A Catholic Response to the Living Times

Bring in the Clowns: Breakdown of the Clown’s Cabinet or Break-down of American Democracy?

In this episode we’ll discuss and quality Donald Trump’s nominees to his executive branch cabinet.

Included is a review of the nominee vetting process.

So, grab your popcorn and prepare for the greatest show on earth!

• ​First Sunday of Advent
• ​December 1, 2024
• ​Gospel reading, Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 with homily.

• Intro song: Guiding Light of Advent
• Outro song: Preparing the Way

Black Friday, Corporate Power, and the Federal Reserve: Economics, Inequality, and the Future of America*

As Black Friday approaches, we take a deep dive into its historical, financial, and political implications. Originally a term coined in the 1950s to describe chaotic post-Thanksgiving traffic in Philadelphia, Black Friday has since evolved into the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season—and a key event shaping the broader economy. From consumerism to corporate profits, labor issues to political debates, Black Friday is more than just discounts; it's a barometer for economic health, consumer confidence, and the growing divide between corporate America and the working class.

In this episode, we explore how Black Friday influences retail sales, worker conditions, and even the policies that shape our economy. While corporations like Amazon, Apple, and McDonald's rake in billions, workers continue to face stagnant wages and rising costs of living. We delve into the widening pay gap between C E Os and their employees, with S and P 500 C E Os seeing pay hikes of 13% in 2023, while the average worker saw just a 4% increase. We discuss how these disparities fuel debates about "greedflation" and economic inequality, and what can be done to close the gap.

Additionally, we examine the role of the Federal Reserve, an institution at the intersection of politics and economics. While it’s largely independent, the Fed faces constant political pressures, especially from figures like former President Donald Trump. We discuss whether the Fed can remain untouchable through 2026 and explore the delicate balance Chairman Jerome Powell must maintain between economic stability and political influence.

And what would the Christ say about all this.

Join us for a timely exploration of Black Friday’s cultural and economic impact, its connection to corporate power and worker rights, and how it all ties into the ongoing debate over economic fairness in America. From tax cuts to inflationary pressures, we connect the dots between past policies, current trends, and what the future may hold for both consumers and workers in a rapidly changing economy. And we include a Christian perspective.

Intro: Chasing Shadows

Outro: Chasing Empty Dreams

Fascism Unpacked: Beyond the Buzzword

In this episode of Fascism Unpacked, we dive deep into the meaning of fascism and explore its historical roots. What does it really mean to be a fascist, and how can we identify fascist governments and movements today? We also examine the controversies surrounding the term, including the mislabeling of certain political groups as "fascist" and the reasons behind this confusion.

And we ask, is former President Donald Trump a fascist, and does he use the term appropriately in his rhetoric? We break down the accusations and the context. Finally, we explore a provocative question: How would Jesus have viewed the term "fascism"? Tune in for a thoughtful and nuanced discussion about one of the most charged political labels of our time.

Intro song: Voices of Change

Outro song: United We Stand

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.

November 24, 2024. Gospel

Jn 18:33b-37

Song: Two versions “A Psalm of Truth and Kingship”

"Criminal or Good Ole Boy?

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the legal storm surrounding former, and now president-elect Donald Trump, exploring the many allegations and charges that have followed him since leaving office. From the 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records in the Manhattan criminal case, to the mishandling of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago, and the chaos of the Capitol riots, we examine the question: Is Trump a criminal or just a misunderstood "good ole boy" with a string of unfortunate legal battles? With additional lawsuits, sexual misconduct allegations, and ongoing investigations into financial fraud and tax evasion, this episode asks whether Trump is truly guilty or simply caught up in a series of politically motivated attacks. And, to add another layer, what would Jesus say about all of this? Tune in for an engaging, in-depth discussion.

Intro song: In Search of Forgiveness

Outro song: Seeking Compassion

In the upheaval of the geopolitical nature of modern times people loosely toss about there ideas of who is the Antichrist, the Messiah, the Satan, a prophet or false-prophet. But do we know, both biblically and theologically, how to define these terms and apply them today?

In this episode we do just that. Whether politicly you lean left or right what you learn may shock you.

Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time.

November 17th, 2024

With Father Chris.

The Gospel according to Mark 13:24-32.

The Rising Tide of Authoritarianism: Why Christians Must Speak Out Against Trump and His Influence on Democracy

In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the question: *Does authoritarianism exist in the United States?* Beginning with a clear definition of authoritarianism—governance marked by centralized power and limited individual freedoms—the discussion examines how authoritarian tendencies have surfaced in recent U.S. politics. From the rise of populist leaders to the erosion of democratic norms, we explore how figures like Donald Trump, Ted Cruz, and others have embodied or supported authoritarian rhetoric. The episode also asks a challenging question: *Would Jesus approve of these authoritarian trends?* Drawing on biblical teachings about power, justice, and compassion, we reflect on how Christian values might call us to respond to political movements that prioritize control over the common good. A deep dive into the intersection of faith, politics, and morality, this episode challenges listeners to consider how they can uphold democratic principles in the face of growing authoritarian influence.

How would Saint Paul see the world

today? What would he say? To whom would he say it?

A commentary from Father Chris.

Opening (intro) song: Love was His Religion

Ending (outro) song: Time to get real with Jesus