Holy Banter: St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church Podcast

Matt and Colleen Deryckere share the heartbreaking story of their firstborn son Ryan, whose short life changed everything. From an emergency delivery and time in the NICU at Riley, to planning a funeral no parent imagines, they talk honestly about anger, sorrow, and the slow work of healing. Along the way, they share how Ryan’s baptism, a late–night visit from a priest, and the love of their community opened the door to Colleen’s conversion, renewed faith, and a family mission of remembrance and hope.

Fresh from hours of silence, Annie and Christina talk with Fr. Huemmer about discerning God’s voice, the beauty of Ignatian spirituality, and how retreats shape a deeper life of prayer. He reflects on his vocation story, the movements of the heart, and why moments of stillness can lead us closer to Christ.

Three longtime friends from St. Alphonsus—Penny Edmondson, Carol Pata, and Barbara Carpentier—sit down with Christina and Annie to share how faith and friendship have shaped their lives. From Bible study to daily Mass routines, pilgrimage bracelets to bereavement ministry, these “Soul Sisters” reveal how laughter, service, and total trust in God sustain them through joy and hardship. A warm, funny, and tender conversation about living faith out loud.

In this heartfelt episode of Holy Banter, Abby and Dexter share a moving story of faith, honest communication, joyful engagement, and the profound reality of love after loss.

Abby reflects on how her late husband Kyle continues to shape her understanding of marriage, while Dexter embraces their new beginning with grace and steadfast commitment. Together, they remind us that one love doesn’t replace another — it generously expands.

Join Christina and Annie for a tender and inspiring conversation with Abby and Dexter as they explore the sacred work of preparing for a lifetime together.

From their Youngstown courtship to a lifetime of serving others, these loving grandparents show how small, steady practices—prayer, presence, and humor—carry a marriage. Soft laughs, simple wisdom, and a gentle nudge to trust God’s plan.

In this episode, Fr. Matthew Kalu shares his remarkable journey from rural Nigeria to parish life in Indiana. He reflects on his upbringing during the Nigerian Civil War, the influence of Irish missionaries, and the communal culture that shaped his faith. Fr. Matthew discusses the challenges and blessings of ministering in a new country, the importance of catechists in passing on the faith, and the beauty of hospitality across cultures. With humor, joy, and gratitude, he reveals how the universality of the Church connects us all—from village compounds in Nigeria to Coffee and Donuts in Zionsville.

Join us for a conversation with Lauren Lawson, Director of Liturgical Music, as she shares how faith and music shape her ministry. From the joy of the Children’s Choir to the solemn beauty of the Service of Shadows, Lauren reflects on building community through worship, preparing for Holy Week, and the importance of hospitality in every liturgical moment.

In this heartfelt episode of Holy Banter, we sit down with Laura Shuler to explore her journey of faith, community, and parenting within the Catholic Church. Laura opens up about the joys and challenges of raising children while nurturing a deep connection to God. She shares how her empathy shapes her ministry in religious education, the importance of building emotional connections, and the ways community support has guided her through seasons of growth and hardship.

Together, we discuss the evolving role of religious education, the value of Christ-like friendships, and the courage it takes to let go as a parent and trust God. From engaging families in faith to fostering events like Journey to the Manger, Laura’s story highlights the power of community, service, and the joy found in living out one’s faith.

In this episode, we sit down with Dan Nield and Chuck Wright to explore That Man Is You, a dynamic new men's ministry launching at St. Alphonsus. Together, we unpack the power of brotherhood, the role of vulnerability in faith, and why authentic connection is essential for men seeking spiritual growth.

Through honest conversation and shared personal journeys, Dan and Chuck reflect on the challenges men face in expressing emotion, building community, and deepening their relationship with Christ. Whether you’re new to men’s ministry or looking to reignite your faith, this episode offers encouragement, insight, and a compelling invitation to step out of your comfort zone.

Key themes: masculinity, Catholic faith, vulnerability, community, spiritual growth, That Man Is You.

In this episode of Holy Banter, Annie and Christina welcome guests Rachel Christianson, Emily Mason, and Tish Cronin to introduce She Shall Be Called Woman—a new Catholic women’s ministry rooted in community, hospitality, and spiritual growth. Together, they discuss the vision behind the ministry, its welcoming structure, and how it creates space for meaningful fellowship, prayer, and support among women of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a seasoned participant in women’s groups or simply searching for a place to belong, this conversation will inspire you to step into community and deepen your faith journey.