Conversations with Consequences

We continue to delve into Pope Leo's 'Magnifica Humanitas' with Professor Paolo Carozza of Notre Dame's Law School. Also serving as chair of the Meta Oversight Board, Carozza explained why he thinks the encyclical is "a profound and prophetic document" that could prove to be one of the defining texts of our technological age, and why there is a need now  to "develop a new politics" for the "whole persons and for all persons," as the Holy Father wrote.

As we look ahead to the beatification of soon-to-be-Blessed Fulton Sheen – one of the most beloved causes for sainthood in American Catholic history–Msgr. Jason A. Gray, executive director of the Archbishop Fulton Sheen Foundation, shares insights about Sheen’s life of virtue, and the step-by-step documentation collected and vetted when preparing a cause for sainthood, including details about the many possible miracles being explored.

With big news from the Vatican this week. Msgr. Roger Landry shares his moments with Pope Leo, and reacts to the big news of Montse Alvarado being appointed to the position of Prefect of Dicastery for Communication, the first laywoman to ever hold that position. As the Church celebrates Corpus Christi, he also reflects on the centrality of the Eucharist and why Christ's Real Presence remains the greatest news the world can ever receive.

And don’t forget to subscribe to TCA’s daily media roundup for smart Catholic news and commentary delivered straight to your inbox.

Paolo G. Carozza is Professor of Law and Political Science at the University of Notre Dame Law School. A leading expert in comparative constitutional law and international human rights, he previously served as Director of the Kellogg Institute for International Studies, Director of the Center for Civil and Human Rights, and Associate Dean for International and Graduate Programs. He is the founder and director of the Notre Dame Constitutionalism and Rule of Law Lab (CAROLL). With extensive public service experience, he was a member and president of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, the Venice Commission, and currently Co-Chair of Meta’s Oversight Board. He holds an A.B. and J.D. from Harvard University and has been a visiting professor at several institutions worldwide. His work focuses on the promotion of human rights, democracy, and rule of law, particularly in Latin America and Europe.

Monsignor Jason A. Gray, J.C.D., is a priest of the Diocese of Peoria and serves as Executive Director of the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Foundation. Ordained in 1997, he holds a doctorate in canon law and has been deeply involved in the cause for the canonization of Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen since it opened in 2002. In 2011, he led the diocesan investigation into the miracle attributed to Sheen’s intercession that advanced the cause toward beatification. Msgr. Gray previously worked at the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints in Rome and currently also serves as pastor of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Peoria Heights, and Judicial Vicar for the Diocese of Peoria. In his role with the Sheen Foundation, he works to promote the life, legacy, and teachings of Archbishop Sheen while advancing the cause for his sainthood.

Monsignor Roger Landry is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. A graduate of Harvard and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, he served as Attaché to the Holy See’s Permanent Observer Mission to the UN in New York. In 2024, he was appointed National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the USA by Pope Francis. He writes for numerous publications, speaks on radio and TV, and served as executive editor for the Diocese of Fall River weekly paper. He is the author of Plan of Life: Habits to Help You Grow Closer to God, and was an on-site commentator for EWTN’s during the 2013 papal conclave electing Pope Francis. He is national chaplain for Catholic Voices USA and New York Chaplain for the Leonine Forum. Msgr. Landry traversed the 1500-mile Eucharist Pilgrimage in 2024, coinciding with his 25th year in the priesthood.

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With the release of Pope Leo XIV’s highly anticipated first encyclical on artificial intelligence, Magnificat Humanitas, Dr. Fernanda Psihas – physicist, AI expert, and professor at Franciscan University – joins to discuss how Catholics can faithfully navigate a world increasingly shaped by technology and remain “profoundly human” in a digital era. Reflecting on the document through the lens of the feminine genius, she discusses how women, inspired by the Blessed Mother, are uniquely positioned to become “weavers of hope” in a culture increasingly marked by isolation, automation, and disconnected communication.

We welcome educator and author Rob Greving to discuss his new book, The Apostolate of Courtesy: How to Save Souls and Change the World Through the Power of Manners. As the Holy Father also emphasized the importance of speech and how it shapes the culture, we talk with Rob Greving about the 'Apostolate of Courtesy,' and why we must work to bring back manners in this digital age where saying hello has become a novelty. Greving argues that courtesy is far more than simple politeness – it’s a form of charity that reflects the love of Christ. Drawing from the wisdom of St. Francis de Sales, he explains how small acts of kindness and good manners can help restore peace in families, schools, workplaces, and online communication.

TCA chaplain Msgr. Roger Landry prepares our hearts for Holy Trinity Sunday, reflecting on the mystery of the Blessed Trinity as the central teaching of the Catholic faith, "because it's who God is." This knowledge shapes not only our theology, but our understanding of family, human relationships, and the call to holiness itself.

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Dr. Fernanda Psihas is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science and Physics at Franciscan University of Steubenville, where she teaches courses in artificial intelligence, data science, and experimental physics. She earned her B.S. in Engineering Physics from Universidad Iberoamericana, an M.S. in Physics from the University of Minnesota Duluth, and a Ph.D. in Physics from Indiana University Bloomington. As a Catholic scientist and educator, she is passionate about exploring the harmony between faith and reason, speaking on topics like AI ethics, science education, and the integration of theology with technology. Dr. Psihas is an active voice for approaching artificial intelligence with both intellectual rigor and spiritual discernment, and how it must always be rooted in an authentic understanding of the human person. Her work reflects a uniquely Catholic vision that seeks harmony between scientific discovery and theological truth.

Rob Greving is a dedicated Catholic educator, speaker, writer, and author of the timely new book, The Apostolate of Courtesy: How to Save Souls and Change the World Through the Power of Manners. A teacher of Latin and English grammar at a classical Catholic boys’ high school in Maryland, he has been on the faculty since 1999. Originally from North Dakota, he earned a B.A. in History from Louisiana State University and a J.D. from Dickinson School of Law, after which he served five years as a captain in the U.S. Army JAG Corps. Greving is a frequent contributor to Catholic publications such as Crisis Magazine and Catholic Stand. His work emphasizes the evangelizing power of everyday courtesy, drawing inspiration from St. Francis de Sales, and explores how Christian manners can transform hearts and culture in an often discourteous world.

Monsignor Roger Landry is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. A graduate of Harvard and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, he served as Attaché to the Holy See’s Permanent Observer Mission to the UN in New York. In 2024, he was appointed National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the USA by Pope Francis. He writes for numerous publications, speaks on radio and TV, and served as executive editor for the Diocese of Fall River weekly paper. He is the author of Plan of Life: Habits to Help You Grow Closer to God, and was an on-site commentator for EWTN’s during the 2013 papal conclave electing Pope Francis. He is national chaplain for Catholic Voices USA and New York Chaplain for the Leonine Forum. Msgr. Landry traversed the 1500-mile Eucharist Pilgrimage in 2024, coinciding with his 25th year in the priesthood.

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Former Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, Sam Brownback, joins to discuss his powerful new book, China’s War on Faith, and the escalating persecution of religious believers under the Chinese Communist Party. He discusses the fate of imprisoned Catholic publisher Jimmy Lai, and other faithful being held on trumped up charges. He sounds the alarm on the Chinese government’s growing influence inside American universities, and why the US must disentangle itself economically from the CCP.

As Catholics around the world await Pope Leo XIV's encyclical on AI coming out early next week, renowned theologian and EWTN host, Father Robert Spitzer, joins to discuss what we might expect from the document, especially as it pertains to the dangers of AI and the impact this new digital arena is having on the economy. As a creator of his own AI tools pioneering the Catholic system known as Magis, Father Spitzer discusses why theologically sound AI concepts must be developed to combat the secular nature of mainstream options that have led to depression and death among teens.

TCA chaplain Monsignor Roger Landry helps prepare hearts for Pentecost Sunday with a rich reflection on the Holy Spirit, the birth of the Church, and the call for every Christian to become a “spiritual arsonist” setting the world ablaze with the fire of God’s love.

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Sam Brownback is an American attorney, politician, diplomat, and prominent voice for the global advancement of religious freedom. The only living American to have served as a congressman, US senator, governor, and ambassador, he earned a B.S. in agricultural economics from Kansas State University and a J.D. from the University of Kansas. He became one of the youngest to serve as Kansas Secretary of Agriculture. He later served as a US Representative and then a US Senator, where he was a key architect in the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 and the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000. He served as 46th Governor of Kansas and was nominated by President Trump to become US Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, the first Catholic to hold that role. His new book, China’s War on Faith, documents the CCP’s escalating crackdown on religious believers and the growing global threat posed by authoritarian communism.

Father Robert Spitzer, SJ is president of the Magis Center of Reason and Faith, founder of the Napa Institute, bestselling author, and longtime host of Father Spitzer’s Universe on EWTN. Widely recognized for his work at the intersection of science, philosophy, theology, and ethics, Father Spitzer recently helped develop Magis AI, a Catholic artificial intelligence platform designed to provide faithful answers to questions about morality, faith, science, and culture. He is a leading voice for the Church on the ethics of AI and emerging technologies. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1974, was ordained in 1983, and earned advanced degrees including a Ph.D. in Philosophy from The Catholic University of America. He taught philosophy and business ethics at Georgetown University and Seattle University before serving as President of Gonzaga University. He has written twenty books, including the award-winning New Proofs for the Existence of God.

Monsignor Roger Landry is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. A graduate of Harvard and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, he served as Attaché to the Holy See’s Permanent Observer Mission to the UN in New York. In 2024, he was appointed National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the USA by Pope Francis. He writes for numerous publications, speaks on radio and TV, and served as executive editor for the weekly newspaper of the Diocese of Fall River. He is the author of the book, Plan of Life: Habits to Help You Grow Closer to God, and leads pilgrimages to Rome, the Holy Land, and other sacred destinations. He was an on-site commentator for EWTN’s coverage of the 2013 papal conclave that elected Pope Francis. He is national chaplain for Catholic Voices USA and New York Chaplain for the Leonine Forum. Father Landry traversed the 1500-mile Eucharist Pilgrimage in 2024, which coincided with his 25th year in the priesthood.

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Bestselling author, SiriusXM host, and Catholic media personality Katie Prejean McGrady joins to reflect on the first year of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate and what makes this papacy feel uniquely personal and accessible. Katie shares what it was like to moderate a groundbreaking live conversation between Pope Leo and a group of teens discussing mental health, prayer, social media, and AI. We also look ahead to the pope’s upcoming encyclical and the lens of joy he might bring to the topic of humanity, while delving into the dangers of artificial intelligence.

Author and columnist Leah Libresco Sargeant discusses Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha expecting their fourth child, and why family life so often unfolds differently than people originally plan. Leah explores shifting attitudes toward fertility, openness to life, natural family planning, and the growing national conversation around declining birth rates. She breaks down the bipartisan Supporting Newborn Parents Act and explains why practical support for families can make a meaningful difference for parents navigating the early years of raising children.

The team reflects on the remarkable conversion story of Tammy Peterson, whose encounter with the Rosary during cancer treatment eventually led her into the Catholic Church. Drawing from author Margarita Mooney Clayton’s recent interview, Ashley and Betsy discuss Mary’s maternal role in leading souls closer to Christ.

TCA chaplain Monsignor Roger Landry helps prepare hearts for Pentecost with a reflection on the Ascension, the Church’s first novena, and the indispensable role of the Holy Spirit in Christian mission and daily life.

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Katie Prejean McGrady is a wife, mom, award-winning author, speaker, and one of the leading voices in Catholic media today. A former youth minister and high school educator, she transitioned to full-time speaking in 2017 and travels extensively sharing her faith at parishes, retreats, and events. She is the author of six books with Ave Maria Press, co-hosts the popular Ave Explores podcast, and hosts The Katie McGrady Show — the morning drive-time program on SiriusXM’s The Catholic Channel. In addition, Katie serves as a Vatican analyst for CNN and regularly contributes to outlets such as Our Sunday Visitor, Blessed is She, and Aleteia. Known for her engaging, humorous, and practical approach to living the Catholic faith, she helps people encounter Christ in everyday life with joy and authenticity. She lives in Louisiana with her husband, Tom, and their two daughters.

Leah Libresco Sargeant is a Catholic writer, speaker, and policy analyst known for her insightful work at the intersection of faith, feminism, family policy, and human dependence. A Yale graduate and former atheist blogger, she made headlines with her conversion to Catholicism in 2012. She is the author of several books, including Arriving at Amen, Building the Benedict Option (a practical guide to building Christian community), and her most recent work, The Dignity of Dependence: A Feminist Manifesto. Her writings have appeared in The Dispatch, First Things, and numerous national publications. She currently works as a Senior Policy Analyst focused on family economic security in Washington, D.C., runs the Other Feminisms Substack, and writes on religion and culture. Leah lives in Maryland with her husband and children.

Monsignor Roger Landry is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. A graduate of Harvard and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, he served as Attaché to the Holy See’s Permanent Observer Mission to the UN in New York. In 2024, he was appointed National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the USA by Pope Francis. He writes for numerous publications, speaks on radio and TV, and served as executive editor for the Diocese of Fall River weekly paper. He is the author of  Plan of Life: Habits to Help You Grow Closer to God, and was an on-site commentator for EWTN’s during the 2013 papal conclave electing Pope Francis. He is national chaplain for Catholic Voices USA and New York Chaplain for the Leonine Forum. Msgr. Landry traversed the 1500-mile Eucharist Pilgrimage in 2024, coinciding with his 25th year in the priesthood.

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With a new book released just this week, Dr. Margarita Mooney Clayton discusses When Mary Calls: Surprising Encounters with the Mother of God, a theological exploration weaving in seven encounters with Mary who "acts as a bridge...a living spiritual mother who guides individuals through danger, loss, and spiritual renewal, ultimately leading them closer to God." She explains why Mary remains such a powerful spiritual mother in today’s fractured world and reflects on the ways beauty, suffering, and grace often become pathways to encountering God.

As Pope Leo XIV marks one year as the Vicar of Christ, Vatican insider Edward Pentin joins the show to discuss defining moments of the new papacy. From calls for unity and peace to ethical challenges posed by AI, Pentin examines how Pope Leo is shaping the Church during a pivotal time in history.

Monsignor Roger Landry also weighs in to reflect on the Pope’s momentous first year. He discusses emerging themes of Leo XIV’s pontificate, including the renewal of Catholic identity, evangelization, and the importance of rooting modern challenges firmly in the Gospel and Church tradition.

And don’t forget to subscribe to TCA’s daily media roundup for smart Catholic news and commentary delivered straight to your inbox.

Margarita Mooney Clayton is an author, public speaker, and professor at Princeton Theological Seminary. She is founder of the Scala Foundation, dedicated to transforming culture by promoting beauty and joy through the arts, liturgy and higher education. She is a research fellow in theology and the arts at Blackfriars Hall, Oxford University, and a widely respected author who writes frequently on faith, culture, beauty and education. Her writing has appeared in numerous academic publications and journals and has been cited in the New York Times. Her new book, When Mary Calls: Surprising Encounters with the Mother of God, explores how Mary continues to guide souls through suffering, beauty, healing, and spiritual renewal.  She earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Yale University and a Master’s and Ph.D. in Sociology from Princeton University. She has taught in sociology programs at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Yale, and Princeton.

Edward Pentin is a senior correspondent for the National Catholic Register and a regular contributor to EWTN programs, with over 20 years’ experience as a Rome correspondent covering issues on the Vatican, the papacy, and the Catholic Church. Formerly a producer and presenter on Vatican Radio, he has reported for publications such as Newsweek, Newsmax, and National Catholic Register among others. He has appeared on a variety of Catholic and secular broadcasts including CNN, Fox News, and BBC World Service. He is the author of The Rigging of a Vatican Synod? An Investigation into Alleged Manipulation at the Extraordinary Synod on the Family and The Next Pope – The Leading Cardinal Candidates. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations and a Masters in Applied Theology.

Monsignor Roger Landry is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. A graduate of Harvard and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, he served as Attaché to the Holy See’s Permanent Observer Mission to the UN in New York. In 2024, he was appointed National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the USA by Pope Francis. He writes for numerous publications, speaks on radio and TV, and served as executive editor for the Diocese of Fall River weekly paper. He is the author of  Plan of Life: Habits to Help You Grow Closer to God, and was an on-site commentator for EWTN’s during the 2013 papal conclave electing Pope Francis. He is national chaplain for Catholic Voices USA and New York Chaplain for the Leonine Forum. Msgr. Landry traversed the 1500-mile Eucharist Pilgrimage in 2024, coinciding with his 25th year in the priesthood.

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As we enter into the Marian month of May, papal biographer George Weigel reflects on Pope Saint John Paul II’s deep Marian devotion and touches on some of the current ills of society, including the disturbing rise of antisemitism among young Catholics. Weigel also discusses current challenges in the Church, including efforts in Germany and Luxembourg to push for women’s ordination and the importance of recovering a sound Christian anthropology.

Nicholas Reaves, senior counsel at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, breaks down a major case the Supreme Court is about to hear, involving Colorado’s excluding Catholic families and preschools from the state’s “universal” preschool programs because of their faith. Reaves explains how the case could affect religious liberty, Catholic education, and the rights of parents seeking faith-based schooling for their children.

Msgr. Roger Landry marks the feast of St. Joseph the Worker, reflecting on the spiritual meaning of work and how St. Joseph teaches us to sanctify our daily labor. He also gives us a glimpse into the upcoming beatification of soon-to-be-saint Fulton Sheen and the preparations taking place in Peoria, Illinois.

And don’t forget to subscribe to TCA’s daily media roundup for smart Catholic news and commentary delivered straight to your inbox.

George Weigel is a Distinguished Senior Fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, Catholic theologian, and author. A former president of the Ethics and Public Policy Center, he is widely known for his acclaimed biography of Pope St. John Paul II: the New York Times bestseller, Witness to Hope (1999), and its sequel, The End and the Beginning (2010). His op-eds appear in major newspapers across the US, and he is a frequent guest on TV and radio. He is Senior Vatican Analyst for NBC News and pens the weekly column, The Catholic Difference, syndicated in five countries. Mr. Weigel received a B.A. in Philosophy from St. Mary’s Seminary and University in Baltimore, an M.A. in Theology from the University of St. Michael’s College, Toronto. He is the recipient of nineteen honorary doctorates. In 2024 he was decorated with the Commander’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland, and was awarded the Papal Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, the Lithuanian Diplomacy Star, and the Gloria Artis Gold Medal of Poland’s Ministry of Culture.

Nicholas Reaves is Senior Counsel at Becket, a nonprofit law firm dedicated to protecting religious liberty. He has played a key role in major US Supreme Court cases, including Fulton v. City of Philadelphia and Catholic Charities Bureau v. Wisconsin and successfully argued numerous religious freedom cases in federal courts. Reaves was appointed as a Visiting Clinical Lecturer in Law at Yale Law School, where he co-directs the Free Exercise Clinic. His articles have appeared in the Yale Law Journal Forum, Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy, and Notre Dame Law Review, with his work cited by the U.S. Supreme Court. He has testified before federal commissions including the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights and the EEOC. Prior to Becket, Reaves practiced trial and appellate litigation at Jones Day and clerked for Chief Judge D. Brooks Smith on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. He earned his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law, where he served on the Managing Board of the Virginia Law Review, and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Notre Dame with a B.A. in Economics and Political Science.

Monsignor Roger Landry is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. A graduate of Harvard and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, he served as Attaché to the Holy See’s Permanent Observer Mission to the UN in New York. In 2024, he was appointed National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the USA by Pope Francis. He writes for numerous publications, speaks on radio and TV, and served as executive editor for the weekly newspaper of the Diocese of Fall River. He is the author of the book, Plan of Life: Habits to Help You Grow Closer to God, and leads pilgrimages to Rome, the Holy Land, and other sacred destinations. He was an on-site commentator for EWTN’s coverage of the 2013 papal conclave that elected Pope Francis. He is national chaplain for Catholic Voices USA and New York Chaplain for the Leonine Forum. Father Landry traversed the 1500-mile Eucharist Pilgrimage in 2024, which coincided with his 25th year in the priesthood.

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Dominican Father Joseph Anthony Kress, host of Godsplaining, joins to discuss what many are calling a Gen Z Catholic revival. Drawing from his time as chaplain at the University of Virginia and his current ministry in New York City, Fr. Kress shares how hundreds of young adults are showing up to Mass each week, searching for truth, meaning, and authentic community. He also speaks about his work promoting devotion to the Rosary as a powerful anchor for young Catholics navigating a chaotic culture.

Marking National Infertility Awareness Week, Leigh Fitzpatrick Snead—TCA fellow and author of Infertile but Fruitful—shares her deeply personal journey through infertility and how it reshaped her understanding of vocation, suffering, and spiritual fruitfulness. She offers a compassionate perspective for couples walking this difficult path, emphasizing fruitfulness in the Christian life extends far beyond biological parenthood and is rooted in love, sacrifice, and trust in God’s plan.

Monsignor Roger Landry reflects on the one-year anniversary of the passing of Pope Francis, looking back on his papacy as a profound witness to God’s mercy. Msgr. Landry highlights the Holy Father’s emphasis on accompaniment, forgiveness, and missionary discipleship, and considers how Catholics can continue to live out that legacy in their own lives today.

And don’t forget to subscribe to TCA’s daily media roundup for smart Catholic news and commentary delivered straight to your inbox.

Fr. Joseph Anthony Kress, O.P. is a Dominican priest and co-host of the popular podcast Godsplaining. He served as chaplain at the University of Virginia and now ministers in New York City, where he works closely with young adults. A native of St. Clairsville, Ohio, he attended Franciscan University of Steubenville and graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in Philosophy and Theology. He received a Bachelor of Sacred Theology and Masters of Divinity from the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception. In 2025, he began to serve as the Promoter of the Rosary for the Province of St. Joseph and Associate Director of the Dominican Friars Foundation. Over the years he has overseen large-scale liturgies including World Youth Day Krakow, USCCB Convocation, Fr. Emil Kapaun Homecoming, Amazing Parish conferences, and the National Eucharistic Congress.

Leigh Fitzpatrick Snead is a co-host for the nationally syndicated radio show, Conversations with Consequences, and a Fellow for The Catholic Association. A writer, editor, and speaker, her work has appeared in the National Catholic Register, Washington Times, and many other media outlets. She is author of the book Infertile but Fruitful, which chronicles her own infertility journey and offers other struggling couples encouragement and honest paths forward through the lens of God’s word and Catholic tradition. She took her doctoral studies as a John Quasten Fellow at the Catholic University of America and the School of Philosophy, and earned her Bachelor of Arts from St. Johns College in Annapolis, Maryland. A former fashion and travel editor for Theology of Home, she serves on the Executive Board of Human Life. Leigh lives in Indiana with her husband and four children.

Monsignor Roger Landry is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. A graduate of Harvard and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, he served as Attaché to the Holy See’s Permanent Observer Mission to the UN in New York. In 2024, he was appointed National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the USA by Pope Francis. He writes for numerous publications, speaks on radio and TV, and served as executive editor for the Diocese of Fall River weekly paper. He is the author of Plan of Life: Habits to Help You Grow Closer to God, and was an on-site commentator for EWTN’s during the 2013 papal conclave electing Pope Francis. He is national chaplain for Catholic Voices USA and New York Chaplain for the Leonine Forum. Msgr. Landry traversed the 1500-mile Eucharist Pilgrimage in 2024, coinciding with his 25th year in the priesthood.

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Monsignor Roger Landry joins us to address recent rhetoric from President Trump targeting Pope Leo, and what it reveals about the growing tension between politics and the papacy. Msgr. Landry emphasizes the importance of prayer, unity, and fidelity to truth in moments of division, reminding that Catholics are called to rise above partisan instincts and remain anchored in the Gospel. He also reflects on the Pope’s Apostolic journey to Africa, highlighting its spiritual significance as the Holy Father follows in the footsteps of St. Augustine.

We speak with Madeleine Kearns about her recent piece in The Free Press assessing the trend we are seeing where self-identified Catholic influencers twist Church teaching to justify antisemitism, slander, and other 'sins of speech,’ often under the guise of defending tradition or orthodoxy. The conversation explores what authentic Catholic witness should look like in the public square—especially in an age of viral content and ideological echo chambers.

And don’t forget to subscribe to TCA’s daily media roundup for smart Catholic news and commentary delivered straight to your inbox.

Monsignor Roger Landry is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. A graduate of Harvard and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, he served as Attaché to the Holy See’s Permanent Observer Mission to the UN in New York. In 2024, he was appointed National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the USA by Pope Francis. He writes for numerous publications, speaks on radio and TV, and served as executive editor for the weekly newspaper of the Diocese of Fall River. He is the author of the book, Plan of Life: Habits to Help You Grow Closer to God, and leads pilgrimages to Rome, the Holy Land, and other sacred destinations. He was an on-site commentator for EWTN’s coverage of the 2013 papal conclave that elected Pope Francis. He is national chaplain for Catholic Voices USA and New York Chaplain for the Leonine Forum. Father Landry traversed the 1500-mile Eucharist Pilgrimage in 2024, which coincided with his 25th year in the priesthood.

Madeleine Kearns is a journalist, writer, and associate editor at The Free Press. She has written for publications like The Spectator, The Wall Street Journal, The Catholic Herald and numerous others, and has appeared on news outlets like BBC, Fox News, the Ben Shapiro Show, and the Megyn Kelly Show. Previously a staff writer at the National Review, she earned her degree in English from the University of St. Andrews. She obtained her postgraduate diploma in Education from the University of Glasgow and a Master’s in Journalism from New York University. She lives with her husband and daughter in New York City.

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With a date now set for the beatification of the Venerable Fulton Sheen, Monsignor Roger Landry discusses the amazing impact Sheen had on so many, and his extraordinary influence as a preacher, missionary, media pioneer, and champion of Eucharistic devotion. Msgr. Landry also explains the deep symbolic connection between Sheen, the missions, and the city of St. Louis, once known as the “Rome of the West,” and why Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is a fitting choice to preside over the celebration.

Fr. Leo Patalinghug joins us to share the inspiration behind his remarkable new evangelization initiative, Plating Grace. Known for his ministry that connects food, family, and faith, Fr. Leo explains how he invited a group of “Catholic-curious” social media influencers on a pilgrimage through Baltimore, introducing them to cathedrals, relics, Eucharistic adoration, and the beauty of Catholic life. Fr. Leo also talks about the broader mission of feeding people’s “body, mind, and spirit,” and how hospitality paired with authentic witness can open hearts in surprising ways.

Filmmaker Adriana Gonzalez talks about the new movie That They May Be One, coming to theaters in May. The film focuses on the call to Christian unity, and traces the work of figures like St. Elena Guerra and Pope Leo XIII, while exploring the ongoing relevance of Christ’s prayer for unity in John’s Gospel. Gonzalez explains why the pursuit of unity is not reserved only for popes, bishops, or theologians, but is a mission for all Christians through prayer, friendship, and deeper openness to the Holy Spirit.

And don’t forget to subscribe to TCA’s daily media roundup for smart Catholic news and commentary delivered straight to your inbox.

Monsignor Roger Landry is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. A graduate of Harvard and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, he served as Attaché to the Holy See’s Permanent Observer Mission to the UN in New York. In 2024, he was appointed National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the USA by Pope Francis. He writes for numerous publications, speaks on radio and TV, and served as executive editor for the weekly newspaper of the Diocese of Fall River. He is the author of the book, Plan of Life: Habits to Help You Grow Closer to God, and leads pilgrimages to Rome, the Holy Land, and other sacred destinations. He was an on-site commentator for EWTN’s coverage of the 2013 papal conclave that elected Pope Francis. He is national chaplain for Catholic Voices USA and New York Chaplain for the Leonine Forum. Father Landry traversed the 1500-mile Eucharist Pilgrimage in 2024, which coincided with his 25th year in the priesthood.

Fr. Leo Patalinghug is a Catholic priest, award winning chef, author, speaker, and founder of Plating Grace, a ministry aimed to strengthen families and communities by sharing faith through the gift of meals and hospitality. A third degree black belt in martial arts and former award winning breakdancer, Father Leo has appeared on major networks including the Food Network (Throw Down! with Bobby Flay), EWTN (hosting Savoring Our Faith), and Sirius XM Radio. He’s a best selling author of numerous books on food and faith, and the driving force behind The Table Foundation, the charitable arm of Plating Grace. Born in the Philippines and raised in Baltimore, he studied philosophy at Theological College at Catholic University in Washington, DC, and earned his advanced theological degrees from the Pontifical Gregorian University and Pontifical Marianum Institute in Rome. He was ordained a Catholic Priest in 1999. He also pursued culinary courses at Le Cordon Bleu in Perugia, Italy, inspiring his food ministry that shares God’s love “one meal at a time.”

Adriana Gonzalez is a Catholic lay leader, speaker, and filmmaker, and the Executive Producer of the upcoming film, That They May Be One—a docudrama that explores the Holy Spirit’s work in fostering Christian unity across the Church throughout history and today. She and her husband Dr. Manual Gonzalez founded Flourish Your Faith Ministries, a non-profit dedicated to igniting faith through the Holy Spirit, evangelization, and family formation. She previously served as Florida State Coordinator for the Parental Rights Organization. She holds a B.S. in Dietetics and Nutrition, and is pursuing a Master’s in Theology from the Augustine Institute. She and her husband also founded Flourish Your Faith Films to produce faith-inspired media. They have been married for over 30 years and share seven children and a growing number of grandchildren.

The following transcript is machine generated.

Father Patrick van der Vorst joins from Westminster Cathedral to reflect on the power of Christian art during this sacred season. A former Sotheby’s specialist turned Catholic priest, Fr. Patrick discusses how the works of Fra Angelico, Michelangelo, and other legendary artists help us contemplate the Passion in a vivid and prayerful way. He shares the inspiration behind his popular Christian Art apostolate and his recent Holy Week project, which uses art and visual meditation to help believers pray through the final days of Christ’s earthly life.

Filmmaker John Scheinfeld discusses his new documentary being released this weekend, Baseball Beyond Belief, which explores the surprising and powerful intersection of baseball and faith. Based on the bestselling book, Baseball as a Road to God, the film examines how the rituals, sacred spaces, community, and even “miracles” of baseball mirror our spiritual life. From Opening Day to the World Series, Scheinfeld reflects on why America’s pastime continues to serve as a source of meaning and connection for so many families.

Monsignor Roger Landry shares how we as Catholics can enrich our spiritual lives during this last week of Lent and prepare our hearts for the Sacred Triduum—reflecting why Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil are the most important liturgies of the year. He reminds us that Holy Week is not simply meant to be observed from a distance, but fully entered into so the Lord’s Passion may truly make us holy.

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Father Patrick van der Vorst is a Roman Catholic priest of the Diocese of Westminster in London. After earning a law degree from the Catholic University of Leuven, he moved to the UK in 1995 and built a distinguished 25-year career in the art world, rising to Director at Sotheby’s Europe. He later founded the highly successful ValueMyStuff and St. George Valuations, and appeared as a winner on BBC’s Dragons’ Den. In a profound vocational shift, he left business behind and founded the popular Christian.Art website and daily newsletter, which reaches over 130,000 readers by blending sacred art with Gospel reflections. He entered seminary at the Pontifical Beda College in Rome in 2019, and was ordained a priest in June of 2023. He currently serves as Precentor and Prefect of the Sacristy at Westminster Cathedral, where he continues to minister while drawing on his deep love of art and faith.

John Scheinfeld is a critically acclaimed documentary filmmaker, an Emmy, Grammy, and two time Writers Guild nominee, with work ranging from pop culture to politics, sports and religion. He has many film credits to his name presenting documentary work with individuals of wide notoriety, including Bob Hope, Gary Marshall, Herb Alpert, Sergio Mendes, John Coltrane, John Lennon, and many others. Scheinfeld has also written, produced, or directed projects about pop culture legends including the Bee Gees, Nat 'King' Cole, Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, the Marx Brothers, Frank Sinatra and more. His current film, Baseball: Beyond Belief, an inspirational account exploring the intersection of faith and the sport, will be released in late March. Scheinfeld received a B.A. in Communications and Sociology from Oberlin College and holds an M.F.A. in Radio/Television/Film from Northwestern University.

Monsignor Roger Landry is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. A graduate of Harvard and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, he served as Attaché to the Holy See’s Permanent Observer Mission to the UN in New York. In 2024, he was appointed National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the USA by Pope Francis. He writes for numerous publications, speaks on radio and TV, and served as executive editor for the weekly newspaper of the Diocese of Fall River. He is the author of the book, Plan of Life: Habits to Help You Grow Closer to God, and leads pilgrimages to Rome, the Holy Land, and other sacred destinations. He was an on-site commentator for EWTN’s coverage of the 2013 papal conclave that elected Pope Francis. He is national chaplain for Catholic Voices USA and New York Chaplain for the Leonine Forum. Father Landry traversed the 1500-mile Eucharist Pilgrimage in 2024, which coincided with his 25th year in the priesthood.

The following transcript is machine generated.