A Catholic Life (audio)

18 relics will be laid in the main altar and chapel altar of Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral. These sacred relics of those who have gone before us in faith, are a unifying reminder of the universality of our faith and the Communion of Saints. Msgr. David Brockman joins Billy Atwell for a discussion of what relics are, how they are used in the Church, and whose relics will be in Raleigh's new cathedral.

Dr. Patrick O’Connell recently left a traditional medical practice to start Sentinel Primary Care, a practice that bucks the current trend of higher cost, less time with your doctor, and zero-to-little guidance on the moral implication of certain medical options. A devout Catholic and North Carolina native, Dr. O’Connell took a leap of faith by starting a medical practice that fits perfectly with his Catholic faith. It hasn’t been without its challenges, but listen/watch to hear his story of how he came to see medicine as a vocation.

Bishop Emery Kibal, C.P. from the Diocese of Kole in the Democratic Republic of Congo stops by the studio to talk with NC Catholics magazine about his call to be one of the youngest bishops in the world.  He also speaks about the challenges in his diocese and his hopes for the people there.

in this week’s news, Cardinal Dolan and Archbishop Lori support the Conscience Protection Act of 2017, the diocese works to shed light on the issue of human trafficking and the Pope speaks about migrants.  Also up, a Baltimore nun and priest known for his singing voice, two African Americans with causes for sainthood.

Today’s culture often questions whether marriage is still a relevant institution. Many doubt that marriage has any positive impact on society. While divorce rates are high and a growing number of children are raised without both parents in the home, the Catholic Church remains steadfast in its support of families and upholding the critical, sacred role of marriage. Monica Martinez, the new senior director of married life for the Diocese of Raleigh, shares her thoughts on why the permanent union of one man and one woman is just what the word needs. She also describes how her own upbringing has inflamed her desire to help married couples.

Host Billy Atwell speaks with singer, songwriter, and worship-leader Ben Walther on the way music can embolden and give lift to someone’s faith. He shares his experiences traveling the country leading groups of people in prayer and worship all the while living up to his responsibilities as a husband and father of 6 children. Music has an ability to take a complex or challenging idea and unlock it in the heart of the person who listens to it. For those looking to explore the intersection of faith and music, this interview is for you.

Host Billy Atwell speaks with local artist, Gerry Siver who has completed two impressive pieces of art inside the Diocese of Raleigh.  One is of a replica of a painting of St. Thomas More for St. Thomas More Academy in Raleigh. The other, an original portrait of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati for St. Catherine of Siena Church in Wake Forest.  He talks about his Renaissance style of painting and the inspiration for his latest works.

Challenges and problems are part of everyday life. Do you approach them from a stressful standpoint? Maureen O’Connell, a licensed professional counselor, shares how the practice of mindfulness can create peace, especially during Advent.

Bishop Burbidge takes a look back and talks about his new assignment.

Deaon Mike Vandiver has dedicated much of his life to serving the Catholic Church and finding ways to offer his efforts in service of those who have been abandoned. Bishop Burbidge recently asked Deacon Vandiver to take charge of the diocesan prison ministry with the goal of expanding outreach and the Sacraments to as many prisons as possible. Deacon Vandiver sat down for an interview about some of the common issues faced by prisoners, how the Church calls us to balance forgiveness with justice, and what he needs to spread the Gospel to those society has largely forgotten.