This week on the podcast we talk about how in the first reading, Peter is no longer under the authority of the Sanhedrin. He is in the Spirit and has the courage to face the punishment that comes from proclaiming the Gospel. We talk about fear of being publicly Christian and how we can process that fear, Imagine and explore the fear, analysing it, and then turning it over the Christ in the Jesus prayer. In the second reading we talk about how the entirety of creation is worshipping the Lamb, and the One who sits on the throne. We touch on the importance of numbers in Salvation History and the Book of Revelation. Then we move to the Gospel and explore Jesus' asking Simon (Peters given name) if he loves him. Jesus accepts the imperfect love of Peter and gives him his mission.

To download transcripts of each episode, which include maps and illustrations, and any related files, go to http://gnm.org/paracletia/the-story-in-the-bible/transcripts/

Why is May called Mary’s Month? Marge explains how the Catholic custom of devoting the entire month of May to Mary began (you’ll be surprised). Then she offers practical ways to observe Mary’s special month in your diocese, parish and at home.

Doing is easier that being. Doing is quantifiable. We can measure our productivity in a big promotion, a cleaner house, a better report card or a bigger paycheck. Doing is what we are taught to do from the time we are old enough to understand. But where is the balance in our lives? After all, we are Human Beings, not Human Doings! In this podcast, Tony discusses the difference between doing and being.

Scripture: But seek first the kingdom (of God) and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil. Matthew 6:33-34

Quote: “We are warned not to waste time, but we are brought up to waste our lives.” –Eric Hoffer

Reflections: Are you doing or being? What do you do to be a more being person? Do you agree that “Americans tend to worship their work, to work at their play, and to play at their worship?"

Delve with us beneath the surface on Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's essay on the church scandal, its causes, and its solutions.

Fr. Tad Pacholczyk answers questions about bioethics and what the Church teaches- euthanasia, cloning, and more.

Questions Covered:

14:50 - What can scientific researchers do to avoid unethical research? Do you have any suggestions for me?

20:36 - If you get a bioethics degree, how can you use it? What kind of job can you have?

36:20 - How can we reconcile giving our kids vaccines that use aborted fetal cells?

45:05 - What does the Church teach about genetically modified food products?

Resources Mentioned:

 

National Catholic Bioethics Center

Fr. David Meconi joins Cy to discuss the first fathers of the Catholic Church.

Questions Covered:

 

07:26 - St. John Chrysostom implies that Mary sinned. Is this true? What are your thoughts?

17:19 - I am struggling with St. Irenaeus’ book ‘Against Heresies.’ Does it get easier to understand? Do you have any tips for reading this book?

20:17 - What can you tell me about St. Polycarp as an early Church father?

29:26 - Why has the fact that St. Augustine of Hippo was a person of color been hidden/separated from the study of his work? Also, was St. Bernard of Clairvaux the last early Church father?

34:10 - St. Justin Martyr talked about a 1000-year reign. Is this the same as what Protestants believe to be the Rapture?

47:50 - How can we approach reading the early Church fathers, while understanding that their works are not inspired like Scripture?

50:00 - What can you tell me about Origen?

53:13 - Why did it take so long for the Assumption of Mary to be confirmed by the Church? What did the early fathers teach about this?

Take it from people who know! Being a special needs parent comes with deep, often unexpected challenges that can shake your faith to the core. Drawing from their personal experience, David and Mercedes Rizzo share openly the myriad challenges of parenting a special needs child, while offering grace-filled counsel on practical steps you can take and suggested prayers to invite God into your situation. Topics include finding doctors and specialists who will treat your child with respect and kindness; advocating for your child's individualized education plan; preparing your child to receive the Sacraments; giving attention to your marriage and your other children; and preparing your child for adulthood.

Face your challenges with the power of prayer! For every parent and caretaker of a special needs child, this resource will build your faith and offer practical ways to incorporate hope and prayer into your daily life.