In this episode of Catholic Conversations from St. Joseph's Parish in Kings Park, New York, Fr. Peter Dugandzic sits down with parishioner Jim Johnson to share a powerful story of faith, conversion, and service. Jim describes how a simple invitation to Daily Mass transformed his spiritual life and led him to deeper prayer, Bible study, and active ministry.

They discuss the impact of the hit series The Chosen, the role of prayer through the Hallow app, and how Lent invites Catholics to grow closer to Christ through prayer, sacrifice, and service. Jim also shares moving experiences serving the poor at a local soup kitchen and how encountering those in need helped him recognize the face of Jesus in others.

This conversation explores discipleship, evangelization, parish life, and the Lenten theme “I Thirst,” inspired by the spirituality of Mother Teresa.

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In this special Lenten episode of Catholic Conversations, Fr. Peter speaks with Joanne Leonardi, lifelong parishioner of St. Joseph Parish in Kings Park and Regent of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Joanne shares her powerful journey of faith—from public school teacher to parish leader—reflecting on prayer, adoration, and hearing the voice of the Holy Spirit.

They discuss 40 Days for Life, Eucharistic Adoration, Catholic identity in today’s culture, and how Lent invites us to rediscover our spiritual thirst. Joanne opens up about her experience during COVID, learning to pray the Rosary, discovering The Chosen, and growing through Bible study, including Ascension’s Bible in a Year with Father Mike Schmitz.

This episode is a heartfelt conversation about discipleship, Catholic women’s leadership, parish life, and doing “little things with great love.”

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In this powerful new episode of Catholic Conversations, Fr. Peter sits down with lifelong parishioner Samantha Frontario to explore faith, prayer, and vocation in today’s world. Samantha has been part of the parish since birth, singing in the choir since childhood, and is now preparing for marriage in the Church while navigating the demanding life of a medical student. Together, they reflect on her personal journey of faith and the real challenges of remaining authentically Catholic while working in the medical field.

The conversation also dives into the next installment of the Lenten message series I Thirst, focusing on prayer. Many Catholics hope prayer will feel like the Transfiguration—a mountaintop experience—but in reality, prayer is often quiet, dry, and rooted in perseverance. Samantha shares honestly about her own prayer life, daily discipline, and how tools like the Hallow app help her stay grounded in Christ.

This episode is a must-watch for Catholics seeking deeper prayer, vocational clarity, and encouragement to live the faith faithfully in modern life.

In this episode of Catholic Conversations, Fr. Peter sits down with Mr. Gene Fennell for a meaningful and inspiring discussion rooted in faith, service, and renewal. Gene shares his personal journey and involvement with the Knights of Columbus, reflecting on how fraternity, charity, and service shape Catholic life and parish community. The conversation turns toward Lent, as Gene recalls powerful Lenten memories and describes the season as a spiritual “do over” — a time of repentance, grace, and intentional discipleship. Fr. Peter and Gene also dive into the parish Lenten message series, I Thirst: 40 Days with Mother Teresa, exploring themes of spiritual thirst, conversion, prayer, and drawing closer to Christ. This episode is perfect for Catholics seeking encouragement for Lent, insights into parish life, and inspiration to grow deeper in faith. Subscribe, share, and journey with us this Lenten season.

In this episode of Catholic Conversations at St. Joseph, Fr. Peter and Randi explore the power and responsibility of social media as a tool for evangelization and communication in today’s digital world. How can Catholics use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to spread the Gospel, build authentic community, and witness to the truth with charity? They dive into the opportunities—and challenges—of navigating faith in the digital age.

They also wrap up the final installment of the message series “On Purpose,” reflecting on God’s intentional design for our lives and how we are called to live with mission, meaning, and discipleship. Finally, they provide an exciting overview of the parish plans for Lent 2026, including spiritual opportunities, prayer initiatives, and ways to grow deeper in your Catholic faith this Lenten season.

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In this latest episode of Catholic Conversations, Fr. Melwin joins Randi for a lively and faith-filled discussion that begins with a first-ever experience of snow and quickly moves into deeper spiritual territory.

As they reflect on the fourth installment of the message series On Purpose, the conversation explores how God’s design for our lives is revealed through vocation, sacrifice, and daily discipleship. Fr. Melwin and Randi unpack the vital importance of Marriage and the Family as the Domestic Church, the place where faith is first taught, lived, and passed on.

They also challenge listeners to embrace the call of the Gospel by taking up the Cross each day and following Christ with intention and trust. Filled with practical insights, Catholic teaching, and relatable moments, this episode encourages believers to live their faith on purpose in everyday life.

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In this powerful episode of Catholic Conversations, Fr. Peter and Randi reflect on the March for Life and key pro-life issues, emphasizing the Church’s unwavering commitment to the dignity of every human person from conception to natural death. They connect this witness to the third installment of the message series On Purpose, rooted in this weekend’s Gospel and the Beatitudes, which reveal Christ’s blueprint for true happiness, holiness, and purposeful living. The conversation highlights how the Beatitudes call us to mercy, humility, courage, and faithful discipleship in a culture often confused about truth and morality.

Fr. Peter and Randi also encourage the parish to begin preparing their hearts for the upcoming season of Lent through prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and deeper conversion. This episode is rich in Catholic teaching, pro-life witness, Scripture reflection, and practical spiritual guidance for anyone seeking to live the Gospel intentionally and grow closer to Jesus Christ.

In this latest episode of Catholic Conversations, Randi and Fr. Monson continue the powerful message series On Purpose, diving into the second installment that explores how God’s intentional design shapes our faith, vocation, and daily discipleship. They reflect on what it means to live with spiritual purpose, clarity, and mission in today’s world.

Fr. Monson also shares exciting updates about his work with the youth altar servers, highlighting the importance of forming young disciples in reverence, service, and love for the Eucharist.

Randi then introduces a brand-new Bible Study focused on an in-depth exploration of the Gospel of Matthew, inviting parishioners to grow in Scripture, Catholic teaching, and a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. This episode is filled with inspiration, parish life, Catholic formation, and practical ways to live your faith on purpose. Perfect for anyone seeking spiritual growth, authentic community, and a deeper understanding of the Word of God.

In this episode of Catholic Conversations, Fr. Thomas and Randi introduce the new message series, On Purpose, a powerful reflection on God’s intentional design for our lives. They begin by exploring the differences between the Eastern Catholic liturgical calendar and the Latin Rite calendar, highlighting the richness and unity of the Church’s diverse traditions. From there, the conversation turns to the heart of the series: the truth that God created each of us on purpose, with a mission, a vocation, and a calling rooted in His divine plan. Drawing from Scripture, Church teaching, and everyday life, they invite listeners to live intentionally, discern God’s will, and respond purposefully to His grace. This episode is perfect for Catholics seeking spiritual growth, deeper faith, and clarity about their identity and mission in Christ. Discover how living “on purpose” transforms discipleship and daily life.

In this latest episode of Catholic Conversations, Fr. Peter and Randi walk listeners through the Baptism intake process at St. Joseph, explaining what parents can expect as they prepare for this powerful sacrament. They clarify the steps, timelines, and pastoral goals behind baptismal preparation, helping families understand why the Church takes this process seriously.

The conversation then turns to the final part of the Message Series “Priorities,” reflecting on how sacramental Baptism incorporates us into the Family of God, granting not only spiritual identity but also real rights and responsibilities within the life of the Church. Fr. Peter highlights how Baptism is the foundation of Christian discipleship and parish life.

The episode concludes with a look at upcoming parish events, important dates, and opportunities to grow in faith and community at St. Joseph. A must-watch for Catholic parents, parishioners, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Baptism and Church life.