The Catholic Experience

No Sin-Nod at the Synod

Let's look into the ongoing discussions and heated debates surrounding the Synod on Synodality. I'll share my thoughts on recent articles, including the surprising arguments supporting a Catholic vote for Kamala Harris. I discuss the importance of pure thinking and clarity of mind in as necessities for seeing God, and seeing all TRUTH, and why our connection to the historical church and martyrs matters so profoundly. Additionally, I'll cover the value of local synods, the risk of decentralization of doctrinal authority, and ask the question "Where are Men in the Church?".Article: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/259631/synod-on-synodality-breaking-news-and-analysis-live-from-the-vatican
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Wisdom and Foolishness

I dive into themes of holiness and pursuits beyond earthly treasures, influenced by the Book of Wisdom. Reflecting on my journey as a Catholic communicator, I challenge the Catholic faithful to embrace genuine wisdom above all. Are practicing Catholics still pursuing the essence of their faith? Have we been fooled into missing the whole point?  I discuss this vital question along with personal stories and observations. Stay tuned till the end for an announcement about my podcasting journey. Subscribe, enjoy, and let this episode connect us deeper with our faith.00:00 Welcome to the Catholic Experience00:29 Introduction to the Special Episode00:48 Catholic Conundrums: Wisdom and Holiness03:37 Mass Reading: The Book of Wisdom04:56 Personal Reflections on Wisdom06:49 Challenges in Modern Catholicism09:38 A Journey of Faith and Evangelism19:41 The Path to Holiness27:03 The Value of Wisdom28:07 Pride in the Church30:00 Faith and Politics31:05 The Journey to Holiness34:02 The Importance of Humility36:20 The Sin of Idolatry39:00 A Call to Action45:53 Future Plans and Announcements51:49 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude
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A Return to Paganism

Drawing inspiration from an article on the Catholic News Agency about Nigerian youth reverting to the religions of their ancestors, I discuss this concerning trend and its implications for the church at large. We explore what drives these youth back to traditional pagan practices and how this phenomenon mirrors broader global shifts away from Christianity and into pagan or paganistic religions and religious ideologies.
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Reflections on Faith

I also discuss current political issues, including immigration and how it's portrayed in the media, and explain the cultural crisis of identity that affects both individuals and society.  This episode seems political, but through a Catholic lens. There's a lot here for faithful Catholics to learn from.00:00 The Catholic Adventurer Returns00:39 Life Updates and New Beginnings02:48 The Struggles of Unemployment03:43 Faith and Gratitude in Difficult Times11:17 Podcasting Challenges and Future Plans18:31 Immigration and Political Commentary30:43 Unemployment Benefits and Illegal Immigration31:54 Fantasyland Christianity and Immigration32:34 Misconceptions About the Holy Family33:41 Legal vs. Illegal Immigration33:56 Shark Tank and the Immigrant Success Story38:17 Abortion and Cultural Issues40:06 Global Stupidity and Lack of Creativity42:46 Tattoo Culture and Identity Crisis44:48 Political Cults and Identity47:15 The Real Enemy: Lack of Identity55:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Catholic Fairy Tales

Debunking Catholic Fairy Tales: Pope Francis, Traditionalism, and ConscienceIn this episode, I tackle some of the common myths circulating within the Catholic community. We explore whether Pope Francis is truly a heretic, the actual meaning of progressivism and traditionalism in Catholicism, and the misunderstood role of conscience versus church teaching. Join me as I delve into these topics, providing clarity and challenging widely held misconceptions.00:00 Introduction and Session Setup00:22 Discussing Canonical Crimes03:02 Addressing the Pope Heresy Claims19:13 Exploring Progressivism in Catholicism26:42 Traditionalism in Catholicism28:55 Understanding Catholic Purity29:29 The Role of Tradition in Catholicism29:58 Misconceptions About Traditionalism30:53 Defining Pure Catholicism31:30 The Importance of Serving Others33:01 Personal Reflections on Traditionalism36:39 The Authority of Conscience47:28 Final Thoughts and Announcements49:39 The Essence of HolinessBio Link (All things "Catholic Adventurer")Podcast Updates Bulletin (Emailed once a week)Newsletter Sign-upSend a Tip, Support the Mission

Silence of the Shepherds

In this X Spaces session I discussed the lack of response from the Vatican and other Church leadership (Priests, Bishops)  following a controversial drag performance at the Olympic opening ceremony that mocked The Last Supper.  I explore the significance of the silence from church leaders, the reactions from the faithful, and the broader implications for the Church’s role in addressing such secular disrespect. Chapter Markers03:00 Lack of Response from the Vatican05:40 Zeal and Reaction in the Faithful08:05 Defending the Faith09:20 Critique of Atheist Reactions15:05 Call for Church Leadership24:02 Experience and Leadership in the Church24:40 The Danger of Silence and Inaction25:24 Addressing Extremism in the Church27:23 The Role of Social Media in Understanding the Faithful30:46 Jesus' Response to Injustice32:36 The Need for Pastoral Leadership34:24 Criticism of the Vatican's Silence38:08 Challenges Faced by Evangelizers41:58 The Church's Role in Supporting the Faithful47:47 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionBio Link (All things "Catholic Adventurer")Podcast Updates Bulletin (Emailed once a week)Newsletter Sign-upSend a Tip, Support the Mission

Response to Drag Show at the Olympics

In this episode I address the controversial drag show at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, which mocked the Last Supper  and discuss the pushback I've received on social media. I elaborate on the reaction (and inaction) from the French bishops and how it contrasts to responses from other prominent Catholic figures. I offer my personal thoughts on religious mockery, and advocate for peaceful yet firm responses. Join me as I explore the implications of this event and call for proper reactions from the Catholic community. Chapters:01:18 Pushback and Diverse Opinions 04:52 Critique of the French Bishops' Response 16:18 Scriptural Reflections and Broader Implications 21:50 Critique of The Last Supper Artwork 22:45 The Importance of Seeing the Good 23:11 Taking Ourselves Seriously 23:40 Jesus and the Money Changers 24:18 Moral Indifference and Tolerance 24:42 Responding to Injustice 26:20 Peaceful Responses to Outrage 29:02 Reactions from Religious Leaders 31:45 Criticism of French Bishops 32:18 Broader Cultural Implications 41:09 Call for Constructive Dialogue 42:58 Conclusion and Sign-Off
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American Christians Abandoning ’Church’

In this episode, hosted as an X Spaces session, we dive into the complex issue of declining church attendance among American Christians, with a particular focus on Catholics. Hosted on X Spaces, the discussion explores five main reasons behind this phenomenon, ranging from the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic to the allure of personal spirituality over organized religion. I talk about these points with a mix of anecdotal observations and theological insights. Additionally, I reflects on the impact of social media on spiritual practices and emphasize the importance of active, lived witness of faith in restoring the counterculture of Christianity.Bio Link (All things "Catholic Adventurer")Podcast Updates Bulletin (Emailed once a week)Newsletter Sign-upSend a Tip, Support the Mission

Building Faith by Sharing our Talents

In this episode, I interview John Kramer, also known as J.M. Kramer, a master Lego builder and faithful Catholic from Saginaw, Michigan. John shares his journey of using his talent in building intricate Lego churches to evangelize, to share his Catholic faith, and bring awareness to the intersection of faith and disability. Despite living with cerebral palsy and other health challenges, John discusses how he turns his struggles into strengths, creating inspiring Lego church displays and engaging in discussions about faith and disability, and trust and surrender to God. He also touches on his writing projects, such as his Substack newsletter 'Praying at the Bricks,' and emphasizes the importance of using one's unique talents to serve God and others. The conversation highlights John's resilience, creativity, and deep faith, showcasing how he navigates life's challenges while staying true to his mission of evangelization. John is very deep but very real. There are a lot of nuggets of wisdom in this conversation, and I hope you enjoy listening to it. John's Substack: https://prayingbricks.substack.com Follow him on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LegoChurchProject
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Spiritual Maturity

Spiritual maturity and immaturity are real conditions. I fear many in the Church are trapped in spiritual immaturity, and may sadly  even be content with it. I hope to encourage listeners to be better than that. Starting things off with an article on NC Register about British Catholics fearing the rumored cancelation of the Traditional Latin Mass, I get into the theme of spiritual maturity contrasted with spiritual immaturity from a scriptural and historical Catholic perspective. The discussion begins with an analysis of the culture surrounding the Traditional Latin Mass, critiquing the subculture without opposing the TLM Mass itself. The episode also explores the difference between 'milk' and 'solid food' in Catholic teachings, using examples such as simplified teachings from Fulton Sheen and the contrast between the Traditional Latin Mass and Novus Ordo Mass. The evolving teachings on the death penalty are highlighted as an instance of the Church's complex and layered guidance. Article Read in this episode:"Agatha Christie Letter 2.0: The Traditional Latin Mass as a Cultural, as Well as Liturgical, Treasure" 
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