Why does the Ascension of Jesus—one of the great feasts of the Church—end up celebrated on a Sunday in most dioceses, while others keep it on Thursday? And what does that tell us about our faith, traditions, and the challenges of Holy Days of Obligation? Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack the significance of the Ascension within the Paschal Mystery, showing why it’s more than just a “tag-on” after Easter, but a powerful reminder of Christ’s victory and our shared destiny in Him.
But as usual, sports, movies, and mild chaos before the theology kicks in. Join them as they recap the NBA and NHL playoffs, share stories from the Indy 500, Monaco Grand Prix, and Coca-Cola 600, and offer a review of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning (complete with seat mix-ups and a D-Box adventure). They also chat about Father Dave’s solo Thai food outing, pay tribute to the late George Wendt—aka Norm from Cheers—and reflect on how these everyday moments can point us toward joy, gratitude, and community.
The episode wraps with humor, brotherhood, and a reminder that no matter where you are—whether at a car race, a movie theater, or Mass on Sunday—our true hope is in Jesus Christ. And yes, the Topps Pope Leo XIV baseball card is still on their wish list.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Playoff Plot Twists, Fast Cars, and Father Dave’s Almost-Trip to the Indy 500
Father Dave and Deacon Bob kick off the episode with a rundown of the latest sports headlines, including the Pacers and Knicks battling in the NBA playoffs, and the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers making waves in the NHL. They also discuss the excitement surrounding the Indy 500, the Monaco Grand Prix, and the Coca-Cola 600.
(12:07) Movie Review: Mission Impossible + Solo Movie Etiquette
Father Dave recounts his solo movie theater adventure to see Mission Impossible: Final Reckoning, complete with a funny seating mishap and his first-ever D-Box chair experience. They reflect on the perks (and occasional awkwardness) of going to the movies alone, and whether movie theaters are best for deep conversations or just a chance to unwind.
(20:03) Thai Food, Pity Tips, and Remembering Norm
The conversation shifts to Father Dave’s recent solo Thai food experience—one of the best meals he’s ever had, which he may or may not have posted about on Instagram—and a reflection on how dining alone can be a quiet joy. They also pay tribute to the late George Wendt (Norm from Cheers)and share laughs about a show that captured the essence of community in the most unexpected places.
(26:13) Relics on Display and Catholic Curiosities
The hosts dive into the story of St. Teresa of Avila’s relics being publicly displayed, exploring the beauty, reverence, and quirkiness of Catholic traditions. They discuss how relics inspire faith, connect us to the saints, and remind us that the Church is both ancient and alive.
(28:41) Thursday or Sunday? The Ascension’s Place in the Paschal Mystery
Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack why the Ascension is a crucial part of the Paschal Mystery, how it’s celebrated differently across dioceses, and why it’s much more than just a calendar quirk. They encourage listeners to see these Holy Days as not just “rules to follow” but as moments to pause, celebrate, and remember the story of salvation.
(37:45) Closing Blessings, Pentecost Prep, and Hope in the Everyday
The episode wraps with reflections on Pentecost, Holy Days of Obligation, and staying grounded in faith—whether you’re at a playoff game, a movie theater, or wrangling kids at home. Father Dave offers a prayer for graduates, families, and the entire They That Hope community, with a reminder that hope is our anchor—on Thursdays, Sundays, or any day in between.
Resources Mentioned
Steubenville Conferences – SteubenvilleConferences.comDiscipleship Quads – dquads.comTopps Pope Leo XIV Baseball CardListen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.
