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Christendom is Dead. Why Msgr. James Shea Thinks This Is the Most Exciting Time to Be Alive! What happened to the catholic church's influence in our culture — and what comes next? In this episode of the A Reason For Hope Podcast, Monsignor James Shea, President of the University of Mary, sits down with Mario Costabile and breaks down the end of Christendom — the 300-year unraveling since the Enlightenment — and why we are now living in a new apostolic era. Msgr. Shea explains why you can't lead with moral rules before winning minds and imaginations, using his baseball analogy: you don't teach a kid the infield fly rule before taking him to the game. You'll hear why faith is dynamic and atrophies if you don't give it away, how every lay person is sent to witness without needing a master's degree in theology , and why our post-christianity moment leaves people deeply thirsty for meaning. Featuring stories from rural North Dakota, G.K. Chesterton on the Church burying its undertakers, and this line you’ll want to share: If God doesn't exist we can do anything we want, but nothing matters. If God does exist, we can't do anything we want, but everything matters. If you want to learn how to share your faith and how to evangelize in a secular world, this conversation on catholic answers to modernity will give you cheerful endurance to not give up. ⏰TIMECODE⏰ 00:00 Hook  01:30 Start of Interview  02:03 What does Christendom mean?  04:44 Was Christendom as Ideal as we Imagined it?  06:42 When did Christendom Start to Unravel?  10:05 What were the causes behind Christendom's collapse?  12:06 How does this affect the way the Church Evangelizes?  13:36 How do we evangelize to our secular culture?  19:21 Importance of Creating Encounters with Christ 22:26 What does it mean for the Church to enter an age of Apostolic Mission  23:52 The importance of personal witness  28:21 The Opportunities for Evangelization 32:58 Message of Hope for Non-Believers 34:15 Message of Hope to Believers  37:58 How is University of Mary Preparing Students for the Future?  41:06 Goodbyes  -Support Our Mission- Donate Here - https://arrayofhope.org/donate Book an Event - https://arrayofhope.org/ -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast -Follow University of Mary on Social Media- Website: https://www.umary.edu/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofmary/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/universityofmary/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@universityofmary  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@universityofmary The A Reason For Hope Podcast is a catholic podcast on a mission to help our culture decipher the truths of our catholic faith , sharing catholic teaching on prayer , bible , theology, the eucharist, catholic mass, the rosary, morning prayer catholic ,  metanoia catholic and life in the catholic church.

What does it take to create truly compelling Catholic media in today’s world? In this powerful episode of A Reason For Hope Podcast, Mario Costabile sits down with Father David Guffey, National Director and Head of Production at Family Theater Productions in Hollywood. From his work consulting on The Chosen to producing meaningful, faith-filled content for modern audiences, Father David offers deep insight into the intersection of faith, storytelling, and media. We explore: The importance of high-quality Catholic content in a competitive media landscape How to evangelize through storytelling without being preachy What makes The Chosen so impactful across audiences How the Church can better engage young people through digital media Behind-the-scenes insight into Chime Travelers The role of beauty, creativity, and excellence in encountering God Whether you're a filmmaker, content creator, or someone passionate about sharing the faith, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom. Support Our Sponsors- Magnifier - An exciting new magazine to awaken wonder in children ages 7–12. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast -Follow Family Theater Productions- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/familytheaterprods Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/familytheaterhcfm X: https://x.com/familytheater1 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FamilyTheaterProductions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/family-theater-productions Website: https://www.familytheater.org/

What does the Catholic Church actually teach about same-sex attraction? In today’s culture, this topic is often misunderstood, misrepresented, or avoided altogether. In this powerful and honest conversation, Host Dr. David Hajduk sits down with Catholic speaker Kim Zember as she shares her personal journey—from experiencing same-sex attraction and living a double life, to encountering Jesus Christ and rediscovering her true identity as a beloved daughter of God. This episode goes beyond headlines and stereotypes to explore: The difference between same-sex attraction and identityWhat the Catholic Church really teaches (and why)How to live with both truth and authentic loveThe cultural pressures facing young people todayPractical guidance for parents and grandparents walking with children navigating questions about sexuality Whether you’re personally experiencing same-sex attraction, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking clarity on Catholic teaching, this conversation offers hope, truth, and compassion. Support Our Sponsors- Magnifier - An exciting new magazine to awaken wonder in children ages 7–12. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast -Follow Kim- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimzember/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimzemberofficial/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9CQlldupc5_rv7FkJwsoI9yiTECaHKxN Website: https://boldlybeloved.com

Are right and wrong just social constructs—or is there a real moral law written into the human heart? In this episode of A Reason for Hope, we explore the Catholic understanding of good vs evil, natural law, and conscience. Discover why moral relativism falls short, how we can truly know what is right, and why “following your conscience” isn’t as simple as it sounds. We break down: The existence of a universal moral lawWhy good must be pursued and evil avoidedHow to actually make moral decisionsThe difference between intention, action, and circumstanceWhat the Catholic Church really teaches about conscience If you've ever wondered how to live a moral life in today’s confusing world, this conversation will challenge and clarify your thinking. 🙏 Subscribe for more Catholic content that explains the faith clearly and powerfully. Support Our Sponsors- Mother of Divine Grace School - Mother of Divine Grace School was founded by Laura Berquist in 1995 and offers a Catholic, classical approach to distance learning. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast

What does it really take to build a strong Christian marriage that lasts a lifetime? In this powerful conversation, Mario Costabile sits down with Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife Mary Beth to explore the role that faith in God plays in building a successful, Christ-centered marriage. After more than 40 years of marriage, our guests share the real story behind staying together through conflict, heartbreak, differences in personality, parenting challenges, and seasons of loss. Instead of offering quick fixes, this conversation dives deep into the spiritual foundation of marriage—including how prayer, grace, forgiveness, and commitment help couples grow stronger together. You’ll learn: • Why God must be at the center of marriage • How Christian couples can navigate conflict with grace • The role of prayer in strengthening relationships • Why marriage is one of God’s greatest tools for spiritual growth • How faith helps couples stay committed through the hardest seasons • Practical wisdom for couples who want a Christ-centered relationship Whether you are newly married, engaged, or have been married for decades, this conversation offers hope, encouragement, and biblical wisdom for building a marriage rooted in faith. If you're searching for guidance, this episode will encourage you to keep trusting God in your relationship. Support Our Sponsors- Mother of Divine Grace School - Mother of Divine Grace School was founded by Laura Berquist in 1995 and offers a Catholic, classical approach to distance learning. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast -Follow Steven Curtis Chapman - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stevencurtischapman/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/stevencurtischapman/ X - https://x.com/StevenCurtis YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMngZ0r1Oj-ACJTWPUxNe5g -Follow Mary Beth Chapman - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mbchap232/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMaryBethChapman/ X - https://x.com/MaryBethChapman GET THEIR NEW BOOK HERE ⏰TIMECODE⏰ 00:00 Introduction 02:44 Start of Interview 08:23 How They Met 11:38 The motivating factor to write this book 16:59 When they realized Marriage would require a lot of effort 19:42 Why Adults Are Getting Married Later Now 24:25 How God Has Made Their Marriage Stronger 29:30 How God has refined their marriage 33:56 Advice on How to Navigate Struggles for Young Couples 41:02 Grace's Role In Marriage 46:54 How the Loss of a Child Affected Their Marriage and Faith 57:57 Explanation of Book Title 59:38 Final Remarks

Why are so many people converting to Catholicism today? In a world marked by uncertainty, woke ideology, and the loss of traditional values, more and more people are turning to the Catholic Church in search of truth, beauty, order, and transcendence. This episode explores the rising wave of conversion stories—from atheists to evangelicals—who have found a spiritual home in the richness and stability of the Catholic faith. We dive into why the Catholic Church continues to attract new believers, how Catholicism offers something deeper than modern culture can provide, and what it is about the Church's teachings that resonate so powerfully in today's world. Whether you're a convert, a seeker, or someone rediscovering their faith, this conversation will help you understand why the Church is growing in unexpected places and among unlikely people. 👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more stories of conversion, Catholic truth, and living the faith in a secular world. Support Our Sponsors- Mother of Divine Grace School - Mother of Divine Grace School was founded by Laura Berquist in 1995 and offers a Catholic, classical approach to distance learning. Ave Maria Mutual Funds - the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S. Launched in 2001, their six no-load funds adhere to strong pro-life and pro-family values. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast

In this episode of A Reason For Hope Podcast, Mario Costabile sits down with Nate Guyear to explore the mystery and gift of divine grace. Discover why grace is a supernatural gift that we cannot earn, and how it radically transforms our human nature, enhances our free will, and helps us make sense of suffering. We dive deep into the Catholic theology of grace, discussing: Why the natural cannot reach the supernatural without God's helpHow grace draws us to GodHow suffering can be transformed through graceWhat role free will plays in accepting or rejecting graceHow to be more open to grace in everyday life If you’re looking to understand Catholic truth, deepen your Catholic spirituality, or simply want to be reminded of the power of God’s grace, this episode is for you. 📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Catholic podcasts like this! -Support our Sponsors- Magnifier - An exciting new magazine to awaken wonder in children ages 7–12. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast -Follow Nate Guyear- Website - https://catholicismexplained.com/ ⏰Timecode⏰ 00:00 Introduction 01:26 Start of Interview 03:15 What is Grace in the Catholic Tradition? 07:04 Is Grace Necessary? 08:42 How is Grace Acquired? 15:41 What does it mean to be in a "State of Grace"? 16:46 How does Grace change us? 19:36 Cooperating with Grace 23:43 How does Grace change suffering? 30:48 The Proper Response to God's Grace 36:48 How to Keep Up To Date with Nate

Are you struggling with emotional wounds, shame, anxiety, or spiritual dryness?  In this episode of A Reason for Hope Podcast, Mario Costabile sits down with Dr. Bob Schuchts—founder of the John Paul II Healing Center and author of Be Healed—who shares how true healing comes through a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. Many faithful Christians love God but still feel stuck in patterns of fear, unforgiveness, trauma, or broken relationships. In this episode, we explore the roots of spiritual and emotional wounds, why forgiveness is essential to healing, and how unhealed pain can affect our relationship with God. Bob also shares insights from the recent John Paul II Healing Center retreat and offers practical steps to invite Jesus into your wounds. If you’ve ever wondered why you’re not experiencing the healing you pray for, or if healing is even possible for you, this conversation will remind you that Jesus is not just a teacher—He is a healer. No wound is beyond His mercy. No heart is beyond restoration. 🙏 Subscribe for more Catholic content on healing, faith, spiritual growth, and encountering Christ. -Support our Sponsors- Magnifier - An exciting new magazine to awaken wonder in children ages 7–12. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast -Follow Dr. Bob Schuchts - Website - https://jpiihealingcenter.org/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jpiihealingcenter/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/JP2HealingCenter X - https://x.com/JPIIHealing YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@JPIIHealingCenter Podcast - https://www.restoretheglorypodcast.com/ ⏰Timecode⏰ 00:00 Introduction 01:31 Start of Interview 02:43 What gravitated you toward Healing in the Church? 03:59 Healing The Whole Person 05:16 How is Healing Connected to our Salvation? 07:58 How do we help those in our lives to acknowledge the need for healing? 13:01 Having compassion toward those who hurt us 16:43 The Limitations of Therapy Without God 24:26 The importance of identifying the roots of our wounds 28:18 The Importance of Forgiveness in Healing 31:31 What is a Spiritual Stronghold? 34:21 Demonic Strongholds and Lies 36:49 Ways to strenghten ourselves in healing 42:30 Jesus as our Healer 44:49 The Invitation to Return to God's Love 46:42 What Bob is Up To Next

In this episode of A Reason For Hope Podcast, Dr. David Hajduk talks with Dr. Alexander Harb about his book, The Kingdom of the Heart. Dr. Harb shares insights on Eastern Christian spirituality, including the practice of the Jesus Prayer and the call to inner stillness and transformation.  We discuss themes of repentance, heartbrokenness, and trust in God from the Eastern tradition, and explore how these ancient meditations can foster modern personal growth and guide our faith journey.  Listeners will discover practical tips for deepening prayer, embracing God’s mercy, and cultivating the “Kingdom of the Heart” in everyday life. Support Our Sponsors- Mother of Divine Grace School - Mother of Divine Grace School was founded by Laura Berquist in 1995 and offers a Catholic, classical approach to distance learning. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast -Follow Dr. Alexander Harb- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dralexanderharb/ ⏰TIMECODE⏰ 00:00 Introduction 02:36 Start of Interview 03:54 Background of Dr Harb 05:58 Understanding Eastern Catholicism vs. Eastern Orthodoxy 12:42 How can Easten Catholicism Help Western Culture Today? 19:13 What Traditions The Eastern Catholic Church Kept that the West Lost 30:21 Eastern Stages of Conversion 35:59 Importance of Silence in Our Spiritual Lives 40:52 The Spiritual Gaze: Icons and Prayer 44:37 Fasting: A Path to Intimacy with God 52:57 Acedia: The Noonday Devil 58:35 Modern Day Acedia 64:02 Thoughts on Pope Leo XIV's comments on Eastern Catholic Church 74:44 Goodbyes

What is the Catholic Mass really? Is it just a weekly obligation… or something far more profound? In this episode of A Reason for Hope, Jack Garno sits down with Director of Theology Dr. David Hajduk for a powerful and eye-opening walkthrough of the Mass — uncovering its biblical roots, apostolic origins, and breathtaking mystical meaning. 🔥 What You’ll Discover: Where the Mass comes from Why Sunday worship fulfills the SabbathHow the Mass is the same sacrifice as the Cross — made present in an unbloody wayThe connection between synagogue, temple, and Christian worshipWhat early Christians (like St. Justin Martyr & the Didache) reveal about the MassWhy missing Mass is considered a grave sinWhat we actually receive at Mass How to see the Mass mystically — not just rationallyThe hidden symbolism in every part of the liturgy The Mass is not merely a symbol — it re-presents (makes present again) the sacrifice of Calvary. You are truly there. When you attend Mass, you stand at the Cross with Mary and John. You unite your suffering to Christ’s perfect offering. You participate in the greatest act of worship on earth. If you’ve ever felt bored at Mass… If you’ve wondered why Catholics are required to attend every Sunday… If you’ve asked, “What do I even get out of this?” This conversation is for you. Support Our Sponsors- Mother of Divine Grace School - Mother of Divine Grace School was founded by Laura Berquist in 1995 and offers a Catholic, classical approach to distance learning. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast 📚 Recommended Reading A Forest of Symbols – Abbé Claude BartheThe Mystical Meaning of the Ceremonies of the Mass – Jean-Jacques OlierThe Life of Christ in the Mass – St. Vincent Ferrer #CatholicMass #Eucharist #CatholicTheology #RealPresence #SundayMass #ChristianWorship #CatholicPodcast #FaithExplained

Have you ever felt wounded by the Church… and wondered if you could ever trust again? In this episode of the Reason for Hope Podcast, Matt Pana and Alanis Gonzalez dive into the heavy but important topic of church hurt—how it happens, why it cuts so deeply, and how we can begin the process of healing without abandoning our faith. We discuss the difference between being hurt by the Church itself versus being hurt by broken people within the Church, and how painful experiences with priests, leaders, or communities can distort our perception of God. This conversation also explores the importance of validating pain, allowing righteous anger, and pursuing real spiritual healing through prayer, inner healing ministry, confession, community, and accountability. We also discuss powerful tools like Unbound Ministry, spiritual direction, and learning to rebuild your relationship with Christ after betrayal or disappointment. If you’ve struggled with religious trauma, church wounds, or feeling disconnected from God because of past experiences, this episode is for you. 🙏 You are not alone. Healing is possible. Hope is real. -Support our Sponsors- Scapulars.com - Divine protection in life and death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast ⏰Timecode⏰ 00:00 Introduction 01:25 Start of Interview 06:03 Examples of Church Hurt 13:33 Separating the Individual from the Institution 18:20 Separating Anger Away from God 22:31 Rebuilding Relationship With Christ After Being Hurt 27:36 How do we promote Hope in the Church?

Why does modern culture feel so confused, divided, and disconnected from truth? In this episode of A Reason for Hope, host Mario Costabile sits down with Catholic author, speaker, and philosopher Bobby Angel to unpack the postmodern predicament—how we arrived here, why ideas truly have consequences, and how the Catholic faith offers clarity, hope, and healing in a fractured world. Drawing from philosophy, theology, culture, and lived experience, Bobby explains: What postmodernism really is (and what it’s rebelling against) Why truth, beauty, and meaning matter for human flourishing How relativism and subjectivism fuel cultural confusion The connection between philosophy, mental health, and identity How Catholics can respond to gender dysphoria, polarization, and digital chaos with truth and compassion Why faith and reason must work together, not against each other How the Church can evangelize boldly—without losing mercy This conversation tackles some of the most pressing issues facing parents, educators, young adults, and the Church today—while offering a hopeful roadmap grounded in Christ, the saints, and the beauty of the Catholic intellectual tradition. -Support our Sponsors- Scapulars.com - Divine protection in life and death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast -Follow Bobby- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobby.angel Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Bobby-Angel-100063830525523/ Website: https://jackieandbobby.com Mentoring: https://catholicpsych.com/bobby ⏰Timecode⏰ 00:00 Introduction 01:12 Start of Interview 02:22 Exploring the Postmodern Predicament 06:16 Why Ideas Have Consequences 10:15 Common Philosophical Dilemmas in Our Society 12:50 Navigating Truth in the Digital Age 17:12 Postmodernism and Political Division 22:13 Navigating Information Overload and Discerning Truth 27:43 The Church's Role in Digital Evangelization 30:22 Understanding Gender Dysphoria in a Postmodern Context 37:04 The Role of Adults in Guiding Youth 39:39 How Bobby's book can help! 42:45 Final Remarks

In today’s episode of A Reason For Hope Podcast, Dr. David Hajduk sits down with Dr. Deborah Savage, Catholic theologian, philosophical anthropologist, and founder/director of the Institute for the Study of Man and Woman at Franciscan University of Steubenville. This conversation tackles some of the most urgent questions facing the Church and culture today: What does it mean to be a man?What does it mean to be a woman?And how do we recover clarity about the human person in an age of confusion about sex, gender, identity, and the body? Dr. Savage shares her remarkable journey—from the corporate world and manufacturing leadership to Thomistic philosophy, Catholic theology, and decades of research into the complementarity of men and women. Along the way, she explains why Thomistic realism is essential for reclaiming truth about the human person—and why the Church’s teaching remains uniquely grounded in reality. We also dive deep into: John Paul II’s anthropology and why it’s a powerful evangelical tool todayGenesis 1 and Genesis 2 and what they reveal about masculinity and femininityThe meaning of the masculine genius and the feminine geniusWhy we can’t understand men without women—or women without menThe modern crisis of men, and how our culture has misunderstood masculinityWhy Dr. Savage’s Institute includes both theology and philosophy and the hard sciences + social sciencesThe importance of fathers and mothers in forming children through the “law of gratuity” and the “law of exchange”Why healing the family and rebuilding civilization requires a return to God’s design This is a hopeful, challenging, and deeply timely episode for Catholic parents, students, educators, young adults, and anyone seeking clarity in a confusing cultural moment. -Support our Sponsors- Franciscan University of Steubenville - Live the Truth -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast -Follow Franciscan- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/franciscanuniversity Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FranciscanUniversity/ X - https://x.com/FranciscanU YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@franciscanu ⏰Timecode⏰ 00:00 Introduction 01:22 Start of Interview 04:11 Dr. Deborah Savage's Journey to Theology 08:15 What is Thomistic Realism? 11:48 Saint John Paul II's Anthropology 18:13 Inspiration to Study the Masculine and Feminine Genius 27:12 Insights from Genesis on Gender Roles 38:44 Understanding the Fall and Its Impact on Relationships 42:09 The Crisis of Masculinity in Modern Society 43:30 The Role of the Birth Control Pill in Gender Dynamics 49:37 How do we affirm authentic masculinity 55:59 Integrating Science with Theology in Understanding Gender 04:45 The Mission and Future of the Institute for Man and Woman 09:36 Goodbyes

What does it really mean to grow in holiness — and is there a clear, time-tested path for doing so as a Catholic today? In this episode of A Reason for Hope, Jack Garno sits down with Director of Theology Dr. David Hajduk for a deep dive into the Three Ways of the Spiritual Life — an ancient Catholic framework taught by the saints that explains how souls actually grow in holiness. Drawing from Scripture, St. Thomas Aquinas, and centuries of Catholic spiritual theology, this conversation explores what conversion really requires, why humility is essential, and how grace transforms us over time. Dr. Hajduk explains the Purgative Way, Illuminative Way, and Unitive Way, showing how each stage builds upon a deeper conversion of heart. The discussion covers the role of confession, prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and mental prayer, as well as the difficult but necessary experiences known as the dark nights of the soul — moments when God seems absent but is actually drawing the soul closer. This episode offers both clarity and hope for Catholics seeking real spiritual growth in 2026, reminding us that holiness is not reserved for a few saints, but is the universal call of every Christian — made possible by grace and our cooperation with it. Whether you feel stuck, discouraged, or simply hungry for deeper union with God, this conversation provides a faithful roadmap for the journey. -Support our Sponsors- Magnifier - An exciting new magazine to awaken wonder in children ages 7–12. Scapulars.com - Divine protection in life and death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast ⏰Timecode⏰ 00:00 Introduction 01:08 Start of Interview 01:54 Are there certain steps to take to become more Holy? 04:59 Importance of the Crucifix 06:33 What is the goal of our lives? 09:06 How to Become Friends with God 11:41 3 Ways to Grow in Holiness 13:28 The Purgative Way 21:01 The Illuminative Way 27:12 the Unitive Way 36:04 How do we approach setbacks? 39:34 End of Interview

Spiritual warfare is real — but it’s often misunderstood. In this episode of A Reason for Hope, Alanis and Matt delve into what spiritual warfare truly entails in everyday Catholic life. From anxiety and distraction to temptation, fear, and isolation, this conversation sheds light on how the enemy works subtly — and how Christ has already given us everything we need to overcome. Together, we break down: The three types of spiritual warfare (oppression, obsession, possession)Why Hollywood gets demons and exorcism wrongHow spiritual attacks often increase when you’re walking in God’s willThe connection between mental health, anxiety, and spiritual warfareWhy the devil thrives on distraction, isolation, and fearThe power of Scripture, fasting, order, silence, and the sacramentsWhy community is one of the strongest weapons against the enemyHow hope, grace, and childlike dependence on God lead to victory This is not a fear-based conversation. It’s a Catholic, Christ-centered discussion rooted in Scripture, Church teaching, and lived experience — meant to bring clarity, peace, and hope. If you’ve ever wondered: Am I under spiritual attack?Why do anxiety and temptation feel so intense?How do I fight spiritual battles as a Catholic?— this episode is for you. 📿 “The battle belongs to the Lord.” Hope doesn’t disappoint. -Support our Sponsors- Magnifier - An exciting new magazine to awaken wonder in children ages 7–12. Scapulars.com - Divine protection in life and death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made. -Support Our Mission- Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media- Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@r4hpodcast ⏰Timecode⏰ 00:00 Introduction 03:20 What is Spiritual Warfare? 11:31 What are the devil's abilities? 12:49 Common Tactics of the Devil 20:09 The Power of Fasting 21:51 Practical Tips from an Exorcist to Combat Spiritual Warfare 27:37 What are the Devils Motives? 30:08 Why Fear is Sinful 31:14 Importance of Community 36:08 Hope in the Darkness