On Wednesday, Jan. 20, Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th president of the United States, only the second Catholic ever to hold the office.

Zac and Ashley are joined by Matt Malone, S.J., to discuss their reactions to President Biden’s inauguration—including the prayers offered by other Jesuits throughout the day. Father Malone is the editor in chief of America, worked in politics before joining the Jesuits and brings a historical and personal eye to the events of the week.

We’re happy to report that Pope Francis, Pope Emeritus Benedict and guests at the Vatican’s homeless shelter all received a vaccine for Covid-19, even as the Catholic Church, like the rest of the world, continues to lose leaders to the virus.

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Links from the show: 

Pope Francis sends greeting to President Biden, contrasting with sharper message from head of U.S. bishops

Joe Biden begins Inauguration Day with Mass

Read: The Invocation at the Inauguration of President Joe Biden

Joe Biden knows the grief of losing family—and how our pain can have a purpose.

Watch: Matt Malone, SJ interviews Joe Biden

What’s on tap? 

Cape Codder: Vodka and cranberry juice.

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