The Catholic Experience

God Goes Big (So that We can Go Home)

DESCRIPTION, CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS AND HIGHLIGHTS BELOWYou've heard the phrase "Go big or go home." But on a grander scale God is the one who goes big, so that we can go home (to Heaven). God goes big, every time. No half steppin'. No cheap tricks or imitations. Ready to have your mind blown? Let's explore how and why this is true. Also later in the broadcast we'll be talking about today's mass readings.Have you ever marveled at the sheer scale of God's interventions in human history? Our latest episode delves into the "God Goes Big" theme, exploring biblical narratives like the plagues of Egypt and the parting of the Red Sea. We spotlight these divine episodes as more than mere historical footnotes; they're monumental acts with enduring consequences for our spiritual journey. Through today's Mass readings, we uncover profound connections to the steadfast faith and immense trials in the book of Maccabees, crafting a resonant tapestry of faith, hope, and divine majesty.Note: This was intended to be a subscriber-only podcast but I'm making it available to the public by special request. Future daily live streams will be for subscribers only. To have access to exclusive podcasts, articles, and webinars (coming soon), please subscribe to my content for a mere $5/month.CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS(11:45) - God's Showstoppers(21:22) - God Goes Big(34:39) - Themes of Faith and LoyaltyOpening Notes:God Goes BigGod is the eternal truth. Everything that comes from him is found in him, perfectly. Humor, intelligence, creativity. Holiness. Beauty. Everything.So when God acts on something he orders it to a sort of perfection. He goes big. Everything is a big deal when he acts on it—because He is a big deal. Even the Church is a big deal. I would argue that it’s a bigger deal than the creation of time and space.The IncarnationGod became man. He infiltrated enemy territory and took on human flesh. He became one of us. Let me be clear, and let this really sink in: God…became…one of us. He emptied himself of His glory to take on human flesh.He was born of a virginWhy was he born of a virgin? Because to be born in the usual way of human generation sin would have been passed down to Jesus from his human parents, and he would not have been the unblemished Lamb of God to take away the sin of the world.He healed the lame and restored sight to the blind. He cured lepers and liberated those possessed by the devil. Why is that a big deal? Because He didn’t just make people feel better, he made them BE better.In life we ask God for so many things. Sometimes silly things. Often, important things. If he seems to act slowly, it’s only because it takes time to “go big” when acting on something so small (us).
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Freemasonry, Satanism, Humanism

We're starting off with a riveting conversation that explores the intriguing intersections of Catholicism with Freemasonry, Satanism, and Humanism. Listen in as we unpack the complexities of these topics, peppered with some of the latest unusual news stories that mirror the current state of our society. You won't want to miss the insights from today's Mass reading from the book of Maccabees and the significance it holds within our faith and historical context.Then we examine the concept of unity and its potential parallels to communism and Freemasonry, discussing the Catholic Church's stance against the latter. With a keen eye on the growing popularity of FreemasonryHear my take on the establishment of a Satanic Temple's after-school club in Connecticut and how it ties into broader philosophical movements. We'll also reflect on the unfortunate news of an Ohio priest's sentencing, shedding light on the dark undercurrents in modern culture, and revisit Pope Leo XIII's historical perspective on Freemasonry.Finally, wrap up this episode with a profound reminder of the importance of keeping our faith alive through prayer and Mass. I share with you the power of communion with the divine, and how frequent encounters can bring restoration and truth into our chaotic world.Chapter Timestamps(00:00) - Catholic Adventurer Daily Podcast LaunchInteractive daily segment discussing Catholicism, unusual news, and building community through live call-ins and polls.(13:58) - Freemasonry, Satanism, and Catholicism ComparisonUnity decreed by a king, Catholic Church's stance against Freemasonry, Satanic symbolism, and the Church's historical position.(28:46) - Redefining Satanic Club in EducationThe Satanic Club's activities align with non-theistic and pagan philosophies, reflecting a shift in youth attitudes towards religion.(33:23) - The Role of Science and EmotionScience and faith can coexist, open discourse in classrooms, emotions and social justice, reason as primary driver of justice.(50:04) - Stay Close to God Through PrayerParticipate in Mass, receive communion reverently, and engage in daily prayer to stay connected with God amidst chaos.ResourcesSatanic Temple announces launch of ‘After School Satan Club’ at Connecticut elementary schoolWhy Can't Catholics Be Freemasons?Vatican doctrine office reaffirms that Catholics cannot be Freemasons 
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Respect the Church (Scourging the Mystical Body)

Among those on the left and on the right, there are Catholics lashing the Mystical Body of Christ and attempting to reform it according to their own ideas. Based off of my response to a post on X by Fr. Dwight Longenecker (embedded below), I discuss my assertion that the church "does not take itself seriously and...has no/low respect of self". What does "respect of self" mean, in this context? What does it mean to respect the Church and the faith, and why does this lack of respect result in "the church" (priests and laity) disfiguring and distorting the faith? Note: My usage of "the church" in this post, should be understood as those among the members of the Mystical Body of the Church. It is not exclusive to the hierarchy or the lay-faithful, but all of us. Christ's Mystical body is being lashed, just as his sacred body was lashed during his passion. Except this time many of the faithful—not just the pagans—are participating in the lashing. We need to correct ourselves.
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Exploring Scripture Through Meditation (and Typology)

Exploring the importance of not simply reading the bible but meditating on its words, especially according to the wisdom of the Early Church Fathers. Then I'm joined by "Brother Alexander" to talk about Typology in general, and the typology of the cross in particular. Alex, who writes on Substack, has spent a long time learning about Typology and he has a lot of knowledge and experience to share. You'll find his socials in the links below Substack Tower of Adam (Substack) Algoria  Tales of Old English Christendom  Social Media X (Twitter) Instagram YouTube
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Trans-Baptism?

Talking about sacraments and sacramental grace against the backdrop of "breaking news" that the Vatican now allows trans people to be baptized. And are progressive priests in the Church in decline? A major study reveals much! The "Trans baptism" segment starts at around the 26-minute mark
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The Visitation - How Mary Presents Jesus, Part 2

A deep dive into how Our Lady presents Jesus, even with her presence, and with her praises. I also go through some similarities between this event, and the "adventures" of the Arc of the Covenant in the Old Testament. A lot of little factoids in here.
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Synod Recap!

Synod Recap - Episode 6 of the Catholic Experience podcast. Also available right now on iTunes, Spotify, TuneIn and YouTube- listen the way you want. Description - As the #SynodonSynodality on Synodality wraps up, I take some time to discuss what has come out of it. What I see most prominently, and what I most like, can be summed up in one word: Listening. I think you'll like it too, once I explain it. Nothing shocking or surprising came out of the Synod. So I also take some time to explain that "If we believe in Jesus, we shouldn't be worried about the Synod" Finally I talk about what, if any, has been said and done regarding the hot-button topics that surrounded the #Synod. Links to articles covered here can be found in the 1st comment to this post. #Synod2023 #Catholic   Articles Covered https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255850/vatican-releases-synod-on-synodality-report-proposing-larger-role-for-laity-in-church   https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255852/in-summary-report-synod   https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255851/women-deacons-sex-abuse-and-gender-identity-what-did-the-synod-on-synodality-conclude
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Tradition and the Desert

We are on a journey through the desert. Why is that important, and why might "tradition" limit the benefits of that sojourn? Also at the top of this episode is a new edition of "the pulse" (Catholic news briefs) Follow me on X and Instagram @ForTheQueenBVM Follow on Facebook and YouTube @CatholicAdventurer -- News Articles Covered Cross in public square in Spain smashed to pieces Vatican statistics: Africa had biggest increase in Catholics, while numbers fell in Europe Pope Francis to Catholic LGBTQ Leader: ‘Thank You for Your Ministry’
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The Pulse #1 - ”LGBTQ, TLM, RFK” Alphabet Soup

The Pulse is a supplemental podcast discussing some headline and stories in Catholic news.In this episode:Two 12-year old vandals set fire in a church. But what becomes of them for their crime? My thoughts on RFK Jr. running for President as an Independant, having left the Democratic party. Some thoughts on Joe Biden’s re-election bid. Some anthropologists apparently believe gender is not binary, despite science. And Cardinal Tobin of Newark responds to questions about welcomeing LGBTQ+ Catholics in the Church, and whether Latin Mass-loving Catholics are "banished" from the Church.Chapter Timestamps(00:00) - Current Events Commentary(05:37) - Robert F. Kennedy Jr. For PresidentRobert F Kennedy Jr. leaves Democratic Party to run as independent against Biden, discussing his stance on key issues.(16:17) - Gender Diversity in Anthropology SessionControversy over AAA's rejection of session proposal, silencing of conflicting viewpoints, and challenging binary view of gender.(26:51) - Cardinal Speaks on LGBTQ and TLMInclusivity in the Catholic Church, questioning the need for a lengthy LGBTQ+ acronym and identity politics.(38:58) - The Logic of Banishment vs InclusionCardinal Tobin's comments on TLM restrictions and parallels to LGBTQ+ Catholics, emphasizing living in accordance with beliefs and universal call to turn from sin.Links to Stories in this episode12 year-old vandalsRJK Jr. Running as an IndependantAnthropologists and GenderTobin on LGBTQ+ and "TLM Mass" Catholics 
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Pope Said What? (Mercy, and Baptism of Desire)

Discussing what Pope Francis said to a little boy who asked him if his recently deceased, non-believing father might be in Heaven. This encounter happened five years ago but it has resurfaced and made the rounds on social media, prompting responses that range from hostility to shock and disbelief. Most commenters have unsurprisingly misinterrpeted the holy father, and most have shuned the theology he was expressing. Are they wrong? Yes and no.  In this episode I talk about approaching every situation with mercy, not with the wrath of God. I go on to discuss how Pope Francis should be interpreted, discuss his words during the encounter with the little boy, and I talk about Baptism by Desire, which has been the central talking point behind the pope's words, and those lashing out against him. Follow me on X @forthequeenBVM or Facebook @CatholicAdventurer References: Catechism 1258 The Church has always held the firm conviction that those who suffer death for the sake of the faith without having received Baptism are baptized by their death for and with Christ. This Baptism of blood, like the desire for Baptism, brings about the fruits of Baptism without being a sacrament. Article by Catholic.com
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