Kresta in the Afternoon

We hear often from listeners who want to thank Dr Ray Guarendi for the lessons he has taught them and their kids. But Ray would point to his own kids for many of the lessons he has learned. He explains why.

In his new memoir, Star Trek’s William Shatner recounts a recent trip he took into outer space: “when I looked into space, there was no mystery, not majestic awe to behold…all I saw was death.” For ages, scientists have asked why Earth has the very specific conditions necessary to support life. We talk more about this idea of the “goldilocks universe” with Karl Giberson.

In his letter to the Romans, St. Paul writes that he is not ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the Power of God for the salvation of all who believe. What happens when we put our Hope in the Gospel – in the truth of the Resurrection – rather than in the weaknesses of Man? Al discusses.

There are seven sacraments administered in the Catholic Church. What are they, and what do they do? Why do human beings require sacramentalized, visible realities to seal their confession of faith in Jesus Christ? Why does the Catholic Church administer the sacraments in the way that it does? Fr. Romanus Cessario joins us to unpack the mysteries of the sacraments.

When Monica Miller and her family visited Rome in 2004, they wanted to meet John Paul II – but it didn’t quite work out. A few months later, he died – and then Monica had a remarkable dream. She shares the story.

In the 20th century, three social revolutions--industrial, sexual, and technological--challenged the religious convictions of many. John Paul II's teaching on the Theology of the Body was his response to the resulting societal shifts. On this 45th anniversary of John Paul II’s election, Msgr. Brian Bransfield explores his reactions to the challenges raised by these revolutions.

This week and next, the Synod on Synodality is focusing on issues like LGBTQ inclusion and the possibility of opening the diaconate to women — some of the most contentious matters on the gathering’s monthlong agenda. But contrary to what some may have assumed, not all of the synod’s 364 delegates will have a chance to weigh in on these topics equally. Matthew Bunson has an update.

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus likens the Kingdom of Heaven to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, but none of the invited guests showed up. We unpack its teachings with Peggy Stanton.

The book of Revelation states that Satan has declared war on “those who keep the commandments of God and bear testimony to Jesus.” For those who love our Lord Jesus Christ and strive to follow Him, we must contend with a powerful enemy who is out to destroy us and everyone we love. Are you prepared for this battle? Fr. Ken Geraci joins us.

On Sunday we will celebrate the feast of the great Doctor of the Church, St. Teresa of Avila. We get to know more about her with Anthony Lilles.