A Catholic Life Podcast: Episode 79

In today’s episode, on the 13th Sunday after Pentecost, I address the following:

1. A Reflection on the 13th Sunday after Pentecost
2. Within the Octave of the Assumption
3. The Octave Day of St. Lawrence
4. What’s Wrong with Martin Luther?
5. Running Towards a World Without Cancer: Support My NYC Marathon Journey

I would like to thank CatechismClass.com for sponsoring this episode.  CatechismClass.com, the leader in online Catholic catechism classes, has everything from online K-12 programs, RCIA classes, adult continuing education, marriage preparation, baptism preparation, confirmation prep, quince prep classes, catechist training courses, and much more. It is never too late to study the fullness of the Catholic Faith, and CatechismClass.com is the gold standard for authentic Catholic online formation. During the Season after Pentecost, we celebrate many incredible days, such as the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, Ss. Peter and Paul, the Assumption, and so much more. Save 25% with discount code Pentecost25 on their special course.   

Subscribe to the podcast on Buzzsprout, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, I-tunes, and many other platforms!

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A Catholic Life Podcast: Episode 78

In today’s episode, on the 12th Sunday after Pentecost, I address the following: 

1. A Reflection on the 12th Sunday after Pentecost
2. What Are the Precepts of the Church
3. A History of the Precepts of the Church

This episode is sponsored by PrayLatin.com. PrayLatin.com offers Latin prayer cards to learn and share prayers in the sacred language. Learn your basic prayers in Latin conveniently on the go. Practice your pronunciation with easy-to-follow English phonetic renderings of Latin words. PrayLatin.com offers prayer cards in various formats, including Latin-English rosary pamphlets with the traditional 15 mysteries. Shop for additional Latin resources like missal booklets, server response cards, and more. Visit PrayLatin.com today.

Subscribe to the podcast on Buzzsprout, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, I-tunes, and many other platforms!

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Running Towards a World Without Cancer: Support My NYC Marathon Journey

I'm happy to announce that I will be running the NYC Marathon this November for a great charity! Please help me raise the funds for cancer victims and their families. I'm participating in the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon as a member of Team Imerman Angels, and I'm excited to make a difference in the lives of those impacted by cancer.

This will be my 4th major marathon as I draw closer to my life goal of completing all 6!

Imerman Angels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide comfort and understanding for all cancer fighters, survivors, previvors, and caregivers through a personalized one-on-one connection with someone who has been there. Imerman Angels envisions a world where cancer is not a solitary experience.

Through its unique matching process, Imerman Angels partners individuals seeking cancer support with a "Mentor Angel" who provides psychosocial support and support to anyone facing cancer.

If you have enjoyed this blog, please help me raise the funds for Imerman Angels so I can run for their charity. My plan is to offer up the entire marathon for cancer victims. With God's help I hope to get to the finish line for them. With your help, I can get to the starting line.

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Champions of Life: Pro-life Saints

The pro-life movement is dedicated to advancing the protection of all human life from conception to natural death. Abortion and euthanasia, which sentence a life to death, are of the utmost importance, yet we also work for the end of human suffering, poverty, and illness. We understand that suffering when offered up for the glory of God and the good of souls, bears eternal merit. Abortion, the most heinous of all crimes against human life, robs a soul of life on earth and of eternal life by depriving the infant of the Sacrament of Baptism.

We are not alone in our work to end abortion, end euthanasia, alleviate poverty, clothe the homeless, protect migrants, or care for the sick and elderly. The lives of St. Gianna Molla, St. Maria Goretti, St. Jeanne Jugan, St. Damien of Molokai, and others provide us with examples to imitate. And more than that, they serve as powerful intercessors for us before the throne of God, who they see now in Heaven. May we learn from their examples and lives and also fight for the right to life here on earth by defending the natural law.

All CatechismClass Lessons follow a time-tested 7-step format: Introduction, Opening Prayers, Scripture and Commentary, Catechism Passages, Integration of the Lesson Topic, an activity, and a closing prayer. Quizzes end each of the lessons.

Join us in this prayerful course with powerful, real-world examples we can take to help save souls.

The elections this November will be essential to furthering the pro-life message! We really need to make sure we vote for those candidates who agree with the Church's teachings on the five non-negotiables, which are always wrong (abortion, embryonic stem cell research, gay marriage, euthanasia, and cloning). The Church never supports a candidate, but it supports views on issues.

So, please, above all, vote for the candidates that are pro-life. Pro-life, of course, also means being anti-poverty and caring for the less fortunate in society, but opposition to abortion must be our #1 concern. The Church teaches that it is a mortal sin to vote for a politician who supports abortion if there is a candidate running who is against abortion.

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A Catholic Life Podcast: Episode 77

In today’s episode, on the 11th Sunday after Pentecost, I address the following:

1. A Reflection on the 11th Sunday after Pentecost and the Sacramental Life
2. The Feast of St. Dominic
3. The History, Customs, and Importance of the Feast of the Transfiguration

I would like to thank CatechismClass.com for sponsoring this episode.  CatechismClass.com, the leader in online Catholic catechism classes, has everything from online K-12 programs, RCIA classes, adult continuing education, marriage preparation, baptism preparation, confirmation prep, quince prep classes, catechist training courses, and much more. It is never too late to study the fullness of the Catholic Faith, and CatechismClass.com is the gold standard for authentic Catholic online formation. During the Season after Pentecost, we celebrate many incredible days, such as the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, Ss. Peter and Paul, the Assumption, and so much more. Save 25% with discount code Pentecost25 on their special course.   

Subscribe to the podcast on Buzzsprout, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, I-tunes, and many other platforms!

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Inspiring Faith and Love: A Journey Through Chad Judice’s Trilogy

In a world where stories of faith and resilience shine a light on the human spirit, Chad Judice’s trilogy stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. His three books—Waiting for Eli: A Father's Journey from Fear to Faith, Eli's Reach, and Growing With Eli: Our Journey Into Life and Light—offer readers a profound and heartfelt exploration of the trials and triumphs faced by his family. Each book not only narrates the life of their son, Eli, born with spina bifida, but also delves into the depths of faith, love, and the power of community.

I have had the privilege of getting to know Chad personally over the past year, and I'm happy to endorse these books.

Book 1: Waiting for Eli: A Father's Journey from Fear to Faith

Waiting For Eli: A Father's Journey from Fear to Faith is the compelling introduction to Chad and Ashley Judice's journey with their son Eli. From the moment they learn of Eli’s diagnosis with spina bifida, readers are taken on an emotional roller coaster that showcases the power of faith and prayer. This book beautifully illustrates how the Judice family transforms fear into faith, embracing their pro-life and pro-love beliefs. Chad’s vivid descriptions of the small miracles they experience along the way add depth to this touching narrative. For anyone seeking an inspiring story of hope and the profound impact of unwavering faith, this book is a must-read.

Book 2: Eli's Reach

In Eli's Reach, the sequel to Waiting for Eli, Chad Judice continues to share the miraculous influence of Eli’s life. This book expands on the heartwarming and inspirational tale, highlighting how Eli’s story has not only deepened the appreciation for the value of life but has also actively saved unborn babies from abortion. Through Chad’s numerous speaking engagements, the message of faith, hope, and the sanctity of life reaches a wider audience, rekindling faith and encouraging earnest prayer among many. Eli's Reach is a testament to the far-reaching impact one life can have on countless others.

Book 3: Growing With Eli: Our Journey Into Life and Light

The final installment in the trilogy, Growing With Eli: Our Journey Into Life and Light, brings readers up to date with Eli’s life as a healthy, happy nine-year-old. This book tracks Eli’s development and chronicles Chad Judice’s own spiritual growth. Through his deepening Catholic faith, reliance on the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and commitment to Natural Family Planning, Chad’s journey is one of enlightenment and unshakable trust in the Lord. Growing With Eli offers a dual narrative of a father and son growing together in faith and light, making it a truly inspirational read for those seeking deeper spiritual understanding.

Conclusion

Chad Judice’s trilogy is more than a collection of books; it’s a heartfelt journey that resonates with anyone who values faith, love, and the power of community. Each book builds upon the last, creating a tapestry of experiences that inspire and uplift. Whether you are looking to strengthen your faith, find hope in challenging times, or simply enjoy a moving story of a family's love and resilience, these books are a testament to the enduring human spirit. Dive into Chad Judice’s works and be prepared to be moved, inspired, and profoundly touched by Eli’s story.

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A Catholic Life Podcast: Episode 76

In today’s episode, on the 10th Sunday after Pentecost, I address the following: 

1. A Reflection on the 10th Sunday after Pentecost and the Need for Humility
2. The Upcoming Assumption Fast: How and Why to Observe it 

This episode is sponsored by PrayLatin.com. PrayLatin.com offers Latin prayer cards to learn and share prayers in the sacred language. Learn your basic prayers in Latin conveniently on the go. Practice your pronunciation with easy-to-follow English phonetic renderings of Latin words. PrayLatin.com offers prayer cards in various formats, including Latin-English rosary pamphlets with the traditional 15 mysteries. Shop for additional Latin resources like missal booklets, server response cards, and more. Visit PrayLatin.com today.

Subscribe to the podcast on Buzzsprout, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, I-tunes, and many other platforms!

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A Catholic Life Podcast: Episode 75

In today’s episode, on the 9th Sunday after Pentecost, I address the following:

1. The Traditional Vigils and Feasts of the Apostles
2. The Vigil of St. James, the Slayer of the Moors
3. The Life of St. James and the Camino Pilgrimage

I would like to thank CatechismClass.com for sponsoring this episode.  CatechismClass.com, the leader in online Catholic catechism classes, has everything from online K-12 programs, RCIA classes, adult continuing education, marriage preparation, baptism preparation, confirmation prep, quince prep classes, catechist training courses, and much more. It is never too late to study the fullness of the Catholic Faith, and CatechismClass.com is the gold standard for authentic Catholic online formation. During the Season after Pentecost, we celebrate many incredible days, such as the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, Ss. Peter and Paul, the Assumption, and so much more. Save 25% with discount code Pentecost25 on their special course.   

Subscribe to the podcast on Buzzsprout, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, I-tunes, and many other platforms!

Read more >>

A Catholic Life Podcast: Episode 74

In today’s episode, on the 8th Sunday after Pentecost, I address the following: 

1. The History, Requirements, Promises, and Miracles of the Brown Scapular

This episode is sponsored by PrayLatin.com. PrayLatin.com offers Latin prayer cards to learn and share prayers in the sacred language. Learn your basic prayers in Latin conveniently on the go. Practice your pronunciation with easy-to-follow English phonetic renderings of Latin words. PrayLatin.com offers prayer cards in various formats, including Latin-English rosary pamphlets with the traditional 15 mysteries. Shop for additional Latin resources like missal booklets, server response cards, and more. Visit PrayLatin.com today.

Subscribe to the podcast on Buzzsprout, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, I-tunes, and many other platforms!

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17th Anniversary of Summorum Pontificum

Today, the Church observes the 17th anniversary of the publishing of Summorum Pontificum, the long-awaited motu proprio of Pope Benedict XVI replacing all former "indults" and declaring that the Tridentine Latin Mass was never abrogated and all priests had the right to offer this Mass at any time, in public or private, without any "permission" from a bishop. Despite the errors of Traditionis Custodes, the truth expressed in Summorum Ponitificum remains: the Rite of Mass that was celebrated for centuries leading up to the 2nd Vatican Council – was never abrogated and never can be.

Called the Mass of the Ages, the Most Beautiful Thing This Side of Heaven, the Mass of John XXIII, the Tridentine Latin Mass, and most recently, the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite, this Mass truly is one of the most beautiful forms of worship for the Catholic Church. Below are links concerning the Tridentine Mass. On July 7, 2007, the motu proprio by Pope Benedict XVI, Summorum Pontificum, was issued, allowing wider usage of the Sacraments according to the 1962 Missal.

Quoting from the text, pay particular attention to the following line: "It is, therefore, permissible to celebrate the Sacrifice of the Mass following the typical edition of the Roman Missal promulgated by John XXIII in 1962 and never abrogated, as an extraordinary form of the Liturgy of the Church."

The Traditional Latin Mass Is More Than Just “Mass in Latin”

It is all too common that Catholics unfamiliar with the Church’s Traditions may think that the Traditional Latin Mass is simply the same as the standard Novus Ordo Mass, albeit said in Latin and with the priest having his “back to the people." It is, after all, simply called the “Latin Mass” by many traditionalists. Yet even attendance at one Traditional Latin Mass (frequently referred to as the Tridentine Mass) shows this is not the case.

Indeed, the Tridentine Mass does have different externals – whether it be more ornate vestments, a more beautiful altar and associated decorations in the church, more beautiful and timeless chant, and other such externals. But the externals are not what separates the Tridentine Mass from the Novus Ordo. The battle for the restoration of the Tridentine Mass and the suppression of the Novus Ordo is not about externals – it is about restoring to God the worship He is due. And this is seen chiefly in the prayers and rubrics of the Mass itself which were radically changed in the 1960s. The single greatest source of these rubrics in the English language is The Celebration of Mass: A Study of the Rubrics of the Roman Missal,  which is available for purchase online.  

As a result, the movement to restore Tradition is not chiefly about the change in externals. There are Novus Ordo Masses said in Latin, in an ad orientem position, and with beautiful Gregorian chant, all offered in ornate parishes. Even if these are a rare exception to the norm, they are still vastly different from the Tridentine Mass due to the very prayers at the heart of the Mass. To understand why, an examination of the various prayers exorcised from the Tridentine Mass is in order. For a list of these changes, click here.

The Fight for the Tridentine Mass is a Fight for the Theology of the True Faith

Consequently, the fight for the Tridentine Mass is about far more than just the sacred language of Latin. We may refer to the Tridentine Mass as “the Latin Mass,” but when we do so, we are not fighting principally for the use of Latin or for the return of the externals which accompanied the Tridentine Mass. Yes, these externals are important and are worth fighting for, but what we fight for most is for the worthy worship of God, which is attacked by the watered-down prayers, replaced readings, and omitted prayers in the Novus Ordo. Even a Novus Ordo Mass said with external pomp and circumstance lacks these internals. It is, after all, more than just the “Latin” Mass. It is the Mass of the Ages, the Mass of the Saints, and the Most Beautiful Thing This Side of Heaven that we seek to have restored to every altar in the entire world. 

Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre famously said, "The Novus Ordo Missae, even when said with piety and respect for the liturgical rules, is impregnated with the spirit of Protestantism...it bears within it a poison harmful to the Faith." He was right, and the rotten fruits of fifty years show us this.

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