Greater Things with J.D. McQueen and Fr. Barry Cuba

Join Fr. Barry Cuba and J.D. McQueen as they open the doors to a deeper understanding of one of the Church's most beloved saints—St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Through her humble yet profound "Little Way," Thérèse invites us to encounter God's love in the simplicity of our daily lives. Fr. Barry and J.D. lay a beautiful foundation, showing how this Doctor of the Church has the power to transform us as we dive deeper into her teachings. Discover how her life and spirituality connect to our own in new and powerful ways, leading us closer to holiness.

Don’t miss this inspiring episode, where you’ll find yourself drawn into a fresh perspective on St. Thérèse’s impact, not just as a historical figure, but as a guide for our modern journey of faith.

This one is a bit longer, so feel free to divide it up and listen when you have free time!

J.D. and Fr. Barry talk about movies, Peter Pan and happy thoughts, and continue their discussion about how giving in whatever way a person can is a beautiful and worthy response to God's goodness, love, and mercy.

Fr. Barry and J.D. discuss the concept of receiving gifts from God and what happens when these gifts are freely shared with others. When you enter into the flow of blessings, you will find yourself and your purpose and often be surprised by joy.

Catching up after summer activities, Fr. Barry Cuba and J.D. McQueen discuss a topic and activity seen every day in the life of the Church: Blessings. What happens when someone or something is blessed and how can blessings have a profound impact on our lives?

Fr. Barry and J.D. speak about their study and experience of the three traditional stages of the interior life of one who is seeking God: the purgative way, the illuminative way, and the unitive way.

J.D. and Fr. Barry introduce a topic that can sometimes be confusing, and even a bit personal, to Catholics - the difference between public and private revelation.

Public revelation is God's self-disclosure to all people.

Various devotions and piety exist within the Catholic Church due to its global nature and long history; but what beliefs are essential to our faith and lead us to salvation?

Fr. Barry also speaks a bit to his new role as Chaplain for Austin Community College.

This talk explores the distinction between public and private revelation in Catholicism. Public revelation, found in Scripture and Tradition, is essential for salvation. Private revelation, given to individuals or groups, is not necessary for salvation but can deepen faith.

The Church carefully examines private revelations to ensure they align with public revelation and do not introduce new doctrines. While private revelations can be powerful, they should not overshadow the central role of public revelation and the sacraments.

The talk emphasizes the importance of humility, discernment, and the Church's guidance in navigating the complexities of private revelation.

Marian Devotion

The talk also discusses Marian devotion, acknowledging its popularity but cautioning against excessive attachment to particular devotions. It encourages a balanced approach, rooted in Scripture and Tradition, and guided by the Church's teachings.

J.D. and Fr. Barry consider a listener's insightful question about why we sing the Gloria. They also discuss how worship is like training camp: an intense, focused period of preparation so that when we who have worshiped walk out of the Church and into the world, we can recognize God in it and respond in faith to whatever life may throw at us.

Veteran players often mentor those new to the team during training camp. Developing that same attitude towards those new to the church, welcoming them with experience and mentorship, can build community and connection.

Another image of the Church is used by Pope Francis and others, that of a field hospital. The Church forms and trains disciples, but it's also a place for the wounded to heal, a respite for those who may be bruised or injured by the world. J.D. and Fr. Barry share their experience of worship as an encounter with Christ the healer and Divine Physician.

Fr. Barry and J.D. continue their exploration (and explication?) of a solid Catholic understanding of worship. Why do we "have to go" to Mass? How can we participate fully, actively, and consciously in the liturgy so that worship is a transformative experience instead of a repetitive responsibility? We hope this episode will have you thinking about Mass in a new way and attending Mass with a new sense of awe!

Worship as a Relationship

The Significance of Mass in Worship

Noble Simplicity in Religious Worship

Understanding the Mass and its Impact on Our Lives

Staying in Love and Understanding God's Blessings

Faith in God's Plan

"Nothing is more practical than finding God, that is,

than falling in love in a quite absolute final way.

What you are in love with,

what seizes your imagination,

will affect everything.

It will decide what will get you out of bed in the morning,

what you do with your evenings,

how you spend your weekend,

what you read, who you know,

what breaks your heart,

and what amazes you with joy and gratitude.

Fall in love,

stay in love,

and it will decide everything." -Fr. Pedro Arrupe

The podcast explores various aspects of Christianity, including the concept of God, the importance of prayer, and the process of discerning a vocation in the church.

Topics covered include:

Links:

• Father Mary Mary Ames : The Father Meditations — In The Father: 30 Meditations to Draw You into the Heart of God, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR, leads readers through a 30-day journey that unveils the boundless love of God the Father, who has “a plan of sheer goodness” for each of us (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1).
• Litany of Trust by Sr. Faustina Maria Pia — The Litany of Trust is a prayer composed by Sr. Faustina Maria Pia, SV. In it, we ask Jesus to deliver us from the things that hold us bound, and we place our trust in His promises.
• Jesus, I Trust in You: A 30-Day Personal Retreat with the Litany of Trust — We were made for love, and love requires trust. In Jesus I Trust in You: A 30-Day Personal Retreat with the Litany of Trust, Sr. Faustina Maria Pia, S.V., learn what it means to place our trust in Jesus—no matter the circumstances.