Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life.

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Most Catholics are doing all the right things—attending Mass, going to confession (fasting during Lent etc.) —but are we actually becoming more loving? In this thought-provoking episode, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland dig into the real reason behind spiritual discipline number 1 in our series of and why simply “working out your faith” isn’t enough.

This conversation explores how spiritual disciplines are means, not ends, and the danger of becoming a “fit Catholic” who never actually transforms. If you’ve ever questioned whether your prayer, fasting, or church attendance is working, this episode is for you.

🛑 What You’ll Learn:

Why the sacraments aren’t “magic” and how to know if they’re bearing fruit

How to measure real spiritual growth (hint: it’s not how often you fast)

Review of the 9 key spiritual practices of a fully engaged Catholic.

The one question that should guide all your spiritual habits

What “beige Catholicism” is—and how to avoid it

🔥 Notable Moments:

“I don't want to be really good at working out—I want to be changed.”

“You can fast at a steakhouse and still be gossiping. That’s not holiness.”

“The Eucharist isn’t just a recharge—it’s a call to community and transformation.”

The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish

is Webster Groves, Missouri. 

The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate

entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now

striving to push deeper into his faith.

The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual

coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with

strength, truth, and purpose.

If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our

way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come

visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves. 

Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org

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