In this episode Father Wolf examines recent high-profile killings and their spiritual implications, providing historical context and theological insight into how Christians should respond to cultural violence. He explores how ordinary people can be drawn to commit horrific acts and how faith offers protection against the pervasive evil of our time.

• Recent school shootings and assassinations capture headlines because they capture our interests and fears
• Historical perspective shows similar waves of political violence have occurred throughout history
• The demonic manifests not just supernaturally but through ideologies and movements that dehumanize
• Baptism serves as spiritual protection against pervasive evil, not merely a cultural tradition
• Violence can be attractive because it creates false unity and purpose in society
• Ordinary people can gradually accept and perpetrate atrocities when influenced by cultural currents
• Self-examination and repentance are essential first steps in countering cultural violence

"Our work always is to be present to and be responsive to the work of God in the world. That means that we cast our minds, our hearts and our souls into the hands of God to know his will and to do it, which is, after all, the passport to happiness and the pathway to heaven."

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Father Don Wolf is a priest of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Living Catholic also broadcasts on Oklahoma Catholic Radio several times per week, with new episodes airing every Sunday.