64: The Sacred Heart of Jesus: A Live Conversation
This episode explores the human longing for love and connection and highlights the dangers of placing human relationships above one's relationship with God.
Episodes
63: Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist Part 1
In this episode, the Catholic Frequency Book Club embarks on its first discussion of "Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist" by Brant Pitre. The session begins by delving into the Eucharist as a central and often divisive aspect of Catholic faith. The panel explores the Jewish contemporaries' reactions to Jesus' teachings about the Eucharist, noting the historical and cultural context that made such teachings challenging for them.
62: Mary, Mother of the Church
In this episode, we explore the significance of the Blessed Virgin Mary, particularly during the month of May, which is dedicated to her in the Catholic Church. Positioned between the feasts of Easter and Pentecost, the episode highlights the upcoming feast of Mary, Mother of the Church, celebrated on the Monday following Pentecost. This feast commemorates Mary's role as the mother of the church, a title she received at the foot of the cross when she accepted her son's testament of love and embraced all humanity as her children.
61: What is Hell
In this episode, the concept of hell is explored in depth, beginning with the 1917 Fatima apparition where three children witnessed a vision of hell described as a sea of fire with demons and souls in eternal agony. The episode delves into the theological understanding of hell as complete separation from God, a consequence of rejecting His love and choosing one's own will over His commandments. Biblical references, such as the parable of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25 and Jesus's use of the term Gehenna, are discussed to illustrate the reality and nature of hell as a place of fiery torment and eternal suffering. The episode also examines the warnings about hell found in other New Testament writings, emphasizing the importance of repentance and accepting God's grace to avoid such a fate.
60: Our Lady of Lebanon - The Story of a Shrine
This episode of the Catholic Frequency podcast explores the revered Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon, situated in the hills of Lebanon just outside of Beirut..
59: God Transforms Chaos into Peace
In this episode, we explore the profound symbolism of water in the Bible, contrasting its common association with relaxation and fun in modern times. From the chaotic primordial waters in Genesis to the transformative power of baptism in the New Testament, water is depicted as a force of chaos that God masterfully turns into order and life.
58: The Dominican Friar Who Became Pope and Helped Preserve Europe
This episode of the Catholic Frequency Podcast delves into the life and legacy of Pope Pius V, born Antonio Ghizlieri in 1504. Elected pope in 1566, Pius V focused on reforming the church by enforcing the Council of Trent's decrees and standardizing Catholic liturgy with the Roman Missal.
57: Maria Salus Populi Romani
This episode delves into the storied past and profound significance of the Maria Salus Popoli Romani, an ancient Byzantine icon revered as Mary, the salvation of the Roman people. Housed in Rome's Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, this icon is believed by some to have been painted by Saint Luke on a table crafted by Jesus, though scholars suggest it dates to the fifth or sixth century. The episode explores the icon's legendary journey to Rome and its role in numerous miracles.
56: The Barbaric Practice of Roman Crucifixion
On this Good Friday episode, the podcast delves into the harrowing details of Roman crucifixion, a brutal form of punishment reserved for the lowest criminals and enemies of the state. The Romans used crucifixion to punish slaves, rebels, and noncitizens convicted of severe crimes, while sparing Roman citizens from this degrading execution method. The episode describes the intense physical and psychological torment endured by victims, from the initial flogging with bone or metal-tipped whips to the agonizing process of being nailed or tied to the cross.
53: Holy Week - Palm Sunday to the Easter Vigil
In this episode of the Catholic Frequency podcast, the focus is on Holy Week, beginning with a discussion on Palm Sunday and moving into a detailed preview of the Paschal Triduum.
52: The Monsignor Who Saved Savannah's Cathedral
After a $12 million restoration, Savannah’s newly restored Cathedral stood pristine—until a gunman stormed in & lit the Bishop’s chair ablaze. What happened next wasn’t in the Missal—a shocking display of courage, profanity & grit by an Irish priest that saved the church.
51: The Church Doctors: An Overview
In this inaugural episode of a series dedicated to exploring the Doctors of the Church, the podcast delves into the concept and significance of these revered figures within the Catholic tradition. The episode begins by introducing the term "Doctors of the Church," explaining that these are saints whose theological writings, teachings, and spiritual insights have profoundly influenced Christian doctrine and practice. There are currently 37 Doctors of the Church, spanning 1800 years of history and representing diverse cultures and spiritual traditions.
50: Pattern Recognition - Finding the Papacy in the Bible
In episode 50 of the Catholic Frequency podcast, the discussion focuses on the biblical logic of pattern recognition and its significance in understanding the role of the papacy within the Catholic Church. The episode delves into how Catholics and Protestants differ in their interpretation of these patterns, particularly in relation to the necessity of a visible church leadership. The conversation explores the concept of pattern recognition, illustrating how it involves seeing a holistic picture rather than focusing on isolated details. This approach is applied to the biblical narrative, highlighting patterns of visible signs and leadership throughout salvation history, from the Old Testament covenants with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David, to the New Testament's incarnation of Jesus Christ.
49: Saint Augustine and the Pear Tree
This episode of the Catholic Frequency podcast delves into the transformative journey of Saint Augustine, a figure whose early life was marked by rebellion, womanizing, and theft, yet who evolved into one of history's greatest intellectual and spiritual leaders. This episode underscores the message that no one is beyond redemption, and that our darkest moments can serve as the fertile ground for wisdom and growth.
48: Catholicism in East Asia
In episode 48 of the Catholic Frequency podcast, the focus is on the unique and often overlooked history of Catholicism in East Asia. The episode features a conversation with the individual behind the social media account "Catholicism in East Asia," which has garnered nearly 30,000 followers by sharing content about the Catholic faith in this region. The account was inspired by the lack of similar content and a desire to fill this niche.
47: The Purity of Saint Maria Goretti
Discover the extraordinary life and legacy of Saint Maria Goretti. At just 11 years old, Maria's unwavering faith and purity led her to resist the attempted rape by 20-year-old farmhand Alessandro Serenelli. Despite being stabbed 14 times, Maria's final act was one of forgiveness, as she expressed her desire for Alessandro to join her in heaven.
46: The Life of Padre Pio
A look at the extraordinary life of Padre Pio, a twentieth-century warrior priest known for his stigmata and relentless zeal for the repentance of sinners. Born Francesco Forgione in late nineteenth-century Italy, his childhood was marked by profound faith and visions, setting the stage for his spiritual journey.
45: The Power of a Mother's Faith
In this episode of the Catholic Frequency podcast, we delve into the powerful story of Saint Monica, a fourth-century North African woman whose unwavering faith and persistent prayers transformed her prodigal son, Augustine, into a saint. Born in 331 AD, Monica faced numerous challenges, including a difficult marriage and the heartache of watching her brilliant but wayward son chase a life of excess and heresy.
44: Porn Destroys
In this episode of the Catholic Frequency podcast, the detrimental impact of pornography on individuals, families, and Western civilization as a whole is explored. The discussion highlights how the widespread presence of porn has led to the disintegration of families and the erosion of the moral and ethical foundations that were built upon Christian values and principles.
43: Satan Tempts
In this episode of the Catholic Frequency podcast, the focus is on the spiritual battle between good and evil, highlighting the role of Satan and the power of Jesus Christ to overcome his influence. The episode begins by recounting Lucifer's fall from grace and his ongoing mission to corrupt humanity as an act of vengeance against God. It emphasizes the constant threat posed by Satan and his demons, who exploit human weaknesses to lead souls astray.
42: Saint Joseph - Greatest Father in History
In this episode, we explore the extraordinary life of Saint Joseph, a humble carpenter whose destiny was shaped by divine purpose. From crafting tables and chairs with calloused hands to becoming the guardian of the Redeemer, Joseph’s journey reveals a profound truth: fathers aren’t born—they’re forged. Discover how this quiet soul obeyed God’s call without hesitation, leading his family through perilous journeys—from the flight to Egypt to the return to Nazareth—shielding Jesus with unwavering faith and sacrificial love.
41: The Movie The Exorcist Shocked the World
In this intriguing episode of the Catholic Frequency podcast, we delve deep into the true events that inspired the terrifying 1973 film, 'The Exorcist'. We explore the less dramatized, but equally compelling, real-life exorcism case of a 14-year-old boy in Maryland, 1949, identified pseudonymously as Ronald Doe. His ordeal began with innocent curiosity and the use of a Ouija board, escalating to manifestations of dark forces that led his Protestant family to seek help from the Catholic Church.
40: The Crown of Thorns
On this episode of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, we explore the brutal reality of the crown placed on Jesus after Pontius Pilate dubbed Him "King of the Jews." Woven from the sharp, curved thorns of the Ziziphus spina-christi—a plant common in Judea—this was no mere prop, but a cruel instrument of pain and humiliation, designed to wound with every movement. The, we trace its journey from a tool of torment to a sacred relic, revered by early Christians and guarded through the centuries.
39: Saint Augustine Confessions - Book 4
In Episode 39 of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, Sean and Shannon continue their enlightening series on Saint Augustine's "Confessions." This episode delves into Book Four of Augustine’s autobiographical work, focusing on his life from ages 18 to 27—a pivotal period marked by intellectual pursuits and profound personal grief. The hosts explore Augustine's philosophical engagement with the material, his struggles with the concept of friendship and love, and the profound impact of his friend's death on his spiritual and emotional wellbeing.
38: The Donkey Who Adored the Eucharist
Unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood, you have no life in you.’ Jesus’ words have divided believers for centuries. On this episode of Catholic Frequency, dive into a wild 13th-century showdown where Saint Anthony of Padua faced a heretic mocking the Eucharist. The challenge? A starving donkey, a pile of hay, and the Blessed Sacrament. What happened next stunned a crowd, shattered skepticism, and affirmed a core Catholic truth. Faith, miracles, and a mule that changed history
37: Aquinas on Angels
We know that God created everything—including the angels, who play a vital role in the cosmic struggle between good and evil. Throughout salvation history, angels have delivered divine messages, protected humanity, and battled demons. Their mysterious and awe-inspiring nature has captivated believers for centuries, including one of the Church’s greatest minds: Saint Thomas Aquinas and in today’s episode, we dive into 20 key ideas from Aquinas about these celestial beings.
36: The 1917 Appearances of Our Lady of Fatima
In 1917, three humble shepherd children—Lucia dos Santos, Francisco Marto, and Jacinta Marto—encountered the Virgin Mary in the quiet village of Fatima, Portugal. What began as a simple day tending sheep transformed into a series of divine apparitions that revealed visions of hell, prophetic warnings, and a call to prayer and repentance.
35: The Ways of a Gentleman
In this episode, we sit down with the man behind the popular X account and Substack, Ways of a Gentleman, to explore the timeless question: What does it mean to be a gentleman in today’s world? With over 10,000 followers since launching his account in August 2024, our guest—a retired army officer—shares his journey from leaving behind the negativity of social media to curating a space dedicated to style, culture, etiquette, and virtue.
34: Saint Augustine Confessions - Book 3
In Episode 34 of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, host Shannon welcomes back Sean Barabee for the third installment of their 13-week series exploring Saint Augustine’s Confessions. This episode dives into Book 3, covering Augustine’s tumultuous years from ages 16 to 18 as he moves to Carthage, wrestling with lust, vainglory, and a misguided pursuit of love. The discussion traces his initial enchantment with Cicero’s philosophy, his rejection of Scripture due to pride, and his entanglement with the Manichean heresy
33: The Agony in the Garden
In this episode, we delve into one of the profound moments of the Lenten season: the Agony in the Garden. As the first Sorrowful Mystery of the Rosary, this pivotal event unfolds when Jesus enters Gethsemane to pray, just hours before His arrest and crucifixion. Facing the weight of His impending sacrifice, He is betrayed by His friend Judas with a kiss—a moment that marks the beginning of the Passion. Join us as we reflect on the emotional and spiritual depth of this sacred scene and its significance in our Lenten journey.
32: The Catholic Belief in the Eucharist
In this episode of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, we take a brief look into the heart of Catholic faith: the Eucharist. Far more than just bread, it’s Jesus Christ himself, instituted at the Last Supper with the words, “This is my body.” Not a symbol, but a reality.
31: Our Lady of Guadalupe
In this episode of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, we explore the remarkable story of Our Lady of Guadalupe. In December 1531, on Tepeyac Hill near Mexico City, indigenous peasant Juan Diego encountered the Virgin Mary, sparking a miracle that would convert millions. From the unseasonal roses in his tilma to the mysterious, enduring image that blended Aztec and Christian symbols, we delve into how this apparition reinforced Catholic devotion amid the Protestant Reformation’s upheaval. Learn about the tilma’s preservation, the Vatican’s growing reverence, and how Guadalupe became a unifying force for Mexico and the Americas. Join us as we uncover the legacy of faith, culture, and resilience that continues to draw millions to her basilica every December 12.
30: Saint Joseph
In this episode of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, we take about the life of Saint Joseph, the protector of the Universal Church and terror of demons. As the spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary and foster father of Jesus, Saint Joseph offers a timeless example of strength, humility, and faith—especially for men today.
29: The Pope's Exorcist
Father Gabriel Amorth, known as the Pope’s exorcist, waged war on demons, claiming over 60,000 exorcisms after becoming Rome’s chief exorcist in 1992. From WWII fighter to priest, he used holy water and the Virgin Mary’s prayers to battle evil, insisting true possessions were rare—fewer than 100 cases. Co-founding the International Association of Exorcists in 1990, his legacy endures.
28: Liberalism is a Sin
In this episode of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, we take a brief look at the provocative 19th-century book Liberalism is a Sin by Father Félix Sardá y Salvany, a Catholic priest who boldly declared liberalism as the root of all heresy and a rebellion against God’s authority. Far from being silenced, the book was upheld by the Vatican as sound doctrine despite fierce opposition from liberal bishops.
27: Breaking Down the "Fatima Prayer"
In this episode of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, we explore the profound significance of the Fatima prayer, delivered by Our Lady of Fatima to three children in Portugal in 1917 amid the turmoil of World War I. Her message was a sobering warning about the consequences of sin, coupled with a powerful prayer for the salvation of souls.
26: Saint Augustine's Confessions - Book 2
In this episode, Shannon welcomes back Sean Berube for the second week of an immersive thirteen-week series exploring Saint Augustine’s timeless masterpiece, Confessions. This episode delves into Book Two, where Augustine reflects on his sixteenth year—a pivotal moment marked by the stirrings of lust and a haunting act of youthful rebellion: the infamous pear tree theft. Listen in as Shannon and Sean unpack the poetic agony of Augustine’s descent into disordered desires, examining how his burning eros, misdirected toward worldly pleasures and peer approval, blinds him to the divine.
25: Bibical Symbolism of Water
Throughout Scripture, water represents chaos, disorder, darkness, and death, yet God consistently draws forth order, beauty, light, and life from it. This pattern emerges in the very first verses of Genesis. In this episode, Deacon Harrison Garlick, Chancellor and General Counsel of the Diocese of Tulsa, joins us to explore the topic.
24: Noise: An Enemy of Every Christian
In this thought-provoking installment of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, we delve into the timeless struggle between the Catholic Church and its many adversaries, from secularism and modernism to Marxism and the culture of death. These ideologies, pervasive in the modern age, threaten the Church’s mission by rejecting divine truth and eroding spiritual life. The episode takes a unique turn as it explores an often-overlooked enemy: noise. Drawing from Cardinal Robert Sarah’s book Silence Against the Dictatorship of Noise, we examine how the unrelenting clamor of contemporary society drowns out God’s voice, leaving humanity disconnected from reflection, wonder, and faith. Through the silent example of Saint Joseph and a call to embrace contemplative silence, listeners are encouraged to resist these destructive forces and reclaim true freedom in Christ.
23: Saint Augustine's Confessions - Book 1
Welcome to Episode 23 of the Catholic Frequency Podcast! In this special installment, we kick off a thirteen-week series exploring Saint Augustine’s timeless masterpiece, Confessions. Shannon teams up with friend and X Spaces host Sean for a chapter-by-chapter deep dive into this profound theological and autobiographical work. Recorded live on X every Wednesday at 6 PM Eastern, this series begins with an engaging discussion on Book 1, where Augustine reflects on his infancy, boyhood, and the restless search for truth that defines his early life.
22: How Protestants and Catholics Approach Scripture
In this episode, we dive deep into the contrasting approaches Catholics and Protestants take toward interpreting scripture. Joined by Drago Dimitrov, a former Protestant who converted to Catholicism, we explore the concepts of ex ante and ex post interpretations of the Bible. Drago explains how Protestants often approach scripture as a starting point (ex ante) to derive Christian beliefs, while Catholics view scripture as a confirmation (ex post) of beliefs handed down through the authority of the Church.
21: The Permanent Diaconate
Welcome to Episode 21 of the Catholic Frequency Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of the permanent diaconate with two inspiring guests: Deacon Richard from the Archdiocese of Toronto and Deacon Jim from the Diocese of Allentown, Pennsylvania. Together, my co-host Jan and I explore the origins, responsibilities, and spiritual journey of becoming a permanent deacon.
20: Saint Thomas Aquinas on The Virtues
In this thought-provoking episode of the Catholic Frequency podcast, we dive into a deep conversation with biblical scholar and classic historian Imperator, exploring the timeless teachings of Saint Thomas Aquinas on the virtues. From the cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance to the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity, we unpack how these principles guide human flourishing and align with our ultimate purpose.
19: The Sacred Heart of Jesus
In this short special reflection, we explore the profound devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a cornerstone of Catholic spirituality centered around Christ's love and mercy. We trace its roots and spread through the visions of Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque in 17th-century France, its theological significance, and its impact on Catholic practice. Join us as we discuss how this devotion has shaped the lives of the faithful, the role of Saint Claude La Colombière, and how it continues to inspire Catholics today.
18: The Lies of the Sexual Revolution Part 2
Join us for another enlightening session on the "Catholic Frequency Podcast" where we continue our deep dive into the "Lies of the Sexual Revolution" with Sean Berube. In this second part, we explore the Catholic perspective on healthy sexuality, contrasting it with the misconceptions propagated since the 1960s. Sean shares insights on how to navigate contemporary challenges with faith, wisdom, and a commitment to truth.
17: Lies of the Sexual Revolution
In this thought-provoking conversation, Sean Berube joins us to delve deep into the cultural and moral implications of the sexual revolution. From exploring the ancient warnings within the King Arthur myth to dissecting the modern-day consequences of shifting societal norms, we discuss how the celebration of lust has historically and currently impacted civilization. Sean shares insights from his own journey, highlighting the virtues of truth, goodness, and beauty as antidotes to the pervasive lies of our time.
16: The Virtue of Temperance
In this episode of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, we explore the cardinal virtue of temperance—the practice of self-control and moderation. Discover how temperance guides us toward spiritual growth, self-mastery, and true freedom by helping us balance our desires and impulses. Drawing on the wisdom of Saint Thomas Aquinas and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, we discuss practical ways to incorporate temperance into daily life, strengthen relationships, and honor God through mindful living. Learn how this essential virtue can lead to a more fulfilling and virtuous life in alignment with Catholic teachings.
15: The Origins of Evil: A Deep Dive with Imperator
Join us for a riveting discussion with Imperator as we explore the complex and often misunderstood topic of evil. In this episode, we delve into the theological and philosophical aspects of evil, its origins, and its impact on human history.
14: The Family: Foundation of Civilization
This episode delves into the pivotal role of the family in society, exploring how its strength or breakdown directly affects the social fabric. We discuss the historical and moral foundations of family life, the impact of modern ideologies like the sexual revolution, and how these changes influence societal behavior and values.
13: The Catholic Land Movement
Welcome to episode 13 of the Catholic Frequency podcast, where we dive into the Catholic Land Movement to explore the movement's roots in early 20th-century Catholic social action, its focus on returning to agrarian lifestyles, and how it aligns with Catholic teachings on stewardship and community. Michael outlines the movement's goals of rural resettlement, skill-sharing, and fostering a deeper connection to faith through land ownership and production.
12: Mary: New Ark of the Covenant
A discussion on the typological connections between the Old Testament Ark of the Covenant and Mary as the Ark of the New Testament, focusing on Luke 1.
11: Saint Stephen: The First Martyr
Today is the Feast Day of Saint Stephen, the First Christian Martyr
10: The Catholic Church and The Dark Ages
In this engaging discussion, Imperator delves into what has commonly been referred to as the "Dark Ages," a term traditionally covering the period from the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century to the dawn of the Renaissance. This era, often depicted as a time of cultural and intellectual decline, is re-examined to uncover the layers of bias and misrepresentation that have colored its perception.
9: Rosary Rally In Somerville, New Jersey Celebrates 3rd Anniversary
Three years ago, inspired by seeing Rosary Rallies spring up in Europe, Frank Minishak took the idea of starting one in his home state of New Jersey to his parish men's group and convinced them to start praying the Rosary in public. Each and every First Saturday, a group of more than a dozen men publicly pray the Most Holy Rosary and recently, the group, celebrated 3 years of public witness.
7: Catholic Trivia with Nick and Susan
In this edition of Catholic Trivia, we test Susan and Nick on their knowledge of priestly vestments, the 12 Apostles, Liturgical candles, the 12 Days of Christmas song, the Council of Trent, the Knights of Columbus and much more!
6: Greek Philosophy, Roman Order and the Rise of Christendom
In episode 6 of the Catholic Frequency Podcast,we feature a discussion with a Thomistic theologian, biblical scholar, classical historian, and stoic philosopher. The conversation centers around the importance of Greek thought, Roman infrastructure, and the fulfillment of the Hebrew faith, examining how these elements created the cultural and historical context for the spread of Christendom. Imperator explains the fusion of Greek Hellenism with Middle Eastern cultures and how the Greco-Roman Empire laid the foundation for what would become Christendom.
5: Catholic Trivia with Nick, Susan and Christine
Welcome to Catholic Trivia Friday! After a brief break last week, Shannon returns with co-host Brian for a fun-filled evening of Catholic trivia. Tonight’s contestants include trivia veterans Susan and Christine, along with fan-favorite Saint Nicholas. With tougher questions on the docket, Shannon is ready to challenge their knowledge of the Bible, Church history, and theology. From discussing the preexistence of Jesus in the Gospel of John to delving into the virtues and heresies of the early Church, the contestants share their best guesses (some with surprising accuracy). The competition heats up, leading to a thrilling tiebreaker between Susan and Christine. Who will take home the tiara and the glory of Catholic Trivia champion?
3: The Cardinal Virtues
In this short episode, we look at the foundation of moral living: the Cardinal Virtues. These four virtues—Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, and Temperance—are not only cornerstones of Catholic teaching but also essential guides for leading a virtuous life.
2: Unpacking the Litany of Humility
Episode 2 of the Catholic Frequency Podcast was first recorded as a Live Space on the X Platform with @BldgCatholicMen. This discussion includes unpacking the Virtue of Humility and analyzing each of its guiding principles.
1: Meet Dr. Owen Gallagher, Rosary Rally Organizer in Ireland
Rosary Rallies are happening in more and more cities in Europe and around the world. In Episode 1 of the Catholic Frequency Podcast, we talk to Dr. Owen Gallagher, the Rosary Rally organizer in the country of Ireland.