Many Churches also have relics of their patron saints which the faithful venerate on appropriate occasions. Relics remind us of the holiness of saints and their cooperation in God’s work; at the same time, relics inspire us to ask for the saints prayers

That was Fr. Joe's route to All Hallows HS in the Bronx, NY at age 13. On Part Two of our podcast, discussing National Catholic Schools Week, we talk about the impact that our Catholic education has left on our lives.

On today’s podcast, Fr. Joe takes us on a compelling ride. It’s “National Catholic Schools Week.” It was the nuns who taught Joe to speak English. It’s the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It started Sunday and runs all week.

The 2019 Amazon synod is coming into focus. The synod will address the difficulties of a region troubled by poverty, environmental decay and a lack of clergy. Several bishops and theologians in the Amazon region have proposed allowing married priests.

How many times a day do we say "I pray the roads aren't slippery" Or, "I pray the Detroit Lions win." Seriously, prayer is a discussion with God asking for a favor. I'll explain why this topic is suddenly a 'hot-button'. 

Just one in 10 millennial Catholics went to Catholic primary school, compared to 54 percent of Catholics born in the 40s and 50s. But, 12 percent of millennial Catholics attended a Catholic college or university, the highest percentage among any age group.

Just because I'm a Catholic and I believe in Heaven doesn't necessarily mean I’m looking forward to getting there. Is it OK for Christians to be afraid of dying? 

Great question. On today’s podcast my co-host admits to finding the liturgy a bit confusing. I do my best to explain that his quandary has been discerned by the Biblicum since it was founded by Pope Pius X in 1909. A compelling look at the scripture.

On Sunday we celebrate the Solemnity of the Baptism of Our Lord. This brings to an end the season of Christmas. The Baptism of Christ moves us to the sentiment of repentance. "Behold the Lamb of God, behold Him Who takes away the sin of the world".

The word Epiphany means manifestation. What the Church celebrates today is the manifestation of our Lord to the whole world; after being made known to the shepherds of Bethlehem He is revealed to the Magi who have come from the East to adore Him.