Considering Catholicism

Moral Theology, Part 2: Tools and Norms (#460)

Mon, 11 May 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In the second part of this three-part series, Greg builds directly on the foundation laid in “The Anatomy of Evil” and moves into the practical schematics the Church has spent two thousand years refining. He walks through the key categories of Catholic moral reasoning: universal, unchanging principles rooted in human dignity and the natural law; intrinsically evil acts whose object is always disordered; positive obligations that call us to active love and justice; the virtue of prudence that guides real-world application; and the legitimate space for prudential judgment where faithful Catholics of good will can disagree in good faith. You’ll also explore the idea of authentic development of doctrine—Newman-style organic growth that deepens without reversing—and what it means when the Magisterium declares something “inadmissible” in light of the Gospel.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Moral Theology, Part 1: The Anatomy of Evil (#459)

Thu, 07 May 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In a world of loud moral arguments and social-media slogans, real precision often gets lost. In this three-part series, Greg unpacks one of the most attractive features of Catholic moral theology: its remarkable clarity around evil as a privation (not a substance), intrinsically evil acts, prudential judgment, and authentic development of doctrine.

Episode 1, “The Anatomy of Evil,” explores how human actions are good in their being yet can be morally disordered in their object—drawing on Aquinas, C.S. Lewis’s “bent” imagery, and concrete examples like homosexual activity and direct abortion.

Episode 2 lays out the practical schematics the Church has refined for two thousand years: universal principles, absolute norms, positive obligations, prudence, and Newman-style development (including the language of “inadmissible”).

Episode 3 applies those tools to four relatable everyday cases—money lending and usury, lying versus legitimate deception, disciplining children (spanking), and gambling—showing exactly how Catholics can reason faithfully through complex situations with both intellectual honesty and pastoral charity.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

10 Years Catholic: What We’re Grateful For, and What Still Surprises Us (#457)

Mon, 04 May 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this special conversation episode, Greg sits down with his friend and longtime collaborator Cory to mark the 10th anniversary of the night they both entered the Catholic Church together at the Easter Vigil in 2016. They share what they’re most grateful for after a decade—everything from the life-shaping rhythm of the sacraments and liturgical year, the communion of saints, the beauty that feeds the soul, and the simple joy of feeling truly “at home” in any Catholic parish on earth, to the doctrinal clarity and sense of vocation that have steadied their families. Greg also offers candid thoughts from his unique vantage point as a former Protestant pastor: the things that turned out even richer than he expected (deeper prayer and devotion, the dedication of our priests, the Church’s surprising integrity and resilience) and a few honest challenges he’s seen along the way. With warmth, gratitude, and zero sugar-coating, this episode is an encouraging look at what it really means to live the Catholic faith over the long haul. Whether you’re still investigating the Church or you’ve been in it your whole life, you’ll walk away refreshed and reminded why the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church is worth everything.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Just How Depraved Are You? (#456)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this candid monologue, Greg retraces his own path from campus-ministry apologetics at a liberal university into the tight, intellectually satisfying world of Calvinism—training in a Calvinist seminary, embracing TULIP, and finding real comfort in the doctrine of Total Depravity. He walks through what made that system feel so compelling at the time: its logical clarity, its honest reckoning with human sin, and its God-centered awe. But as he circled back to the medieval Catholic thinkers he’d first glimpsed years earlier, and then encountered the big, colorful, sacramental fullness of Catholicism, that earlier framework began to feel incomplete. Greg contrasts the Calvinist view of a totally corrupted human nature with the Catholic teaching—rooted in Scripture and two millennia of tradition—that original sin wounds us profoundly but does not destroy the image of God within us. The result is a far more hopeful vision of grace that heals, elevates, and invites real cooperation in the lifelong work of sanctification.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

"I Never Said You Stole His Money:" Why “Bible Alone” Doesn't Work (#455)

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

What if the way we’ve been taught to read the Bible is actually creating the very divisions we see today?

In this episode of Considering Catholicism, host Greg Smith shares his experience from classical Calvinist seminary training 40 years ago — investing in 22 volumes of Calvin’s commentaries and the massive Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew-English lexicon because exegesis was required to stay within the guardrails of historic Christian interpretation.

He then contrasts that with today’s evangelical reality: small groups asking “What does this verse mean to you?”, pastors mixing and matching translations to fit their message, YouTube and social media teachers offering personal takes, and even AI being asked to interpret Scripture.

The result is interpretive chaos. The same Bible produces wildly different — and often contradictory — doctrines on core issues.

To drive the point home, Greg uses one viral seven-word sentence: “I never said you stole his money.” By simply stressing a different word each time, the meaning shifts dramatically — proving how easily even plain English can be misunderstood without context.

If that happens with modern English, how much more caution do we need with ancient biblical texts?

Greg examines real examples from John 6, James and Paul, baptism, the nature of the Church, and more — showing how sincere readers reach opposite conclusions from the same passages.

He then explains the Catholic solution: Scripture must be read within the living apostolic Tradition and under the authoritative guidance of the Magisterium that Christ established to guard and interpret the deposit of faith.

If you love the Bible but are weary of the endless disagreements and fragmentation, this episode offers a fresh and hopeful way forward.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Imago Dei in the Age of AI, Part 4: Our Destiny Lies Beyond the Machines (#454)

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

This is Part 4 of our four-episode series “What Is Man That You Are Mindful of Him? Imago Dei in the Age of AI.”

As artificial super-intelligence seems ready to out-perform us on every measurable scale, the Catholic Church gives us a breathtaking final answer: our destiny is not obsolescence or a hive-mind upload. We are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, destined one day to judge angels and inherit the New Jerusalem.

Drawing from 1 Corinthians 6:3, Revelation 21–22, Dante’s vision of the communion of saints, and the Church’s teaching on the beatific vision, Greg contrasts the cold collective of silicon with the personal, embodied, eternal communion of real persons in glory. He offers practical guardrails for today—treat machines as servants, guard the body, guard marriage and family, and guard the sacraments—so we can live this hope right now.

This closing episode lands the entire series with steady confidence and joyful hope: lower than the angels yet crowned with glory, we face the future not with fear, but with the quiet assurance that the God who became one of us has already prepared our place in the new creation.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Imago Dei in the Age of AI, Part 3: Will AI Really Change the World? (#453)

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

This is Part 3 of our four-episode series “What Is Man That You Are Mindful of Him? Imago Dei in the Age of AI.”

Everyone says AI is going to completely remake human civilization. Greg agrees it will change many things — work, education, medicine, daily routines — just as farming, the Industrial Revolution, and the internet did before it. But here’s the deeper question: Will AI really change the world in the ways that matter most?

From the Garden of Eden to Rome under the Caesars to your phone screen right now, the deepest realities of life — pride and humility, lust and love, greed and generosity, sin and virtue — have stayed remarkably the same. Technology reshapes our circumstances, but it never rewires the human heart.

Drawing from Hebrews 2, the Cross, and 1 Corinthians 15, Greg shows how the eternal Son became man — not angel — entering our flesh, suffering, and death to redeem what no algorithm can touch. The Incarnation remains God’s definitive answer in flesh and blood.

If the AI headlines leave you wondering whether anything truly changes the human condition, this episode brings steady, hopeful clarity: the owner’s manual for navigating the 21st century is still the one written in the first century.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Imago Dei in the Age of AI, Part 2: The Problems AI Can’t Solve (#452)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

This is Part 2 of our four-episode series “What Is Man That You Are Mindful of Him? Imago Dei in the Age of AI.”

In a world that increasingly measures human worth by output, efficiency, and market utility, the Catholic Church insists our dignity is ontological—not something we earn or lose when technology changes. Greg examines the curious paradox of the lesser crown: we are made a little lower than the angels yet crowned with glory and honor.

Drawing from Pope Leo XIII’s Rerum Novarum, Jesus’ words about the sparrows in Matthew 10, the stories of John Henry and Mike Mulligan, and the Church’s teaching on the sacraments, he offers a clear-eyed look at what even the most advanced AI can never fix—and why our embodied humanity remains irreplaceable.

Whether the headlines leave you uneasy about job displacement or simply wondering what it really means to be human anymore, this episode steadies the heart with the ancient truth that our value was never grounded in tasks. It is received as a gift from the God who chose to become one of us.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Imago Dei in the Age of AI, Part 1: Why the Devil Envies You (#451)

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

This is Part 1 of our four-episode series “What Is Man That You Are Mindful of Him? Imago Dei in the Age of AI.”

In a world racing toward artificial super-intelligence that threatens to out-think and out-perform us at almost every task, the Catholic Church points us back to an older drama: super-intelligences were here first — and the brightest of them burned with envy when God crowned ordinary flesh-and-blood humans with glory and honor.

Drawing from Milton’s Paradise Lost, Psalm 8, Genesis 1, and the insights of Aquinas and Suárez on the angelic fall, Greg explores why our worth has never been grounded in tasks or productivity. Even if machines surpass us on every measurable metric, our dignity remains untouched — because it is ontological, rooted in the Imago Dei and God’s unchanging call to be fruitful, multiply, and steward creation as His beloved sons and daughters.

Whether you’re a Protestant pastor quietly investigating Catholicism, a curious seeker drawn to the beauty of the faith, or a cradle Catholic rediscovering its depths, this episode will steady your heart with the ancient answer to the question that still echoes today: “What is man that You are mindful of him?”

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

The Real Reason the Catholic Church Ordains Only Men (#450)

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 21:54:20 -0400

In this episode Greg unpacks one of the most emotionally charged questions on the road to Rome: why does the Catholic Church ordain only men to the priesthood? Drawing from his own painful experience in the Christian Reformed Church’s ordination battles of the 1990s, he shows how the debate shifts dramatically once you realize priestly authority is not about qualifications but about Christ acting in persona Christi as Bridegroom to His Bride. With clear teaching from Ordinatio Sacerdotalis, the Catechism, Pope Francis, and Pope Leo XIV’s recent catechesis on Lumen Gentium, plus a deep dive into John Paul II’s Theology of the Body, Greg explains the beauty of complementarity and how this teaching actually honors and elevates women. Listeners from Protestant backgrounds will find honest answers to common objections (Galatians 3:28, Phoebe, Junia) while everyone discovers the peace that comes from receiving Christ’s design instead of redesigning it.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Elders or Priests? Why Catholic Authority Isn’t Earned—It’s Entrusted (#449)

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 08:14:44 -0400

In the New Testament, Paul gives clear qualifications for presbyteroi—elders—who must be the husband of one wife, manage their household well, and hold fast to sound doctrine. When Greg was a Protestant pastor, that seemed to describe exactly what church leadership should look like under sola scriptura. So where do Catholic priests come from? In this first part of a two-episode series, Greg tackles that question head-on with honesty and charity, drawing from Scripture, the early Church Fathers, and Graham Greene’s unforgettable “whiskey priest” in The Power and the Glory. He explains the crucial difference: Protestant leadership tends to be earned by personal qualifications, while Catholic priestly authority is entrusted by Christ through apostolic succession—so that even a flawed priest can still give us Christ Himself acting in persona Christi. If you’ve ever wondered why the priesthood looks so different from what you grew up with, this episode will give you fresh eyes, real hope, and a deeper love for the Church. (Part 2 drops next: Why Only Men?)

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Blessed Triduum 2026: Gratitude, Love, and a Peek at What's Coming (#448)

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 18:06:00 -0400

On Holy Thursday, Greg sits down with a warm, personal message for listeners as the Church begins the Sacred Triduum. He explains the meaning, etymology, and profound significance of these three holy days that form the very heart of our Catholic faith—the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ lived out as one great mystery. Along the way he offers gratitude to supporters, apologizes for slower email replies as the show grows, and gives a hopeful look at what’s coming: more Questions & Coffee, deeper dives, livestreams, possible virtual Theology on Tap sessions, the launch of his new podcast The History of Christendom this summer (with Patreon previews), and the approaching 500th episode. Whether you’re just considering Catholicism, on the Road to Rome, or a cradle Catholic going deeper, this short video is an encouraging invitation to walk the Triduum with open hearts.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Holy Week in Jerusalem: Walking Where the Gospels Happened (#447)

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this re-released classic from the vault, Greg shares fresh impressions and profound insights from his recent pilgrimage to Jerusalem and its surroundings, timed perfectly for Holy Week. Walking the Via Dolorosa, kneeling in Gethsemane, touching the stone of the crucifixion and the slab in the empty tomb, he explores how experiencing these historic sites makes Christianity's central claims inescapably real and public—not abstract feelings or private spirituality. Drawing on St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 15 and the idea of the Holy Land as a "Fifth Gospel," this episode grounds the Passion, death, and resurrection in geography, history, and topography, showing how the intimate scale of Jerusalem's events underscores God's sovereign script for salvation. Whether you're a curious non-Catholic, a Protestant investigating the faith, or a cradle Catholic rediscovering its depth, this reflection invites you to confront the question: Did these things really happen here—and if so, what does that mean for you?

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Easter in Jerusalem: The Garden Tomb vs. the Real Empty Tomb (#446)

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

This Easter, millions are posting from Jerusalem’s peaceful Garden Tomb saying “This feels like the real one.” But just down the street sits the Church of the Holy Sepulchre—venerated for 1,700 years—and 2025 archaeology just uncovered 2,000-year-old olive trees and grapevines exactly where John 19:41 said the garden would be. In this solo monologue, we unpack the history, the biases, and what this quiet debate reveals about how we approach Scripture, tradition, and the living Christ. Whether you’re a Protestant pastor wrestling with history or a cradle Catholic rediscovering the power of continuity, this episode will leave you with fresh confidence that the Church still knows where the empty tomb is—because she never forgot. Perfect for Holy Week listening.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

From Babel to Pentecost: Why We Still Need Latin at Mass (#445)

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

Why do some Catholics want more Latin even in the regular Sunday Mass? In this episode, Greg explores how praying familiar parts like the Pater Noster or Sanctus in the Church’s historic tongue undoes a bit of the Tower of Babel’s confusion and brings us closer to the unity Pentecost began. Drawing on Scripture, saints, and even a funny Tolkien family story (yes, he loudly answered in Latin when everyone else switched to English), you’ll see why a common language fosters true catholicity—across centuries, time zones, and hemispheres. Practical tips make it doable for any parish, and the cultural parallels (Jews in Hebrew, Muslims in Arabic, even “Namaste”) show why shared sacred words matter. Warm, hopeful, and full of insight—perfect whether you’re investigating Catholicism or rediscovering your own faith.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Irish Guilt vs. Italian Joy: Why Catholicism Holds Both Sin and Forgiveness Perfectly (#444)

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

Greg revisits the famous (but legendary) story of Martin Luther hurling an inkwell at the devil to prove his sins were "forgiven and forgotten," a tale he once preached as a Protestant pastor. He contrasts Luther's extreme swing—from crushing monastic guilt to the infamous "sin boldly" advice—with the goofy online quip about "Irish guilt" vs. "Italian joy" in Catholicism. The episode unpacks how the Church avoids both ditches: honest examination of conscience, sacramental absolution that restores real joy, and the transformative work of grace that actually changes us (drawing from Trent, the Catechism, and saints like Francis de Sales and the Curé d'Ars). Ideal for anyone wrestling with assurance, scrupulosity, cheap grace, or passing faith to the next generation—showing why Catholic mercy is neither guilt nor license, but freedom.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Livestream: Walking the First Holy Week in Jerusalem – Sunday March 22 | 7 PM EST

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:17:45 -0400

Two weeks before Easter we’re doing something special. Join Greg for a livestream webinar. He’ll open the Gospels and Google Earth and walk the actual route Jesus took Palm Sunday through Resurrection Sunday — gate by gate, hill by hill, garden by garden. You’ll see exactly where He slept in Bethany, which path He took down the Mount of Olives, where the Upper Room almost certainly was, and why the geography makes every moment more powerful.

This is available for Patreon members (you can join on a 7-day trial to check it out). Follow this link:

OCIA: The Bridge to Rome — Easter Vigil Mass (#443)

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered what actually happens at the Easter Vigil—the "Super Bowl of the Catholic liturgy" where catechumens are baptized, confirmed, and receive their first Eucharist? In this second part of our OCIA: The Bridge to Rome series, Greg and Cory walk you through the whole nighttime journey: the dramatic Service of Light with the new fire and Paschal candle procession, the breathtaking Exsultet ("This is the night!"), the extended Liturgy of the Word tracing salvation history, the renewal of baptismal promises for everyone, and the climactic sacraments of initiation that bring new members fully into the Church. Whether you're in OCIA wondering what you're stepping into, a Protestant curious about the ancient beauty of Catholic worship, or a longtime Catholic wanting to fall in love with the Vigil all over again, this episode demystifies the holiest night of the year and shows why so many describe it as life-changing. Pull up a chair—we'll geek out on the symbolism, the timing, and the sheer awe of it all.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

OCIA: The Bridge to Rome — The Sacraments of Initiation (#442)

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the OCIA: The Bridge to Rome series, Greg and Cory dive into the heart of what OCIA is ultimately aiming for: the Sacraments of Initiation—Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. They explain how these three sacraments bring a person into full communion with the Catholic Church, marking the gateway to the Christian life as a death-and-rebirth in Christ, a strengthening by the Holy Spirit, and intimate union with Jesus in His Body and Blood.

The conversation covers key distinctions between catechumens (unbaptized) and candidates (validly baptized in other Christian traditions), the biblical foundations (especially the Great Commission and Pentecost), why Catholic baptism is regenerative rather than merely symbolic, how validity is determined (Trinitarian formula and intent), and the typical order of reception at the Easter Vigil. They also touch on practical questions inquirers often have—like documentation, Protestant "confirmation" practices, and why the Church recognizes some baptisms but not others—while keeping everything clear, charitable, and rooted in Scripture, tradition, and the Catechism.

Perfect as a preview for those considering OCIA, a supplement for current participants, or a refreshing reminder for lifelong Catholics rediscovering the power of these foundational sacraments on the road to the Easter Vigil.

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The End of Ed the Protestant (#441)

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

After four years of raw, honest conversations, Ed the Protestant returns with big news that longtime listeners have been praying for and waiting to hear. What started as burnout on modern church life in episode #8 has led to a profound shift—one that changes everything for Ed and challenges all of us to count the cost of following Christ fully. Greg and Ed unpack the weight of real commitment, the ontological reality of the sacraments, why Catholicism feels “more real” than anything else, and the bittersweet beauty of saying yes to the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. If you’ve cheered Ed on, wrestled with similar questions, or wondered what happens when curiosity turns into conviction, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.

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Done with Church? (#440)

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

Ever feel completely done with church—burnt out, over it, ready to sleep in on Sundays and call it quits on the whole evangelical scene? You're not alone. In this raw, honest conversation, Greg and his longtime Protestant friend Ed open up about hitting that wall after decades in the contemporary American church world: the constant cultural chasing, overstimulation, theological flip-flops, leadership chaos, and guilt-driven busyness that left them both exhausted and questioning if church was even worth it anymore. They reflect on how that valley of despair actually cracked open curiosity about something deeper and more ancient—Catholicism—and Greg points to where it all began for Ed four years ago in episode #8, “A Conversation with My Protestant Friend.” If you're in that "done" place or know someone who is, this one's for you: real talk about burnout, why the seeker-church model backfired, and the surprising path that led two guys back to wanting to show up again—this time in the fullness of the historic Church.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

When No Means Yes: The Ancient Case for Lent (#439)

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Greg unpacks the often-misunderstood practice of asceticism—the spiritual training of saying "no" to ourselves so we can say a bigger "yes" to God. Far from misery or earning salvation, Lent's self-denial (fasting, giving things up) is biblical discipline, modeled by Jesus in the desert and echoed throughout Scripture, that builds freedom, self-mastery, and deeper union with Christ. Greg contrasts this ancient Christian heartbeat—alive in Catholicism, Orthodoxy, and early traditions—with its near-absence in much of modern evangelicalism, addressing common pushback like "Jesus already suffered for us" with grace and Scripture. Perfect for anyone in Lent wondering "why bother?" or curious why the early Church took spiritual training so seriously.

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The Sacrament That Ends the Secret: Talking Confession with Ed (#438)

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Greg sits down with his longtime Protestant friend Ed to tackle one of the biggest hurdles for many coming from evangelical backgrounds: the Sacrament of Confession (or Penance and Reconciliation). Ed shares his lifelong comfort—and unease—with keeping sins "just between me and God," while Greg explains how the priest acts in persona Christi (in the person or place of Christ) with the authority Christ gave to Peter and the Church to bind and loose, offering not just advice but true absolution. They unpack why saying sins aloud breaks their secrecy (shoutout to Chesterton's insight), why accountability partners or counseling can't pronounce forgiveness, and how this sacrament brings real freedom, a clean slate, and ongoing conversion without earning salvation. Perfect for Protestants wondering "Why a priest?" or Catholics wanting to appreciate the gift anew.

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Stylistic Differences at Mass: Chant, Contemporary, Traditional, and Everything In Between (#437)

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

In this follow-up conversation with Cory, we unpack why you can walk into one Catholic parish and experience a reverent, chant-filled Mass with Latin elements, then go to another and hear contemporary music or a more conversational style—yet both are fully valid Catholic Masses. We explain the Roman Missal (the "script" of the Mass), the difference between the unchanging Ordinary and the variable Propers, the legitimate options priests have (like different forms of the Penitential Rite or Eucharistic Prayers), and how music, language, priestly orientation, and posture for receiving Communion all create stylistic variety. Whether you're in OCIA, investigating Catholicism, or a longtime Catholic rediscovering the richness of the liturgy, you'll see how these differences reflect legitimate diversity in the one, universal Church—without changing the substance of the Eucharist. We also touch on the recovery of traditional elements like Gregorian chant and ad orientem celebration, all while keeping things practical and encouraging you to experience the beauty of the Mass in different settings. Twenty centuries. Twenty-four time zones. Two hemispheres. One Church—and one Mass with many beautiful expressions.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Mass Anywhere: Exploring Parishes, Oratories, Campus Chapels, and Missions (#436)

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

In this conversation with Cory, we dive into the practical side of Catholic life: where you can actually go to attend Mass. We start with the basics—your local territorial parish—and then explore all the other valid options, from oratories at monasteries and religious houses, to campus chapels, military chapels, mission churches in rural or underserved areas, and even parishes that serve specific ethnic or cultural communities. Whether you're in OCIA, a curious non-Catholic, or a cradle Catholic rediscovering the faith, you'll learn why the Mass is the Mass no matter where you go, but the community and "flavor" can vary in beautiful ways. We also touch on the freedom (and responsibility) Catholics have in choosing where to worship, while encouraging a connection to the broader Church. Perfect for anyone wondering, "Okay, but where do I start?"

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Stuff Jesus Never Said (#435)

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Ever heard someone shrug off a clear Church teaching by saying, “Well, Jesus never said that”? It’s a line that’s been used for centuries to challenge Catholic doctrines, practices, and now even basic moral truths. In this snapshot episode, Greg takes on the argument head-on—whether it’s Protestants questioning sacraments, liturgy, or the priesthood, or (more alarmingly) some Catholics and clergy using it to defend things like homosexual acts or gay marriage. Jesus didn’t give an exhaustive rulebook for every modern issue, but that doesn’t mean “silence equals permission.” Greg walks through why this tactic echoes the serpent in Genesis, why the Gospels weren’t meant to be a complete moral encyclopedia, and how apostolic authority and the living Church fill in what the four Gospels don’t spell out. If you’ve ever felt that smug “Jesus never said…” line coming your way—or if you’re tempted to use it yourself—this quick, straight-talking episode will equip you to see through it and stay anchored in the fullness of the faith.

OCIA: The Bridge to Rome – Trusting the Church, Part 2: Submission of Intellect and Will (#434)

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

In the second part of this two-episode series, Greg moves from the initial Profession of Faith to the lifelong Catholic posture of religious submission of intellect and will to the Church’s authentic magisterium on matters of faith and morals. Drawing from forty years of ministry experience, he contrasts the deepening crisis of trust and doctrinal fragmentation in Protestantism with the stability offered by a divinely protected Church that demands—and deserves—trust. Using G.K. Chesterton’s insights and Catechism passages, Greg explains why this submission is liberating humility rather than blind obedience, and he strongly clarifies what it does not require: trusting every priest, parish council, or Catholic organization in every practical matter. This episode speaks directly to Protestant pastors and investigators who struggle with institutional authority, while reassuring all listeners that the Church’s guidance is Christ’s own protection against the spirit of the age. If you’ve ever asked whether it’s possible to trust the Church without losing your mind or integrity, this is the episode for you.

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OCIA: The Bridge to Rome – Trusting the Church, Part 1: The Profession of Faith (#433)

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

In the first part of this two-episode series on trusting the Church, Greg walks listeners through the solemn Profession of Faith that candidates make when entering full communion with the Catholic Church—usually right before Confirmation at the Easter Vigil or a regular Mass. He explains the exact words spoken (“I believe and profess all that the holy Catholic Church believes, teaches, and proclaims to be revealed by God”) and why this public, sacramental vow carries the weight of a marriage promise. Using a four-level hierarchy of Church teaching drawn from the Catechism and magisterial documents, Greg shows what requires full, irrevocable assent and where there is room for honest questions and growth during OCIA formation. This episode is especially for those in OCIA, those considering the step, or anyone wondering how a convert can truthfully say “yes” to the fullness of Catholic doctrine. Perfect for Protestant investigators wrestling with authority and for cradle Catholics wanting to renew their own understanding of the faith they profess.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

OCIA: The Stations of the Cross (#432)

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our “OCIA: The Bridge to Rome” series, Greg takes listeners on a journey through the Stations of the Cross, sharing his unforgettable experience praying them on Jerusalem's Via Dolorosa at dawn amid echoing Muslim calls to prayer. He explores the devotion's rich history from early Christian pilgrimages and St. Helena's discoveries to Franciscan popularization and St. John Paul II's biblical alternative, detailing each of the fourteen traditional stations with their scriptural roots and traditional elements. Greg explains how they're arranged and prayed in churches worldwide, the challenges of the actual Holy Land path, and why this Lenten practice fosters deep empathy and conversion. Drawing contrasts with Protestant views and tying in films like "The Passion of the Christ," this monologue highlights the Stations as a bridge to Easter's glory, ideal for OCIA participants and faith seekers.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Coming Feb 15: Our First Live Webinar – Egeria’s Epic Pilgrimage Proves the Early Church Was Catholic!

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 11:19:56 -0500

Get ready for something brand new on the Considering Catholicism Podcast! On Sunday, February 15 at 7:00 PM Eastern, we’re launching our first-ever live livestream webinar — and you’re invited. Here's the link: https://www.patreon.com/ConsideringCatholicism/events/150105481

In this exclusive Patron-only event, we’ll follow Egeria, the incredible 4th-century Spanish woman who crossed empires to pray at Mount Sinai, the burning bush site, and Holy Week in Jerusalem. Her diary reveals a hierarchical, sacramental, fully Catholic Church — long before anyone claims it “changed.”

45 minutes of maps, photos, history, and apologetic fire + 15 minutes of live Q&A with your questions.

This livestream is exclusive to Partner and Provider tier patrons. Join now and secure your spot: 👉 patreon.com/ConsideringCatholicism

Mark your calendar: Feb 15, 7 PM EST — see you live!

OCIA: The Scrutinies and Mass Dismissals (#431)

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

This “OCIA: The Bridge to Rome episode,” explains the Lenten practices of scrutinies and dismissals for those preparing for Catholic initiation. Drawing from the OCIA ritual and early Church tradition, he explores how dismissals restore ancient discipline for reflecting on God's Word, and scrutinies (with their minor exorcism prayers) offer healing deliverance from sin's influence for the unbaptized elect, tied to transformative Gospels. Reassuring and reflective, this monologue addresses common misconceptions while highlighting communal grace in the Period of Purification and Enlightenment. Ideal for OCIA participants, investigators, or anyone rediscovering how these rites unite believers across twenty centuries, twenty-four timezones, and two hemispheres in one Church.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

OCIA: Lent (#430)

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our "OCIA: The Bridge to Rome" series, we look at Lent—the Catholic Church's 40-day season of preparation for Easter. Drawing from Scripture, the Catechism, and early Church history (from pre-Nicene fasts to Nicaea's formalization), Greg explores its biblical foundations in Christ's desert temptation, distinctive practices like Ash Wednesday, Stations of the Cross, liturgical shifts to penance, Friday fish fries, and Mardi Gras origins. He addresses "giving things up" as detachment for grace, varied Protestant perspectives, and Lent's timeless role in spiritual renewal. Perfect for curious non-Catholics, investigators, or cradle Catholics rediscovering the faith—this episode reveals how Lent unites the one Church across twenty centuries, twenty-four timezones, and two hemispheres.

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When You Oppose the Pope's Poltics, Part 3 (#429)

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

The Hundred Years’ War split Catholic Europe, with popes and bishops backing different sides in a brutal conflict between England and France. A teenage peasant girl named Joan followed voices she believed were from God telling her to fight for her occupied homeland — even when that put her at odds with churchmen allied with the English. Tried and burned by an ecclesiastical court, she appealed to the pope and died clutching a crucifix. Twenty-five years later the Church declared the trial invalid; five hundred years later she was canonized. Part 3 of our series on Catholic conscience when love of Church and love of country seem to collide.

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When You Oppose the Pope's Politics, Part 2 (#428)

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

In 1302 a devout lay Catholic was sentenced to death by a papal legate for refusing to surrender his city’s freedom to foreign control. He spent his life in exile, wrote the Divine Comedy, placed popes in Hell for political corruption — and died in full communion, now praised by recent popes as a gift to the Church. Part 2 shows how Dante distinguished the divine office of Peter from fallible political decisions, defended patriotism as a Christian virtue, and gives today’s Catholics clear permission — straight from Aquinas, Bellarmine, and the Catechism — to love the Church deeply while protecting their homeland when the two loyalties seem to collide.

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When You Oppose the Pope's Politics, Part 1 (#427)

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

What do faithful Catholics do when the Vatican’s diplomatic choices seem to conflict with love of country or local sovereignty? It’s not a new question. For 150 years the popes formed a strategic alliance with the rising superpower France, invited French armies into Italy, and branded resisting Catholic cities as disobedient. Even the young St. Francis rode out on the pro-papal side. Part 1 of a calm, historical look at one of the longest tensions in Catholic life.

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From the Vault: Can Catholics Be Patriotic? (#426)

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Greg and Ed the Protestant explore a tension many feel today—does belonging to the truly universal ("catholic") Church mean we have to downplay or even apologize for loving our particular homeland, culture, and people?

Drawing on St. Thomas Aquinas's teaching about patria (fatherland) and the virtue of piety, the Incarnation of Christ in a specific time and place, and their own experiences traveling the world, they argue that authentic Catholicism doesn't erase our rootedness in a particular place and people—it actually embraces and elevates it. Far from being in conflict, healthy patriotism and Catholic universality belong together: we bring the gifts of our homeland into the one Church that spans twenty centuries, twenty-four timezones, and two hemispheres.

A thoughtful episode for anyone wrestling with identity, culture, and faith in a polarized age.

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Why Three Little Words Have Split Christianity for 1,000 Years (#425)

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Greg and Cory dive into "the Filioque clause"—those three controversial words ("and the Son") added to the Nicene Creed in the West—and explores why it became a flashpoint for the Great Schism of 1054. Triggered by Pope Leo XIV's recent visit to Nicaea (ancient Nicea) for the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, they break down the famous triangle diagrams illustrating Eastern and Western views of the Trinity, the "monarchy of the Father," papal authority, and whether this ancient divide is truly bridgeable today. With historical context, scriptural insights, and honest discussion from a faithfully Catholic perspective, this episode sheds light on the challenges and hopes for East-West reunification. A must-listen for anyone curious about what still separates Catholics and Orthodox after a millennium.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

OCIA: Catholic Moral Theology (#424)

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

In this installment of the "OCIA: The Bridge to Rome" series, Greg explores Catholic moral teaching, starting with the shared love of the Ten Commandments across Christian traditions. He then unpacks what sets Catholicism apart: natural law as God's design knowable by reason, rejecting total depravity for a wounded-yet-redeemable human nature, distinctions in sin (mortal vs. venial, temptation vs. consent), the telos of acts, absolute moral norms, and virtue empowered by grace. Perfect for OCIA participants supplementing classes, curious non-Catholics previewing the faith, or Catholics equipping for evangelization. Discover why this vision often becomes the "aha" for Protestants investigating the Church.

Listen to Greg's series on the Seven Deadly Sins: The Seven Deadly Sins

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

OCIA: The Liturgical Calendar (#423)

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the OCIA: The Bridge to Rome series, we dive into the Catholic liturgical calendar—what it is, how it works, and why it matters for anyone exploring the faith. Discover how the Church sanctifies time through seasons like Advent, Lent, and Easter, unfolding the mysteries of Christ's life year after year. Perfect for OCIA participants as a supplement, curious non-Catholics previewing the rhythm of Catholic life, or cradle Catholics seeking a refresher to share with others. We'll walk through the structure, colors, and feasts that make the calendar a living portal into the Paschal Mystery. Join us to see how this ancient cycle can transform your everyday into something eternal.

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Meet Jacob: A Millennial's Road to Rome, Part 2 (#422)

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

In Part 2 of our conversation, Jacob opens up about the final stretch of his road to Rome—approaching the Tiber with an 80% conviction, navigating the challenges of a supportive but non-converting spouse, and raising young children in a spiritually divided household. He reflects candidly on the RCIA (now OCIA) experience: the intellectual satisfaction of answered questions, the paradoxical beauty of surrendering the intellect in trust, and the initial spiritual unease that gave way to profound peace at Mass. Jacob shares how disciplined Catholic prayer—especially the Rosary—transformed his spiritual life, why he chose St. Teresa of Ávila as his confirmation saint, and what the Easter Vigil felt like when he finally received Confirmation and First Eucharist. Wrapping up, he talks about life as a new Catholic running mostly in Protestant circles while resting in the “panoptic” bigness of the one Church. A hopeful, honest look at the real joys and tensions of entering full communion.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Meet Jacob: A Millennial’s Road to Rome, Part 1 (#421)

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Greg introduces Jacob, a 34-year-old software engineer (working in AI), husband, and father of soon-to-be-four who's recently come into the Catholic Church after a rich intellectual and spiritual journey from evangelical Protestantism. Jacob shares how reading the early Church Fathers, St. John Henry Newman, and even deep mystical works like St. Teresa of Ávila's Interior Castle gradually broke down his skepticism and drew him forward through beauty, truth, and the living tradition of the Church. Rather than tackling a laundry list of objections, Jacob describes how encountering the fullness of historic Christianity felt like discovering a vast, living civilization he'd only glimpsed from afar. This conversational two-part series begins here, with Jacob explaining the early steps that led him to cold-call a Catholic parish and start asking questions. Part 2 coming soon!

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From the Vault: "Our Duty to Improve (#420)

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

As New Year's Eve approaches and many of us think about resolutions, we're pulling a classic episode from the vault: "Our Duty to Improve."

In this candid conversation recorded a few years ago, Greg and Ed the Protestant reflect on a question that's both practical and deeply doctrinal: Does God expect us to become better versions of ourselves?

Drawing from Scripture (like the Parable of the Talents), the idea of stewardship, and their own experiences in evangelical and Catholic circles, they challenge the popular notion that "God loves you just as you are" means there's no call to grow, mature, or change. They talk about sanctification not as optional self-help, but as a real responsibility to steward well the time, body, relationships, and opportunities God has entrusted to us.

It's a timely reminder that salvation by grace is the starting line—not the finish—and that authentic Christian life should produce visible fruit over time.

Perfect for anyone making (or rethinking) New Year's resolutions through the lens of faith.

For a deeper dive into this topic, check out "Faith and Works, Part 4: A Call to Growth": https://www.patreon.com/posts/faith-or-works-4-139944861?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

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How a 16th-Century Pope Saved New Year’s Day (#419)

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Most of us flip to January 1 without a second thought, but that date only works because Pope Gregory XIII fixed a 1,600-year drift in the old Roman calendar. The problem wasn’t just inconvenience—it threw Easter off by ten days, threatening the Church’s ability to celebrate Christ’s resurrection on the right Sunday. Gregory convened Jesuit astronomers, skipped ten days in 1582, and gave the world a calendar accurate to within a day every 3,300 years. Far from opposing science, the Church led it, proving faith and reason walk the same calendar page. A perfect New Year reminder that Catholicism still orders the time we live in.

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The Star, the Gifts, the Surrender (#418)

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

They weren’t kings, there weren’t necessarily three, and they brought a funeral spice—Greg unpacks the Magi like you’ve never heard. Matthew 2 meets the Church Fathers as pagan astrologers from Rome’s rival empire trek west, hijacked by a divine star, and end up worshiping a Jewish child. Explore the prophetic gifts, the reversal of Babel, and why Epiphany reveals Christ to the nations. Perfect for anyone rethinking the Christmas story from an evangelical angle.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Greg's Christmas Message 2025

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Greg wishes all his listeners a blessed Christmas, shares his gratitude for their support, and looks ahead to the new year.

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The Ox, the Donkey, and the Baby Jesus (#417)

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Standing in Bethlehem's ancient cave, it's easy to see why tradition loves the image of the Lamb of God born among temple lambs—yet every nativity scene adds an ox and donkey the Gospels never mention. In this Christmas reflection, Greg explores how early Fathers like Origen and Ambrose saw Isaiah 1:3 fulfilled in these humble beasts recognizing their Creator while humanity missed Him. Discover layers of Jew/Gentile unity, creation testifying (Romans 1 & 8), Eden's harmony restored with the New Adam and Eve, Christ's transformation of the "unclean" donkey, and how pagan myth becomes historical fact in the Incarnation—the ultimate Lamb who redeems us all.

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The Real Christmas Starts in a Womb: the Annunciation Over the Nativity (#416)

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 10:24:53 -0500

Ever wonder why Catholics make a big deal about the Annunciation on March 25, nine months before Christmas? In this episode, Greg dives into the heart of the Incarnation, contrasting the evangelical focus on the nativity manger with the ancient Church teaching that God truly became man at conception. Exploring Luke 1, the Catechism, and early Fathers, he unpacks Mary's pivotal fiat, the theology of life beginning in the womb, and how this hidden moment in Nazareth holds deeper significance than Bethlehem's drama. A fresh, orthodox take that's perfect for Advent reflection and anyone investigating the faith.

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Debunking the "Christmas is a Pagan Holiday" Meme (#415)

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Every December the same claim pops up: Christmas is just repackaged Roman paganism—Saturnalia with a cross on top. But when you actually read what third-century Christians wrote, the story falls apart. Greg walks through the real reason the Church landed on December 25 (spoiler: it starts in Rome around 204 AD), dismantles the Saturnalia and Sol Invictus objections with primary sources, and shows why the gift-giving and trees are Victorian, not ancient Roman. A calm, sourced, charitable look at why the Catholic Church celebrates Christmas when she does—and why you can too without compromising with paganism.

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The Pope vs. the Shriners: What’s the Real Problem with Freemasonry? (#414)

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Everyone’s seen the Shriners in their tiny cars and funny hats, but why has the Catholic Church been warning against Freemasonry for almost 300 years — and still considers it an excommunicable offense? In this episode Greg and Cory unpack the real origins of Freemasonry (hint: it’s got nothing to do with actual bricklaying), its Enlightenment roots, its deistic “Great Architect” religion, and why it set itself up as a direct rival to Catholic Christianity from day one. We trace how those ideas fueled both the American and French Revolutions, quietly shaped modern secular culture, and why — even today — a Catholic simply cannot square Masonic oaths with the Creed. If you’ve ever wondered why the Church seems to “punch down” on what looks like a harmless men’s club, this episode will flip the whole picture upside down.

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Fractal Equations and the Creator Who Signed His Work (#413)

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

A peer-reviewed paper claims a glowing, seated-Buddha fractal generated from the Mandelbrot set is hidden in the Mona Lisa, Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, Tutankhamun’s mask, and masterpieces across cultures—proof of simulation, aliens, or the collective unconscious. Greg explains what fractals and the Buddhabrot actually are, shows why the overlays are genuinely uncanny, and then pivots to the far more astonishing Catholic truth: beauty is a transcendental property of being itself. From Plato to Aquinas to the Catechism, the Church has always taught that creation is stamped with the splendor of its rational Creator—and that the ache we feel in front of great art is homesickness for Him.

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The Green Book (#412)

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Greg and Ed explore the difference between worship that is objectively real and worship designed to produce feelings, using C.S. Lewis’s famous critique of “The Green Book” as their launching point. They contrast a contemporary evangelical Christmas Eve production—where success is measured by how moved the audience feels—with the Catholic Midnight Mass, where Christ’s sacrifice is offered whether anyone feels anything or not.

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Divine Mysteries: The Immaculate Conception (#411)

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

December 8 is the Solemn Feast of the Immaculate Conception, and every year we hear the same two objections: “Pius IX invented the Immaculate Conception in 1854” and “God can’t apply the Cross backward in time.” In this episode Greg walks line-by-line through the primary sources—from St. Ephrem in 373 to Martin Luther still preaching it in 1527—and shows why both claims collapse the moment you open a history book (or the Bible). Along the way he unpacks the two deepest reasons the Church has always believed this doctrine: Mary as the spotless New Ark and, even more powerfully, Mary as the New Eve who finally gives humanity’s obedient Yes where the first Eve said No. A fast, source-packed, occasionally cheeky defense that leaves no room for the usual drive-by tweets—and might just leave a few Protestant listeners speechless.

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Dvine Mysteries: Theotokos (#410)

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

What does it mean to call Mary the “Mother of God”? In this episode, Greg dives into the ancient debate at the Council of Ephesus (431 AD) over the term Theotokos and why it’s a cornerstone of Christian orthodoxy. Far from just being about Mary, this doctrine safeguards the truth of the Incarnation—that Jesus is fully God and fully man. Greg unpacks common Protestant objections, addresses misunderstandings, and explores how Theotokos shapes Catholic theology and liturgy today. Whether you’re curious about Catholicism or deepening your faith, this episode will challenge you to see Jesus in a new light.

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Further Up and Further In (#409)

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

What if the Christianity you’ve always known is only the shallow end of a vast, ancient ocean? In this candid, burrito-fueled conversation (yes, really), Greg and Ed the Protestant unpack the longing that pulled Greg all the way home to the Catholic Church: a restless hunger to go “further up and further in,” deeper into the heart of the Church. From a worship leader who couldn’t imagine Catholics have music or preaching, to standing in the ruins of a medieval monastery and realizing modern evangelicalism is downstream from something far older and richer, this episode is for anyone who’s ever sensed there must be more to Christianity than the last thirty years of praise choruses and fog machines. If you’ve ever wondered why some of us can’t stop swimming upstream toward the apostolic trunk of the Church—and why we can never swim back—pull up a chair (and maybe skip the head-sized burrito). Come further up, come further in!

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Divine Mysteries: Logos, Christ, Pantoccrator, Returning King (#408)

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

In Part 3 of Divine Mysteries, Greg lets five explosive Scripture passages—John 1, Colossians 1, Philippians 2, Hebrews 1, and Revelation—paint the full portrait of the eternal Son, from Creator-Logos to Returning Conqueror. Then he explores how the Christian East’s majestic Pantocrator and the West’s tender Sacred Heart are two complementary lenses on the same Chalcedonian Christ. Perfect for Western Catholics who need awe and Ortho-curious guys who love the Divine Liturgy: Rome never lost the East’s fire. Discover why a Pantocrator icon might be exactly what your prayer corner is missing.

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Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (#407)

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

As "Ordinary Time" comes to an end this Sunday (November 23), here's a classic episode from the CC vault: Greg and Cory unpacking what "feasts" or "feast days" are in the Catholic Church, the end of Ordinary Time, and the celebration of the solemn feast of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe on November 23, 2025.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Divine Mysteries: The Incarnation (#406)

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 07:47:52 -0500

The Athanasian Creed doesn’t stop at the Trinity. In its second half it lays down the Chalcedonian definition of the Incarnation—two natures, one Person—and declares it essential for salvation. Greg walks line-by-line through the creed, shows how Gregory’s “what is not assumed is not healed” drives the sacraments, and lands on the bodily resurrection and final judgment by the God-man. Practical takeaways: the dignity of every human body and a sacramental worldview that turns water, bread, and oil into pipelines of grace.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Divine Mysteries: The Trinity (#405)

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

What makes Christianity unique? It’s the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, one God in three persons. In this episode, Greg dives into why the Trinity is the non-negotiable heart of the Christian faith, using the Athanasian Creed to show its centrality and exploring why it’s so hard to grasp. From common analogies to the relational love that reflects God’s image in us, he unpacks this divine mystery with clarity and reverence. Join us to discover how the Trinity invites us into God’s eternal love, culminating in the beatific vision of heaven.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Catholic Education Options for Parents (#404)

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Greg and Cory dive into the practical options for Catholic parents educating school-aged children. They emphasize parents as primary educators, supported by parish programs and schools. Discussions cover Catholic day schools, homeschooling with Catholic intent, co-ops, and cautions about public or charter alternatives. Financial challenges, discernment, and the need for intentional family-parish-school collaboration are explored. The conversation urges deliberate choices to make Catholicism the strongest influence in kids' lives.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Catholic Education: Goals and Challenges (#403)

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Greg and Cory explore the foundational principles of education and what sets Catholic education apart. They discuss how true Catholic formation goes beyond mere knowledge and skills to orient young lives toward knowing, loving, and serving God eternally. Drawing on historical and philosophical insights, they examine the challenges facing Catholic education in a secular world. The conversation critiques past shortcomings while emphasizing the need for intentional, competitive Catholic influences in children's lives. This sets the stage for the next episode on practical options for parents.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

OCIA: The Four Marian Dogmas (#402)

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Why do Catholics make such a big deal about Mary? For many Protestants exploring Catholicism, the Blessed Virgin is the last hill to climb. In this episode, Greg dives into the four Marian dogmas—Mother of God, Perpetual Virginity, Immaculate Conception, and Assumption—through the lens of Mary as the New Eve. Discover how her role unlocks a deeper understanding of Scripture and the Gospel, pointing us to Jesus in a way that’s both ancient and illuminating. Perfect for OCIA candidates or anyone curious about the Catholic view of Mary.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

OCIA: The Communion of the Saints (#401)

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

In this episode of OCIA: The Bridge to Rome, we unpack the communion of saints—the living, eternal family that unites the Church on earth with the triumphant saints in heaven. Drawing from the Apostles’ Creed and Scripture (Hebrews 12:1, Revelation 5:8, Luke 16:19-31), we show how the “dead” are truly alive in Christ, aware and interceding for us. Former Protestants will find clear answers to the objection that saints can’t hear us, with biblical evidence from the Transfiguration, the “cloud of witnesses,” and Christ’s promise of everlasting life. We explore veneration vs. worship, canonization, and practical ways to invite saints into your prayer life. Join us to discover how this 2,000-year communion strengthens your OCIA journey and draws you closer to Rome.

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Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

400th Anniversary Episode: Big Plans for the Future! (#400)

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

In this milestone 400th episode, Greg and Ed celebrate at the Secret Compound, munching on gas station pizza and sipping celebratory beverages. They reflect on the incredible journey of Considering Catholicism, from its humble beginnings to a podcast that’s touched countless lives, including Ed’s ongoing path toward Catholicism. Greg shares the challenges of keeping the show authentic amidst pressures to conform and announces exciting changes, including a new Patreon platform for bonus content and a second podcast exploring Christianity’s impact on Western civilization. This episode is a heartfelt thank-you to listeners and supporters, a look back at favorite moments, and a bold step toward the future. Join us for a candid, inspiring conversation about faith, friendship, and what’s next for the show.

➡️ Join now: https://patreon.com/consideringcatholicism (or tap the Patreon link in your podcast app)

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CONNECT WITH US • Website & contact form: https://consideringcatholicism.com • Email: consideringcatholicism@gmail.com • Leave a comment on Patreon (I read every one!)

RATE & REVIEW If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating (and even better, a review) on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — it really helps new listeners find us.

SHARE THE SHOW Know someone who’s curious about Catholicism? Send them a link or share an episode on social media. Thank you!

Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Why Proving God Misses the Point: A Fresh Look at Belief (#399)

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Can you prove God exists like a math theorem? Greg shares his journey from a debate-obsessed college kid to a Catholic who sees belief differently. In this episode, he challenges the idea that faith is about airtight arguments, exploring five compelling reasons to believe—from the universe’s beginning to humanity’s universal sense of the transcendent. Whether you’re a skeptic, a curious non-Catholic, or a Catholic rediscovering your faith, this episode invites you to weigh the reasons and make a choice.

➡️ Join now: https://patreon.com/consideringcatholicism (or tap the Patreon link in your podcast app)

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CONNECT WITH US • Website & contact form: https://consideringcatholicism.com • Email: consideringcatholicism@gmail.com • Leave a comment on Patreon (I read every one!)

RATE & REVIEW If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating (and even better, a review) on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — it really helps new listeners find us.

SHARE THE SHOW Know someone who’s curious about Catholicism? Send them a link or share an episode on social media. Thank you!

Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Catholic Social Teaching: Rorschach Test or Roadmap? (#398)

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Catholic Social Teaching, rooted in Pope Leo XIII’s 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum, is meant to guide Catholics in building a just society, but today it’s often a battleground for political agendas. In this episode, Greg reflects on preparing a lecture for his Catholic adult education course, exploring why CST divides progressives and conservatives and how technology like AI complicates its application. Drawing from Rerum Novarum’s timeless principles—dignity, common good, subsidiarity, and solidarity—he offers practical ways to live them out in 2025 with reason and discernment. Join us for a conversation about finding the heart of Catholicism in a messy, tech-driven world.

➡️ Join now: https://patreon.com/consideringcatholicism (or tap the Patreon link in your podcast app)

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CONNECT WITH US • Website & contact form: https://consideringcatholicism.com • Email: consideringcatholicism@gmail.com • Leave a comment on Patreon (I read every one!)

RATE & REVIEW If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating (and even better, a review) on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — it really helps new listeners find us.

SHARE THE SHOW Know someone who’s curious about Catholicism? Send them a link or share an episode on social media. Thank you!

Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

OCIA: Step Into Sacred Space – A Tour of the Catholic Church (#397)

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this follow-up to episode #396 in the OCIA: The Bridge to Rome series, Greg takes listeners on a virtual tour of a Catholic church, revealing how its consecrated spaces—from the narthex’s sacred pause to the sanctuary’s holy altar—incarnate the Mass’s eternal worship. Through personal stories, like his clash with a megachurch architect over a church-turned-brewpub, Greg contrasts Catholic sacred space with Protestant functionality, showing how every relic, candle, and font makes heaven tangible. Rooted in Scripture and tradition, this episode invites OCIA inquirers, curious non-Catholics, and Catholics to see the church as a portal to the divine.

You might also enjoy: Noah's Ark to Peter's Boat: Typology in the Sistine Ceiling (#387)

➡️ Join now: https://patreon.com/consideringcatholicism (or tap the Patreon link in your podcast app)

One-time gift: Donate with PayPal!

CONNECT WITH US • Website & contact form: https://consideringcatholicism.com • Email: consideringcatholicism@gmail.com • Leave a comment on Patreon (I read every one!)

RATE & REVIEW If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating (and even better, a review) on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — it really helps new listeners find us.

SHARE THE SHOW Know someone who’s curious about Catholicism? Send them a link or share an episode on social media. Thank you!

Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

OCIA: The Mass: A Portal to Eternal Worship (#396)

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the "OCIA: The Bridge to Rome" series, Greg explores the Catholic Mass as the central act of worship, explaining its purposes, structure, and profound biblical roots. He contrasts it with Protestant services, highlighting how the Mass engages the whole person—mind, heart, and body—while saturating participants with Scripture in ways that debunk common myths. Drawing from his own journey as a former Protestant pastor, Greg addresses objections like "re-sacrificing Christ" and shows how the Mass opens a portal to heaven's eternal liturgy. This overview serves as a preview for inquirers, a supplement for OCIA participants, and a refresher for Catholics seeking to share their faith.

➡️ Join now: https://patreon.com/consideringcatholicism (or tap the Patreon link in your podcast app)

One-time gift: Donate with PayPal!

CONNECT WITH US • Website & contact form: https://consideringcatholicism.com • Email: consideringcatholicism@gmail.com • Leave a comment on Patreon (I read every one!)

RATE & REVIEW If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating (and even better, a review) on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — it really helps new listeners find us.

SHARE THE SHOW Know someone who’s curious about Catholicism? Send them a link or share an episode on social media. Thank you!

Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

Natural Law: Why the Church Cares About Your Past Vows (#395)

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

[DONATE WITH PAYPAL] When a Protestant or non-Catholic wants to join the Catholic Church, they often hit a surprising snag: If they’re divorced and remarried, the Church requires an annulment for that first marriage—even if it wasn’t Catholic. Why? In this episode, Greg dives into listener questions about this tough scenario, explaining why the Church presumes all marriages valid (Canon Law 1060: “Marriage enjoys the favour of law. Consequently, in doubt the validity of a marriage must be upheld until the contrary is proven.”) and how natural law—God’s blueprint in creation—shapes this teaching. From Genesis to Romans, discover how marriage’s permanence isn’t just a Catholic rule but a universal truth, and why annulments are a path to mercy, not judgment.

Considering Catholicism

Moral Theology, Part 2: Tools and Norms (#460)

Moral Theology, Part 1: The Anatomy of Evil (#459)

10 Years Catholic: What We’re Grateful For, and What Still Surprises Us (#457)

Just How Depraved Are You? (#456)

"I Never Said You Stole His Money:" Why “Bible Alone” Doesn't Work (#455)

Imago Dei in the Age of AI, Part 4: Our Destiny Lies Beyond the Machines (#454)

Imago Dei in the Age of AI, Part 3: Will AI *Really* Change the World? (#453)

Imago Dei in the Age of AI, Part 2: The Problems AI Can’t Solve (#452)

Imago Dei in the Age of AI, Part 1: Why the Devil Envies You (#451)

The Real Reason the Catholic Church Ordains Only Men (#450)

Elders or Priests? Why Catholic Authority Isn’t Earned—It’s Entrusted (#449)

Blessed Triduum 2026: Gratitude, Love, and a Peek at What's Coming (#448)

Holy Week in Jerusalem: Walking Where the Gospels Happened (#447)

Easter in Jerusalem: The Garden Tomb vs. the Real Empty Tomb (#446)

From Babel to Pentecost: Why We Still Need Latin at Mass (#445)

Irish Guilt vs. Italian Joy: Why Catholicism Holds Both Sin and Forgiveness Perfectly (#444)

Livestream: Walking the First Holy Week in Jerusalem – Sunday March 22 | 7 PM EST

OCIA: The Bridge to Rome — Easter Vigil Mass (#443)

OCIA: The Bridge to Rome — The Sacraments of Initiation (#442)

The End of Ed the Protestant (#441)

Done with Church? (#440)

When No Means Yes: The Ancient Case for Lent (#439)

The Sacrament That Ends the Secret: Talking Confession with Ed (#438)

Stylistic Differences at Mass: Chant, Contemporary, Traditional, and Everything In Between (#437)

Mass Anywhere: Exploring Parishes, Oratories, Campus Chapels, and Missions (#436)

Stuff Jesus Never Said (#435)

OCIA: The Bridge to Rome – Trusting the Church, Part 2: Submission of Intellect and Will (#434)

OCIA: The Bridge to Rome – Trusting the Church, Part 1: The Profession of Faith (#433)

OCIA: The Stations of the Cross (#432)

Coming Feb 15: Our First Live Webinar – Egeria’s Epic Pilgrimage Proves the Early Church Was Catholic!

OCIA: The Scrutinies and Mass Dismissals (#431)

OCIA: Lent (#430)

When You Oppose the Pope's Poltics, Part 3 (#429)

When You Oppose the Pope's Politics, Part 2 (#428)

When You Oppose the Pope's Politics, Part 1 (#427)

From the Vault: Can Catholics Be Patriotic? (#426)

Why Three Little Words Have Split Christianity for 1,000 Years (#425)

OCIA: Catholic Moral Theology (#424)

OCIA: The Liturgical Calendar (#423)

Meet Jacob: A Millennial's Road to Rome, Part 2 (#422)

Meet Jacob: A Millennial’s Road to Rome, Part 1 (#421)

From the Vault: "Our Duty to Improve (#420)

How a 16th-Century Pope Saved New Year’s Day (#419)

The Star, the Gifts, the Surrender (#418)

Greg's Christmas Message 2025

The Ox, the Donkey, and the Baby Jesus (#417)

The Real Christmas Starts in a Womb: the Annunciation Over the Nativity (#416)

Debunking the "Christmas is a Pagan Holiday" Meme (#415)

The Pope vs. the Shriners: What’s the Real Problem with Freemasonry? (#414)

Fractal Equations and the Creator Who Signed His Work (#413)

The Green Book (#412)

Divine Mysteries: The Immaculate Conception (#411)

Dvine Mysteries: Theotokos (#410)

Further Up and Further In (#409)

Divine Mysteries: Logos, Christ, Pantoccrator, Returning King (#408)

Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (#407)

Divine Mysteries: The Incarnation (#406)

Divine Mysteries: The Trinity (#405)

Catholic Education Options for Parents (#404)

Catholic Education: Goals and Challenges (#403)

OCIA: The Four Marian Dogmas (#402)

OCIA: The Communion of the Saints (#401)

400th Anniversary Episode: Big Plans for the Future! (#400)

Why Proving God Misses the Point: A Fresh Look at Belief (#399)

Catholic Social Teaching: Rorschach Test or Roadmap? (#398)

OCIA: Step Into Sacred Space – A Tour of the Catholic Church (#397)

OCIA: The Mass: A Portal to Eternal Worship (#396)

Natural Law: Why the Church Cares About Your Past Vows (#395)

OCIA: Scripture and Tradition (#394)

What's Up With Ed the Protestant? (#393)

No Bad News = No Good News: The Cost of Soft-Pedaling Sin (#392)

OCIA: The Creeds, a Summary of the Gospel (#391)

Holy Spirit Part 2: Catholic Mysticism and Miracles (#390)

Holy Spirit, Part 1: Speaking in Tongues and Slain in the Spirit? A Catholic Take on Pentecostalism (#389)

OCIA: The Holy Spirit and the Seven Sacraments (#388)

Noah's Ark to Peter's Boat: Typology in the Sistine Ceiling (#387)

OCIA: The Catholic Church (#386)

God's Finger: Are We Saved By Our Own Works? (#385)

Feminine Genius: Catholic Ideals for Bold Women (#384)

Imago Dei in the Age of AI, Part 3: Will AI Really Change the World? (#453)