Yooper Catholic Podcast

Pope St. John Paul II's 1984 letter on the Christian meaning of human suffering is still a relevant message, especially after this year of suffering. In this episode, Father Ryan begins to look at the redemptive purposes of suffering, and the reasons for our Lenten fasting and self-denial.

Jesus and St. Paul prioritize the healing of souls and casting out demons by preaching the Good News of the Father's love. The Gospel gives meaning and purpose and hope in a dark and hopeless world. In this episode, Father Ryan reflects on the Gospel message in the midst of this pandemic.

Jesus is the 'prophet like Moses' who teaches with his divine authority. His teaching has power to liberate us from the grip of evil, if we listen and respond with obedient faith and action. Jesus' power is available to us in the Sacraments, especially Confession. In this episode, Father Ryan explains how we can respond to the Lord and live in freedom.

Jesus calls us to respond to his voice and not delay! Through his Word in Scripture and the needs of other people, God calls us to show our faith and love through our actions. In this episode, Father Ryan explores how we can do this, and how we can bring others to God as 'fishers of men.'

In this week's Gospel from John chapter 1, John gives us the image of staying with Jesus as one meaning of faith. Like Samuel, we're called to stay by Jesus' side, listening, asking questions, seeking his will, and responding as we see what he wants us to do. In this episode, Father Ryan explains how we're called to listen and serve the Lord.

Jesus' baptism is his kingly anointing that begins his reign over God's kingdom. The Holy Spirit's mission is to bring Jesus' kingly reign to our hearts and set us free from captivity to our unruly passions and desires. In this episode, Father Ryan reflects on the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Jesus embodies the love and wisdom of God for us, a wisdom and learning higher than worldly knowledge. In this episode, Father Ryan reflects on the Magi's journey of encounter with love and wisdom incarnate.

As we enter in Advent, the themes of darkness and light are symbolized by the Advent wreath. In a world of darkness, we are called to be the light of the world! As we wait for Christ's coming at Christmas and at the end of history, we are to stand out and shine with the glory of God. In this episode, Father Ryan discusses what kind of people we are to be as we wait.

Christ the King calls us to join in his rule as a good shepherd over our own realms of responsibility and areas of influence. Through the works of mercy, we can extend his kingdom over all the earth. In this episode, Father Ryan reflects on our roles as Christ's kingly subjects.

Jesus tells the parable of the Talents to reveal to us what the 'final exam' of our life will be about and encourage us to make a good return for all we've been given. In this episode, Father Ryan explains how we can work hard and labor faithfully to bear good fruit for Jesus.