262. Conception of Mary

The doctrine of the Immaculate Conception states that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin. The Catholic Church, particularly the Latin Rite, follows the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception, which states that Mary was conceived without original sin. Other denominations that follow i…

ACAPELLA 11. Agnus Dei (Lamb of God)

The hymnal prayer "Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us" originates from the Book of John and the Book of Revelation in the Bible, and has been incorporated into Christian liturgy by its Latin name, Agnus Dei (meaning Lamb of God) since at least the 7th century. The p…

261. Was Mary Immaculate?

The Immaculate Conception is the dogma that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin. This doctrine states that Mary was preserved from the "stain of sin" from the first moment of her conception through a unique grace from God, granted in anticipation of her role as the mother of Jesus. T…

Nicodemus

A New Testament figure venerated as a saint in a number of Christian traditions, Nicodemus is depicted in the Gospel of John as a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin who is drawn to hear Jesus's teachings. Owing to his insistence on a hearing for Jesus according to Jewish law, Nicodemus is somet…

Advent

Advent is a four-week period of preparation for Christmas that Christians observe by remembering the birth of Jesus and looking forward to his return. E159.  The Word on Fire Show available at https://amzn.to/4eWYIPW  Bishop Robert Barron books at https://amzn.to/44W7nwN   Advent books available at…

EXTRA 97. England’s Trans-Atlantic Adventures

The first century and a quarter of England’s exploration and colonization attempts in America paints a vivid picture of ambition, curiosity, greed, religious fervor, and innovation. Let’s revisit years (1497-1618) of exploits, mishaps, and adventures to try and put in perspective the results obtain…

What are Parables?

Jesus used parables throughout his ministry to communicate and connect with different groups of people and to challenge conventional wisdom and encourage his audience to consider a deeper meaning. His parables, however, often left listeners confused or puzzled. E164. History in the Bible podcast at…

260. Religious overtones of Thanksgiving

Rooted in Christian traditions of giving thanks to God for blessings, salvation, and sustenance, American Thanksgiving has strong religious overtones, including acknowledging God as the source of all good things, praising Him for His goodness, and expressing gratitude for the gospel and eternal lif…

ACAPELLA 10. To Be A Pilgrim

The most famous "pilgrim" hymn is generally considered as "To Be a Pilgrim" (also known as "He Who Would Valiant Be" or "He Who Would True Valour See"). The lyrics were taken from John Bunyan's classic 1684 book, The Pilgrim's Progress. The poem describes the Christian life as a courageous journey,…

Supernatural vs. Preternatural

Christian Theology defines Supernatural as above natural and divine, while Preternatural is beyond natural with infused knowledge, immortality, and integrity. E162.  Dr. Taylor Marshall podcast available at https://amzn.to/3LoAmTc Books by Dr. Taylor Marshall available at https://amzn.to/3EEfxPQ  …