Saint John the Baptist

Saint Thomas Aquinas is considered perhaps the greatest Catholic theologian in history. He's a Doctor of the Catholic Church and in this episode we did into his thoughts about faith and reason and the theological virtues.

A look at the rich traditions on the Catholic Church behind the popular Advent hymn "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"

The liturgical year has begun, marking the start of Advent, a time of anticipation and reflection leading up to Christmas. In this episode, the focus is on the significance of Advent and the nativity scene within the Catholic faith. We discuss the meaning of the nativity scene, its history, and its theological importance. The first nativity scene, created by Saint Francis of Assisi in Greccio, Italy, in 1223, is discussed as a powerful tool for evangelization and a reminder of the incarnation, poverty, and adoration. The nativity scene is described as a silent witness that counteracts the noise and consumerism of the modern world.

This episode emphasizes the biblical and papal teachings on the dignity and wisdom of old age, contrasting societal values that prioritize youth and marginalize the elderly. It calls for a reevaluation of how society views and treats the elderly, citing wisdom from scripture, Saint Augustine, and recent popes, who have all underscored the importance of cherishing and learning from the elderly as a vital part of our community and spiritual life.

The Church celebrates two new Canonized Saints—Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis, both young laymen who died early in life. Their stories inspire all of us, but especially young Catholics.

In this episode of the Saint John the Baptist Catholic Parish podcast from Fort Lauderdale, listeners are updated on various parish activities and resources. The episode then delves into the significance of the Psalms in Catholic tradition, describing them as the church's ancient prayer book and an integral part of the liturgy of the hours. The Psalms are portrayed as a source of comfort and strength, resonating with human experiences and emotions, and are recommended for personal spiritual growth and evangelization. The episode concludes with encouragement to integrate the Psalms into daily life and to share the faith with others.

On this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of Saint James the Greater, celebrated by the Catholic Church on July 25. Born in Galilee to Zebedee and Salome, James was a fisherman who became one of the first disciples called by Jesus to become a "fisher of men." Known for his fiery temper, which earned him and his brother John the nickname "sons of thunder," James was part of Jesus' inner circle, witnessing pivotal moments such as the Transfiguration and the Agony in the Garden. His commitment to spreading the gospel led to his martyrdom in Jerusalem around 44 AD, making him the first apostle to die for his faith.

In this episode of the St John the Baptist Parish Podcast, we explores the theological roots of the papacy from the Gospel of Matthew, emphasizing the authority granted to Peter and its continuation through the bishops and the pope today. Practical ways for Catholics to engage with their faith are discussed, including praying for the pope, adhering to church doctrines, participating in the sacraments, and engaging in devotional practices.

In this episode, we delve into the significance of the month of May in the Catholic Church, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Positioned between the feasts of Easter and Pentecost, this feast commemorates Mary's role at the foot of the cross, where she accepted her son's testament of love and became the mother of all humanity. Throughout her life, from the Annunciation to her Assumption, Mary exemplified humility, obedience, and the courage to follow God's will, serving as a model for all disciples in bringing Jesus to a suffering world. The episode also covers the recent and surprising election of a new pope, Cardinal Robert Prevost from Chicago, who has taken the name Pope Leo XIV.

In this episode, we delve into the significance of Holy Week, starting with Palm Sunday, and then walking through each of the days of the Pascal Triduum.