The Real + True Podcast OSV Podcasts

In this episode of the Real+True podcast, host Edmund Mitchell talks with Father Joseph J. Krupp about the practical application of the first three commandments in catechesis and evangelization, emphasizing love of God. Father Joe shares insights from his broad pastoral experience, including his roles in parishes, schools, and other ministries. They dive into how the commandments guide believers in recognizing their place in the universe, and how this understanding fosters a deeper relationship with God. The discussion covers topics like the distinction between “cultural” and “apostolic” Christianity, the importance of the Sacrament of Confession, and practical tips for living out the commandments in daily life. Father Joe encourages a relationship-based approach to morality rather than seeing them as mere rules, highlighting the need for a love-filled response of obedience to God.

00:00 Edmund introduces the podcast episode featuring Father Joe Krupp and the discussion on the first three commandments. Father Joe shares his personal journey of faith and his pastoral experience in evangelization and catechesis, highlighting the importance of personal testimony and joyful presentation of the Gospel.

08:42  Father Joe delves into the meaning of the First Commandment, emphasizing the recognition of God's place in our lives and the importance of genuine worship and obedience. He provides practical examples to illustrate living out this commandment.

16:23  The discussion shifts to the Second Commandment regarding honoring the Lord's day. Father Joe explains the significance of setting aside time for rest and worship, challenging the notion of reducing the faith to a set of rules rather than a relationship with God.

21:25  Father Joe explores the meaning of the Third Commandment related to using God's name in vain. He emphasizes the reverence we should have for God's name and cautions against using it as an excuse for wrongdoing or trivial matters, like claiming God is okay with sinful actions. 

25:20  The conversation concludes with further reflection on approaching the commandments as guidelines for a loving relationship with God rather than rigid rules. Father Joe highlights the importance of understanding God's love as the foundation for obedience. Edmund wraps up the episode by thanking Father Joe for his insights and sharing where listeners can find more of Father Joe's ministry. 
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In this episode, Edmund and Emily discuss the Beatitudes, which the catechism reminds us is central to Jesus’ preaching. They discuss how the Beatitudes are often easy to overlook in ministry, causing us to miss the key to the third pillar of the catechism, Life in Christ. The third pillar of the catechism deals primarily with the Ten Commandments. However, the key to understanding God’s vision for our life in Christ is our vocation to beatitude as presented, in a very detailed way, in the Beatitudes. 
Show Notes: 
(00:00) In the opening of the podcast, hosts Edmund and Emily explore the significance of the Beatitudes in their faith journeys. They will discuss applying the Beatitudes in catechesis and evangelization, sharing personal reflections on their impact. They acknowledge previously overlooking the Beatitudes' relevance for their lives. They distinguish the Beatitudes from the Ten Commandments, emphasizing their divine nature and counterintuitive teachings. 
(08:49) In this segment, Emily discusses the approach to creatively presenting the Beatitudes in the videos of this unit for Real + True. The discussion highlights how the Beatitudes provide God's vision for our lives and created goods. Emphasizing a shift from passive understanding to active pursuit, they explore the Beatitudes in detail. They reflect on the transformative power of living out the Beatitudes daily and the challenge of internalizing them. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace proactive engagement with the Beatitudes in their own lives.
(16:20) Here the hosts share personal experiences of how the Beatitudes influenced their reactions in challenging situations, such as showing mercy and mourning for others. The hosts emphasize a shift from passive understanding to active pursuit, highlighting the paradoxical nature of the Beatitudes and the need for trust in God's grace. They encourage listeners to engage with the Beatitudes more intentionally through reflection, discussion, and practical actions, such as displaying them prominently for daily reminders. Ultimately, they underscore the profound significance of the Beatitudes in deepening one's faith and relationship with God.
 (24:31) In this portion of the episode, the hosts discuss strategies for understanding and applying the Beatitudes in evangelization and catechesis, such as using the lives of saints as examples of the Beatitudes lived out. Emphasizing the Beatitudes' elevation of moral discernment beyond mere adherence to the Ten Commandments, they highlight the need to align with God's perspective in navigating life's challenges. The hosts conclude by urging listeners to prayerfully engage with the Beatitudes as the standard for discernment and spiritual growth.
 (29:53) Emily and Edmund wrap up the podcast by encouraging listeners to send in their experiences with the Beatitudes, both in catechesis, evangelization, and in their own lives. 
This episode is sponsored by NCEA Rise at www.ncearise.org. 
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Summary: In this episode, expert evangelist Julianne Stanz joins to talk about the challenges and importance of discussing the Ten Commandments in the context of evangelization. We also discuss insights from Julianne’s new book, The Catholic Parent’s Survival Guide, and what she learned from interviews with parents and teens about discussing moral teachings and the Ten Commandments. We discuss the role of apprenticeship and practical tips for parish catechists. Julianne emphasizes the importance of prayer, practical engagement, and acknowledging one's own limitations when discussing difficult topics.
Show Notes:
(00:00) In the opening of this episode, Julianne Stanz discusses the challenge of integrating the Ten Commandments into evangelization, emphasizing the need to present the fullness of the Gospel. Edmund and Julianne discuss the "believe, behave, belong" concept, explaining that belief and belonging precede behavior. Julianne highlights the nuanced approach required for different individuals, stressing the importance of acknowledging the commandments as guideposts for moral and natural law in fostering meaningful discussions, especially with teenagers.
(06:46) Julianne highlights the importance of presenting the Ten Commandments not merely as intellectual pursuits or behavior modification but as an invitation to experience God's life. She draws parallels to discipleship, emphasizing a close relationship with God. Edmund and Julianne discuss how young people may inadvertently make idols. Additionally, Julianne shares insights from young people's perspectives she learned through interviews and suggests using the Socratic method to foster meaningful conversations with children.
(13:09) The conversation delves into the challenges of discussing morality and the Ten Commandments, emphasizing the danger of presenting as experts in all aspects of the Church. The dialogue underscores the power of authenticity, suggesting that modeling vulnerability and engaging in the learning process together is more effective than perfect presentations. Julianne shares more insights from her research, highlighting the deep pain young people harbor regarding mental health and identity. She addresses the silent struggles and desire for face-to-face conversations young people experience. Parents express pressure to have everything figured out, while Stanz recommends simple traditions, like blessing children's shoes, as impactful ways to instill faith at home.
(21:02) Julianne advises catechists and parents not to fear presenting the Ten Commandments or facing tough questions. The discussion turns to authenticity, curiosity, and gradual teaching, emphasizing the Holy Spirit's role in evangelization. 
(28:08) The conclusion of the podcast directs listeners to explore additional resources and Julianne Stanz new book, A Survival Guide for Catholic Parents.

This episode is sponsored by Saint Meinrad. Click saintmeinrad.edu/OSV to learn more about Graduate Theology at Saint Meinrad Seminary & School of Theology. Laity and deacons are invited to inquire or apply. Pursue your MA or certificate in theology via
weekend and online offerings. 


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Summary: In this podcast episode, host Edmund Mitchell engages with Fr. Stephen Pullis, Director of Pastoral Formation, and a professor at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, to explore the nuances of grace in catechesis. They discuss the challenges of moving beyond traditional catechesis, emphasizing the need for lifelong discipleship. Fr. Pullis shares insights into integrating faith into daily life in a postmodern world, emphasizing both successes and mistakes.

The conversation delves into the intricate nature of grace, highlighting its dual aspects—God's aid and human merit. Father Pullis stresses that grace is God's freely given life to humanity, shaping the Christian narrative. The discussion explores the transformative power of grace, emphasizing Jesus as the primary actor in breaking into our lives.

The hosts express concerns about potential pitfalls, and Fr. Pullis provides tips on explaining grace to those new to the faith. They discuss the challenges of living out church teachings and address the heresy of Pelagianism and modern challenges like Neo-Pelagianism.

The podcast concludes with practical advice for catechists, emphasizing a balanced approach between God's initiative and human cooperation. Fr. Pullis encourages the use of saints as examples for translating beliefs into practical everyday life. The episode closes with a mention of Sacred Heart Major Seminary's online courses and an invitation for engagement on Real+True's YouTube channel.

This episode is sponsored by the National Catholic Educational Association 2024 Convention. To learn more visit: https://ncea.org/NCEA2024 
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In this podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Scott Sollom to discuss better catechesis through the lens of the theological virtues. We focus on Dr. Sollom’s publication in the book “Speaking the Truth in Love”, in which he wrote a chapter titled: The Theological Virtues in Catechesis: Faith, Hope and Charity in the Pedagogy of the Catechism and the Life of the Catechumen. Dr. Scott Sollom is a professor of theology and the Director of the Catechetics Office and Director of the Catechetical Institute at Fransican University. Dr. Scott Sollom has worked in the field of evangelization and catechesis for 25 years, including parishes, dioceses, and schools.
(00:00) Edmund introduces Dr. Scott Sollom and the topic of the theological virtues and their relation to catechesis. Dr. Sollom emphasizes the importance of the theological virtues (faith, hope, and charity) in guiding the goal of catechesis. The conversation explores practical ways to connect theological virtues with various aspects of teaching, especially the when explaining the “Life in Christ” we’re called to. Additionally, Dr. Sollom uses specific doctrines as examples, such as Mary's assumption, in addressing fundamental human questions. The theological virtues are a way for catechesis to answer deep questions of the human heart, fostering growth in faith, hope, and charity.
(16:34) The discussion revolves around the significance of the catechumenate and what we all can learn from OCIA (Order of Catechumens in the Initiation of Adults). The analogy of building a fire and the stages of a relationship, such as courtship leading to marriage, is used to illustrate the process of catechesis – slow and in stages.  The catechumenate is described as a period of systematic and comprehensive catechesis, connecting teachings explicitly to the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity. We also discuss the importance of disposition in receiving sacraments and the connection between living the Christian way of life and readiness to receive grace. The ancient catechumenate sought signs of growth in the virtues of faith, hope, and charity as a foundation for God's grace to take root.
(24:11) The conversation explores an analogy of dating to discuss faith, hope, and charity applied to human faculties. It emphasizes the transformative role of these virtues—faith in the intellect, hope in the imagination, and charity in the will. Specific catechism paragraphs 1812 and 1813 are referenced, highlighting the roots of human virtues in theological virtues. The goal of conversion in Christ is defined as believing, hoping, and loving supernaturally. The conversation suggests an engaging approach to catechesis that begins with recognizing natural faculties and appreciating their supernatural elevation through theological virtues, presenting them as becoming "superpowers" through grace.
(32:04) The conversation highlights the transformative approach of teaching faith, hope, and charity by connecting them to personal experiences. Augustine's emphasis on theological virtues as central to worship and life in Christ is discussed. The method, benefits, and disadvantages of bridging doctrine and experience, using theological virtues as a guide, is also discussed. Dr. Sollom mentions resources like the Franciscan Catechetical Institute and Franciscan at Home.

This episode is sponsored by the U.S. bishops' 9 Days for Life Novena
Join the U.S. bishops’ pro-life novena from January 16 through January 24
www.9daysforlife.com
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(00:00) In this podcast episode, co-host Edmund Mitchell interviews Dr. Joseph White, a licensed family and child psychologist with a focus on the intersection of psychology and catechesis. Dr. White, an associate publisher for Our Sunday Visitor, discusses his journey into this field, emphasizing the connection between his psychology background and a Catholic university's influence. The conversation delves into the third pillar of the catechism, exploring challenges in moral teachings and authentic catechetical approaches. Dr. White emphasizes the need for faithfulness to both God and humanity, aligning the message with the audience's developmental stages. 
(09:47) Edmund and Dr. Joseph discuss the potential resistance to incorporating modern psychology and human sciences into catechesis. Dr. White highlights the two-fold responsibility of using human sciences to enhance catechetical effectiveness and evaluating scientific discoveries through the lens of faith. The conversation explores the complementarity between divine revelation, Catholic anthropology, and insights from the human sciences. 
(19:42) The conversation turns to the relevance of psychology and childhood development in understanding and easing the natural pushback against moral teachings during adolescence. Dr. Joseph and Edmund emphasize that questioning and pushing back are integral parts of healthy development, crucial for forging independence.
 (30:35) Edmund and Dr. Joseph discuss the example of St. John Bosco in building relationships, especially with students and those being catechized. They highlight how St. John Bosco's trust in God was a cornerstone in his care for orphaned children, emphasizing the importance of forming close bonds and leading others into a relationship with God. The hosts reflect on a common mistake in catechesis—assuming that knowing facts is sufficient, stressing the need to connect faith with practical ways of living. 
 (35:54) Edmund shares where people can find more of Dr. White's work, mentioning his books on the OSV website and highlighting his YouTube channel, where he shares talks on catechesis, especially focusing on sharing the faith with young people. Edmund encourages listeners to find Dr. White on youtube by searching "Dr. Joseph White catechesis".  
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