The Inner Life

Fr. Peter Armenio joins Patrick to discuss Marriage: Part 2 (2:17) Fear of something better when it comes to dating. What does service have to do with Marriage? (26:59) Break 1 What is the importance of children in a strong marriage? (31:54) What happens when marriage gets boring? When should you start looking for outside help in your marriage?

Fr. Matthew Widder joins Patrick to discuss The Presentation of the Lord What is happening in our Church today? (2:01) Why does Mary get purified if she is perfect? (12:57) Nick - Love the presentation. Love the old testament connection. Amazing how Jesus celebrates major accomplishments through the old. Waiting for something...I wait for so much because there's so much to overcome. How the law is given to us...how it is written into our hearts. What does the sacrifice mean in the bible? (21:49) Michael - I'm a parishioner of Fr. Matthew's parish. I've been going through a lot of stuff and might not be here without Fr. Matthew. (23:59) Break 1 What is Candlemas, and how are we called to be light? (31:09) What is a world day of consecrated life? (38:29) what does Simeon’s prophecy mean in the Bible? How can we turn over our trails to the Lord?

Fr. Eric Nielsen joins Patrick to discuss Ministering to the Youth (3:31) What makes working with Youth different from ministering to adults? Why is ministering t the youth so important for the life of the Church? (15:59) threats that young people are facing? (19:15) Break 1 How do we have good boundaries for our children? (23:26) Lourdes - Resiliency - Fr. is right about it. As a young person, I went to Catholic school and when I complained about getting hit on the knuckles, mom said, 'well, I'm sure you weren't praying the Rosary dear.' But I did well in school. The danger of self-esteem. Mary - I think it's never too late to turn it around. Even in their 70's my parents shared that they wished they hadn't sweated the little things. It's ok to make mistakes. God loves everyone. How do you pray the family rosary? (36:52) Break 2 (42:29) Helen - I'm a teacher who teaches theology of the body to teens. We need to get down to the middle schoolers and educating them better about our faith and TOB is a wonderful program that ministers to them. Teresa - I have a new family that moved in next door. Little girl is in 4 or 5th grade. She likes me. We haven't related that much, but I noticed she's doing an exercise and I think she's a cheerleader. Doing suggestive gyrations. How can I be there for her without being judgmental? (46:10) Theresa - I am a widow with 7 kids. Can't get my kids to go to church. Such a heavy burden on my shoulders. When the father is taken out of the home, it's tragedy. Feel so wounded.

Fr. Rob Kroll joins Patrick to discuss Confession Why do we need the Sacrament of Confession? What are the parts of confession? (14:05) What if someone hasn’t been in confession in a long time? (19:30) Kevin - I was in confession the other day. At the end, I had a feeling to say thank you Jesus, and the priest said you're welcome. He's in persona Christi and sometimes we forget that. (22:27) Break 1 (23:58) Lynn - Not Catholic yet, going through the OCIA program. Through that process, there's the first confession. Am I supposed to make a list of every sin in my life, or how am I supposed to do that? (32:54) Paul - 40 years as a Baptist, I felt the need to go to confession which lead me to RCIA and into the church. How should non-Catholics feel about confession and approach the sacrament? (37:51) George - I'm having a little trouble with confession. Every day I can't forgive myself. Am I doing something wrong by doing that? (43:12) Break 2 Barbara - I'm in a parish that had a priest who was moved several years back due to behaviors. I wonder sometimes if the confessions or baptisms were valid because of what was going on with him.

Fr. Michael Hurley joins Patrick to discuss St. Thomas Aquinas (4:43) who was St. Thomas Aquinas (11:15) what is the Albigensian heresy? (18:19) Brendan - The one that impacted me was Thomas Aquinas' 5 proofs. I saw a video in middle school that challenged atheists. I didn't know there were such intellectual people in the church. It really shook my faith and eased my anxieties in it and have more faith in God. (25:05) Break 1 Madeline - He's not my saint...I'm trying to love him as a brother and I don't know how to reconcile. I love St. Faustina. I don't like him because he said pets don't go to heaven and that's why I left the faith. I'm back in the faith now because of St. Faustina and St. Maximilian Kolbe. (32:53) Role of Reason in our life today (34:47) Jean - My most favorite thing about him...he admitted at the end of his conversations that all of his writings meant nothing. He found what he was writing was useless. Once he spoke to the Lord, he found that he was so inadequate from what he learned from the Lord. (39:48) Break 2 (40:52) Regina - He taught that women are defective. I want to know how to get around that. It's offensive. I have a reference from Summa Theologica. (45:03) Thomas Aquinas’ Devotional life Where should people start when reading about St. Thomas Aquinas?

Fr. Peter Armenio joins Patrick to discuss Marriage What is marriage? (13:40) why are couples not wanting to get married? (20:56) Break 1 (22:39) Brendan - Anxiety among young people. I'm very anxious. I want to get in a relationship and married, but now I don't have a job and anxiety is causing issues for me. I hear it's good to get married young, but I feel I'm dealing with a road block. What do I do? (30:45) Ureli – People living together and not married. What if your parents aren't married. IS there something I can do to help them? They both want to marry. I feel I'm a mediator sometimes. Any advice as to what to do? I do pray for them a lot. (39:07) Break 2 (40:27) Paul - Married 44 years. Work with engaged couples. Biggest challenge is communication. We're all so different. Any advice where to find good communication teaching? Anything out there from a Catholic perspective? Email from Julie – How do you know if Marriage is your vocation?

Fr. Bobby Blood joins Patrick to discuss Catholic Education Why is Catholic schools week important? (4:46) what does the Church teach about Catholic education? What is the connection between the intellect and the will? (17:35) Nicole - My experience....My grandchildren are going to Catholic school. My daughter also went. I used to volunteer. I most admire is that I attend the children's Mass and we end with adoration. Getting used to adoration and the importance of a relationship with Jesus. (22:00) Break 1 (23:25) Ann - I had Catholic education back in the 40's and 50's. I thank God for it every day. Those nuns really instilled the faith. (26:15) Tammy - I am a product of Catholic schools from the 70's and 80's. I have 4 kids. One struggled academically. Just wondering if the school system is looking into this. Not everyone is academic. Do they have other avenues to help people? (31:50) Carol - Our Catholic school closed 7 years ago. Wanted to re-open, but I get backlash every time it comes up. Any advice? (35:43) Break 2 What should parents be looking for in Catholic Schools? (40:24) Alex - I'm dating someone right now. Trying to figure out where to educate my kids once we have them. There is a local SSPX school. It looks like it's the only place I can afford to send them. What should I do about that? Can you send your kids to a non-Catholic school? (44:17) what are the biggest challenges facing Catholic schools today? (48:03)  Maria - We've been blessed with our kid's education. Just wanted to give a quick testimony.

Fr. Joseph Illo joins Patrick to discuss Holiness in your State of Life (4:17) who was Saint Francis de Sales? Introduction to the devout life, How can you be holy in the world? (18:26) Break 1 What are ways lay people can become holy? How does God multiply your time when you devote some to him? (34:34) Norb - Suggestion to multitask with prayer. That's what I do. Robin - I joined the Guard of the Sacred Heart. I get up and whatever hour it is, I will go through that process. I say the precious blood devotion, and after that, I go to the Legion of Mary, Rosary, and I do my best to go to Mass/adoration. (38:40) Break 2 How is holiness a work of God first? (43:00) Maria - My experience...we all struggle with prayer time. I humble myself and ask the Lord to organize my prayer time. (46:11) Robert - St. Francis De Sales....been reading that over and over for years. What I still struggle with...what is my state in life? What does that mean and how does it correspond to my time in prayer? I feel like I'm always robbing my work and myself by studying an hour. The four books which Father Illo recommends everyone reads.

Fr. Dave Heney joins Patrick to discuss Protecting the Unborn What is the Church’s teaching on the sanctity of life? What is at the core of the reason people get abortion? (18:34) Break 1 Teresa - I just wanted to say that I'm trying to start a walking with moms with need at my parish in Ohio, so we can do what Father was talking about. Help through pregnancy centers and walk with them on their journey before the baby is born and after. (23:23) Richard - I lead a 40 days for life campaign in the Midwest. Prayer is most important, but we're also dealing with Satan in this evil. I think it needs to be approached from that reality. (28:00) Craig - We just have celebrated Christmas, but it's not the first and biggest feast we should be celebrating. We should be celebrating the incarnation and then the resurrection. It all begins at conception. That's when God became present on Earth. Jane - I belong a group called Holy Innocents. We raise funds for various pro-life organizations. Just wanted to talk about that. (38:05) Break 2 (39:59) Connie - I'm in OCIA and joining the church in a couple months. Something that slowed me down was encountering those who claim to be Catholic, but support abortion. What do you say to 'pro-choice Catholics?' (43:53)  Norma - I am a counselor at a pregnancy center. Want to say thanks for all who can help those centers. How can we speak about protecting the unborn with truth and compassion?

Fr. Allen Hoffa joins Patrick to discuss Overcoming Pornography What is Pornography? What is integrity restored? (14:31) Is pornography a private sin? (20:01) Mike - I'm a porn addict. I've been able to find sobriety from counseling and 12 steps. Want to give a word of encouragement to those struggling. (23:11) Break 1 How does pornography play a role in the abortion issue? (29:41) How is AI used for pornography harmful to people? (34:58) Norman - When you see a woman come into church and try to battle with thoughts. It's a sin and you have to watch out. It can be a distraction. (39:59) Break 2 (41:09) Raquel - 17-year-old son. Struggling with this issue. It could be a same sex issue as well. Not knowing what to do. What can people do who struggle with pornography? Resources: Integrity Restored https://integrityrestored.com/

Msgr. Robert Dempsey joins Patrick in studio to discuss the Beauty of the Liturgy (4:58) What does liturgy mean? How is the liturgy primarily an act of God? What is worship? (13:55) Alex - People responding verbally during the Mass. Sometimes they respond loudly and other times softly. Is there anything official on this? (21:29) Break 1 Natalia - How verifiable is it (the liturgy) that it hasn't changed from the original? Even going back to the Old Testament (translations). (27:06) Email about who put together the Mass as we now celebrate it? (31:11) Patrick - New pastor that refuses to continue with the use of incense during Mass. How can I speak to him about this? Henry - Our new priest, during the peace offering goes into the Lamb of God and doesn't allow for the sign of peace. Wanted your opinion/more info on this. (39:06) Break 2 Can you use incense during the liturgy of the hours at home? (45:15) Jim - The liturgy and how it's celebrated. Sometimes it seems so far off the rubrics. What is the right response for me internally in that situation? Do I offer it up?

Fr. Marcel Taillon joins Patrick to discuss Catholic Social Teaching What is Catholic Social Teaching? (10:03) What are the main themes on Catholic Social teaching? (17:07) what does the “common good” mean? (23:45) Break 1 (25:51) Lillian - When we talk about Catholic social teaching and catholic social justice, there is some confusion with one world order. The issue for us to be closer to God, but when it comes to this communal thing, we become confused and become more involved with community and not Jesus Christ. What are things that we can do for the poor? (38:52) Break 2 Cynthia - In my work with the homeless, we are trying to make them aware of their dignity. So many people have a negative view of the homeless. We do not have a strong Catholic presence in the streets of Austin. Any advice to help with that? (45:45) Richard - There's a document from the synod about 9 months ago...Life is Always a Good. It gives parishes a structure to put together a structure for the dignity of the individual as a person. Getting back to basics and having our faith and every person is valued. It's really a blue print to make that concept a reality on the ground. Resources: https://www.laityfamilylife.va/content/laityfamilylife/en/life-is-always-a-good.html  https://www.laityfamilylife.va/content/dam/laityfamilylife/Lavitasempreunbene/BROCHURE_EN.pdf

(2:46) Fr. Sam Martin joins to discuss praying with Scripture. (6:05) Pray to the Holy Spirit when reading the Bible.   Break 1 (23:05) Camille - It's amazing how the Scriptures have changed my life. (30:33) Vanessa - I had back surgery and was praying for healing, and this scripture, Mark 2:30 changed how I looked at everything and how Christ is here to heal me.   Break 2 (39:22) Susan- I grew up learning the stories of the Bible. In 2023, my mom was diagnosed with lung cancer and six months later, I got very sick and needed a bone marrow transplant. I was angry with God for the first time in my life. One night, dark and alone, I said the Lord's prayer and it changed my life.

  (11:03) Fr. Ryan Brady joins Patrick to talk about Reliance on God.   (11:08) God works at a completely different schedule than we do.   (12:08) Car shopping is a great example and also very biblical.   (15:40) Patty - I am waiting and discovering God's way to help me with weight loss.    (19:17) Email: Leanne - Relying on God as a young adult, cancer survivor.   Break 1   (23:58) Email: Gloria – I’m afraid of trusting the Lord.   (27:43) Patrick - Relevant Radio brought me back to the church 5 years ago. Also, I've overcome addictions and now am faced with a new challenge of leukemia. It's a new opportunity to evangelize.   Break 2   (40:23) God’s mercy will endure far longer than our desire to ask for it. Jesus relied on his friends and disciples to support his ministry. He was not alone. In your struggle talk to your priests and other faithful friends. Jesus humbled himself and relied on His Father in heaven and His friends on earth and the world was never the same.

Here is a great encore from July 22, 2025 Fr. Peter Armenio joins Patrick to Friendship with Christ How can we have friendship with God? (12:19) How do we understand some of the euphemism that saints use to describe their love for Christ? (18:25) Bob - I once went to confession and told the priest I was having trouble getting angry with God over disappointments. Angry about it and yelling at God. Fr. told me you probably think I'll get down on you for getting angry with God, but you know God and trust him enough that you can get angry with Him and you can handle that. I was really moved by that. Relationship with God is everything. (26:05) Break 1 Marsha - I'm a cradle Catholic. I've had a relationship with Jesus. The Baptists brought me into that relationship. They gave me a deeper dive into the intimacy with Christ. I hope they saw the beauty of the Catholic church. How does interior life help us from our relationship with Jesus? (40:40) Deedee - My relationship is one of a father and daughter. Trying to be friends with God is sacrilegious. Wouldn't there be a spiritual boundary of some sort? What does friendly speech sound like instead of prayer? (43:43) Break 2 (44:49) What can Mary Magdalene teach us about friendship with Christ?

Fr. Joseph Johnson joins Patrick to discuss Conquering Pride (3:13) Why is pride at the root of all sin? The subtlety of pride (14:16) Valerie - At OCIA...one of the ladies I was with is very humble and I told her that. I think if you're humble, you're void of pride. (21:09) Break 1 Email from Jared - How do we know when pride becomes a mortal sin? What are some tips for recognizing pride in our life? (27:45) Tom - I have a nephew who is a Jesuit. He is such an example of gentleness and a quiet example of humility. It speaks louder than any preaching others do. Noah - I make decent money and I'm looking forward to moving to my previous job where I was happy. I think I was just a little too prideful on being a high earner instead of being humble. Looking for some guidance with this on what to do. Should I stay where I'm at or go where I'm happy? (34:16) Email – how does gratitude fight pride? (36:36) Break 2 How does trust help us to grow in humility? (41:56)  Nick - I've learned that life is a battle...no winning/no losing. I know I have a fight. Even though I think I'm a good Catholic, it's still a fight. I still have to fight to fight. Greg - When I read the bible, things that have a message to be shared, but never get a chance to do that. Not that I have pride, but it's something to be talked about.

Fr. Chris Walsh joins Patrick to discuss Discerning the Spirits What is discernment of Spirits? (15:42) Pamela I was going to Mass and Rosary every day when I was having health issues. Had a heart attack and ended up in hospital. Instead of listening to my body, I ended up in the hospital. Patrick - I'm writing a novel. I feel inspired by God and I've been discerning it for years. I sometimes wonder if it's a waste of time or not. (23:24) Break 1 Called and Gifted and how knowing your gifts can help you discern your gifts? (28:50) Richard - False pretenses. My experience of following Buddhism and dealing with depression, anxiety, etc. I feel like I'm turning my back on being a Catholic. (35:52) Joanna - Holy spirit leading my life at work. Want some advice as a nurse with 3 kids. Don't really like the environment there and it's hard being around co-workers. Feel I'm being called as a teacher in a Christian school. Finances would be a huge cut though. (40:19) Break 2 Why does the enemy often attack when a person is growing closer to God? (45:06) Jeanne - My father is estranged from our family due to choices in the past. He's back in town for a funeral. Molested me as a child. I keep hearing the holy spirit to reach out to him while he's in town. Will this harm the family or not? Resources: Called and Gifted https://siena.org/

Fr. John Eckert joins Patrick to discuss Baptism (2:32) why did Jesus need to get Baptized? How does Jesus’ baptism connect with our own baptism? (21:50) Break 1 (23:40) Christina - What about our baptismal promises? Are these the same in all Christian Churches that have valid baptism? What is the role of Faith in baptism? (31:54) email about getting baptized again. (37:35) Break 2 (38:56) Rosina - Baptism. When you speak with Protestants, they say that children don’t need to be baptized. Why is that? How do we live out our baptism?

Check out this awesome Encore show from October 24, 2025 Fr. John Paul Erickson joins Patrick to discuss Conquering Fear (3:49) how do you distinguish between different types of fears? (11:22) Why does fear lead us into sin? (20:55) Break 1 Matthew - fear stands four: false evidence appearing real counter that with : face everything and recover (25:11) Ashley -I have a fear of death and then everything is crashing down on me (33:41) John - How can you deal with other peoples fear when they seems irrational? Jerry - diagnosed with brain tumor- turned it to god- and god took care of it- faced death and that fear (38:39) Break 2 Julio - The woman who is going through some mental fears. I am going through a rough patch in life with fear. It has been several months and I can't seem to shake it. I have been going to Mass and the Sacraments which helps me a lot. Now I am not feeling worthy to get to heaven. What should I do? (42:31) Emily - fear associated with childbirth (44:45) John - fear of life- afraid that I am not using my life well and God doesn't seem to answer my prayer

Fr. Carter Griffin Discerning Commitments and acting in Prudence (5:43) What is prudence? How do you make good discernment? (13:22) Sacrificial nature of Commitments. (20:09) Lisa - Commitments. If a decision is imprudent in the classical sense of prudence, is it sinful? (23:55) Break 1 (28:25) Jim - I just retired and have more free time. How can I balance adding commitments to help others versus time for myself? (32:10) Cam - It seems to me that I break commitments because of stress management. Mind telling me to stop stress and break commitment. How do I overcome this? (40:05) Break 2 How do we hear the voice of God when discerning things? (44:46) what is involved in discerning one’s vocation?

Fr. Richard Simon joins Patrick to discuss Modern Wonder Workers: St Andre Bessette and Simple Faith (3:28) who was Saint Andre Bessette? The importance of humility in working wonders. (9:57) What are Miracles? (13:25) Nick - St. Andre Bessette. I think it is amazing the simple things that St. Andre embraced. God gives us little opportunities like he gave St Andre and then gives bigger opportunities. How can we reclaim simple faith in our lives? (19:04) Mary - I had a physical healing from being prayed for by a man with great faith. (22:24) Break 1 David - I reverted to the Church after 45 years because of healing I had ingrown toe nails since 10 years old. I prayed that they would be healed and I was (28:43) Email from Mary – How did Brother Andre Console those who didn’t get a miracle from him? (32:09) Mia – Miracle of the multiplication of Cabbages Maria - Cured out of cancer. The doctors were texting me for Leukemia. I am an extraordinary Eucharistic minister. After consuming the Precious Blood I asked for healing and was healed. (36:50) Break 2 Is simple trust blind trust? (42:59) Jamie - 3 years ago I had breast cancer and wasn't Catholic.  I prayed the Rosary and was healed and I joined OCIA because of this. (45:54) Nancy - My friend and I went to the Oratory of St. Joseph. We were so thrilled. She is older and in her 80s. I had prayed to St. Joseph for us to be safe. My friend tripped and fell and hit her head on pavement. Friend recovered without any problems. Charles - One of my family members knew Blessed Solanus Casey and got my grandfather to see him. Blessed Solanus Casey healed him

Fr. James Kubicki joins Patrick to discuss Meaning of the Magi (3:36) What is Epiphany? (9:04) Who were the Magi? (14:33) Christina - Family tradition we've celebrated...our mother started the nativity story and the gift exchange rather than Christmas. Marcos - I was born in Cuba and we kept our tradition alive. Every year on Jan 5th, mom would bake cookies and dad would collect hay. Every year a different magi featured. That magi brought the toys. (23:37) Break 1 What gifts can we bring to Jesus? How can we honor the Child Jesus in our lives? (37:11) Break 2 (38:37) Theresa - I'm going to be giving a gift tomorrow. Giving sons and goddaughter a bible. I think this will be a healing gesture. (40:56) what is the Epiphany house blessing? How can we receive the gift of God well in our lives?

Fr. Spencer Howe joins Patrick to discuss Awakening Wonder through the eyes of GK Chesterton (5:22) what is wonderment? Who was G.K. Chesterton? (14:11) How does Chesterton argue that we have lot our wonder? (20:17) Break 1 Can you have wonderment while in suffering? What are practical ways we can increase wonder in our life? (31:35) Colby - I am currently in OCIA. A great place to start with wonder is with the Church because it brings me a child-like wonder. How does Paradox play in Chesterton’s life? (37:58) Break 2 What does St Therese and G.K. Chesterton about being child like? (46:04) Email from Gloria, how do I rekindle the excitement of living? Resources: The Society of G.K. Chesterton https://www.chesterton.org/

Check out this Encore show from October 2, 2025 Fr. Patrick Hyde joins Patrick to discuss Spiritual Warfare Where do we see spiritual warfare in the bible? (7:13) how do we find a happy medium with spiritual warfare? (12:22) Elaine - When I was young, I grew up in a haunted house. When i was little, I'd have nightmares. I would go to my parent’s room. Would see 2 angels in their doorway. That would calm me. (17:53) Maria - Mother is devout Catholic. Goes to Mass, confession, adoration. Convinced a family member is partaking in evil demonic activities and she's the target of it. She's had a lot of unusual things happen to her. Would that be considered some kind of spiritual warfare? (21:48) Break 1 Jacob - Live in a sketchy neighborhood. Somebody put a crow in my basement. Was in fear of it and demonic presence. Am I giving too much attention to the devil by leaving the house? Trying to ignore it. (27:24) Tom - Explain more about why he said not to get involved in crystals, also, how can we help loved ones to really heal from past wounds? I know the devil loves to keep you in anger and fear. Sarah - I have a sister I'm trying to help . Doesn't go to church. Have had conversations about this. She exhibited some rage after talking to her about it. I had a dream about her and she faded in the dream. I think she needs spiritual food. How do I deal with this? (38:13) Break 2 Randy - Spiritual warfare and PTSD...overall deal with spiritual warfare and experiences I've had. I called on Monday. (45:35) Dee Dee - My mom was into new age in the past. My sister and I were drawn to it. We're now stronger in our faith. I think some of the issues are still coming up though. My daughter doesn't sleep much (3 years). Around midnight or 3am, she will wake up screaming. How do we handle this? Resources: JP II Healing Center https://jpiihealingcenter.org/

Check out this Awesome Encore from July 30, 2025 Msgr. Tom Richter joins Patrick to discuss 6 Foundations of Prayer (part 3) (2:30) Father recaps the first four foundations of faith (18:44) Break 1 (20:18) 5th foundation of prayer: Humility. (37:47) Break 2 (38:59) 6th foundation of prayer: Purification (46:57) Regina - Humility...all the good things God gives people. What if you've been handled lousy things like an abusive family? Where's the goodness of God?

Check out this awesome Encore from June 24, 2025 Msgr. Thomas Richter joins Patrick to Discuss 6 Foundations of Prayer (part 2) What is the origin of the 6 foundations of prayer? (6:04) what are the first 3 foundations of prayer? (20:10) Break 1 (21:33) Fourth foundation of prayer- Pray from the Heart. (36:40) Break 2 (37:44) Michael - Question about my struggles with temptation. Struggling with pornography and temptation and feeling unworthy and staying away because of shame. How do I overcome that? How can I feel God’s love in a time of unrest?

Check out this awesome Encore from May 21, 2025! Msgr. Tom Richter joins Patrick to Discuss 6 Foundations of Prayer (Part 1) (4:01) why is it important to develop foundations of prayer? (11:05) First foundation of prayer: Awakened Faith (20:20) Break 1 David - How can I get more awaken faith if I already experience it in the past, but it has fallen away? How to reinvigorate the awaken faith and bringing it back? (26:07) What is the second foundation of faith: Getting God Right. (40:32) Break 2 Patrick shares an email about offering daily activities in getting God right? (41:46) Third foundation of prayer: The Cross

Check out this Awesome Encore from September 26, 2025 Fr. Ramil Fajardo joins Patrick to discuss Living a Life of Virtue Why is living virtuously needed for those in your family? (12:18) What are the Four Cardinal Virtues and how do they help? (21:39) Break 1 Dolores - My son is getting married tomorrow. I invited God parents to the wedding without him knowing. what should I do? (29:05) Leo - I have fallen into sloth. What virtue can I work on to combat that? (39:32) Break 2 How can your life your life virtuously by making a plan? (44:34) Joshua - It is my birthday and on Friday's I normally fast. Should I still fast today? How do I know which virtue to build more when dealing with a difficult spouse?

Fr. Joseph Johnson joins Patrick to discuss Final Preparations for Christmas (4:10) why is preparation for Christmas so important? The O Antiphons (17:46) Cindy - In preparation, I recently lost my pet of 17 years. I feel like this is a moment where I'm preparing myself because we love those loved ones. I prepare by knowing this is the first they will spend in heaven; I know they are no longer with us. That is just a joy. (22:40) Break 1 (24:30) Nick - How to be grateful. Ever since I knew you from taking over for the Inner Life, you've been a loving figure. Maybe those who are starting late...it's never too late as we hear from the Sunday reading at Mass. God is always with us. Life is an advent...a time for preparing for the coming of Jesus. How can we prepare for Christmas? (35:30) Yollie - Give the Christ child presents at Mass with our presence at Mass. (37:27) Break 2 Maria - Preparation for coming of Christ is our whole life. Our journey. Every day we should be in his presence, not just Christmas. Strength to overcome our sorrows and love our enemies. (43:24) The Gift of the Magi Where can last minute stress help us grow in our spiritual life?

Fr. Rob Kroll joins Patrick to discuss The Holy Family at Christmas (3:17) Poverty of the Holy Family (20:45) Break 1 (23:00) Clementine - Holy family: When my children were little I would say prayers with them and ask the holy family to keep my family holy. I lost my son and at his funeral there were a lot of priests celebrating the funeral. Importance of families reaching out to others in there? (35:34) Break 2 How does God show up in the ordinary areas of life? (43:50) Trisha - Who was Saint Joseph Parents? And how long was Mary serving at the temple? Did she live in the temple? Resources: Advent Office of readings: https://liturgies.net/Liturgies/Catholic/loh/advent/december20or.htms Consecration to St. Joseph https://consecrationtostjoseph.org/

Fr. Michael Hurley joins Patrick to have a Sunday Bible Study Matthew 1:18-24 (7:51) Father shares some background on this passage. (12:49) father Shares this Sunday’s Gospel (18:57) Break 1 What is the betrothal of Joseph and Mary? (26:03) Sandy - Why does it matter that Joseph came from the same line of David when he wasn't the biological father of Jesus. Why does it say Joseph was a righteous man? (36:50) Break 2 Richard - did Mary come from that line as well and where is it written? (39:41) Donna - I had a friend who had said Jesus had brothers. Can you equip me to respond to her? Why is Joseph so important in the Christmas story?

Fr. Eric Nielsen joins Patrick to discuss Christmas Movies Why are Christmas movies important? What is the importance of Scrooge’s story? (16:23) David - My favorite Christmas movie is 'A Bocelli Family Christmas' (19:58) Break 1 Deb - Christmas Carol Movie. I have 7 versions and watch all of them every Christmas. (24:41) Tony - It's A Wonderful Life is my favorite Christmas Movie. My wife and I often quote this movie. What is he plot of It’s a Wonderful Life? Pat - Peanuts' Christmas and It's a Wonderful Life (34:04) Tim - Beyond Christmas from 1940 is a good one. (37:05) Break 2 (39:47) Sandy - It's A Wonderful life is #1. One of the very first lines in the movie is often glazed over. Remember the conversation between the angels and God? Bobbie - The Homecoming, the origin of the Walton's (43:33) LeeAnn - My favorite Christmas movie is The Best Christmas Pageant Ever' This is a newer movie directed by Dallas Jenkins. What is the redeeming quality of the Grinch? Resources: A Christmas Carol (any version) It’s a Wonderful Life How the Grinch Stole Christmas A Bocelli Family Christmas (and The Journey) Beyond Christmas (1940) The Homecoming – origin of the Walton’s The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Merry Beggars Christmas Carol www.relevantradio.com.

Check out this encore show from December 4, 2025 Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris joins Patrick in studio to discuss Silent Prayer What is he language of God? (8:42) Jan - Silence. There is a silence that exists after the guests go home. There is joy when guests come and the silence after they leave is saddening. Can you help me appreciate this more? (13:14) silence as an invitation to prayer (15:39) Judy - I thought I was going to go mad during silent Adoration. I thought I could find comfort but could not. Can you help? (19:50) Break 1 (21:05) Email from MT – Why do sins seem to become really profound when I am in silence and especially before receiving the Eucharist? Maureen - I wonder if the devil is trying to disquiet people in adoration who have trouble with silence? (26:57)  Ben - I am a seminarian. I want to share that silence has helped with my vocation and discernment. I would not be here without it. (31:17) Nicole - I wanted to go on a Silent Retreat but now have to cancel. I find it hard to put myself in silence. How can I make a spiritual retreat for myself. (36:51) Break 2 Mark - Talking about silence. My grandfather starting going on silent retreats during the 1950s. We used to go on a yearly silent retreat. Some years I couldn’t wait to talk but other years I couldn't wait. (43:16) David - Going to Adoration really trained me to be in the Presence of the Lord. What is the correlation of creating space in our hearts for silence and making room for our Lord?

Fr. John Paul Erickson joins Patrick to discuss Finding Peace What is peace in our current world? (12:01) how does putting things off relate with a lack of peace? (14:54) Melanie - My friend can't do Christmas because their father died on Christmas. How can I help them find peace? (18:55) Break 1 (19:56) Rosa - My granddaughter has been cutting herself. Her mom is hard on her and I don't have the nerve to say anything. Father how can I help my granddaughter find peace? Cidalia - I have gone through what line 1 has with granddaughter. I hope she could go out with her for coffee or church and see if that helps. I prayed with my granddaughter and prayed on FRAA with Fr. Rocky. (34:23) Break 2 Email from a listener who is struggling to find peace with her family during Christmas who doesn’t celebrate Jesus during Christmas? (41:54) What is the connection between forgiveness and peace?

(2:44) On today's Inner Life, Fr. Tom Wilson joins to elaborate on Gaudete Sunday and joy. (7:05) The color the vestments the priests wear is Rose (9:00) How Do We Rejoice When Circumstances Don't foster good feelings?   (19:43) Break 1 (26:44) Olivia - I have a son who is going through some hard times.    (38:52) Break 2 (40:18) One of the best things a person can do for joy  (42:54) Rudy - I had a friend whose husband passed away around       

Check out this encore from December 9, 2025 Fr. John LoCoco joins Patrick to discuss Our Lady of Guadalupe on the Feast of Juan Diego. What is the Story of our Lady of Guadalupe? (9:30) Our Lady of Guadalupe’s Maternity (19:30) Break 1 (20:34) Richard - What has the scientific investigation of the tilma revealed? The number of the Aztecs that converted equaled the number of people the Church in Europe. Sal - I was drawn to an addiction and I asked Our Lady to stop that and she did. I also share a birthday with her. What is the difference between Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Virgin Mary? (28:11) Leo - My wife and I went to the Guadalupe shrine in Mexico City. Mother Mary gave us a chance to get close to the image. Tessie - I was in the hospital for 4 months and I lost gall bladder. I was on the verge of death. I saw Our Lady Of Guadalupe's image and I was miraculous healed. (35:25) Break 2 Catherine - I saw the tilma in Mexico City when I was a tourist. I was not a practicing Catholic. Today I help with out with Rosaries. (41:06) Steve - I saw the US Constitution the same year I saw the tilma. Isn't it amazing that you can barely read Constitution but the tilma is in great condition. This strengthened my faith

John Eckert joins Patrick to discuss God’s Faithfulness How is the faithfulness of God shown in the Bible (13:17) how God is faithful in times that are tough (19:06) Break 1 How are the sacraments a sign of God’s faithfulness to us? (20:30)  How gentle Gods in his interactions with us. (36:23) Break 2 (37:51) Julie - I don't feel God's presence in my life. From the beginning to the present. What's a good place that I can come to understand the process that my life is in? (44:41) How is God’s faithfulness seen through the liturgical seasons especially in Advent?

Dave Heney joins Patrick to discuss The Value of Tradition (3:54) What is Tradition in the Church? (19:01) Break 1 What is the importance of family Traditions? (23:19) Sandra - Tradition of pinatas and the origin. It comes from the Augustine’s of Mexico. Symbol represents seven deadly sins. Christi - The Jesse Tree. Having the little ones decorate the ornaments. (28:15) Pat - A couple traditions....the Rosary. Been doing it since 2008. Also, my wife and I have been saying good morning to God before starting the day. Try to put goodness to counteract the world and what's going on. George - Incorporating tradition in the family. How do I know if it's something I like to do or share with my family? Example the Liturgy of the Hours. (39:16) Break 2 Angel - My mother after Thanksgiving...everything stopped and there was no partying until Christmas. Everything was cleaned during that time and then brought the tree in Christmas Eve. Acted like a new baby was coming into the house. We don't celebrate until late Christmas Eve. What are times when traditions need to be curtailed?

Fr. John LoCoco joins Patrick to discuss Our Lady of Guadalupe on the Feast of Juan Diego. What is the Story of our Lady of Guadalupe? (9:30) Our Lady of Guadalupe’s Maternity (19:30) Break 1 (20:34) Richard - What has the scientific investigation of the tilma revealed? The number of the Aztecs that converted equaled the number of people the Church in Europe. Sal - I was drawn to an addiction and I asked Our Lady to stop that and she did. I also share a birthday with her. What is the difference between Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Virgin Mary? (28:11) Leo - My wife and I went to the Guadalupe shrine in Mexico City. Mother Mary gave us a chance to get close to the image. Tessie - I was in the hospital for 4 months and I lost gall bladder. I was on the verge of death. I saw Our Lady Of Guadalupe's image and I was miraculous healed. (35:25) Break 2 Catherine - I saw the tilma in Mexico City when I was a tourist. I was not a practicing Catholic. Today I help with out with Rosaries. (41:06) Steve - I saw the US Constitution the same year I saw the tilma. Isn't it amazing that you can barely read Constitution but the tilma is in great condition. This strengthened my faith

Fr. Joseph Illo joins Patrick to discuss The Immaculate Conception (6:33) What is the Immaculate Conception? How is Mary the new ark of the covenant? (15:07) why was the Marian Dogma declared so late in the Church’s life? (21:24) Break 1 What is original sin? (26:43) George - Adam and Eve verse Jesus and Mary observation, in regard to immaculate conception. (33:45) Break 2 How is the Immaculate Conception tied in with the Other four Dogmas? (39:19) The Immaculate Conception and Mary’s connection with Our Lady of Lourdes

Fr. Bobby Blood joins Patrick to discuss St. Nicholas: The Spirit of giving Who was Saint Nicholas? (5:24) why do we need to be aware of Church teaching? (15:37) Maria - Story about generosity. I was in a class with a bunch of different instruments, and the nuns said we needed to each bring a dollar to school to help pay for a broken drum. (17:44) Break 1 Geri - Tradition: We would use our dads athletic socks. We would fill them with fruit and nuts (in the socks) to teach stories from the bible. Pretty cool tradition (22:20) Carl - Tradition: slippers at the foot of the door and we would put cookies or something that we could give to someone outside of our home who was in need Lorraine - I have a fractured spine and there are people at my church that are helping me. I made a donation to RR in honor those people helping me. (33:17) Break 2 Father Rocky Shares a special book he wrote about Mary. (46:07) Joey - Before my mom died, we were talking about charity. She reminded me of something I did that made her proud of me. On a field trip, I bought another little kid a lunch when I saw she didn't have one.

Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris joins Patrick in studio to discuss Silent Prayer What is he language of God? (8:42) Jan - Silence. There is a silence that exists after the guests go home. There is joy when guests come and the silence after they leave is saddening. Can you help me appreciate this more? (13:14) silence as an invitation to prayer (15:39) Judy - I thought I was going to go mad during silent Adoration. I thought I could find comfort but could not. Can you help? (19:50) Break 1 (21:05) Email from MT – Why do sins seem to become really profound when I am in silence and especially before receiving the Eucharist? Maureen - I wonder if the devil is trying to disquiet people in adoration who have trouble with silence? (26:57)  Ben - I am a seminarian. I want to share that silence has helped with my vocation and discernment. I would not be here without it. (31:17) Nicole - I wanted to go on a Silent Retreat but now have to cancel. I find it hard to put myself in silence. How can I make a spiritual retreat for myself. (36:51) Break 2 Mark - Talking about silence. My grandfather starting going on silent retreats during the 1950s. We used to go on a yearly silent retreat. Some years I couldn’t wait to talk but other years I couldn't wait. (43:16) David - Going to Adoration really trained me to be in the Presence of the Lord. What is the correlation of creating space in our hearts for silence and making room for our Lord?

Fr. Marc Lenneman joins Patrick to discuss The Incarnation (4:19) What is the incarnation? God wedding humanity through the incarnation. (11:44) Maureen - I am a catechist for 4th graders. I'm trying everything to explain the incarnation. Want your opinion. Do you have another way of explaining the incarnation? (18:42) Break 1 How does the mystery of the word make flesh make clear the mystery of humanity? (33:50) Steve – How did Christ suffer if He is God? Jesus is the bridge that brings us to God alone. (39:45) Break 2 (42:25) What is the best Christmas Gift we can receive from Christ?

Fr. Peter Armenio joins Patrick to discuss Evangelizing Through the Media: 25 years of Relevant Radio Evangelical nature of the Church. (20:24) Christine - love listening to daybreak and inner life (21:58) Break 1 Eva - listen on the app. I value Relevant Radio and all it gives me (25:15) How is evangelizing similar to planting seeds? (30:21) Nick - I evangelize through letters and ACTS in prayer (34:29) Break 2 Donna - how can I evangelize those who have been raised in faith but don't know it? (42:23) Michael - I do daily readings and share it in a newsletter Daniel - I evangelize through Tik Tok Resources Parish Ambassador Program https://relevantradio.com/support/ambassador/ Highlights of the Catholic Faith https://www.amazon.com/Highlights-Catholic-Faith-Peter-Armenio/dp/1948139847

Fr. Carter Griffin joins Patrick to discuss Advent What is the meaning of Advent? (8:12) Music for Advent. (16:16) Break 1 The Advent Calendar (29:46) the Third coming of Christ (32:58) Break 2 The O Antiphons (37:53) Loneliness during Advent

Check out this awesome Encore show from October 21, 2025 Fr. Robert Ryan joins Patrick to discuss Vatican II (2:52) what is an ecumenical council? (5:48) What caused Vatican II to assimilate? (21:20) Break 1 Robert - Why the change from the Latin Mass?  Wondering why that's not very alive anymore. (28:57) what are the major documents of the Second Vatican Council? (32:16) Chris - I know in the past supersessions is the main teaching and then 2nd Vatican council condemned it. With everything going on now, I figured it would be a good thing to clear up. (38:52) Break 2 Greg - Lumen Gentium...chapter 16 where it talks about salvation. Just wanted to get take on the idea that a person needs to be Catholic to be saved, but all salvation goes through the church. If you die, you have the chance to enter. (47:36) Why is Vatican II so controversial in our times?

Check out this awesome encore show to help you celebrate Thanksgiving from November 20, 2025  Fr. Dave Heney joins Patrick to discuss Evangelizing at the Dinner Table How is Joy and excitement in the Faith important to evangelization? (16:05) Julia - My daughter recently left the Catholic Church. I don't want to fight at the table. How can we discuss this? (21:56) Break 1 Brenda - I shared an Instagram link without explaining to my daughter-in-law. She was upset by this but we talked about this and it was very healing. I think social media is not a great way to Evangelize without proper context. (28:11) what is the importance of the family meal? (39:45) Break 2 (41:02) Steve - How do we deal with a same sex couple at Thanksgiving? (44:01) Martha - We are having a group of 35 people. We always say grace. Is it ok for a Protestant to lead the prayer this year? The origin of Thanksgiving.

Fr. Michael Hurley joins Patrick to discuss The Four Marks of the Church Father and Patrick share some thanksgiving stories (5:52) What are eh four Marks of the Church? What does the mean that the Church is one? (23:19) Break 1 (27:29) What does it mean that the Church is Holy? (33:18) E-Frain - You are talking about the 4 marks. What do you think of the Palmarian Catholic Church? Are they a valid Catholic Church? (37:03) Break 2 (39:03) What does it mean that the Church is Catholic? (45:25) what does it mean that the Church is apostolic?

Fr. Ryan Brady joins Patrick to discuss The Virtue of Temperance What is Temperance? (8:09) What is concupiscence? (15:19) Joanna - struggle with indulgence with food- tried fasting and some verses that helped me to work on temperance anything else? (21:20) Break 1 What is the proper motivation to gaining the virtue of temperance? The importance of the Eucharistic fast. (32:47) John - best homily that 'there is no excellence without sacrifice' (38:08) Mark - 12-year-old addicted to pornography and addicted to porn. how can i help this boy grow in temperance? (43:47) Break 2 How do the virtues help us grow in holiness? (49:15) The importance of community in growing in temperance.

Fr. Tom McCarthy joins Patrick to discuss Vocations (3:02) What is a vocation? Why doesn’t God make our vocation clear to us all of the time? (10:44) How did Father discern a vocation to the priesthood. What are the fears that young men and women are afraid of when discerning the priesthood. (21:29) Break 1 What is the importance of encouragement when discerning a vocation? (32:40) Rolando - I have a 9-yo son. He is really drawn to be a priest. How can I help him keep this fire going? Patrick - I have a 3-year-old son. How as a father can I encourage my son to consider religious life? (37:23) Flo - Parents should encourage their children. My granddaughter became a Dominican nun. Other parents I have known were not supportive of girls entering the convent. (39:49) Break 2 (44:36) What is the importance of Courage in discerning your vocation? Resources: Discern your vocation https://www.beafriar.org/ Serra Club www.serraus.org