amazon | Castro | Deezer | iHeart | TuneIn | YouTube | Many Others!A viral homily from an Irish priest is stirring controversy after he claimed we don’t go to Mass to worship God, but to share a meal.Segment video.Description continued: We examine the claim, the outrage, and the deeper Catholic teaching on sacrifice, Eucharist, and worship — including why the “meal” language only makes sense because the Mass is first and foremost an act of worship.This isn’t reaction. This is analysis. And before you decide what to think about that viral clip, you need to hear this.Full Episode at The Forge (Video and Audio) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

God’s mercy isn’t weakness—and it isn’t permission.It’s power.In this Night Watch episode, we confront one of the most common spiritual traps: shrinking God’s mercy until it can’t actually heal us. Shame, despair, and lingering guilt after forgiven sin aren’t signs of humility—they’re often the enemy’s favorite tactic.Drawing from Scripture and Ignatian spiritual insight, this episode clarifies what mercy really is, where justice fits, and why the Cross is the center of both. God doesn’t lower the truth to save us. He restores us without rewriting it—and He asks us to accept that mercy, not resist it.A slower, reflective Night Watch for anyone struggling to believe that forgiveness truly takes effect.Stoking the Embers - Subscribe for FreeCatholic Firebrand (TJ's Newsletter. Subscribe to be part of the crew) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

FOLLOW THIS PODCASTCatholic Firebrand Website | Apple | Spotify | Amazon | Castro | Deezer | iHeart | TuneIn | YouTubeMany Others!DescriptionIn this episode of Fire Branded, I take on a truth many Catholics would rather avoid.Pope Leo warns of a generational rupture in how the faith is handed on — and he’s right. But the problem runs deeper than poor catechesis or weak evangelization. We are losing the capacity to recognize truth itself.Follow me on X | Instagram | TikTok | FB | YouTube From immigration and ICE enforcement to misplaced cries for “justice,” from selective Scripture reading to ideological Catholicism, we’re watching mercy detached from truth — and truth applied without mercy — tear the Church apart from within.🔑 Key Highlights• Justice and mercy aren’t oppositesWhy separating them creates cruelty on one side and chaos on the other.• Why Catholic discussions sound political (even when they aren’t)How partial truths from Left and Right distort the Church’s full teaching.• Immigration through a Catholic lens — without slogansBorders, law, mercy, and why neither outrage nor indifference is faithful.• The danger of shouting “justice” without wisdomWhat happens when moral certainty outruns moral responsibility.• Pope Leo on the generational rupture in the faithWhy the problem isn’t just catechesis — it’s transmission.• Why evangelization is often hard, not “joyful”The cost modern Catholics underestimate when passing on the faith.• St. Augustine on belief, understanding, and obedienceWhy belief must come before understanding — not the other way around.• When preference replaces truthHow curated belief blocks holiness and distorts conscience.• Why discernment of truth is a survival skillWhat future Catholics will face if this isn’t recovered now.Chapters and Highlights00:00 Introduction and Show Opening02:30 Why Follow me on X and other Socials03:58 Catholic Church's Stance on Immigration15:29 Video of ICE Arrest: Justice?25:13 Rediscovering the Joy of Evangelizing26:59 Challenges of Modern Evangelization33:32 The Fathers Know Best: A New Segment35:54 Truth Matters: Preference Doesn'tFollow me on X | Instagram | TikTok | FB | YouTube My personal Newsletter - CatholicFirebrand.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

Catholics are not be as prepared to "face" the Antichrist as they believe and this is why he'll fool so many of them (even You!).In this episode of Fire Branded, TJ issues a blunt warning: the greatest danger facing modern Christians isn’t persecution or atheism—it’s the collapse of intellectual discipline, disabling you from identifying Lies and Deception posing as the Truth.Follow me on X | Instagram | TikTok | FB | YouTubeMy personal Newsletter - CatholicFirebrand.comUsing 2 Timothy 3, TJ explains why Scripture’s warning about the “last days” sounds less like prophecy and more like a description of right now.  People are consuming more information than ever.And understanding less truth than ever. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

In this episode, TJ Haines breaks down a viral Catholic media claim (LifeSite News) that accused Pope Leo of appointing a “pro-LGBT archbishop” who supposedly “refused to condemn homosexual marriage.” The headline was provocative. The imagery was suggestive. And the claim did not line up with the actual facts.(Social Links at the bottom)By walking through what really happened, this episode exposes how emotional framing can manufacture outrage that the truth itself would never produce. No technical lies are required—just selective emphasis, insinuation, and a willingness to let emotion do the work reason should be doing.From there, the same pattern shows up in secular politics: vague claims that everything from foreign policy to public-health decisions somehow “helps Putin,” without specific evidence or even a coherent argument. Different ideology, same mechanism.This isn’t a defense of Church leadership. It isn’t a political endorsement. It’s a warning about what happens when people excuse distortion because it feels useful or righteous. When truth becomes optional—even in service of “good ends”—credibility collapses.Truth doesn’t bend. You either submit to it, or you stop caring about it.Follow me on X | Instagram | TikTok | FB | YouTubeMy personal Newsletter - CatholicFirebrand.comCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Purpose00:47 Debunking the Life Site News Story09:53 Analyzing the Archbishop's Response21:18 Debunking Life Site News Claims25:09 Trump and Putin: A Misunderstood Relationship28:57 Critique of the WHO and Media Manipulation This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

KEEP WATCH WITH CHRIST 🔥Don’t let your guard down — not even at night. In this Night Watch edition of Fire Branded, T.J. Haines delivers five powerful and practical ways to stay vigilant in the spiritual life. From developing a rule of life to guarding your senses, rooting yourself in Scripture, and living a Eucharistic lifestyle — this is tactical Catholic spirituality for real life.Follow me X | Insta | TikTok | YouTube | Facebook | Discordand my personal newsletter, CatholicFirebrand.comLivestreamed/Unedited Version: https://youtube.com/live/P9JDQLGlT4c🔑 Key Highlights“Don’t rely on mood — rely on structure.”How a Rule of Life keeps you spiritually steady even when motivation fails.Custody of the senses“What you do to the intellect, you do to the will” — why input matters more than you think.Confession as formationNaming your sins means knowing your enemy — especially when the enemy is you.A Eucharistic lifestyleStaying close to the Sacrifice, even when you can’t get to daily Mass.Scripture every day15 minutes can reset your imagination, strengthen your heart, and re-grip your cross.The spiritual handoff at night — giving Jesus the watch while you sleep. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

Too many Catholics are missing the point and see themselves through the illusion of a sort of "Matrix" mindset When Catholics don’t get their way, too many of them start talking about leaving the Church. And there are others who see Catholicism as a club to be proud of, but don't actually take the faith seriously.KEY POINTS / TAKEAWAYS• Catholicism is a lifestyle, not a membership• Knowing the truth without conversion can condemn rather than save• Waving the Catholic banner is easy — warranting it is hard• Appealing to science while ignoring revelation reverses the order of truth• Truth without charity is not truth• Threatening to leave the Church forms the soul toward retreat• The Church is our Mother, not our muscleCHAPTERS00:00 – When Things Don’t Go Your Way in the ChurchWhat Catholics reveal about themselves when obedience becomes uncomfortable.07:20 – Knowing the Truth Isn’t EnoughWhy being right doesn’t save you—and how pride replaces conversion.15:05 – Waving the Banner vs Living the FaithCatholicism as a lifestyle, not a badge or online identity.24:30 – Revelation Comes Before TextbooksWhy starting with science instead of divine revelation is a losing strategy.33:45 – Why Threatening to Leave the Church Is FoolishOrthodox exit fantasies, conditional obedience, and spiritual retreat.43:30 – Stand or Lose: The Final ChallengeThe Church is not your shield—she is your formation. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

Most Catholics know their doctrine, but few ever examine their attitude. In this episode, I break open why humility, obedience, unity, and a teachable spirit are essential for becoming a saint — and how a bad attitude can quietly push you toward heterodoxy, division, or even apostasy. Featuring commentary on a Colorado Springs schismatic group and what their story reveals about the dangers of spiritual pride.Follow me on  X | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | DiscordKEY HIGHLIGHTS (Bullet Points for Description or Show Notes)Why attitude determines destiny — holiness isn’t just about doctrine; it’s about disposition.Humility as the first requirement of sainthood — the virtue that unlocks every other virtue.Filial vs servile obedience and why Catholics must obey the Church with trust, not fear.How Protestants misunderstand “worship” and why biblical worship requires sacrifice, priest, and altar.A real-world example of bad Catholic attitude: the Colorado Springs schismatic group ignoring excommunication.Why radical traditionalism and sedevacantism differ by “half a hair.”Why unity is not optional — the Church mirrors the eternal through its oneness.Why orthodoxy without charity can still lead you astray.The danger of Catholics resisting correction — the growing trend I see after 30 years in evangelization.The mystical body of Christ and why obedience to the Church is obedience to Christ. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

A viral clip sparks a firestorm—and in this episode,I break down the pushback, the misconceptions, and the spiritual psychology behind anti-Catholic hostility. Learn how to respond to Protestant objections, understand true biblical worship, and get encouraged to stand strong in your Catholic identity. This one is part apologetics, part spiritual boot-camp, and all Firebrand.Don’t forget to follow me on socials ( X | Instagram | TikTok | YouTubeEpisode Highlights• Why anti-Catholic comments are usually a sign of respect-in-disguise• The difference between Catholic worship and Protestant “worship”• Why religion is not optional—it’s part of how humans were created• Understanding biblical worship: priest, altar, sacrifice• Why prayer ≠ worship, biblically• Why people misunderstand Catholic devotion to Mary and the saints• How to understand claims about Mary’s “fear”• What’s missing in the “I don’t need religion to be good” mindset• How the sacraments give the supernatural strength needed for salvation• A strong exhortation for fallen-away or lukewarm Catholics to come back nowCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:21 Going Viral and Facing Pushback05:50 Defending Catholic Worship13:57 Catholics Worship Mary?22:05 Did Man Make Religion? 23:13 The Importance of Religion in Achieving Goodness23:52 Do I need Religion26:31 The Role of Religion in Morality and Ethics30:05 Mary's Sinlessness and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

In this punchy, fast-moving episode of Myths & Mystery, I tackle three of the most stubborn misconceptions about the Catholic faith—myths that confuse non-Catholics and even mislead some Catholics themselves. From the Real Presence in the Eucharist, to the true meaning of the Immaculate Conception, to the Church’s so-called “changing teachings,” each segment cuts through the noise with clarity and unapologetic Catholic truth.Follow me on X | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | DiscordThen, just when listeners think they’ve heard it all, the episode ends with a surprise “true or false” lightning round about the nature of God—ending in a revelation that will challenge something almost every Christian has casually assumed.This is Catholic teaching presented with confidence, clarity, and a bit of suspense—classic “Catholic firebrand”.📒 Show NotesMyth #1 — The Eucharist Is “Just a Symbol”The Church has never taught symbolic presence. Once consecrated, the Eucharist is truly the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ. Pure and simple.Myth #2 — The Immaculate Conception Refers to JesusNope. The Immaculate Conception refers to Mary’s conception, preserved from original sin by a special, anticipatory grace won by Christ on the Cross.Jesus is not only Mary’s Son—He is also Mary’s Savior.Myths and Mystery_Myth #3 — “The Church Changes Her Teaching All the Time”Doctrine doesn’t change. Ever.Understanding can deepen, disciplines can shift, but the truth entrusted to the Church remains constant.Sacred Tradition does not change.Bonus Round — Three True-or-False Questions About GodIs God a man? No.We call Him Father because Jesus revealed Him that way—not because God has gender.Does God change His mind? No.His mind is perfect; Scripture’s language is accommodative.Myths and Mystery_Does God love “unconditionally”?Shockingly: No—not in the way people casually use that term.T.J. tees this up for the next episode… and it’s a cliffhanger worth returning for.⭐ Key Highlights (Bullet-Point Version)* The Eucharist is not symbolic; it is truly Jesus Christ.* The Immaculate Conception refers to Mary, not Christ.* Mary was preserved from original sin by Christ’s future sacrifice.* The Church does not change doctrine—ever.* Sacred Tradition remains constant.* God has no gender; “Father” is revealed language.* God’s “changing His mind” in Scripture is metaphorical.* “Unconditional love” isn’t quite what people think—and T.J. sets up a big explanation for next time.Follow me on X | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | DiscordCheck out CatholicFirebrand.com - My personal Newsletter, with rundowns of the week’s publications and podcasts, and exclusive commentary.Stoking the Embers is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

A raw and honest look at the muck and mire weighing down Catholic life — from media lies to spiritual negativity — and the surprising strategy that helps you break free, cooperate with grace, and rise toward the eternal. A fiery, practical episode for Catholics who want clarity and holiness in a messy world.Follow me on X | Instagram | TikTok | DiscordSee the episode page at Stoking the Embers for Show Notes, Segment by-Segment breakdown, and a full description (like a short blog)Subscribe to:* StokingTheEmbers.com — the flagship.* CatholicFirebrand.com — his personal commentary newsletter.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Welcome02:34 Controversy Over Vatican Document18:00 Fulton Sheen’s Prophetic Insights34:37 Debunking Fake News about the Vatican46:50 Get out of Spiritual Muck and Mire!LINKSPope ‘Invites Trans Activist to Meeting at Vatican’Moving Beyond Confession - From Confirmations to Affirmations⭐ KEY HIGHLIGHTS* The Vatican’s clarification on “co-redemptrix” is not an attack on Marian devotion — it’s a guardrail against misunderstanding.* Catholics often distrust the Magisterium more than they realize — and that’s a spiritual problem.* Fulton Sheen’s prophetic commentary hints that we may be witnessing the “end of Christendom” — not the end of Christianity.* Lies destroy culture because lies erode the good, the true, and the life-giving.* Independent Catholic media is just as capable of misleading as secular outlets.* The devil uses negative thoughts to blunt the fruit of confession.* Spiritual renewal requires changing not only behavior, but thought habits.* The finite world is meant to stretch toward the eternal — which means you can’t spiritually stay “level.”* “Don’t psych yourself out. Psych yourself up.”* Your thoughts must rise with your actions if you want to grow in holiness. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.stokingembers.comThis isn’t just a crash course in Thomistic Philosophy, it’s also a treatment of my personal metaphysical approach to sainthood. Hang on tight though the first have, because the second half brings everything together. I get into Aquinas’ third way of proving God’s existence: the argument from necessary being. But there’s more to this episode than just a crash course in Thomistic philosophy. By explaining Aquinas’ thoughts on cogent and necessary being, I also set up a broader point later on in the episode when I talk about how we possess th potential for sainthood in our very being/existence. Using a tree’s need for sunlight as an example, I clarify these philosophical concepts. I also share a personal story from my childhood about my curiosity (there’s a point to it). The episode wraps up with reflections on personal being and sainthood, highlighting the importance of discovering and embodying one’s true nature.Follow me on X Instagram and TikTok

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.stokingembers.comNOTE: Some references are dated and no longer relevant—such as “Catholic Adventurer” (my former ‘identity’) Catholic Experience, and Locals CommunityAquinas considered causality as part of the evidence for God’s existence. Nothing can cause itself; everything has a cause. If we trace every effect/cause backwards, we eventually get to a “First Cause” tha…

The Church says Catholics should stop using the term Co-Redemptrix — but why? In this bold episode, I break  down what actually changed, what didn’t, and why the deeper crisis isn’t Mariology but obedience. A raw, insightful look at pride, confusion, and the desert the Church is walking through today.Follow me on X | Instagram | TikTokMy personal Newsletter, with rundowns of the week’s publications and podcasts, and exclusive commentary - CatholicFirebrand.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

Ritual isn’t superstition—it’s rhythm. In this episode, TJ Haines shares practical ways to bring sacred rhythm into your ordinary day: from morning prayers to prayer corners and holy moments woven through daily routines. Simple habits, powerful grace.Follow me on X | Instagram | TikTokFollow StE on X and FacebookMy personal Newsletter, with rundowns of the week’s publications and podcasts, and exclusive commentary - CatholicFirebrand.comConsider joining my Discord server, The Firebrand ForumMain Topics Covered:* Why Ritual Matters* Ritual connects body, mind, and soul.* It’s how we order our lives toward heaven.* Men often have a natural inclination toward ritual; women benefit equally through discipline and intention* Tip #1 – Sanctify the Start and End of Your Day* Begin the day before touching your phone: make the Sign of the Cross and offer a short prayer.* End the day with an Examination of Conscience.* Reflect on: “Did my life today demonstrate that I believe in Jesus Christ?”* Focus on one or two areas for conversion and ask God’s help to do better tomorrow.* Tip #2 – Create a Domestic Prayer Corner* Designate a “temple” space in your home—a shelf, a corner, or a small table.* Include a crucifix, Bible, candles, icons, or holy water.* Light real candles (safely) as an act of devotion; they set a sacred tone and symbolize offering yourself to God* TJ contrasts authentic ritual objects with “synthetic” faith experiences (e.g., electric candles, recorded bells).* Tip #3 – Link Prayer to Your Daily Rhythms* Connect prayer with ordinary activities:* Grace before meals—even when eating alone.* The Angelus at noon.* Cross yourself when leaving home or hearing a siren.* Pray for the dead when you see a funeral procession.* Turn mundane tasks (like washing dishes or folding laundry) into moments of prayer* “Moments have meaning—they will have happened forever. Bring them with you into eternity.”* Bonus Ideas Mentioned:* Keep a “Saint Companion” for each week.* Burn a votive candle for special intentions.* Make your prayer life something your schedule has to move around—not the other way around* Audience Q&A Highlights:* Discussion on the perpetual virginity of Mary and how to respond to anti-Catholic remarks with acts of reparation.* Addressing modern tendencies toward “synthetic” faith experiences.* Brief preview of next episode on Sacred Tradition and why Protestants misunderstand it🔥 Major Highlights & Pull Quotes* “Ritual isn’t superstition—it’s rhythm. It’s the way we bring heaven’s order into our daily chaos.”* “When your feet hit the floor in the morning, make the Sign of the Cross. That’s the first victory of the day.”* “Moments have meaning. Once they happen, they will have happened forever.”* “The rest of your day should move out of the way for your prayer life, not the other way around.”* “A candle costs you something—it’s a little sacrifice, a flicker of your own offering to God.” This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

In a world that’s gone lukewarm, it’s time to stoke the fire. Here are five bold, practical, and spiritual ways to stay fired up in your Catholic life. This is not just a pep talk. It’s a spiritual wake-up call. NOTE: read the notes I was using, with a little more detail, in this blog post here. Video Version on YoutubeWhether you’re a practicing Catholic, a returning wanderer, or someone who just feels the flame is burning low and going out, these are your marching orders. This is the first “Firebrand forum” episode. More to come.🔥 “A glowing ember dies down if it’s not stoked.”If you’re ready to reignite your zeal for Jesus Christ and live the faith like it matters, this episode is for you.🧭 Show Notes0:00 – Welcome to The Firebrand Forum* TJ greets the live audience with his trademark mix of humor, warmth, and energy.* Quick backstory on Stoking the Embers and the mission to turn sparks into a fire seen from space.3:00 – Why Even Practicing Catholics Need a Reboot* The danger of spiritual complacency.* Why being “comfortable” in faith can quietly smother your fire.5:00 – Tip #1: Keep the Flame Fed — Daily Prayer & Sacraments* Prayer isn’t optional; it’s oxygen for your soul.* St. Francis de Sales’ timeless wisdom: “Half an hour of meditation a day—unless you’re busy. Then, an hour.”* Confession as monthly maintenance for your spiritual engine.13:00 – Tip #2: Stay Close to the Saints & Scripture* Saints aren’t distant heroes—they’re companions who’ve walked the same path.* Why daily Scripture—even just a few verses—can ignite divine insight.* “The saints were where you are.” Learn from them.23:00 – Tip #3: Practice Small Acts of Love* You don’t need to do great things—just consistent ones.* How small daily sacrifices build holiness brick by brick.25:00 – Tip #4: Keep Community Around Your Flame* “Lone embers grow cold.”* Why authentic Catholic community is non-negotiable.* Dealing with hecklers, hostility, and anti-Catholic noise with grace (and a bit of fire).36:00 – Tip #5: Expect Resistance and Press On* Spiritual fire will meet the wind—don’t mistake resistance for failure.* The wisdom of St. Ignatius: “When we are on God’s side, the enemy stirs a thousand difficulties.”* How God uses resistance to make you stronger.40:00 – Wrap-Up & Mission Reminder* TJ’s closing message: God takes you seriously. Take your faith seriously, too.* Connect on Substack, TikTok, or anywhere @RealTJHaines.* “Keep your fire burning bright. The world needs your light.”🔑 Key Points Covered* Why spiritual comfort is dangerous—and how to overcome it.* How to build a consistent prayer life rooted in honesty, not perfection.* The Saints as living proof that holiness is possible in ordinary life.* The power of small, daily acts of love and sacrifice.* The need for Catholic community to keep your fire alive.* How to interpret resistance as a sign of grace, not defeat.* The truth that spiritual fire always meets the wind—but it’s made stronger by it.Follow me on X | Instagram | TikTokFollow StE on X and FacebookMy personal Newsletter, with rundowns of the week’s publications and podcasts, and exclusive commentary - CatholicFirebrand.comConsider joining my Discord server, The Firebrand Forum This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

“They Live” isn’t really about aliens—it’s about blindness.In this episode, T.J. Haines tears into the eerie accuracy of John Carpenter’s They Live, showing how the film’s “glasses” reveal not aliens, but our willingness to believe lies. From the Church to culture, he shows how people today see what isn’t there—and ignore what’s right in front of them.SOCIALSFollow me on… X | Instagram | TikTok | FacebookStE is also on… 𝕏 | FacebookMy personal newsletter - rundowns, highlights and exclusive content available nowhere else catholicfirebrand.comLINKSThe Quiet Ember, short article on “They Live”🔑 Key Points* They Live reveals the cost of willful blindness — both cultural and spiritual.* The “glasses” represent courage to face truth, not secret knowledge.* The Church’s teachings haven’t changed; perception has.* Discernment is the spiritual discipline that keeps us free.* Truth and charity must walk together — without one, the other collapses.🕰️ Chapter Highlights00:00 — Welcome and announcement of Stoking the Embers05:30 — What They Live teaches about seeing truth09:00 — Modern blindness: comfort over clarity12:30 — Clearing confusion about Church teaching30:00 — How to recognize manipulation and spiritual lies44:00 — Final exhortation: “Put on the glasses” This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

An awareness of God’s will, and a sincere and earnest desire to serve that will, is a gift of infinite value! Follow me on… X | Instagram | TikTok | FacebookStE is also on… 𝕏 | FacebookRead the full article https://stokingtheembers.substack.com/p/how-i-went-from-my-will-to-thy-willI don’t think we usually see it that way, though. Even I didn’t fully understand that until very recently. I said in a post on StE that for most of my life, I couldn’t bring myself to say, ‘What is your will, Lord? Tell me, and I will do it!’ The closest I could get was, ‘What is your will, Lord? Tell me, and I’ll consider it.’For most of my life, I approached God’s will like a bad swimmer afraid of deep water. If invited to swim, I’d first want to test the water and see if it was too cold, too choppy; see if it was too deep, and whether there was anything to grab onto if my swimming failed me and I started to be overcome by the water. I didn’t trust myself (still don’t!), and I didn’t truly trust what God might ask me to do.”That only changed over the past few months.. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

This podcast is accompanied by an article, for those who are here to read, and aren’t interested in podcasts.Description: I respond to Pope Leo XIV’s comments about Cardinal Cupich’s decision to honor Senator Dick Durbin with an award. The Pope urged Catholics to look at Durbin’s “overall record” — a fair point rooted in Catholic moral tradition — but his remarks raised bigger questions about clarity, consistency, and what the faithful need from their shepherds. I explore why the Church’s message can’t afford to blur moral lines, why abortion and immigration are not morally equivalent issues, and what justice and mercy really demand of us as Catholics in today’s world.Article: This was produced from the transcript of the podcast. It’s partially AI-generated, with my own edits. It’s my thoughts, my commentary, my structure, my edits and insertions. Cardinal Blase Cupich planned to give an award to Senator Dick Durbin for his work on immigration. The Senator ultimately declined the award after public outcry and objections from several bishops about honoring a public figure who supports abortion rights. But ahead of that, many Catholics — clergy and laity alike — were outraged, and not without reason. Durbin is openly pro-choice, and the optics of honoring him within a Catholic context are troubling. The Holy Father, when asked about the controversy, responded that we should look at the “overall work” of the senator — his full record of service — rather than focus on one issue.Here’s what the Holy Father said when asked about his thoughts on the issue:“I think that is very important to look at the overall work that a senator has done during forty years of service in the United States Senate. I understand the difficulty… but I think as I myself has spoken to the past, it’s important to look at many issues that are related to what is the teaching of the church. Someone who says I’m against abortion, but says I’m in favor the death penalty is not really pro life; someone who says that I’m against abortion, but I am in agreement with the inhuman treatment of immigrants in the United States, I don’t know if that’s pro-life so they’re very complex issues.”At first, I was disappointed by the Pope’s comments. But before I get to that, I want to be fair. The idea of looking at someone’s total body of work is not wrong, or bad teaching. In fact, it’s consistent with Catholic moral tradition. We are called to see the whole person — not only their sins but also their virtues and good works. That’s how we see each other, and it’s how God sees us. He doesn’t define us solely by our failings but judges us by the totality of who we are. In that sense, the Pope’s comment is sound.Still, there’s a problem. While it’s true that we must take the whole person into account, the faithful are left feeling abandoned when Church leaders speak in ways that blur moral clarity. The Pope could have easily added a single sentence affirming that abortion remains a grave moral evil. He didn’t. That omission left faithful Catholics holding the bag — trying to reconcile compassion with conviction while appearing foolish in the eyes of a world eager to make the Church look inconsistent, or at least “progressive” where faithful Catholics are seen as being stuck in the past.Not All Issues Are EqualThe Holy Father drew a comparison between abortion, the death penalty, and the treatment of immigrants, suggesting that a true pro-life stance must encompass all these areas. That’s true in one sense — the dignity of human life is consistent from womb to tomb. But the issues are not morally equivalent. The Church’s teaching on abortion is absolute: the deliberate taking of innocent life is always a grave sin. Immigration policy, however, involves prudential judgment — moral reasoning about how best to apply principles of justice and charity to complex social realities.No one argues that immigrants should be treated inhumanely. But it is not immoral to enforce immigration law or to expect that citizens should have priority in jobs and benefits funded by their taxes. St. Thomas Aquinas himself recognized that communities have the right to regulate entry and membership for the common good. We find this in the Summa Theologiae, where he discusses the Mosaic law’s rules for admitting foreigners into Israelite society.“The Law excluded the Gentiles from the fellowship of the people, not wholly and for all time, but in certain respects and for a fixed time; both for the safeguarding of the people’s faith and for the preservation of peace. For if foreigners were allowed to mix with that people indiscriminately, there might be danger to the faith, either through the people being seduced by their idolatry, or through the foreigners blaspheming God’s name.”— Summa Theologiae, I–II, q. 105, a. 3, ad 1We can debate how best to apply that teaching, but it is not on the same moral plane as abortion. One is an intrinsic evil; the other is a matter of prudence.Justice and Compassion Must Both Be RealThe narrative that immigrants — legal or illegal — are being treated cruelly in America is not always supported by reality. Many receive medical care, housing, and assistance that struggling citizens can’t access. When I was unemployed I received much less money per-month than immigrants receive in financial benefit. Is that just? Is it justice that a working-class family, barely getting by, sees their taxes fund benefits for people who entered the country illegally? That question deserves attention, too.There are indeed good and decent people who come here seeking a better life, and want to live the American dream. But there are also criminals, drug traffickers, and violent offenders among them. The Church must be compassionate, but compassion does not mean ignoring justice or pretending the situation isn’t complex. It’s one thing to affirm the dignity of every person — quite another to equate that affirmation with an endorsement of open borders or unregulated migration.What the Faithful Need from Their ShepherdsUltimately, what disappointed me most about the Pope’s remarks was not their content, but their absence of pastoral reassurance. Catholics who objected to honoring Senator Durbin were not all being reactionary or irrational. Many of them were acting from a sincere sense of fidelity to the Church’s moral teaching. Their concerns deserved acknowledgment — not quiet dismissal.RELATED: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.stokingembers.comYou won’t need Scooby and the Gang to solve this mystery. I’ve already done it.Free audio version (full episode, one day only) A Paid Subscribers’ Episode, with a 10 minute FREE preview. Looking for the full episode? Free for one day only, in another post - In this new episode I take on a claim that just won’t die: that Vatican II is to blame for the c…

Do aliens exist? Drawing from Scripture, theology, and the wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas, I take on one of the most intriguing questions in our time. I explore why belief in intelligent extraterrestrial life is not only unlikely but also theologically problematic. But this is also a lesson about angels and demons! It’s a necessary component, not random. I talk about the nature of angels and demons, examine UFO sightings with both logic and faith, and explain why what people often call “aliens” may be better understood as demonic manifestations—or even human technology cloaked in secrecy.BONUS: What if these ARE aliens? They’re not. But as a fun thought experiment, I explain why, if these are aliens, humanity should be very afraid! CHAT! There’s a chat thread for this topic. Free and paid members, chime in in the chat, and share your own thoughts and ideas about the existence of aliens.📖 Show NotesKey Topics Covered:* Scripture on Humanity’s Place in Creation: Genesis 1 and Colossians 1 reveal why mankind is God’s highest earthly creation, making other intelligent species unnecessary.* The Redundancy Problem: Why God wouldn’t create another race of “men” with free will and intellect on another planet.* UFO Sightings Examined: Natural phenomena, government technology, or something spiritual? Why most footage fails the logic test.* Theological Issues with Aliens: Would they need a Redeemer? If so, who—and how? Why Christ’s one sacrifice makes alien redemption impossible.* Angels and Demons 101: What Aquinas teaches about angelic nature, free will, infused knowledge, and why demons can manifest physically—with limits.* Demonic Deception: How alleged ghostly encounters and UFO sightings may be tactics to confuse, terrorize, and pull us away from God.* A Thought Experiment: If aliens did exist, could God allow them as punishment for mankind’s global transgressions—similar to Israel’s history in Scripture?TakeawayAliens? No. Angels and demons? Yes. Our faith and reason point to humanity’s unique place in creation—and warn us not to be distracted by phenomena that might, in reality, be spiritual deceptions.CHAPTER* 00:00 Introduction and Tonight's Topic * 00:54 Exploring the Existence of Aliens * 02:58 Scriptural Insights and Human Uniqueness * 08:14 Analyzing UFO Sightings and Theological Implications * 25:49 Debating * 39:04 Understanding Angels and Demons This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.stokingembers.comI open the show with a candid and fiery reflection on the current state of Catholic evangelization online. I express my deep concerns about the growing number of unqualified, under-formed voices who dominate independent Catholic media, and challenge the idea that good intentions and internet access are enough to represent the voice of the Church. Follow…

Imagine that ‘Don’ Vito Corleone, boss of the Corleone crime family, left his life of crime and took his Catholic faith seriously. How would such a man, intent on not only living a holy life, but on fulfilling his duty as a father, convince his sons to follow his lead and return to the Catholic faith? I think it would sound something like this…NOTE: Originally published 7/14/2023, republished 6/26/2025 with VoiceOver The Voiceover included above is my performance as “The God-Father” speaking to his sons. My children, I have something important to tell you. As you all know I have renounced my former life and the Corleone Family, thank God is now completely legitimate. I have met with Fr. Fonte, and the heads of the other five parishes and came to an agreement that, after giving my confession, as part of my penance I would have this conversation with my sons.So here we are.My sons, attending mass is not just a religious duty, but also a way to show respect and loyalty to God. It’s also a way to demonstrate our commitment to tradition and values as a family. So, my dear sons, I strongly encourage you to practice this faith of ours. Without faith, a man is not truly a man. I know that. In this world, it is not always easy to believe. It is surrounded by pain, suffering, and despair. But I urge you to look beyond these things and remember that this is the path that God has put you on. Follow me on: Instagram | TikTok I want to remind you that faith is the only way to find true peace and true happiness. You ask me “Poppa, what if it’s too hard? What should I do?” Well, I would say, you should act like a man! Sniveling is alright for children. But there is no excuse for a man to run away from his duty. No excuse.Santino, you once said to me ‘Pop, pop, the Church has too many problems, priests doing wrong,’ and all of this. But understand that every good family has their villains. Sadly, who knows that better than we do? We’re changing our ways now, thank God, but it’s true that everywhere in life there are weeds that grow with the wheat. Everywhere there are men and even women who bring shame on their families. But that is not a excuse to leave the family! Always remember that, Santino, and all of my sons. Loyalty is never negotiable.So, my sons, take this to heart. Show your respect to the faith of our family heritage and above all respect to God. Every day he’s making you an offer you shouldn’t' refuse. If you trust me, if I have your respect, then honor me by trusting and respecting Him. If you enjoyed this, say so with a comment or tapping “Like” (or both). Subscribe, or upgrade to Paid for an enhanced experience and some extra content. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.stokingembers.comThis is a followup (sort of an after show) to a recent podcast I recorded live on my Instagram. But here I go just a little deeper, as I talk about the importance of going beyond the surface of the Catholic experience, and journeying “into the deep”. The real riches of the faith lie in its depths, not on the surface. Using examples from my own experienc…

The great deceiver; the man of iniquity. What’s should we understand about the Antichrist? In this episode I discuss the characteristics and deceptions of the Antichrist, the trials the Church must endure, and the ultimate battle between good and evil. I talk about some clues and “signs” we’re seeing in the human culture even today, and some hints we’re seeing even in Catholic culture. Could the Antichrist already be among us? Tune in to find out what I think! BELOW: Chat Thread, Chapters timecode, Afterthoughts (Paid only)Follow me on: TikTok | Instagram | PAID SUBSCRIBERS: There’s an “Afterthoughts” section down below, with a writeup of what the Fathers had to say about the Antichrist. Be part of the adventure. Subscribe for free.Chapters* 00:26 Introduction to the Antichrist Discussion* 01:06 Engagement and Audience Interaction* 03:57 Clarifying Misconceptions about the Antichrist* 07:32 The Church's Ultimate Trial* 09:38 The Great War Between Good and Evil* 16:31 The Deception of the Antichrist* 25:21 Recognizing Truth in a World of Lies* 32:09 Engaging with the Audience* 33:20 Instagram Experiment: Will It Work?* 33:59 Understanding Social Media Algorithms* 35:40 The Church Fathers and the Antichrist* 39:10 The Antichrist in Revelation* 41:36 Cultural Shifts and the Antichrist* 45:18 Signs of the Antichrist Today* 49:40 The Church's Resilience and Future* 56:11 Final Thoughts and FarewellThank you, Ellis, The Critic. , Michael Koopman, PricklyPublius, Dear Clary, and many others for tuning into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app.AfterthoughtsPaid Subscribers Only: The Fathers Weigh In on the AntichristThis was moved off of this post and made into its own post. Link below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

The Catholic Church is old—dusty, crusty, and ancient. Why would any rational person base their life on what this 2,000-year-old institution says? That’s a question I’ve heard a lot over the years, but I’m hearing it a lot more lately. It’s often the star of the show in social media comments, and YouTube commentary. No actual arguments, no logical responses, just “The Catholic Church is old, the Bible is ancient. Ignore them”The Catholic Adventurer is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.So why should modern people want to be guided by an ancient institution?Before we roll our eyes at something “so old and dusty“ let’s ask a deeper question: Does being old automatically mean being out of touch—or could it mean having something valuable to say? We don’t usually dismiss a person’s wisdom just because they’ve been around the block a few times. The only time we disregard or even devalue a person’s wisdom is if they have cognitive decline, or because older people tend to be so set in their ways that nothing bring them to reexamine or reconsider what they believe. But those concerns shouldn’t apply to the church. Let’s get into it, talking about why the Church is wise, and why Her wisdom can be trusted and shouldn’t be devalued or disqualified.Don’t trust anyone over 2,000?Our elder relatives are usually loved and respected for their wisdom and anecdotes, as much as for their old-timey tales. But we’re sometimes selective about the pearls of wisdom we accept from them. We distrust their perspective on our modern age, feeling we’re more advanced or more sophisticated today than the world and era that gave them some of that outdated wisdom. Too old. Too grouchy. Too senile. Their timeless wisdom has expired and needs to be renewed. That’s how some people view the Catholic Church: wise maybe, but irrelevant because its wisdom is outdated and flawed. Why should we listen to her?Here’s why!...She’s 2,000 for a reasonYes, the Catholic Church is 2,000 years old. But instead of that being a liability, it’s a treasure. The Church has lived through it all—every war, every plague, every empire, every cultural revolution, every uprising and every cultural collapse. The Church has seen everything, and has responded to every cultural shift or calamity it has lived through, in the form of encyclicals, papal bulls, doctrine, sacred tradition, and teaching. While there’s no “Mr. Catholic Church”—an actual 2000 year old man holding all of this knowledge and perspective in his head—the Church, as the Mystical Body of Christ, is like a Mr. Catholic Church whose knowledge and wisdom hasn’t faded or died, but is ever-fresh and new and passed on in an unbroken line of succession. The Church transcends every time in which she finds herself. She’s always “been there, done that”. So we’re not talking about a doddering old man muttering in a rocking chair. We’re talking about the collective, time-tested wisdom of the Body of Christ passed down faithfully over millennia.“But she never changes!”That’s a common critique—and a fair one if you’re talking about someone who refuses to grow. But with the Catholic Church, it’s not about refusing to grow—it’s about upholding the truth, which doesn’t change. Here’s the heart of it: truth doesn’t change. Not after one year, not after 2,000 years, not after 5 billion years. Once truth is revealed—doctrinal or moral truth—that truth is fixed. Not because “we say so” but because reality says so. Truth is reality, and reality is set in stone, even if we come disjointed from it. Taking a stand on the Truth is not the same as refusing to change, it’s refusing to play make-believe. It’s refusing to say that evil is good, and that virtue is actually vicious.But the Church does revisit those unchanging truths to understand how they apply to new, complex situations: gender identity crises, biotech ethics, digital addiction, AI, broken family structures. The Church brings 2,000 years of wisdom into conversation with modern challenges. She doesn’t rewrite truth. She discerns its application with care, depth, and prayer.Wisdom that grows deeper, not outdatedSo yes, the Catholic Church is old. Yes, she’s rooted in ancient Scripture and sacred tradition. And yes, she refuses to compromise on Truth, and upholds the eternal truths entrusted to her. But she’s not asleep. She’s always reflecting, always revisiting those truths to shepherd her children through new terrain. The Church is a worthy teacher—steady, tested, alive, and guided by the Holy Spirit.So maybe the dusty Catholic Church deserves a little more credit. The Church is a steady and reliable refuge and guide. She may be 2,000, but she’s still the absolutely reliable voice of truth and sanity you’ll find in this world.Listen to Holy Mother Church.God bless you, and God be with you.The Catholic Adventurer is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

This is both dated, and current. It's from a Substack Live session I hosted back in April, but I never got around to making it available on-demand. In this episode I discuss the theology behind Heaven, Hell, and the Catholic teachings regarding who goes where based on an essay I published in April, titled "Heaven, Hell, and My Prescription for What We Should Be Focused on" here on Substack.We'll explore the concepts of mercy, justice, and the importance of staying true to Church teachings. I'll share personal anecdotes, and outline the essentials for salvation—baptism and belief in Jesus Christ. I also tackle complex questions surrounding unbaptized souls, the impact of good works, and the nuanced theology that makes Catholicism both rich and challenging. Are nice people guaranteed a place in Heaven? Let's find out!If you're not a member of my Substack, you're missing a lot of good stuff! It's free, so come along. All you need to do is drop your email address in the box when prompted.Chapters:* 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview* 00:19 Discussion on Heaven, Hell, and Catholic Teachings* 03:23 The Importance of Baptism and Good Works* 07:07 Why Good Works?* 08:44 So Who Goes to Hell?* 09:36 Baptism by Desire , and Limbo* 12:34 Why Sacraments are Necessary* 14:10 The Complexity of the Theology* 14:10 The Salvation of Those We Care About* 16:48 Who Goes to Heaven?* 24:24 Living a Life of True Belief* 26:07 Excercises This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

Voiceover/Reading of my article, "Are You Judas, Peter, or John" on my Substack During the mass readings for Palm Sunday, I was overwhelmed by thoughts and ideas that came to my mind as we read the Passion narrative in the Gospel.I usually don’t like this Gospel reading in the mass very much because I always feel awkward reciting the parts spoken by the crowd. I don’t like saying things like “Crucify him!” or “He deserves to die.” But the truth is we always say those things with our actions every time we choose to sin. And it further demands a reflection on this question: In a life that reflects the Gospel narratives today, are we Judas, Saint Peter, or Saint John the Evangelist? How are they different, and why does it matter?Threes CompanyJohn had pure and innocent faith. He was the only Apostle who followed Jesus to his crucifixion. But he, with the other Apostles, also ran away at Gethsemane when Jesus was arrested. Do we do the same in our lives? Do we run away, or turn our back on Jesus?Peter often comes off like a bumbling idiot in the Gospels. His faith is strong but imperfect and sometimes faulty. At times he resists Jesus’ direction. One example: When Jesus told Peter that he would have to go to Jerusalem to suffer and die, Peter responded by saying he won’t allow it. But Peter’s ultimate flub was his three denials of Christ.Then we come to Judas Iscariot. That’s where I’ll focus in this article., especially in contrast to Peter.DON”T MISS the Chat thread link at the end of this articleApostolic DisharmonyJudas - We all know Judas as the betrayer. But St. Peter denied Jesus three times. Isn’t that also a betrayal? I’d say it is, of sorts. But then why does Jesus say of his betrayer, “It’d be better for him had he never been born,” but makes Peter the rock on which Jesus will build His Church? The short answer is that Judas made a choice to pursue his evil, while Peter merely made a mistake. The former was corrupt, while the latter was merely imperfect.“One of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, ‘What are you willing to give me if I had him over to you?’”Judas did not come face to face with temptation as Peter did. Judas pursued his evil ambition. He “went to the chief priests .” They apparently did not go to him first. He was also very specific about what he was willing to do, “…if I hand him over to you”. He doesn’t offer to spy or to provide inside information; he doesn’t offer to manipulate the other Apostles away from Jesus. He very specifically offers to hand Jesus over to them. It’s not a minor betrayal but an absolute one.Peter - On the other hand, Peter does not pursue an opportunity to betray Jesus. He also doesn’t betray Jesus for any material gain. It’s also telling that Peter did not go into hiding after Jesus’ arrest but was, up to now, “following Jesus at a distance.”“Those who had arrested Jesus led him away to Caiaphas, the High priest…Peter was following him at a distance…” and “Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard…”.Peter is not close, but he is nearby. He is following, but he isn’t keeping up. So we see here a strong but imperfect discipleship. Sound like something familiar to your own life?When some people recognize Peter as one of the Apostles of Jesus, Peter denies it, ultimately saying, “I do not know the man .” It’s a pretty strong denial, especially considering that earlier in the Gospel, it was Peter who said to Jesus, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” and now he is referring to him as merely a man. He knew him truly when no one else did yet—as the Christ, and as the Son of God. Now he denies him totally.But in the end, we must acknowledge that Peter faltered while Judas chose. Peter tripped along the right path, but Judas walked steadily on the wrong one. And now it comes time to ask ourselves the hard questionAre You Judas?We have to ask ourselves a very uncomfortable question at this point; a question that’s as uncomfortable as shouting “Crucify him!” in the middle of mass. That question is, “Am I Judas, or am I Peter?” Do you freely choose your sins, or do you merely make mistakes out of human weakness? Are you an intentional betrayer or an accidental one? Do you pursue occasions for sin, or are those occasions introduced to you, putting you to the test? Do you pass the test?We all sin. We all need mercy. We all need God’s grace in order to change our lives. But sometimes we can be too hard on ourselves. We see ourselves as Judas when we may just be “Peter”; perhaps even John, whose fleeing from Gethsemane was the least of the “betrayals”. On the other hand, some of us see ourselves as John or Peter when an honest examination of our consciences may reveal that we are sometimes more like Judas.Whoever the Apostle you reflect, always return to Jesus. This is Holy Week, and it’s the perfect time to reboot, refresh, restore, and start again. Go to confession. Then, after you say your penance, sit there and spend some time in silence in front of the Eucharistic Lord. Be with him. And let him be with you. Finally, be most like Saint John by taking Mary as your mother. She will lead you to holiness because she is the quickest path to Her son.The Catholic Adventurer is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

Today remember that the people will exultantly shout, "Hosanna, hosanna!" and line the path of Jesus to throw palms on the ground before him.On Good Friday, they'll shout, "Crucify him, crucify him!" and line up along the path to Golgotha to spit on him.What changes a heart from "Hosanna!" to "Crucify him!"? Why do we hear of only women weeping for Our Lord, Veronica wanting to tend to him, and only one man, Simon, begrudgingly showing compassion and sympathy? “We want "the Church" or "the Faith" of our desires…”Maybe those Sunday "Hosannas" weren't sincere. Maybe Jesus wasn't the type of messiah that they wanted, so they threw him away by Friday. We still do that today. We want "the Church" or "the Faith" of our desires and throw it away or fabricate a new one when the real thing is not our hearts' desire, or not what we expect. Some of us herald the idea of “Catholic” but then scourge and crucify the Mystical Body.Maybe the weeping women and Veronica saw something most of the other people weren't seeing. Pride has a blinding effect, while humility opens the eyes of the heart and leads to compassion and obedience. We see that opening of the eyes in Simon. Maybe Simon, the guilty sinner, realized he was not an innocent man carrying the cross of a criminal, but that he himself was the criminal, and Jesus, indeed the innocent man. The entire story between the Palms of Sunday and the passion of the following Friday demonstrates the dark condition of man and how much we all need Jesus in order to be transformed into his image. The image of his face was left on the veil of Veronica, and maybe the image of his heart was left on the heart of Simon. What is the image impressed upon the hearts of those who spat on him and cheered during his torture and execution? I leave that for you to consider. But remember that Jesus said, "Forgive them, for they don't know what they're doing."The Catholic Adventurer is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.stokingembers.comFor paid subscribers; free/audio version will be published tomorrow. I share my personal struggles with the idea of abandoning everything to God Drawing on Father Jacques Philippe's book 'Finding and Maintaining Peace,' I reflect on a common fear that surrendering everything to God might lead to losing everything we value in our lives, and I explain why…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.stokingembers.comFreedom is one of those words that have been redefined by secular culture over a long period. True Freedom: Understanding the Liberty to Live According to Our Nature.St. Thomas Aquinas teaught that freedom is the capacity to act in accordance with reason and will, and to choose what is good. He believed that true freedom is found in the pursuit of the g…

In this episode, we discuss 'Credo vs. Fide,' or belief from knowledge versus faith—confidence of the heart—and how only one makes a saint. Many Catholics recite the creed without understanding its deep meanings, leading to a deficiency in true faith—fide. To bridge this gap, I offer ways to build good credo and fide, emphasizing the importance of genuine, heartfelt belief. Additionally, explore my Saint Foundry initiative, a platform designed to foster knowledge and community among believers, available for free at the my website: Join the Saint FoundryAfter-ShowHere’s the “story” I mentioned wanting to share with you, but only for members of the Saint Foundry. It’s free, so you might as well give it a look.CHAPTERS* 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview* 01:36 Understanding Credo vs. Fide* 05:08 The Problem with Modern Catholic Faith* 20:14 Personal Growth and Avoiding Stagnation* 23:24 Reflecting on Personal Growth* 24:37 Introducing the Saint Foundry* 27:18 Building a Healthy Prayer Life* 33:14 Holy Spirit vs. Holy Ghost This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

Advent: More Than Letting Jesus’ Light In – Prepare for the End Times!In this video, we dive into the true meaning of Advent, a season of anticipation not just for Christmas but for the second coming of Jesus. Contrary to popular belief, Advent isn't just about letting the light of Jesus into our hearts – it's about commemorating His first coming and preparing for His return. Learn how to prepare for Jesus' second coming with joy, live the Gospel fully, and face the final judgment without fear. 00:00 Introduction to Advent00:12 Misconceptions About Advent00:22 True Meaning of Advent01:03 Preparing for the Second Coming01:17 Joyful Anticipation and Self-Reflection02:00 Daily Preparation and Living the Gospel03:06 Final Thoughts and Podcast Promotion This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe

Spiritual maturity and immaturity are real conditions. I fear many in the Church are trapped in spiritual immaturity, and may sadly  even be content with it. I hope to encourage listeners to be better than that. Starting things off with an article on NC Register about British Catholics fearing the rumored cancelation of the Traditional Latin Mass, I get into the theme of spiritual maturity contrasted with spiritual immaturity from a scriptural and historical Catholic perspective. The discussion begins with an analysis of the culture surrounding the Traditional Latin Mass, critiquing the subculture without opposing the TLM Mass itself. The episode also explores the difference between 'milk' and 'solid food' in Catholic teachings, using examples such as simplified teachings from Fulton Sheen and the contrast between the Traditional Latin Mass and Novus Ordo Mass. The evolving teachings on the death penalty are highlighted as an instance of the Church's complex and layered guidance. Article Read in this episode:"Agatha Christie Letter 2.0: The Traditional Latin Mass as a Cultural, as Well as Liturgical, Treasure" Bio Link (All things "Catholic Adventurer")Podcast Updates Bulletin (Emailed once a week)Newsletter Sign-upSend a Tip, Support the Mission This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stokingembers.com/subscribe