Catholic Chicago

Since the Coronavirus outbreak began, Catholic Charities has been working to adjust programmatic and operational protocols, following public health directives and recommendations, to continue to show support to our clients, staff and volunteers, while keeping  benefactors and friends informed. Brigid Murphy, Director of Communications joins Marie Jochum on this special edition of The Voice of Charity to provide an update on Catholic Charities programs and services that affect thousands of people throughout Cook and Lake counties. 

Host Bob Gilligan, Executive Director of the Catholic Conference of Illinois, talks about several contested state and federal races in the upcoming primary election on Tuesday, March 17, 2020.

Host Bob Gilligan, Executive Director of the Catholic Conference of Illinois, speaks with Associate Judge Tom Donnelly of the Circuit Court of Cook County, about House Bill 4295 that would establish privilege for restorative justice practices.

Host Bob Gilligan, Executive Director of the Catholic Conference of Illinois, spends time talking with Bishop Richard Pates, apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Joliet, about his stepping in for Bishop R. Daniel Conlon while he is on medical leave.

Host Bob Gilligan, Executive Director of the Catholic Conference of Illinois, spends a few minutes going over the latest developments regarding the corona virus.

Dr. Jim Rigg and Fr. Greg Sakowicz talk to two student athletes who will soon compete in the national finals of a 3on3 basketball tournament.  The Voice of Catholic Charity highlight a service that provides free legal advice for low-income individuals and families.  And Mark Teresi discusses the Chicago Polish Ministry with Fr. Marek Smolka.

Host Mark Teresi talks to the Director of Divine Worship, Todd Williamson.  Todd briefly talks about the current directives from the local Catholic Church in response to the spread of Covid-19.  Then Todd and Mark switch gears and spend time talking about the season of Lent.

Host Mark Teresi sits down with Holy Name Cathedral associate priest, Fr. Marek Smolka.  Fr. Marek talks about what it is like to be a priest at the Cathedral, and his role as the head of the Chicago Polish Ministry.

Examining opportunities for faith formation in the lens of Respect Life - Guests Dawn Fitzpatrick and Ray Pingoy discuss opportunities for all ages to deepen their faith and awareness around respect life issues. Various opportunities for faith-sharing, local events and even summertime camps can help people of all ages understand their role more deeply when it comes to understanding more around respect life. 

Catholic Charities Legal Assistance Department (CCLA) assists thousands of low-income and no-income individuals each year. Experienced staff members and volunteer attorneys offer free advice and help clients become aware of their rights and responsibilities as they navigate the legal system. CCLA also helps clients prepare basic legal documents for themselves. On this show, Fr. Wayne Watts, Hilda Bahena and Samuel Fifer join Marie and Michael to provide an update on CCLA’s client services and share details of a special upcoming event.