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I was baptized Lutheran by my Lutheran mother and Baptist father before being sent to a Methodist preschool. In kindergarten, I was sent to a Catholic school. Eight years later, I chose to become Catholic and was confirmed in the faith.&nbsp;
I was only 13 when I became Catholic, so it was more of an emotional decision. I was moving toward what seemed more familiar. However, when I was in college, I decided to do a full evaluation of the Catholic faith. If I was going to be Catholic, I needed to know why.&nbsp;
Should we base our faith on Scripture alone? Should Church history matter? What is God's will in all of this?&nbsp;
In today's podcast, I explain the top reasons as to why I choose to be Catholic instead of Protestant.&nbsp;
This is part one. Stay tuned for part two coming out next week!&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.hallow.com/seekingexcellence">Start your free trial with Hallow here!&nbsp;</a>
<a href="//thosewhoseek.org">Sign up for the Seeking Excellence Newsletter here!&nbsp;</a>

Ep 112 | Catholic vs. Protestant: Why Am I Catholic?

Episode 199: What Could I Possibly Have to Offer Jesus? 

This week John dives into our feeling of having nothing to offer. Jesus fed the 5000 with just a few loaves of bread that a boy offered, so why do we doubt what he can do with us? You were born for a REASON! Listen to this episode to find out how to live into that reason! 

In this episode, John points out:

- The devil tells you to “sit back down” and discount your gifts
- A “yes” to Jesus leads to abundance
- Living in the scriptures is CRUCIAL
- You gotta quit thinking about your poverty.  

#Catholic #Podcast #JustaGuyinthePew #Littleness #Ministry #Men #Evangelization #Offering #Christian #Christianity #Jesus #Trust #Scripture #Gift

DOWNLOADS
Get a copy of my new eBook, “12 Ways Guys Can Get Closer to Jesus”! HTTPS://JUSTAGUYINTHEPEW.COM/EBOOK

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What Could I Possibly Have To Offer Jesus?

Two young saints, one who loved mountaineering and the other rocked Nike sneakers: Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati prove holiness doesn’t mean leaving normal life behind—it means living it to the fullest with Christ. 

Father Dave and Deacon Bob reflect on Pope Leo’s homily at the canonization Mass for these two young Italians and explore why so many saints begin saying yes to God in their youth. 
True to They That Hope form, they take a lap through the weekend in sports, from NFL openers to U.S. Open storylines to the eternal LeBron vs. Jordan debate. Then they settle into the title’s theme: modern sanctity. Carlo’s wisdom (“In front of the sun you get a tan; in front of the Eucharist, you become a saint”) and Frassati’s cry “to the heights!” frame a simple invitation: say yes to the Lord today. 
They close with campus updates, a prayer, and a warm invitation to share your favorite podcast memories. Saints Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, pray for us! 
 
Highlighted Sections 
(00:29) Jubilee of Hope and Merch Madness  
Father Dave and Deacon Bob kick things off with playful banter about sponsors, <a href='https://www.iubilaeum2025.va/en.html'>the Jubilee Year of Hope</a>, and whether the pope might be a secret podcast listener. They also remind everyone there’s one last chance to snag They That Hope merch, <a href='https://www.catholictothemax.com/our-partners/they-that-hope-mug-that-heather-khym-illegally-stole-from-deacon-bobs-house-and-vandalized-with-abiding-together-propaganda/'>including the highly prized Heather Khym mug, at CatholicToTheMax.com.</a> 
(07:24) NFL, Tennis, and the LeBron vs. Jordan Debate  
They next jump into sports to discuss the <a href='https://www.nfl.com/schedules/2025/reg1/'>NFL’s opening weekend</a>, recap the <a href='https://www.usopen.org/en_US/about/eventschedule.html'>US Open finals</a>, and, of course, argue over <a href='https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/tag/the-basketball-100/'>The Athletic’s “Basketball 100.”</a> Jordan or LeBron? The debate continues. 
(15:47) Franciscan Homecoming Preview  
Campus is buzzing for <a href='https://encounter.franciscan.edu/portal/homecoming'>Homecoming Weekend</a> with chapel tours, a St. Francis Festival, and alumni reunions. Father Dave and Deacon Bob share details on the newly renovated <a href='https://chapel.franciscan.edu/'>Christ the King Chapel</a> and joke about who may—or may not—be getting awards at the banquet. (<a href='https://encounter.franciscan.edu/portal/homecoming'>Pssst, sign up to join Homecoming here.</a>) 
(21:43) Five Years of Movies, Memes, and Memories  
Looking back on the podcast’s run, the hosts laugh about their obsessions (<a href='https://hamiltonmusical.com/new-york/'>Hamilton,</a> <a href='https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Top_Gun'>Top Gun,</a> <a href='https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Widow_(2021_film)'>Black Widow</a>) and reflect on milestones from solar eclipses to campus life during COVID. They recall both joyful and sobering moments, always framed through the lens of hope. 
(26:16) Modern Saints for Modern Times  
Next, they move into the heart of the episode: celebrating the <a href='https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2025/09/07/250907a.html'>canonizations of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati</a>. Father Dave and Deacon Bob highlight the families present in Rome, the youthful joy of both saints, and the reminder that holiness often begins with a simple yes lived in ordinary life. 
(32:54) Carlo’s Wisdom in His Own Words  
“In front of the sun you get a tan; in front of the Eucharist, you become a saint!” The hosts share Carlo’s best lines on joy, sin, and holiness, and <a href='https://churchlifejournal.nd.edu/articles/blessed-carlo-acutis-and-the-many-miracles-of-the-eucharist/'>revisit his Eucharistic Miracles project</a> as a reminder of how young people enrich the Church. 
(35:37) Prayer and Sending Forth  
The episode closes with gratitude for these new saints, a prayer for their intercession, and a heartfelt thank-you to listeners. As the season draws to a close, Father Dave and Deacon Bob invite fans to send memories and well-wishes to <a href='mailto:Hope@Franciscan.edu'>Hope@Franciscan.edu</a>. 
 
Resources Mentioned  
<ul>
<li><a href='https://www.catholictothemax.com/our-partners/they-that-hope-mug-that-heather-khym-illegally-stole-from-deacon-bobs-house-and-vandalized-with-abiding-together-propaganda/'>They That Hope Mug that Heather Khym Illegally Stole from Deacon Bob's House and Vandalized with Abiding Together Propaganda</a>— purchase your own at CatholicToTheMax.com. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href='https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/tag/the-basketball-100/'>“The Basketball 100”</a>— from The Athletic  </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href='https://faithandreason.com/'>FaithAndReason.com</a> — more Catholic content from Franciscan University </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href='https://encounter.franciscan.edu/portal/homecoming'>Homecoming Weekend</a>— learn more about Franciscan’s upcoming homecoming from September 26-28, 2025 </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href='https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2025/09/07/250907a.html'>Papal Chapel with the Rite of Canonization of Blesseds Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis</a>— Pope Leo’s canonization homily </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href='https://churchlifejournal.nd.edu/articles/blessed-carlo-acutis-and-the-many-miracles-of-the-eucharist/'>“Blessed Carlo Acutis and the Many Miracles of the Eucharist”</a> by Timothy P. O’Malley— learn more about the Eucharistic Miracles project inspired by St. Carlo Acutis </li>
</ul>

Saints for Our Time

Recording on the move along the Adriatic, the guys sit down in Italy with their spiritual guide and friend Fr. Stuart Crevecour to talk about Eucharistic adoration—what it is, why it matters, and how to begin. From stories of Eucharistic miracles in Cascia and Orvieto to practical advice for dads bringing kids to the chapel, this episode explores how adoration “holds a moment of the Mass” so Christ can transform our week. Along the way: pilgrimage anecdotes, incorrupt saints, and a few dad-joke detours.<h2>Segment Guide</h2>On the Road (and Sea): Why This Episode Is DifferentFirst-ever episode recorded in transit—pilgrimage vibes, College GameDay energy, and what a Jubilee year in Italy feels like.Eucharistic Miracles: From Casual Irreverence to Deep ConversionThe bleeding breviary in Cascia and the miracle preserved in Orvieto become cautionary tales—and catalysts—for reverence and faith.What Adoration Is (and Isn’t)Fr. Stuart offers a simple frame: adoration as a moment of the Mass held in contemplation—the elevation “stretched” so we can gaze and be changed.Does It Really Do Anything? Why GoFrom “just try it” to “I can’t live without my hour,” we hear how steady time before the monstrance re-centers a life and renews prayer.Awkward at First: How to Start a Holy HourBring a rosary or a good spiritual book. Expect silence to feel long. Keep going. Over time, conversation gives way to presence.Spiritual Communion: When You Can’t ReceiveMaking a spiritual communion at home or in church keeps us oriented toward the tabernacle—especially helpful in seasons of waiting or constraint.Benediction: A Different Kind of BlessingWhy the blessing at the end of adoration is unique: you’re being blessed by Christ himself, truly present in the Host.Family Adoration (Without the Panic)Practical ideas: parish “family holy hours,” short come-and-go windows, and training kids gently in reverence (yes, even page-turning).If Your Parish Doesn’t Have AdorationHow to ask your pastor for a weekly hour or occasional exposition—and ways laity can help make it happen.From Medieval Piety to Today’s RenewalHow devotion blossomed after Corpus Christi and grew again in recent decades—feeding vocations, parish life, and personal holiness.<h2>Key Takeaways</h2><ul><li>Adoration deepens Communion. It doesn’t replace the Mass; it disposes us to receive the Eucharist more fruitfully.</li><li>Start small, stay steady. Twenty minutes grows into an hour; over time, you won’t want to miss it.</li><li>Bring the kids. Create kid-friendly windows or family hours; let children encounter Jesus and learn chapel habits gradually.</li><li>Spiritual communion matters. If you can’t receive sacramentally, orient yourself to the tabernacle and keep showing up.</li><li>Benediction blesses uniquely. The blessing is given with Christ himself, not merely by the priest.</li></ul> <h2>Memorable Lines</h2><ul><li>“Adoration is a moment of the Mass held in contemplation.”</li><li>“You can’t outgive the Lord—show up and let Him do the work.”</li><li>“Hang out with Jesus often; we become like the people we’re with.”</li><li>“Correct the [Eucharistic] abuses, but don’t throw out the baby with the bathwater.”</li></ul> <h2>How to Begin a Holy Hour (Simple Plan)</h2><ol><li>Arrive and acknowledge: a slow Sign of the Cross; “Lord, I’m here.”</li><li>Read briefly (5–10 min): a Gospel passage or trusted spiritual classic.</li><li>Pray a decade or the whole Rosary.</li><li>Rest in silence: “I look at Him and He looks at me.”</li><li>Finish with gratitude and one concrete resolution for the week.</li></ol> <h2>Resources &amp; Places Mentioned</h2><ul><li>Basilica of St. Rita of Cascia (Eucharistic miracle)</li><li>Orvieto (miracle tied to the Feast of Corpus Christi)</li><li>Sacré-Cœur, Paris (longstanding perpetual adoration)</li><li>St. Thomas Aquinas (Eucharistic hymns for Corpus Christi)</li><li>St. John Vianney (on simple adoration)</li><li>St. John Paul II (modern renewal of adoration)</li><li>St. Peter Julian Eymard (19th-century apostle of the Eucharist)</li></ul> <h2>For Dads &amp; Grandfathers</h2><ul><li>Keep expectations age-appropriate. Five or ten minutes is a win.</li><li>Prep gently before you enter; debrief after with hot chocolate or a donut.</li><li>Rotate one-on-one holy hours so each child sees Dad pray</li></ul> <h2>Listener Challenge</h2>Commit to one adoration visit this week. If your parish lacks exposition, pray before the tabernacle—or make a daily spiritual communion at home, oriented toward your parish church.

Holding a Moment of Mass: Eucharistic Adoration

CANDID - “It Ain’t Cool to be Catholic”: Mariama, Ryan, and Jack discuss the misguided stereotypes surrounding the Catholic faith, and how being Catholic can often be seen as a joke or culturally outdated. They also dive into why this perception has manifested itself and why people are sometimes averse to Catholicism. -- Visit our website:<a href="https://arrayofhope.org/">https://arrayofhope.org/</a> Sign up for FREE on the Array of Hope Channel app:<a href="https://watch.arrayofhope.net/">https://watch.arrayofhope.net/</a>Available on Apple TV, Roku, iOS, and Android mobile devices. Follow Array of Hope Ministries on:Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ArrayOfHopeMinistries">@arrayofhopeministries</a>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/arrayofhopeministries/">@arrayofhopeministries</a>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/AOHMinistries">@aohministries</a>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@arrayofhopeministries">@arrayofhopeministries</a> LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/array-of-hope-ministries/">@arrayofhopeministries</a> YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/arrayofhope">@ArrayofHopeMinistries</a> Listen to Array of Hope's music on your streaming platform of choice:<a href="https://lnk.to/arrayofhope">https://lnk.to/arrayofhope</a> #faith #hope #love #Christianity #Catholicism #inspire #inspiration #holiness #life #grace #Good News #theology

CANDID - 'It Ain't Cool to be Catholic'

This is episode 168 of the Seeking Excellence Podcast
Austin, also known as The Basic Catholic, is a catalyst for change both within the Church and within the Conservative movement. He is a convert to Catholicism, extremely opinionated, and a good friend of mine.&nbsp;
Follow him on Instagram @thebasiccatholic for more!&nbsp;
 
The Seeking Excellence Podcast is here to help you fulfill your life's potential. It's my hope that today's episode will help you move closer to that goal!&nbsp;
 
Be your best

Ep 168 | The Basic Catholic | Weak Men Ruin Society

Alanis, Jack, and Jimmy discuss a popular webpage on Array of Hope’s blog titled “My Boyfriend Wants to Be A Priest”.- Sponsors -Verbum Takes Your Catholic Bible Study from Stumped to Stellar. <a href="https://bit.ly/3yYJZV3">LEARN MORE</a> Real Estate for Life is a multinational corporation with 1,400 experienced, faith-based agents world-wide to connect you with a Catholic service provider who shares your values. <a href="https://bit.ly/3tTH3qR">LEARN MORE</a>- Resources -Take our podcast survey to help us make A Reason for Hope better for YOU! <a href="https://www.areasonforhopepodcast.com/">www.areasonforhopepodcast.com</a>Visit our website:<a href="https://arrayofhope.org/">www.arrayofhope.org</a> Sign up for FREE on the Array of Hope Channel app:<a href="https://watch.arrayofhope.net/">watch.arrayofhope.net</a>Available on Apple TV, Roku, iOS, and Android mobile devices. Follow Array of Hope Ministries on:Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ArrayOfHopeMinistries">@arrayofhopeministries</a>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/arrayofhopeministries/">@arrayofhopeministries</a>X: <a href="https://twitter.com/AOHMinistries">@aohministries</a>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@arrayofhopeministries">@arrayofhopeministries</a> LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/array-of-hope-ministries/">@arrayofhopeministries</a> YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/arrayofhope">@ArrayofHopeMinistries</a> Follow AOH Music: <a href="https://aohmusic.lnk.to/bioPD">aohmusic.lnk.to/bio</a>

Dumped for Seminary! | CANDID

On today’s podcast, we’re talking about the benefits of joining a Catholic men’s group in your parish or diocese. Most guys tell me they want to be better men, husbands, and fathers and I’ve learned that we can’t do it alone. We need community. Participation in men’s groups help us beat feelings of isolation and loneliness. They’re places where we can share our struggles as husbands and fathers, support others during setbacks and celebrate spiritual growth.

On this podcast, we learn that:
 - Isolation often breeds self-oriented behaviors, such as addiction to drugs, alcohol, or porn.
 - The right men’s group provides a place to be seen, loved, and heard.
 - A strong brotherhood fosters accountability and encouragement.


DOWNLOADS
Get a copy of my new eBook, "12 Ways Guys Can Get Closer to Jesus"! https://justaguyinthepew.com/ebook


SUPPORT: Join the Community!
I've created a brand new resource for guys called "The Narrow Road." It's a monthly booklet and accompanying videos to help guys live a life of virtue and holiness. You can join The Community and subscribe to "The Narrow Road" here: https://justaguyinthepew.com/the-narrow-road


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We have a new Just a Guy in the Pew store where you can stock up on great merch HERE: https://store.justaguyinthepew.com/

Why Do I Need A Men's Group?

In this conversation, Sean Lynn and Dave Cichon discuss various themes including retirement, the influence of Bishop Henry, the challenges of political service, and the virtues of St. Joseph. They reflect on personal experiences and the importance of faith in their lives, emphasizing the need for courage and humility in serving others.
Takeaways
Retirement brings reflections on legacy and influence.
Bishop Henry's impact on the community is profound.
The call to serve can come in unexpected ways.
Supporting family in public service requires courage.
St. Joseph exemplifies humility and strength.
Faith plays a crucial role in personal journeys.
Community support is vital in challenging times.
Men are called to step up and lead.
Service to others is a path to fulfillment.
Every yes to God's call can lead to unexpected blessings.
#godsquad #heroicmen #catholicyyc

A Dram with Dave Cichon

Grab a seat in the pew as John and Victor discuss how Jesus wants to help us with our burdens so we can go and do the same for others.

Burdens

Grab a seat in the pew as John and Victor discuss how living a mediocre life goes against everything Jesus planned for us.  "I came so that they may have life and have it more abundantly." -John 10:10

Life

Today's episode of Pints with Aquinas is all about why Sola Scripture (Bible Only) is FALSE. And I speak with a man who's certainly well-qualified to have a discussion about it: The Pat Madrid. In this episode, Pat and I will teach you: - The meaning of Sola Scriptura - Why Sola Scripture is false - What is meant by the phrase "Catholic Tradition" - and more! SPONSORS EL Investments: <a href="https://www.elinvestments.net/pints">https://www.elinvestments.net/pints</a> Exodus 90: <a href="https://exodus90.com/mattfradd/">https://exodus90.com/mattfradd/</a> Hallow: <a href="http://hallow.app/mattfradd">http://hallow.app/mattfradd</a> STRIVE: <a href="https://www.strive21.com/">https://www.strive21.com/</a> GIVING Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/mattfradd">https://www.patreon.com/mattfradd</a> This show (and all the plans we have in store) wouldn't be possible without you. I can't thank those of you who support me enough. Seriously! Thanks for essentially being a co-producer coproducer of the show. LINKS Website: <a href="https://pintswithaquinas.com/">https://pintswithaquinas.com/</a> Merch: <a href="https://teespring.com/stores/matt-fradd">https://teespring.com/stores/matt-fradd</a> FREE 21 Day Detox From Porn Course: <a href="https://www.strive21.com/">https://www.strive21.com/</a> SOCIAL Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mattfradd">https://www.facebook.com/mattfradd</a> Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/mattfradd">https://twitter.com/mattfradd</a> Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mattfradd">https://www.instagram.com/mattfradd</a> MY BOOKS Does God Exist: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Does-God-Exist-Socratic-Dialogue-ebook/dp/B081ZGYJW3/ref=sr_1_9?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586377974&amp;sr=8-9">https://www.amazon.com/Does-God-Exist-Socratic-Dialogue-ebook/dp/B081ZGYJW3/ref=sr_1_9?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586377974&amp;sr=8-9</a> Marian Consecration With Aquinas: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Marian-Consecration-Aquinas-Growing-Closer-ebook/dp/B083XRQMTF/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586379026&amp;sr=8-4">https://www.amazon.com/Marian-Consecration-Aquinas-Growing-Closer-ebook/dp/B083XRQMTF/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586379026&amp;sr=8-4</a> The Porn Myth: <a href="https://www.ignatius.com/The-Porn-Myth-P1985.aspx">https://www.ignatius.com/The-Porn-Myth-P1985.aspx</a> CONTACT Book me to speak: <a href="https://www.mattfradd.com/speakerrequestform">https://www.mattfradd.com/speakerrequestform</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

Why Sola Scriptura is FALSE (Patrick Madrid) | Ep. 214

Grab a seat in the pew as John and Victor discuss anger issues both justified and unjustified.