Question of Faith

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What happens when the Catholic Church calls for a rekindled devotion to the Eucharist amidst the challenges of a post-pandemic world? Join Deacon Mike Hayes, Fr. Damian Ference, and special guest Christy Cabaniss as they explore this profound question by diving into the National Eucharistic Congress and the past few years of the National Eucharistic Revival. Christy takes us through the origins and the three-year journey of the Revival, emphasizing its crucial role in renewing faith at the diocesan and parish levels. As we look forward to the Congress in Indianapolis, you'll gain fresh insights into the meticulous preparations for the Diocese of Cleveland's delegation, all while balancing efficiency and the "Ruthless Elimination of Hurry."

We talk about our goals for the diocese after the Congress and suggest ways to live a Eucharistic life in today's fast-paced world, integrating faith into everyday actions. Inspired by the Eucharist's call to extend mercy we reflect on Pope Francis' teachings on Mercy and explore the balance of personal salvation and the call of Christ to others on the margins, encouraging listeners to embrace a holistic Catholic mission.

Get ready for our fun game, "Scripture or Swift?" Plus, don't miss out on the latest church softball league updates and Church Search highlights an upcoming event at St. Albert the Great parish.

Scripture for this Sunday can be found here.

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The Catholic community in Akron and beyond came together to celebrate faith and unity at a bilingual Mass in Akron's Canal Park, commemorating the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. Despite weather setbacks in the past, this event was a resounding success with over 900 attendees. We highlight the importance of this celebration for the Puerto Rican community

Church Search: The stunning architecture and recent renovations at our host parish,  St. Bernard Church, where a Eucharistic procession added a sacred touch to the festivities. Father Rafael Capo gave a stellar homily as he visited us from the Archdiocese of Miami.

We talk about the joyous Juneteenth Mass at Glenview Park and nostalgic memories of childhood processions.

We proudly announce the Diocese of Cleveland’s first-place Catholic Media Award for our multi-language Eucharistic revival video, showcasing our team's dedication. Fr. Damian received an honorable mention for his book, Understanding the Hillbilly Thomist.

Plus check out Fr. Damian on Pints with Aquinas.

Fr. Damian points to this article from the Hollywood Reporter about the movie, Wildcat being named one of the best of the year.

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What if the way you respond when someone comes out to you could be a turning point in both their life and yours? In today's episode of "Question of Faith," we unpack the delicate art of responding with empathy and genuine love when someone shares intimate information. Deacon Mike Hayes, Father Damian Ference, and Maria Wancata bring their own heartfelt stories and wise counsel to the table. We discuss the powerful role of body language and initial reactions, offering guidance on how to handle these moments with the compassion that Christ teaches us. This isn't just about doing the right thing; it's about recognizing the sacredness of these revelations and embodying Christ's love, even when we may be surprised by what people tell us.

We delve into the profound connection between humanity and divinity, reflecting on how Jesus desires to be involved in every corner of our lives. Inspired by Pope Francis's teachings, we stress the importance of maintaining loving relationships, especially within families.  For more information go to dioceseofcleveland.org/humansexuality.


Church Search goes to St. Clare, home of the East Side's Theology on Tap program. 

This week’s readings can be found here.

Plus, hear about exciting events, including Deacon Mike's special Mass of Thanksgiving at La Sagrada Familia this weekend and our upcoming Ballpark Mass in Akron with a visit from Father Rafael Capo, the bodybuilding priest from Miami. 

Join us for an episode filled with wisdom, compassion, and a celebration of faith in action.

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How can you carve out more time for God this summer? Uncover practical tips from Father Damian, Deacon Mike, and special guest Hortensia Rodriguez that will help you disconnect from the constant buzz of technology and focus on your spiritual growth.

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Father Damian shares his retreat experience of turning off his phone to open up conversation with the divine.  Deacon Mike offers actionable steps to silence notifications during prayer if you're using a prayer app as well as not having his phone nearby during meals.

Hortensia brings a fresh perspective by highlighting the unique opportunities summer’s longer days provide for extended prayer sessions and contemplative activities, such as praying the rosary while walking on the beach.

Consistent prayer practices are the cornerstone of a deepened relationship with God. Explore how the daily examen can fit flexibly into your schedule, whether during a lunch break or before bedtime. We discuss the benefits of a distraction-free environment, the power of physical movement in enhancing your spiritual routine, and the inspiration that personal surroundings filled with meaningful items, like pictures, can bring. Drawing parallels between spiritual discipline and physical exercise, we underscore the supportive roles of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary in guiding your spiritual journey.

You'll get week one's Diocesan Softball Update as well.

Imagine spiritual growth as a slow, nurturing process akin to gardening—requiring patience, trust, and consistent care. Join us as we reflect on how summer offers a unique chance to relax and be open to God's voice in various ways. From writing and journaling during prayer to reflecting in tranquil settings like St. John Bosco's Adoration Chapel, this episode is filled with valuable insights to make your summer a time of profound connection with God. Listen in for practical advice, personal stories, and spiritual encouragement to enrich your spiritual journey.

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Join Deacon Mike and Fr. Eric Garris, Vocation Director for the diocese of Cleveland,  as they dive into the particulars around "XLT" in the Catholic faith—an inspiring blend of prayer, praise, and adoration that has captivated young hearts and minds. They unravel the evolution of both Life Teen and new practices in Eucharistic Adoration from the late 1990s to the present explaining how the shift towards worship-centric songs has revolutionized participation and engagement during these services.  XLT (Exalt) events merge contemporary worship music with traditional practices, creating an immersive spiritual experience that resonates deeply with today's young adults.

Church Search goes to St John Bosco in Parma Heights, which is also home to our diocesan softball league.

Pray for our National Eucharistic Revival in Indianapolis this July. 

West Side Wednesdays will take place on:
June 26 at St, John Cantius in Tremont.
July 24 at La Sagrada Familia in Cleveland.
August 21 at Our Lady of the Angels in Fairview Park.

Readings for this week can be found here.

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Trigger Warning: The Episode contains references to Suicide and Sudden Death.  

What happens when faith leaders are faced with challenging moments on which they must preach?  Join us on this heartfelt episode of "Question of Faith" as Deacon Mike Hayes and Father Damian Ference open up about the profound and often difficult experiences of delivering homilies on sensitive topics. From the poignant eulogy for a dear friend to navigating the delicate subject of teenage pregnancy in an affluent parish community, these clergy members share their most personal stories and the emotional complexities of their vocation.

In this episode we discuss the intricate balance required when addressing controversial and emotionally charged issues, such as unintended pregnancies or funerals for individuals with controversial pasts. Our conversation sheds light on how these tough moments can be transformative for both the preacher and the congregation.

We also take you to two churches this week:
St. Anthony in Akron and St. James in Lakewood which are two of our 9 Nights of Night Prayer parishes. 

Plus the readings for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ.

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Gazing up at the sky, the moment the sun hid behind the moon, something shifted within us—a connection that went beyond a scientifc phenomenon  into a moment of prayer.  Deacon Mike,  Father Damian and Father Eric Garris unpack this celestial spectacle they shared together in Cleveland, and its profound effect on each of them. Aligning with the Feast of the Annunciation, our hearts and minds were opened as we learned the subtle yet powerful distinction between being in totality and being only 98%.  The teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola guide our conversation, illuminating the call to embrace and share the Gospel, stirred by our shared observance of the eclipse.  We talk about pictures and we talk about the value of keeping and returning to pictures on our phone.  What's the first picture on your phone?

Church search:  St. Agnes in Orrville, OH will host 9 Nights of Night Prayer.

Readings for Trinity Sunday.   

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Meet Gianna Koser, not your everyday teenager, but a Catholic whose soulful testament to spirituality and heritage has earned her the Christus Vivit National Youth Award. In a heartfelt conversation, she shares her aspirations, the cultural tapestry of her Slovenian and Lebanese lineage, and how these threads weave into the fabric of her devotion. Gianna's story is a crescendo of youthful exuberance and pious dedication, a narrative that will inspire as she stands on the cusp of new beginnings at the University of Dayton.

The whisper of prayer in a secluded chapel and the jubilant chorus of a parish celebration—these are the moments that define our liturgical life. Join us as we discuss how we honored Sister Jane Nesmeth's 60th jubilee. 
Cari Reagan transitions to a new role at St Basil’s .  A brief look at the Pentecost readings.

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The newly ordained Deacon Mike Hayes along with Fr. Damian Ference unpack Mike's ordination to the permanent diaconate.

Mike explores many of the highlights of the day as we explain what the indelible mark that priests and deacons receive in the sacrament of Holy Orders as they are ontologically changed in the sacrament.

If you'd like to see for yourself:

Mike's Ordination

Mike's Mass of Thanksgiving at St Christopher Parish in Rocky River, OH

We'll even talk about the socks on Mike's feet along with all the marks of the ordination rite.   What spoke most to Mike and what moments were touching for his classmates. 

Mike will be serving as a Deacon at St. Christopher in Rocky River, painting a vivid image of the future that awaits in his journey of faith and service.

Readings for Ascension can be found here.

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Del Sherman, a candidate for the diaconate and one of Mike's classmates joins us this week.  Del runs a family drive-in movie theater.  He opens up about his journey from being a nominal Catholic to a devoted candidate in the Deaconate Formation Program.

We navigate through the biblical history of a deacon's role, delving into St. Stephen's early role as the first deacon.  While service defines a deacon's call in ministry they also have a role in the liturgy.  As we traverse Del's tale, we illuminate the crucial yet often overlooked support system that wives provide to deacon candidates, as marriage remains a primary vocation for married Deacons.

Picture a group of six future deacons, each with a distinctive story and a shared destination. This episode doesn't just highlight the journey of these men, but also the silent strength of their wives, who are pillars in the formation process. From classes to parish involvement, their consent and dedication are critical to these men's success.

The Church search heads to Our Lady, Help of Christians, a unique parish with 4 sites: 

LITCHFIELD
9608 Norwalk Rd.
Litchfield, OH 44253
(330)722-1180

LODI
8240 Buffham Rd.
Lodi, OH 44254*
(330)948-3500**

SEVILLE
60 High St.
Seville, OH 44273*
(330)769-3831**

NOVA
240 State Route 511
Nova, OH 44859*
(419)652-3931**

 Their pastor Fr. Ed also bakes an award-winning pie.

A New feature:  "Scripture or Swift."  5 quotes that are either from Taylor Swift songs or the Book of Lamentations.

As we wrap up, we invite you to join us in marking your calendars for the upcoming ordination on May 4th at the Cathedral and note the ordinandi's new assignments (given to them post-recording):

Mike Hayes, St. Christopher, Rocky River
Ed Linsky, Holy Spirit, Cleveland
Christopher Loxterman, St. John Vianney, Mentor
Del Sherman, St. Peter AND St. Julie Billiart, North Ridgeville
Mark Tomecko, St. Francis Xavier, Medina
John Zarbo, St. Anthony of Padua, Fairport Harbor

Don't forget to send your questions of Faith to [email protected].

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