Catholic Conversations at St. Joseph

St. Joseph Kings Park

In this parish podcast, the staff members and parishioners at St. Joseph discuss some of the happenings in the Church and the Parish of St. Joseph in Kings Park. The conversations usually include information about the coming weekend's message, which is usually part of a series.

  1. 2h ago

    You’re Not Finished Yet: What St. Peter Teaches Us About Faith

    In this episode of Catholic Conversations at St. Joseph, Father Peter and Randi continue the “Formed, Not Finished” series by looking at one of the great turning points in the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus asks His disciples the question every Christian eventually has to answer: “Who do you say that I am?”Peter’s confession of faith is a breakthrough—but it isn't the end of his formation. His story reminds us that the spiritual life isn't a straight line. We grow, we stumble, we learn, and we grow again.Father Peter and Randi also explore:• Why Jesus repeatedly teaches the disciples the same lessons• The meaning of the “leaven of the Pharisees”• Why Jesus takes the disciples to Caesarea Philippi and the “gates of hell”• Jesus establishing Peter as the rock upon which He will build His Church• The Catholic understanding of Peter's role and the papacy• What “Jesus-colored glasses” mean for how we see the world• Why the Church must be formed together, not in isolation• The difference between ministry and apostolate• Why ordinary parish service—including gardening and cleaning—can be genuine Christian ministry• How taking ownership of our parish helps build a healthy parish familyAnd as summer comes to an end, they also talk about the upcoming blessing of the backpacks and the new classical Christian homeschooling community coming to St. Joseph's campus.If this conversation helps you, please like the video, subscribe to Catholic Conversations at St. Joseph, and share it with someone who could use the reminder that God is still forming them.00:00 - Welcome and Introduction: Father Peter and Randy Hawkenberger.00:25 - Call to Action: Comment ideas, like, subscribe, and share.00:51 - The Turning Point: Jesus turns his face toward Jerusalem.01:17 - Recap of Recent Passages: The miracle of the loaves and fish, and the sign of Jonah.02:12 - The Leaven of the Pharisees: Understanding the insidious nature of negative influence.04:15 - Formation and Repetition: Why Jesus cycles through lessons with his disciples.04:44 - The Midterm Test: "Who do people say that I am?"05:08 - Peter’s Declaration: "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."05:54 - Formed, Not Finished: St. Peter's growth and regression as a model for us.07:05 - Keeping Our Eyes on the Prize: Answering the central question of who Jesus is daily.08:29 - The Papacy and the Key of Knowledge: References to Isaiah 22 and Father Mike Schmitz.11:00 - Discussion on 'The Chosen': Artistic interpretation vs. theological accuracy.14:04 - The Gates of Hell: Physical location in Caesarea Philippi and its spiritual meaning.17:34 - Seeing Through Jesus-Colored Glasses: Moving from defensive to offensive faith.19:16 - Formation in Community: Relying on each other within the Body of Christ.20:23 - The Magisterium and Synodality: How the Pope leads in concert with the Church.22:16 - Parish Updates: Blessing of the Backpacks and a new homeschooling group (PEL Prep).25:34 - Classical Christian Education: Forming the mind, soul, and whole person.31:16 - Christian Discipleship: Taking ownership of the parish family through service.34:57 - Redefining Ministry: The Apostolate of the laity in the world.37:44 - Closing Prayer and Blessing.Parish Page - https://stjoekp.comParish Livestream Page - https://stjoekp.com/liveMake a donation - https://stjoekp.com/donateFollow us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/stjoekpFollow us on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2g1BsHSK7cyLDPgeYKAHHk?si=YIAuBwAUQtGBX_TOmW6dtAFollow on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catholic-conversations-at-st-joseph/id1829773212The Sunday Readings - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/082326.cfmLinks referenced in this episode:Day 202 from the Bible in a year - https://youtu.be/pW46C2gV3tQ?si=4THmlBkKHvFJm9H1Pel Prep Home School Organization - https://pelprep.orgEvery Knee Shall Bow episode 334 - https://everykneeshallbow.fireside.fm/334

  2. Aug 14

    Who Is Forming You? | Formed, Not Finished

    Who is forming you?In this episode of Catholic Conversations at St. Joseph, Father Peter and Randi look at the encounter between Jesus and the Canaanite woman in Matthew’s Gospel—and discover a much bigger question: Who or what is shaping the way we see the world?Jesus challenges his disciples to move beyond human traditions, assumptions, and prejudices. The Canaanite woman, meanwhile, demonstrates remarkable faith and persistence. Her encounter with Jesus becomes a powerful reminder that the Kingdom of God is not limited by the boundaries we create.That question is just as important for us today. We are constantly being formed by our families, our communities, our parish, our culture, our entertainment, social media, and the ideas we encounter every day. The question is whether we are allowing Christ to form us, or whether we are allowing the world to form us without even realizing it.Father Peter and Randi also discuss the difference between information and transformation, the importance of being teachable, why suffering cannot simply be avoided, and how Catholic formation requires a willingness to look beyond the surface and ask not only what we believe, but why.The conversation also turns toward OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) and the importance of walking with people through the process of becoming fully initiated into the Catholic Church.We are formed, not finished. The journey of becoming a disciple never ends.If this conversation helps you, please like, subscribe, comment, and share it with someone who might benefit. And if you are able, please consider supporting the work of St. Joseph’s Parish.⏰ 00:00 – Welcome to Catholic Conversations: Summer Parish Update🌞 01:05 – No Vacation from Vocation: Faith in Every Season🏺 02:08 – Introduction to the "Formed, Not Finished" Series📖 02:55 – Gospel Context: Jesus and the Canaanite Woman⚖️ 05:01 – Divine Traditions vs. Human Traditions🌍 07:18 – Expanding the Mission: The Kingdom is for Everyone📱 09:44 – Modern Programming: The Impact of Secular Ideology👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 12:47 – Parenting and Protecting Values in a Digital Age✝️ 15:21 – Finding Meaning in Suffering and Reality🛡️ 18:44 – Safety, Training, and Protecting the Vulnerable❤️ 22:25 – Information vs. Transformation in Faith🕊️ 25:05 – OCIA: Walking the Journey of Faith as an Adult⛪ 33:58 – Closing Thoughts and Weekly Parish Invitations🙏 34:53 – Closing Prayer and BlessingParish Page - https://stjoekp.comParish Livestream Page - https://stjoekp.com/liveMake a donation - https://stjoekp.com/donateFollow us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/stjoekpFollow us on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2g1BsHSK7cyLDPgeYKAHHk?si=YIAuBwAUQtGBX_TOmW6dtAFollow on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catholic-conversations-at-st-joseph/id1829773212The Sunday Readings - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081626.cfm

  3. Jul 31

    The "Impossible Math" of God's Generosity

    In this episode of Catholic Conversations, Father Peter and Randi discuss the profound miracle of the feeding of the 5,000 and what it reveals about our own lives today. Have you ever felt like what you have to offer—your time, your talent, or your resources—simply isn't enough? Join us as we explore the "impossible math" of God’s generosity. We look at how, when we offer our "five loaves and two fish" to the Lord, He doesn't just add to them; He multiplies them in ways we could never imagine. In this video, we discuss: - The beauty of our parish campus and why it matters for evangelization. - The "Impossible Math" of the Kingdom of God. - Insights from Dallas Jenkins (The Chosen) on the miracle of the loaves and fish. - How to keep our eyes open to God's activity in our daily lives. - Why nothing can separate us from the love of Christ (Romans 8). - We are all "Formed, Not Finished" on this journey of faith. We hope this conversation inspires you to trust God with whatever you have today.If this conversation encouraged you, please Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who needs a reminder that God can do great things with even the smallest offering.#StJosephKingsPark #catholicfaith #gospelreflection #miracles #christianliving #thechosen 0:00 – Welcome and Summer Parish Life2:20 – "Adopt a Bed": Growing Our Parish Beauty6:32 – The Evangelization of a Beautiful Campus8:06 – Why Beauty is Essential to Faith10:07 – Eyes Wide Open: Seeing God’s Activity11:02 – Feeding the 5,000: From Human Lack to Divine Plenty12:20 – Co-operators with the Kingdom: The "Impossible Math" of God14:06 – Dallas Jenkins and the Five Loaves & Two Fish Testimony18:44 – How Art and Film Draw Us into the Mystery22:14 – Strength in Faith: Facing Modern Challenges24:36 – Romans: Nothing Can Separate Us from the Love of Christ28:16 – "Formed, Not Finished": The Journey of a Disciple31:39 – Stewardship and Supporting the Mission33:19 – Closing Prayer and BlessingParish Page - https://stjoekp.comParish Livestream Page - https://stjoekp.com/liveMake a donation - https://stjoekp.com/donateFollow us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/stjoekpFollow us on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2g1BsHSK7cyLDPgeYKAHHk?si=YIAuBwAUQtGBX_TOmW6dtAFollow on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catholic-conversations-at-st-joseph/id1829773212The Sunday Readings - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/080226.cfmLinks from items mentioned:Heaven in Stone and Glass - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHyViQuX93EThe Resurrection of Gavin Stone - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMmCyA8jcSQDallas Jenkins Story - https://youtu.be/tp7TQJ2q5QE?si=gADPq4YkVXhLqzpRThe Chosen Season 6 Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6mhb5UsZN0

  4. Jul 24

    Natural Family Planning Part 2: Healing Fertility Through Faith & Science

    Missed Part 1? In last week's episode we explored what Natural Family Planning is and why the Catholic Church teaches it. In this second conversation, Father Peter and Randy are joined by Jessica Schaefer of the Gianna Center to discuss infertility, NaPro Technology, marriage, and the hope that comes from treating the whole person. See part 1 here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4EBXGdflb9NXtS6l6fdNYT?si=qKtXWvbkRG24t2dlK2Tlrw Natural Family Planning isn't simply about avoiding pregnancy—it's about understanding God's beautiful design for the human person.In this second episode of our Natural Family Planning series, Father Peter Dugandzic and Randi Hochenberger welcome Jessica Schaefer, a certified FertilityCare Practitioner from the Gianna Center, for an inspiring conversation about Natural Family Planning (NFP), NaPro Technology, infertility, IVF, women's health, Catholic teaching, and the dignity of every human person. Jessica shares her own journey into fertility care while explaining how NaPro Technology works with a woman's natural cycle to identify and treat the root causes of infertility rather than simply masking symptoms. Together, they discuss why authentic healthcare treats the whole person—body, mind, and soul—and how Natural Family Planning strengthens communication, trust, and discernment within marriage.Whether you're engaged, married, struggling with infertility, curious about Catholic teaching on contraception and IVF, or simply interested in learning more about fertility awareness, this conversation offers practical wisdom, scientific insight, and profound hope.Above all, this episode reminds us that the Catholic Church is not merely a Church that says "no." She is a Church that says "yes" to authentic love, authentic freedom, authentic science, and the incredible gift of human life. 👍 If this conversation helped you, please Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who could benefit from hearing this message. Your support helps us continue bringing faithful Catholic conversations to people around the world. 00:00 – Disclaimer and Introduction 00:20 – Guest Introduction: Jessica Schaefer from the Gianna Center 01:21 – Jessica’s background and role as a fertility care practitioner 02:00 – How NaProTechnology works as a diagnostic tool 04:15 – Mainstream medicine vs. Natural Family Planning (NFP) 07:05 – Finding a supportive, pro-life medical practice 10:00 – Defining success: Beyond results to body awareness and peace 11:35 – Understanding biomarkers vs. symptoms 13:20 – Integrating faith and medical care 16:08 – Digital vs. paper charting and the role of apps 18:50 – Origins of the Creighton Model and various NFP methods 21:00 – Is NFP burdensome? Addressing the "habit change" 22:15 – The husband's role and the "Masculine Genius" in charting 25:05 – How NFP improves communication in marriage 28:15 – Resources for learning more (NaturalWomanhood.org) 33:15 – Navigating the pain of infertility and the Catholic perspective 39:40 – Bypassing vs. healing: IVF vs. Restorative Medicine 47:00 – SPICE: Holistic intimacy (Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Creative, Emotional) 51:00 – Surrendering to God’s plan and finding fruitfulness in all seasons 59:05 – Closing remarks, channel support, and final prayer Parish Page - https://stjoekp.com Parish Livestream Page - https://stjoekp.com/live Make a donation - https://stjoekp.com/donate Follow us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/stjoekp Follow us on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2g1BsHSK7cyLDPgeYKAHHk?si=YIAuBwAUQtGBX_TOmW6dtA Follow on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catholic-conversations-at-st-joseph/id1829773212 The Sunday Readings - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071926.cfm

  5. Jul 10

    Catholic Conversations: The Biggest Misunderstanding About Chastity

    In this episode of Catholic Conversations at St. Joseph's, Father Peter Dugandzic and Randi Hochenberger explore the Catholic understanding of chastity, modesty, human dignity, virtue, Theology of the Body, and why these teachings remain just as relevant today as ever. They discuss Pope St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body, the importance of rightly ordered love, freedom, shame, advertising, relationships, marriage, and the challenges facing Christians in today's culture.The conversation then turns to Jesus' Parable of the Sower, introducing the new homily series, With Eyes Wide Open, examining how the parables reveal God's generous love and challenge us to become fertile soil for His grace.Whether you're struggling to understand Catholic teaching on sexuality or looking for a deeper reflection on this Sunday's Gospel, this episode offers thoughtful, practical insights rooted in Scripture and the Catholic faith.Topics include:• What chastity really means• The difference between chastity and modesty• Theology of the Body• Human dignity and authentic freedom• The Parable of the Sower• Becoming good soil for God's Word• Seeing reality through the eyes of ChristIf this conversation encourages you, please Like, Subscribe, Share, and leave a comment below. Your support helps us continue sharing the Gospel with thousands of people each week.#Catholic #CatholicPodcast #Chastity #Modesty #TheologyOfTheBody #ParableOfTheSower #SundayGospel #ChristianLiving #Virtue #CatholicTeaching #BibleStudy #FatherPeter #StJosephKingsParkParish Page - https://stjoekp.comParish Livestream Page - https://stjoekp.com/liveMake a donation - https://stjoekp.com/donateFaith Formation Registration - - https://stjoekp.com/sorFollow us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/stjoekpFollow us on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2g1BsHSK7cyLDPgeYKAHHk?si=YIAuBwAUQtGBX_TOmW6dtAFollow on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catholic-conversations-at-st-joseph/id1829773212The Sunday Readings - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071226.cfm

  6. Jul 3

    The Secret to 36 Years of Marriage, Faith, and Joy | Catholic Conversations

    Jamie and Mary Ramos have spent decades serving St. Joseph's Parish in Kings Park through music ministry, faith, and a remarkable witness to Catholic marriage.In this inspiring episode of Catholic Conversations, Fr. Peter Dugandzic sits down with Jamie and Mary to discuss their 36-year marriage, how God brought them together, the challenges of raising children in today's culture, trusting God through miscarriages, anxiety, family struggles, and why surrendering everything to Christ truly leads to freedom.They also share stories about Fr. Francis, the beauty of Catholic music, the Secular Franciscans, prayer in the home, and how a deep relationship with Jesus has sustained them through every season of life.Whether you are married, preparing for marriage, raising children, serving in ministry, or simply looking to deepen your faith, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom and hope.If this episode encouraged you, please Like, Subscribe, and Share. Your support helps us bring the Gospel to more people every week.We would also love to hear from you in the comments:What part of Jamie and Mary's story inspired you the most?If you would like to support this ministry, please consider making a donation through the link below and designate your gift for Podcast Support.Subscribe for more Catholic Conversations from St. Joseph Parish in Kings Park.0:00 Introduction1:15 How Jamie & Mary Met at Radio City Music Hall6:10 The Secret to 36 Years of Marriage10:45 Finding Their Home at St. Joseph Parish15:00 Music Ministry and Growing Closer to Christ20:30 Raising Children in the Catholic Faith28:00 Becoming a Secular Franciscan33:15 Building a Catholic Home37:15 "Give It to God" — Living Through Life's Burdens41:15 Final Thoughts & PrayerParish Page - https://stjoekp.comParish Livestream Page - https://stjoekp.com/liveMake a donation - https://stjoekp.com/donateFaith Formation Registration - - https://stjoekp.com/sorFollow us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/stjoekpFollow us on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2g1BsHSK7cyLDPgeYKAHHk?si=YIAuBwAUQtGBX_TOmW6dtAFollow on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catholic-conversations-at-st-joseph/id1829773212The Sunday Readings - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/070526.cfm

  7. Jun 26

    The Burden That Sets Us Free | Why Following Jesus Costs Everything… and Gives Everything

    What does it really mean to put Jesus first — even before comfort, convenience, family expectations, and our own plans?In this episode of Catholic Conversations, Father Peter and Randi reflect on Jesus’ challenging words about taking up the cross and loving Him above all things. As part of the parish message series The Burden That Sets Us Free, they explore why discipleship is not about doing whatever we want, but about discovering the freedom that comes from belonging fully to Christ. The conversation also turns to Catholic marriage, sacramental preparation, annulments, convalidations, family life, and the domestic church. What does real love require? Why does sacrifice belong at the heart of marriage? And how can families begin living the faith more intentionally at home? This episode is both encouragement and challenge: following Jesus costs everything, but what He gives in return is freedom, peace, and life. Topics Covered: Why following Jesus comes with a cost Taking up the cross in daily lifeFreedom vs. license Catholic marriage and sacramental loveMarriage preparation, annulments, and convalidation The family as the domestic churchFaith Formation registration and family discipleship Prioritizing Sunday Mass Living the Catholic faith during summerHope for Gen Z and the desire for truth Parish Page - https://stjoekp.com Parish Livestream Page - https://stjoekp.com/live Make a donation - https://stjoekp.com/donate Faith Formation Registration - - https://stjoekp.com/sorFollow us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/stjoekp The Sunday Readings - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/062826.cfm

  8. Jun 19

    The Burden That Sets Us Free | Freedom, Discipleship, and Following Christ

    What does Jesus mean when He tells us not to be afraid? How can carrying a cross actually lead to freedom? And why do so many Catholics struggle to move from simply receiving the faith to actively living and sharing it?In this episode of Catholic Conversations at St. Joseph's, Father Peter Dugandzic and Randi Hochenberger continue the message series "The Burden That Sets Us Free." Together they explore St. Paul's proclamation of Christ's victory over death, the challenge of authentic discipleship, and the difference between worldly freedom and the freedom found in Jesus Christ.The discussion examines how fear, anxiety, and the pursuit of comfort can become burdens that weigh us down, while Christ's yoke leads us toward holiness, purpose, and eternal life. Father Peter and Randi also discuss the modern tendency toward "consumer Catholicism" and the call for every believer to become a contributor to the mission of the Church.Along the way, they reflect on Father's Day, the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, religious freedom, faithful citizenship, and the importance of forming disciples who make disciples.Whether you're seeking a deeper relationship with Christ, wrestling with questions about freedom and purpose, or looking for practical ways to grow in your faith, this conversation offers encouragement and challenge for every Catholic.Topics Discussed:- The burden that sets us free- St. Paul's victory over death- Fear, anxiety, and Christian hope- Consumer vs. contributor Catholics- Discipleship and evangelization- Freedom for excellence vs. freedom of indifference- Religious liberty and faithful citizenship- Father's Day and spiritual fatherhood- Forming intentional disciples👍 Like, Subscribe, and Share to help us continue spreading the Gospel through Catholic Conversations.#catholicconversations #catholicpodcast #discipleship #catholicfaith #jesuschrist #freedominchrist #evangelization #catholicchurch #christianliving #FaithAndFreedom #StJosephKingsPark #frpeterd #catholicteaching #romans #sundaymass #catholiclife Parish Page - https://stjoekp.comParish Livestream Page - https://stjoekp.com/liveMake a donation - https://stjoekp.com/donate Follow us on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/stjosephkingsparkFollow us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/stjoekpThe Sunday Readings - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/062126.cfm

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

In this parish podcast, the staff members and parishioners at St. Joseph discuss some of the happenings in the Church and the Parish of St. Joseph in Kings Park. The conversations usually include information about the coming weekend's message, which is usually part of a series.

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