With the Feast of Saint John the Baptist just days away (June 24), Fr. Fabian and Fr. Bruce Riebe unpack the profound legacy of the Forerunner — his fasting, prayer, poverty, humility, and total obedience to God's call. The hosts connect John's ascetical witness to the ongoing Peter and Paul Fast observed in the Byzantine Catholic Church, making the case that fasting is not an ancient relic but a living spiritual practice for today.

The conversation turns to Saint Cyril of Alexandria (feast day June 27), whose defense of Christ's unified person at the Council of Ephesus (431 AD) made possible the honorific title Theotokos — Birthgiver of God — for the Blessed Virgin Mary. Fr. Fabian and Fr. Bruce trace how that council shaped Eastern Rite traditions, from Byzantine to Coptic to Syriac, and how those traditions came to the United States.

The Sunday Gospel (Matthew 10:37–42) anchors it all: whoever does not take up his cross and follow Christ is not worthy of him. The hosts call listeners to be willing cross-bearers — inspired by John the Baptist, confirmed by the sacrifice of Christ, and sustained by the Holy Spirit.

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Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows:

• Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce Riebe
• Be Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian Moncada
• Catholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie Nelson
• Making It Personal with Bishop William Joensen
• Man Up! with Joe Stopulos
• Sunday Dive with Katie Patrizio
• The Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo Bonner
• The Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick Smith
• The Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud Marr
• Faith and Family Finance with Gregory Waddle

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