It would be difficult to overstate Augustine of Hippo’s role in shaping Catholic theology. In this episode, we explore Saint Augustine’s philosophical evolution from a belief in the predestination of the heretical Manichaean sect to his conversion to the True Faith of free will, swayed finally by his mother’s tears and the sermons of Saint Ambrose. Along the way, we discuss how this debate continues to this day in popular shows like Devs and Loki, and how quantum physics and the multiverse could explain why some people believe we can manifest our own destiny. Recorded on the feast day of John-Francis Regis, patron saint of illegitimate children, lace makers, and social workers, we also learn about the history of the Jesuit order and how their focus on education continues to this day at the prestigious New York City Catholic school, Regis, named for this famously popular preacher who was known for his "indelicate language, satire, and savage invective."

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