This week, as we continue our Advent journey, we're tackling a profound and often challenging topic: forgiveness. We all know God's boundless mercy, but what about our own capacity to forgive others – especially those who may not even be sorry, or who have caused deep, lasting wounds?Join us as we dive into:The Parable of the Wicked Servant: Discover why Jesus' powerful story isn't just about debt, but about the overwhelming freedom found in letting go.The Danger of Presumption: Are we taking God's forgiveness for granted, and how does that impact our ability to forgive our neighbor?The Self-Inflicted Prison of Unforgiveness: Why holding onto bitterness hurts YOU more than the person you're angry with, and how it can damage all your relationships.Forgiving the "Unforgivable": Practical insights into extending mercy, even when reconciliation seems impossible or unwanted by the other party.A "Spiritual Exercise" in Forgiveness: How everyday offenses can become powerful opportunities for spiritual growth.The True "Christmas Gift": Consider giving the gift of forgiveness this season – not for them, but for your own peace.YouTube Chapters (Revised - Fewer Chapters):0:00 Introduction: Advent, Forgiveness, and God's Amazing Plan2:12 The Parable of the Wicked Servant: A Call to Forgive Immense Debts5:52 The Foundation of Forgiveness: Our Own Need for God's Mercy8:04 Presumption vs. True Understanding of God's Forgiveness11:42 Who Leaves Who? Understanding Sin's Impact on Our Relationship with God13:19 Forgiving the Unforgivable: Jesus' Radical Command (Even When They're Not Sorry)18:56 The Self-Inflicted Prison: How Unforgiveness Harms You, Not Them21:28 The Barrier: Why Your Unforgiveness Blocks God's Grace24:43 Practical Steps: Extending Grace and Addressing Misunderstandings29:38 Running to Confession: Healing for Bitterness and Unforgiveness31:57 The Hardest Words: Saying "I'm Sorry" and "I Forgive You"33:32 The True Christmas Gift: Releasing Debt for Your Own Freedom34:41 The Eternal Stakes: Unforgiveness and Your Soul's Destiny37:27 Regifting God's Mercy: Open the Gift, Then Share the Freedom38:37 The Spillover Effect: Unaddressed Anger Affects Everything40:15 Conclusion & Prayer: Embracing Mercy and Finding PeaceMichael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!

Feeling the Christmas burnout before December 25th even arrives? You're not alone. The secular world has been in "Christmas mode" for months, but the Catholic Church offers a powerful antidote: the season of Advent.In this episode of the Trust in God Podcast, discover why Advent is not just a countdown, but a crucial "mini-Lent"—a penitential season of preparation for the TWO comings of Christ: His birth at Christmas and His Second Coming in glory. Learn how embracing a period of quiet anticipation, prayer, and small sacrifices can make your actual Christmas celebration infinitely more joyful and spiritually profound.We share practical, manageable tips to transform your holiday season—from how to set up your nativity scene to building spiritual habits that last all year. Ditch the holiday rush and learn the ancient secret to a truly amazing Christmas.Timestamps (YouTube Chapters):00:00:27 - Why Can't We Just Start Christmas on November 1st?01:17:10 - The Twofold Meaning of Advent: Christmas & The Second Coming05:38:10 - How Advent Prevents "Christmas Burnout"08:21:21 - The "Mini-Lent": How Advent is a Penitential Season10:23:16 - The Musician's Secret: How Quiet Preparation Makes the Celebration Louder17:26:20 - Practical Tip #1: A Simple Change to Your Decorations24:16:21 - The Power of Waiting: A Biblical History31:06:08 - A Priest's Personal Advent Practice36:44:02 - Use Advent to Build Spiritual Habits That Actually Last42:34:21 - A Fun (and Holy) Way to Watch Christmas MoviesFor more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!

Is it ever okay to skip Mass on Sunday? It's one of the most frequently asked questions in the Catholic faith, and the answer is more nuanced than a simple "yes" or "no." In this episode of the Trust in God Podcast, Father Bennett and Grant tackle the Sunday Obligation head-on.Discover why the Church's precepts are not restrictive rules, but loving "guardrails" designed to keep us on the path to heaven. We break down the crucial difference between intentionally "skipping" Mass and being legitimately freed from the obligation due to legitimate circumstances like serious illness, caring for the sick, or impossible travel situations.This episode offers a practical and compassionate guide for navigating real-life conflicts with Mass, from family sickness and youth sports to vacation planning. Learn why prioritizing your Sunday obligation is a powerful act of faith and how to keep the Lord's Day holy even when you cannot physically be at church. This is an essential listen for every Catholic seeking to live their faith with a sincere and well-formed conscience.Timestamps (YouTube Chapters):00:00:06 - The Sunday Obligation: Do I HAVE to Go?02:29:04 - The Church's Rules Are "Guardrails," Not Cages07:35:19 - When Are You Legally Freed from the Obligation?15:13:16 - Legitimate Reason #1: Serious Sickness18:58:11 - When Sports, Travel & Family Plans Conflict with Mass22:37:20 - "I Tried, But Couldn't Make It" - Is That a Valid Excuse?34:37:18 - Why Is Attending Mass So Vitally Important?45:32:21 - What If You Can't Receive Communion? You Still Must Attend.48:37:00 - Mass Times & Upcoming Holy Days of Obligation52:39:21 - A Prayer for Strength Against the Temptation to Skip MassFor more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!

Have you ever felt like your faith story wasn't "dramatic" enough? Or have you found yourself drifting away from the Church, wondering if you'd ever find your way back? In this powerful and honest episode of the Trusting God Podcast, co-host Grant shares his personal testimony.Raised as a cradle Catholic, Grant walks us through his unique journey: from a childhood rooted in the sacraments to years spent in the Baptist church where he developed a deep love for Scripture. He shares his experiences with various Protestant denominations, his calling into full-time music ministry, and the pivotal moment—seeing a friend's First Communion photos—that sparked a 12-year journey back home to the Catholic Church.This episode is a testament to the reality of "continuous conversion" and the welcoming, prodigal-son embrace of the Church. It's a must-listen for anyone who has been away, for those who feel "lukewarm," and for everyone who needs a reminder that God is always working to draw us closer to Himself, one step at a time.Timestamps (YouTube Chapters):00:00:06 - God's Miracles in the "Mundane"08:04:19 - Raised Catholic: The Grace of a Christian Home19:21:15 - The Subtle Sin of Self-Righteousness21:45:02 - My First Day at a Baptist Church25:04:07 - What Catholics Can Learn from a Baptist Love for the Bible33:08:10 - Exploring Other Denominations38:11:04 - The Call Back to Mass in College40:44:23 - The First Communion Photo That Changed Everything49:28:17 - What It's REALLY Like to Come Back to the Catholic Church53:36:23 - You Are Only One Confession Away From HomeFor more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!

Is a pilgrimage just a holy vacation, or is it something profoundly more? In this episode of the Trusting God Podcast, we explore the ancient Christian practice of pilgrimage and why it is a powerful tool for spiritual transformation.We are joined by special guest TJ Bogan of "Follow My Camino," an expert in organizing and leading pilgrimages to the Camino de Santiago. Together, we discuss the true meaning of being a pilgrim on a journey—both on earth and on our ultimate path to heaven. Discover the difference between a pilgrim and a tourist, and hear powerful stories of how the physical and spiritual challenges of a pilgrimage lead to humility, self-discovery, and a deeper relationship with Christ.Whether you're considering a major international journey to Rome, the Holy Land, or the Camino, or a simple trip to a local shrine, this episode will inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the transformative power of the pilgrim's path.Timestamps:00:00:06 - Why Go on a Pilgrimage?02:33:07 - Our Life is a Pilgrimage to Heaven04:15:12 - The Humbling Power of the Journey07:04:20 - Pilgrimages Are Not Just "Disguised Vacations"09:25:19 - Stories of Transformation from the Camino15:36:12 - The Critical Difference: Pilgrim vs. Tourist17:18:20 - The Importance of Rest and Contemplation24:39:18 - How to Choose a Good Pilgrimage (And What to Avoid)31:55:07 - You Don't Have to Go Far: The Power of Local Pilgrimages36:44:16 - The Danger of a Lukewarm Faith & The Call to ActionFor more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!

We might look like holy people, but we weren't born this way. In this deeply personal episode of the Trusting God Podcast, Father Bennett shares his powerful conversion story—a journey that took him from being an unbaptized 21-year-old college student to a Catholic priest.Discover the crucial role a Catholic school education played in planting a seed of faith, the teenage struggles of seeking answers in a secular world, and the pivotal moment before a crucifix at Midnight Mass that changed everything. Father Bennett walks us through his decision to finally call the church, his experience in RCIA, and the profound peace he found in the faith, especially in the wake of 9/11.This episode is a testament to the truth that conversion is not a one-time event, but a lifelong process of trusting God, being open to His formation, and actively participating in the life of the Church. It's an encouraging message for anyone who feels lost, is afraid to ask questions, or is a parent wondering how to pass on the faith.Timestamps:00:00:05 - Introduction: We Weren't Born This Way02:25:15 - A Priest's Backstory: Unbaptized Until Age 2105:49:09 - The Teenage Struggle & A Longing for Faith13:36:14 - The College Years: Seeing Faith in Action21:30:20 - The Turning Point: A Pivotal Midnight Mass Experience26:23:12 - God's Promise: Seek and You Will Find33:10:08 - Why Conversion is a Lifelong Process44:53:22 - The "Both/And" of Catholic Faith: Belief and Practice51:12:10 - Your Call to Action: Be Proactive in Your FaithFor more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!

Ever wonder what the Catholic Church actually teaches about the afterlife? In this episode of the Trusting God Podcast, we tackle one of life's biggest questions by exploring the Four Last Things: Death, Judgment, Heaven, and Hell.Join Father Bennett and Grant as they provide a clear and hopeful guide to what happens when we die. They demystify complex doctrines and separate Catholic teaching from common misconceptions like reincarnation or soul sleep. Discover the true meaning of death as the separation of body and soul, and the immediate reality of the Particular Judgment that every person faces.This episode also explores the role of the sacraments, especially the Anointing of the Sick, in preparing us to meet God with courage and faith. Learn about the unimaginable joy of Heaven as a perfect union with God and the tragic reality of Hell as an eternal, self-chosen separation from all that is good. This is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity and hope about our eternal destiny.Timestamps:00:00:06 - The Ultimate Question: What Happens After We Die?02:16:11 - The Catholic Definition of Death: Separation of Body & Soul06:03:22 - Can We Trust Near-Death Experiences (NDEs)?12:37:02 - Facing Judgment: What Every Soul Must Do19:03:04 - The Power of the Sacraments for the Dying (Anointing of the Sick)30:02:13 - The Objective Standard for Judgment: How Have You Loved?40:38:19 - What is Heaven REALLY Like? (Union with God)50:22:07 - What is Hell? (The Choice of Eternal Separation)55:01:00 - The Final Judgment and the Resurrection of the BodyFor more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!

Are you prepared for the end of life? This episode of the Trusting God Podcast offers a compassionate and comprehensive Catholic guide to preparing for death, both spiritually and practically.Join us as we explore the Catholic understanding of death, judgment, heaven, and hell, and discuss why our entire life is a preparation for eternity. We'll delve into the importance of the sacraments, especially Anointing of the Sick and Confession, not as a last resort, but as a source of grace and strength throughout our lives.Discover practical steps you can take now to ease the burden on your loved ones, from funeral planning to organizing your affairs. We address common questions about Catholic burial rites, cremation, and the importance of mourning and grieving. Learn how to approach these sensitive topics with faith and hope, ensuring your final wishes are known and respected.Whether you're planning for the distant future or facing a more immediate reality, this episode will provide you with the spiritual and practical tools to prepare for a peaceful death in God's grace.Timestamped Topics:00:00:04 - Introduction: Why We Should Prepare for Death01:28:13 - The Catholic Belief in the Resurrection and Afterlife05:40:23 - The Spiritual Side of Preparing for Death11:44:05 - Why You Shouldn't "Cram" for Your Final Judgment15:06:23 - The Importance of Sacraments in Sickness and Health25:26:06 - Practical Steps for End-of-Life Planning31:48:00 - The Importance of the Mourning Process37:30:06 - Planning Your Funeral and Communicating Your Wishes41:23:02 - Catholic Teaching on Cremation and Burial53:29:09 - How to Get Help with Your End-of-Life PlansFor more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!

"Well, actually... Christmas is just a pagan holiday." We've all heard it. As the holiday season approaches, this claim can cause confusion and doubt for Christians. Are Halloween, Christmas, and Easter just repurposed pagan rituals? And if so, should we even be celebrating them?In this powerful episode of the Trust in God Podcast, Father Bennett and Grant tackle this question head-on. They explore the rich history of how the Church engaged with different cultures, not by destroying them, but by "baptizing" their traditions and redeeming them for Christ—just as God redeems each one of us.Tune in to discover:A priest's definitive answer to the "Well, actually..." guy who says all our holidays are pagan.The brilliant way the Church "baptizes" pagan customs, revealing the truth they were pointing toward all along.How St. Paul's encounter with the "Unknown God" in Athens gives us a blueprint for evangelization.The surprising Christian meaning behind Christmas trees and the miraculous, culture-transforming story of Our Lady of Guadalupe.The modern danger of secularism creeping back in and paganizing our Christian holidays from the inside out.How to reclaim the holiday season for Christ by celebrating Advent and the full 12 Days of Christmas.This episode will equip you with the confidence and knowledge to celebrate our Christian holidays with deeper meaning and to use them as a powerful opportunity for evangelism.🛑 Take the Challenge: This holiday season, take an evangelistic view. Find one opportunity—whether it's at Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas—to gently remind someone of the true, Christ-centered reason we celebrate. Be a light, not a critic.Get Involved👍 Like: Help us spread this message of hope by hitting the LIKE button!🔄 Share: Pass this episode along to a friend or family member who has questions about the origins of our holidays.🔔 Subscribe: Join the Trust in God Podcast community on YouTube and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our faith-filled conversations!For more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=0f4944c2dfec45cbWe’re excited to grow with you!

Halloween is approaching, and with it comes a fascination with the occult, the demonic, and the supernatural. But are things like Ouija boards, horoscopes, and "lucky charms" just harmless fun, or are they opening dangerous doors to Satan and the occult?In this powerful episode of the Trust in God Podcast, Father Bennett and Grant confront the reality of spiritual warfare. They move beyond the Hollywood scares to discuss the subtle and real ways evil can enter our lives, and more importantly, the overwhelming victory we already have in Jesus Christ.Tune in to discover:Why the Church warns against occult practices (and the surprising danger of "harmless" superstitions).The "two-way door" of temptation: How we unknowingly invite darkness into our lives.The most powerful weapon you have against the devil (hint: it's not being an amateur exorcist).The most "demonic" thing Grant has ever seen (it's not what you think).Why Confession is the most powerful form of deliverance available to every Catholic.Don't fight this battle alone. Learn how to "flee to strength" and find true protection in the sacraments and the Word of God.🛑 Take the Challenge: Feel a little voice telling you not to go to Confession? That might be the very reason you need to go. Watch to find out why!👍 Like, Share, and Subscribe to help us spread the light of Christ and equip others for the spiritual battle.Get Involved👍 Like: Help us spread this message of hope by hitting the LIKE button!🔄 Share: Pass this episode along to a friend or family member who is thinking about how to best educate their children. 🔔 Subscribe: Join the Trusting God Podcast community on YouTube and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our faith-filled conversations!Connect with St. Michael the Archangel PastorateFor more resources and to deepen your faith journey, visit:🌐 Website: stmichaelpastorate.org📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): /staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): /sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: /stmichaelpastorate🎥 YouTube: /@st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow in faith with you! Tune in and let’s explore God’s plan together.