It’s an All-Star weekend—from the NHL to the NBA to the 50th Anniversary of Saturday Night Live—and Father Dave and Deacon Bob are here for all of it.
In this episode, they dive into the revamped All-Star formats (including USA vs. Canada on ice), heated hockey fights, and the quirky charm of watching sports evolve. They also unpack the latest SNL celebration, share some Marvel movie hot takes, and reflect on deep questions raised by the Holy Father’s Ordo Amoris—a framework of love that recently became part of American political debate.
Father Dave offers updates from his recent travels, including a powerful retreat experience and upcoming mission to Rwanda with Immaculée Ilibagiza. The hosts also share some signs of hope from Franciscan University’s student life and spiritual formation, including an outpouring of the Holy Spirit and young catechists preparing for service in the Church.
From slapshots to spiritual fire, from comedy legends to calls to mercy, this episode moves with heart, humor, and hope.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) NHL vs. NBA: All-Star Weekend Shakeups
Father Dave and Deacon Bob break down recent changes to the All-Star games. From NHL’s "Four Nations" brawls to the NBA’s round-robin format, they debate whether these events still matter—and how sports could rethink the concept of “All-Star.”
(10:35) Austria, SNL, and Comedy Legends
A look at the 2025 Austria Summer Experience is followed by reflections on Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary. The hosts remember comedy legends, share favorite skits, and explore how SNL evolved from Bill Murray to YouTube stardom.
(16:34) Marvel Movies, Rwanda, and Blackfish
Deacon Bob reviews Captain America: Brave New World, while Father Dave shares his experience watching Hidden Figures, Hotel Rwanda, and Blackfish—all tied to his upcoming pilgrimage to Rwanda with Immaculée Ilibagiza.
(25:03) Ordo Amoris: Love, Politics, and Pope Francis
After J.D. Vance references Ordo Amoris online, the hosts unpack Pope Francis' actual teaching on ordered love, immigration, and human dignity. They push back on politicized theology and highlight a powerful quote from the Holy Father.
(33:01) Signs of Hope on Campus
The Life in the Spirit Seminar gathers over 200 students to pray for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Meanwhile, catechetics majors show their passion for parish ministry at Immersion Day—proof that the future of the Church is bright.
Resources Mentioned
- Austria Summer Experience – Franciscan University
- Hidden Figures (Film about Black women at NASA)
- Hotel Rwanda (Genocide and forgiveness, starring Don Cheadle)
- Blackfish (Documentary on SeaWorld and orcas)
- Pope Francis’ Letter to Bishops on Ordo Amoris
- Captain America: Brave New World (Marvel Studios)
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