Godsplaining

Dominican Friars Province of St. Joseph

Welcome to Godsplaining: Each week Dominican friars tackle the questions that keep you up at night—faith, doubt, culture, philosophy, theology, and real life. Expect clear Catholic answers, big ideas, and conversations that spark “aha” moments without (too much) jargon. Whether you’re a cradle Catholic who loves Thomas Aquinas or just curious, pull up a chair and think deeper with us. New episodes every Thursday—subscribe now.

  1. 1 day ago

    Why Every Part of the Mass Matters

    The Catholic Mass is far more than just a weekly obligation—it is the Church's highest act of worship and our deepest encounter with Jesus Christ. Yet many Catholics know the responses and rituals without fully understanding why the liturgy unfolds the way it does. In this episode of Godsplaining, Fr. Joseph-Anthony and Fr. Gregory offer a guided tour through the Mass, explaining how each part prepares us for communion with Christ. Beginning with the Introductory Rites, they show how the liturgy gradually moves us from ordinary life into sacred worship through prayer, Scripture, and finally sacrifice. Along the way, they unpack the meaning of our postures, the purpose of the Liturgy of the Word, the significance of the Offertory, and the beauty of the Eucharistic Prayer. Drawing from St. Thomas Aquinas, Roman Catholic liturgical tradition, and their own pastoral experience, they explain how every prayer and gesture helps believers enter more deeply into the mystery of Christ's sacrifice. As Fr. Joseph-Anthony points out during the episode "lex orandi, lex credendi; the law of prayer, is the law of belief." Whether you've attended Mass your entire life or are just beginning to explore the Catholic faith, this conversation will help you see the liturgy with fresh eyes and participate with greater devotion. Join Exodus 90 for St. Michael's Lent with with Fr. Columba Jordan starting on August 12th: https://exodus90.com/godsplaining   For the St. Dominic Rosary and more from the Catholic Woodworker: https://catholicwoodworker.com/products/st-dominic-rosary?utm_source=godsplaining&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=stdominic   Only 10 spots left! Join Fr. Patrick and Fr. Bonaventure for the 2026 Men's Wilderness Retreat this August. Sign up here: https://godsplaining.org/events-2/mens-retreat-brevard-nc-august-2026/   Send your questions for the friars to: godsplaining@opeast.org Subscribe to our channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Godsplaining   Support the Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/godsplaining Shop merch: https://godsplaining.org/store/   Shop Books Written by the Friars Justice: Judge Rightly, Give Freely: https://a.co/d/0dx0V5AT O Sacred Banquet: Exploring the Eucharistic Mystery with Saint Thomas Aquinas: https://a.co/d/0hLdv7oU Witness: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/witness-1 Training the Tongue: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/training-the-tongue-and-growing-beyond-sins-of-speech Your Eucharistic Identity: https://ignatius.com/your-eucharistic-identity-yeip/ St. Dominic's Way of Life: https://www.amazon.com/Saint-Dominics-Way-Life-Knowing/dp/1681929392 Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly: https://www.amazon.com/Prudence-Choose-Confidently-Live-Boldly/dp/1681927322/   Connect on Social Media Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godsplaining/ Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsplaining/ Follow us on X: https://x.com/godsplaining   To learn more about the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.opeast.org To support the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.dominicanfriars.org

    Why Every Part of the Mass Matters
  2. 9 Jul

    Can Beauty Really Lead You to God?

    Why does beauty stop us in our tracks? Why do breathtaking cathedrals, sacred music, masterpieces, and even a sunset seem to point beyond themselves? In this episode of Godsplaining, Fr. Patrick and Fr. Bonaventure explore the profound relationship between beauty and God. Drawing from Dostoevsky, Aristotle, St. Thomas Aquinas, Hans Urs von Balthasar, and their own experiences of art and prayer, they ask whether beauty offers a unique witness to the truth of Christianity. You need not be an artist or a philosopher to enjoy this conversation! Tune in to hear the friars unpack why beauty continues to captivate us and why it may be one of the clearest signs pointing toward the Divine.   Join Exodus 90 and the Holy Friendship challenge: https://exodus90.com/godsplaining   For the St. Dominic Rosary and more from the Catholic Woodworker: https://catholicwoodworker.com/products/st-dominic-rosary?utm_source=godsplaining&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=stdominic   Join Fr. Patrick and Fr. Bonaventure for the 2026 Men's Wilderness Retreat this August in the beautiful mountains of Brevard, NC! Sign up here: https://godsplaining.org/events-2/mens-retreat-brevard-nc-august-2026/   Send your questions for the friars to: godsplaining@opeast.org Subscribe to our channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Godsplaining   Support the Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/godsplaining Shop merch: https://godsplaining.org/store/   Shop Books Written by the Friars Justice: Judge Rightly, Give Freely: https://a.co/d/0dx0V5AT O Sacred Banquet: Exploring the Eucharistic Mystery with Saint Thomas Aquinas: https://a.co/d/0hLdv7oU Witness: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/witness-1 Training the Tongue: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/training-the-tongue-and-growing-beyond-sins-of-speech Your Eucharistic Identity: https://ignatius.com/your-eucharistic-identity-yeip/ St. Dominic's Way of Life: https://www.amazon.com/Saint-Dominics-Way-Life-Knowing/dp/1681929392 Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly: https://www.amazon.com/Prudence-Choose-Confidently-Live-Boldly/dp/1681927322/   Connect on Social Media Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godsplaining/ Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsplaining/ Follow us on X: https://x.com/godsplaining   To learn more about the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.opeast.org To support the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.dominicanfriars.org

    Can Beauty Really Lead You to God?
  3. 6 Jul

    The Strength of St. Joseph with Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC

    Fr. Gregory sits down with Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC, author of the bestselling Consecration to St. Joseph, to explore why devotion to St. Joseph has exploded around the world, and why it may be exactly what the Church needs today. From authentic masculinity and fatherhood to trust in God's providence, Fr. Calloway shares how St. Joseph became the model of faithful discipleship, silent strength, and spiritual protection. In conversation, they also explore why St. Joseph is called the "Terror of Demons," how his hidden life shaped Jesus' humanity, and why millions of Catholics have embraced consecration to him. Whether you're already devoted to St. Joseph or just beginning to discover him, this conversation offers practical wisdom for growing in holiness, confidence, and trust in God.   Get your copy of Consecration to St. Joseph: https://shopmercy.org/consecration-to-st-joseph-the-wonders-of-our-spiritual-father.html Learn about Fr. Calloway's impactful conversion story: https://youtu.be/uE3KMKmhbVA?si=g_SvaZJ42WhqG9Pj Join Fr. Calloway on pilgrimage: https://www.206tours.com/cms/frcalloway/    Send your questions for the friars to: godsplaining@opeast.org Subscribe to our channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Godsplaining   Support the Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/godsplaining Shop merch: https://godsplaining.org/store/   Shop Books Written by the Friars Justice: Judge Rightly, Give Freely: https://a.co/d/0dx0V5AT O Sacred Banquet: Exploring the Eucharistic Mystery with Saint Thomas Aquinas: https://a.co/d/0hLdv7oU Witness: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/witness-1 Training the Tongue: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/training-the-tongue-and-growing-beyond-sins-of-speech Your Eucharistic Identity: https://ignatius.com/your-eucharistic-identity-yeip/ St. Dominic's Way of Life: https://www.amazon.com/Saint-Dominics-Way-Life-Knowing/dp/1681929392 Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly: https://www.amazon.com/Prudence-Choose-Confidently-Live-Boldly/dp/1681927322/   Connect on Social Media Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godsplaining/ Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsplaining/ Follow us on X: https://x.com/godsplaining   To learn more about the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.opeast.org To support the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.dominicanfriars.org

    The Strength of St. Joseph with Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC
  4. 2 Jul

    Does the Bible Really Say Wives Must Submit?

    What does the Bible really say about headship and submission in marriage? Few passages generate more debate than Ephesians 5. Does St. Paul teach male domination—or something entirely different? In the latest episode of Godsplaining, Fr. Gregory and Fr. Joseph-Anthony unpack one of Scripture's most misunderstood texts, exploring what the Church teaches regarding headship, mutual submission, sacrifice, and love. Rather than a struggle for power, they argue that Christian marriage is rooted in Christ's self-giving love for the Church. Headship is not about control, but about sacrificial service. Likewise, mutual submission is not about inequality, but about each spouse giving themselves fully for the good of the other. Whether you've wrestled with this passage for years or are hearing it for the first time, this conversation offers a thoughtful Catholic perspective grounded in Scripture and the Church's tradition. Still have questions? Let us know in the comments.   For the St. Dominic Rosary and more from the Catholic Woodworker: https://catholicwoodworker.com/products/st-dominic-rosary?utm_source=godsplaining&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=stdominic   Join Exodus 90 and the Holy Friendship challenge, starting on July 1st: https://exodus90.com/godsplaining   Limited spots! Sign up for the 2026 Men's Retreat in August: https://godsplaining.org/events-2/mens-retreat-brevard-nc-august-2026/   Send your questions for the friars to: godsplaining@opeast.org Subscribe to our channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Godsplaining   Support the Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/godsplaining Shop merch: https://godsplaining.org/store/   Shop Books Written by the Friars Justice: Judge Rightly, Give Freely: https://a.co/d/0dx0V5AT O Sacred Banquet: Exploring the Eucharistic Mystery with Saint Thomas Aquinas: https://a.co/d/0hLdv7oU Witness: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/witness-1 Training the Tongue: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/training-the-tongue-and-growing-beyond-sins-of-speech Your Eucharistic Identity: https://ignatius.com/your-eucharistic-identity-yeip/ St. Dominic's Way of Life: https://www.amazon.com/Saint-Dominics-Way-Life-Knowing/dp/1681929392 Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly: https://www.amazon.com/Prudence-Choose-Confidently-Live-Boldly/dp/1681927322/   Connect on Social Media Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godsplaining/ Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsplaining/ Follow us on X: https://x.com/godsplaining   To learn more about the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.opeast.org To support the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.dominicanfriars.org

    Does the Bible Really Say Wives Must Submit?
  5. 25 Jun

    Why Millions Couldn't Stop Watching Fulton Sheen

    What made Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen one of the most influential Catholic voices of the 20th century? In this episode of Godsplaining, Fr. Patrick and Fr. Joseph-Anthony explore five essential lessons from Fulton Sheen's life and ministry. From his unwavering commitment to Catholic doctrine and daily Eucharistic holy hours to his love for Our Lady, passion for evangelization, and defense of authentic Christian freedom, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen offers a roadmap for faithful Christian living that is just as relevant today as it was during his legendary television ministry.   Join Exodus 90 and the Holy Friendship challenge, starting on July 1st: https://exodus90.com/godsplaining   Limited spots! Sign up for the 2026 Men's Retreat in August: https://godsplaining.org/events-2/mens-retreat-brevard-nc-august-2026/   Send your questions for the friars to: godsplaining@opeast.org Subscribe to our channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Godsplaining   Support the Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/godsplaining Shop our merch: https://godsplaining.org/store/   Shop Books Written by the Friars Justice: Judge Rightly, Give Freely: https://a.co/d/0dx0V5AT O Sacred Banquet: Exploring the Eucharistic Mystery with Saint Thomas Aquinas: https://a.co/d/0hLdv7oU Witness: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/witness-1 Training the Tongue: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/training-the-tongue-and-growing-beyond-sins-of-speech Your Eucharistic Identity: https://ignatius.com/your-eucharistic-identity-yeip/ St. Dominic's Way of Life: https://www.amazon.com/Saint-Dominics-Way-Life-Knowing/dp/1681929392 Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly: https://www.amazon.com/Prudence-Choose-Confidently-Live-Boldly/dp/1681927322/   Connect on Social Media Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godsplaining/ Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsplaining/ Follow us on X: https://x.com/godsplaining   To learn more about the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.opeast.org To support the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.dominicanfriars.org

    Why Millions Couldn't Stop Watching Fulton Sheen
  6. 22 Jun

    Mitali Perkins on Why Adults Need Children’s Books

    What if some of the most important books you'll ever read were written for children? In this episode of Godsplaining, Fr. Bonaventure Chapman sits down with acclaimed author Mitali Perkins to discuss the enduring power of children's literature. From The Chronicles of Narnia and The Hobbit to Anne of Green Gables and A Little Princess, they explore how stories shape the moral imagination, cultivate virtue, and help both children and adults encounter truth, goodness, and beauty. Whether you're a parent, teacher, reader, or simply someone looking to rediscover wonder, this conversation offers a compelling case for returning to the stories that shape the soul.   Learn more about Mitali Perkins and find her books here: https://www.mitaliperkins.com/   Send your questions for the friars to: godsplaining@opeast.org Subscribe to our channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Godsplaining   Support the Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/godsplaining Shop our merch: https://godsplaining.org/store/   Shop Books Written by the Friars Justice: Judge Rightly, Give Freely: https://a.co/d/0dx0V5AT O Sacred Banquet: Exploring the Eucharistic Mystery with Saint Thomas Aquinas: https://a.co/d/0hLdv7oU Witness: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/witness-1 Training the Tongue: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/training-the-tongue-and-growing-beyond-sins-of-speech Your Eucharistic Identity: https://ignatius.com/your-eucharistic-identity-yeip/ St. Dominic's Way of Life: https://www.amazon.com/Saint-Dominics-Way-Life-Knowing/dp/1681929392 Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly: https://www.amazon.com/Prudence-Choose-Confidently-Live-Boldly/dp/1681927322/   Connect on Social Media Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godsplaining/ Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsplaining/ Follow us on X: https://x.com/godsplaining   To learn more about the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.opeast.org To support the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.dominicanfriars.org

    Mitali Perkins on Why Adults Need Children’s Books
  7. 18 Jun

    Can a Good Person Tell a Lie?

    Most people instinctively say that lying is wrong—until they're presented with an extreme case. What if a murderer came to your door? What if hiding the truth could protect an innocent person? In this episode of Godsplaining, Fr. Gregory and Fr. Bonaventure explore traditional Christian teaching on lying, drawing from St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, and even Immanuel Kant. They discuss why truthfulness is so central to the moral life, whether every lie is sinful, and how Catholics should think about difficult situations where telling the truth seems costly. The conversation goes beyond rules and exceptions to ask a deeper question: Do you want to be the kind of person who tells the truth? For the St. Dominic Rosary and more from the Catholic Woodworker: https://catholicwoodworker.com/products/st-dominic-rosary?utm_source=godsplaining&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=stdominic Join Exodus 90 and their Return of the King challenge: https://exodus90.com/godsplaining   Limited spots! Sign up for the 2026 Men's Retreat in August: https://godsplaining.org/events-2/mens-retreat-brevard-nc-august-2026/   Send your questions for the friars to: godsplaining@opeast.org Subscribe to our channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Godsplaining   Support the Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/godsplaining Shop our merch: https://godsplaining.org/store/   Shop Books Written by the Friars Justice: Judge Rightly, Give Freely: https://a.co/d/0dx0V5AT O Sacred Banquet: Exploring the Eucharistic Mystery with Saint Thomas Aquinas: https://a.co/d/0hLdv7oU Witness: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/witness-1 Training the Tongue: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/training-the-tongue-and-growing-beyond-sins-of-speech Your Eucharistic Identity: https://ignatius.com/your-eucharistic-identity-yeip/ St. Dominic's Way of Life: https://www.amazon.com/Saint-Dominics-Way-Life-Knowing/dp/1681929392 Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly: https://www.amazon.com/Prudence-Choose-Confidently-Live-Boldly/dp/1681927322/   Connect on Social Media Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godsplaining/ Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsplaining/ Follow us on X: https://x.com/godsplaining   To learn more about the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.opeast.org To support the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.dominicanfriars.org

  8. 11 Jun

    Bad Experience in Confession? Here's What to Know

    Have you ever left confession feeling disappointed, confused, or unsure whether your sins were really forgiven? In this episode of Godsplaining, Fr. Patrick and Fr. Joseph-Anthony tackle a common concern among Catholics: What happens when confession doesn't go the way you expected? Whether you've received unhelpful advice, experienced an awkward encounter, or wondered if a priest's mistake affected the sacrament, this conversation offers clarity and peace of mind.   Join Exodus 90 and their Return of the King challenge: https://exodus90.com/godsplaining    Sign up for the 2026 Men's Retreat in August: https://godsplaining.org/events-2/mens-retreat-brevard-nc-august-2026/   Send your questions for the friars to: godsplaining@opeast.org Subscribe to our channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Godsplaining   Support the Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/godsplaining Shop merch: https://godsplaining.org/store/   Shop Books Written by the Friars Justice: Judge Rightly, Give Freely: https://a.co/d/0dx0V5AT O Sacred Banquet: Exploring the Eucharistic Mystery with Saint Thomas Aquinas: https://a.co/d/0hLdv7oU Witness: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/witness-1 Training the Tongue: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/training-the-tongue-and-growing-beyond-sins-of-speech Your Eucharistic Identity: https://ignatius.com/your-eucharistic-identity-yeip/ St. Dominic's Way of Life: https://www.amazon.com/Saint-Dominics-Way-Life-Knowing/dp/1681929392 Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly: https://www.amazon.com/Prudence-Choose-Confidently-Live-Boldly/dp/1681927322/   Connect on Social Media Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godsplaining/ Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsplaining/ Follow us on X: https://x.com/godsplaining To learn more about the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.opeast.org To support the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.dominicanfriars.org

    Bad Experience in Confession? Here's What to Know

About

Welcome to Godsplaining: Each week Dominican friars tackle the questions that keep you up at night—faith, doubt, culture, philosophy, theology, and real life. Expect clear Catholic answers, big ideas, and conversations that spark “aha” moments without (too much) jargon. Whether you’re a cradle Catholic who loves Thomas Aquinas or just curious, pull up a chair and think deeper with us. New episodes every Thursday—subscribe now.

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